1. Before leaving home learns as much as possible about the countries you are visiting- the religion and culture, the local rules and values.

2. Learn more language and don’t be afraid to use it – simple pleasantries will help break the ice. Keep practicing.

3. Learn appropriate behavior and body language. Like the concept of “saving face” in Asia or giving the thumbs up in western or central Europe.

4. Support locally owned businesses, hotels restaurant and other services. Eat local food and drink local brands and brews. Use public transport, hire a bike or walk where convenient- you’ll meet local people and get to know the place

5. Think first. It’s best not to eat in restaurants, shops in tores or visit local shows, markets or zoos that promote cruelty or exploitation of endangered species.

6. Shop from traditional artisans and for locally made products, helping keep traditional crafts alive and favor local products over imported items. Bargain if that is a local practice, but bear in mind that a small amount to you could be extremely important to the seller.

7. Dress respectfully with an awareness of local standards. Dress modestly at religious cities and check what swim wear is suitable for pool and the beach.

8. Always ask first before photograph or videoing people. Send them back copies of photos to help make it a two way exchange.

9. Be wary of giving gifts or money to beggars, children and people you have just met. Supporting the community through a local school, clinic or development project may be more constructive.

10. Leave only footprints… take care of the environment as you would your own home. Take out all you take in, to areas away from the cities. Use alternatives to plastic and say “No” to plastic bags. For cigarette butts, an empty film container makes perfect portable container.

11. After returning home think how you can support programs and organization that are working to protect the welfare, culture and environment of where you’ve been lucky to visit.

12. Smile and have fun.

SOME DO AND DON'TS

With its diverse ethnic group and traditional beliefs’ Nepal have numerous cultural practices that may appear unusual to a person on his/her visit to the country. How ever to enjoy your stay in this remarkable country of white Himalayas and sparkling rivers its is important to take into consideration the different cultural aspects of the country. Here is a lost of things which may e helpful to you.

1. The form of greeting in Nepal is Namaste and if performed by joining the palms together.

2. Before entering a Nepalese home, temple and stupa remember to remove your she’s.

3. Be careful not use your spoon, fork or hand being used for your eating to touch others food. Plate, cooking utensil or the searing dish. Do not eat fro other people’s plate and do not drink from other people’s bottle or glass. It is considered impure by the Nepalese.

4. Never touch anything with your feet. This is considered an offence among Nepalese.

5. While traveling dress appropriately. Women should specially avoid dressing in skimpy outfits.

6. Seek permission first before entering a Hindu Temple. Many Hindu temples do not allow westerners or non-Hindus to enter.

7. Leather articles are prohibited to be taken inside the temple precinct.

8. Walking around temples or stupas is traditionally done clockwise.

9. Public displays of affection between man and woman are frowned upon. Do not do something that is totally alien to our environment.

10. Illegal drugs will not be tolerated on our trips. Possessing or using drugs not only contravenes the laws of the land but also puts the rest of the group at risk.