Cape Town Tourism issued version one of the Responsible Tourism Visitor Code for Cape Town about a year or so ago, and is soliciting input from members for a revision to the Code. I'm soliciting input from readers and friends that I will collate and forward on. Please note that the deadline for me providing the feedback is 14 August 2009, so I'll need your feedback and comments by the 12th (that's Wednesday next week).Also note that these are guidelines for visitors (i.e., tourists and travellers of any persuasion), which are different from the membership requirements around sustainability and RT issues for product owners and others in the tourism industry.
Feel free to comment via comments to this post (for all to see), or to e-mail me directly if you prefer. I'll keep all up to date with the release of version 2. Thanks in advance for your assistance and input.
Version One, for comment:
Our place is your place
Here are some basic guidelines to help you enjoy, explore and experience Cape Town responsibly.
Learn about the citySupport local initiatives
- Learn key words in our local lingo. See the Official Cape Town Visitor’s Guide for some helpful pointers and learn to speak the Cape Town way.
- Visit a Cape Town Tourism Visitor Centre for all the information you need on Cape Town.
- Take a walking tour and hear about our colourful history and exciting future.
- Explore our townships and local communities with a local guide.
- Local is “lekker” (good). Buy local products, art and crafts. Ask us for advice.
- Eat local rather than imported food.
- Support local music, poetry and theatre productions. Ask us for “what’s on”.
Respect local cultures
- Be aware of our diverse religions and cultures.
- Respect the dignity and privacy of others – ask before you take a picture.
- Rather than giving money or gifts to street children, support the local organisations that care for them. Ask us for advice.
Minimise your impact on the environment
- Reduce, re-use, recycle.
- Use as little water and power as possible.
- If you’re a smoker, take care not to start a fire with your cigarette butts or matches.
- Respect and conserve our indigenous plants and animals.
- Ask us for a list of registered tourist guides to show you around our beautiful natural areas.
Think about your impact
- Remember that you are a visitor – don’t do anything you wouldn’t do at home.
- Practise safe and responsible sex.
- Make your trip a positive experience for both you and the people of Cape Town.
In Cape Town, we believe that tourism must be sustainable – economically, socially and environmentally. We need your help to take care of our tourism treasures for the future.
Remember: Your comments by 12 August 2009. Enkos'

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