For bookings, ordering or more information, contact:

The Magic Suitcase
20 Monterey Rd.
Kitchener, ON N2B 1V3
Tel: 519-578-8849
Fax: 519-578-0540
info@magicsuitcase.ca
www.magicsuitcase.ca

Code of Ethics

Suggestions for low-impact and culturally sensitive travel.

Cultural Sensitivity

• Local customs may be different than your own. Familiarize yourself with local habits, time concepts, and language - don't be afraid to try a few words!
• Bring a genuine desire to learn about the people in your host country, people will be happy to help you. Please do not make promises to people in your host country that you cannot carry out.
• Foster a genuine desire to understand - ask questions, learn customs (what may be courteous in your country may be the reverse in another), listen and observe - plenty can be learned through gestures and eye contact.
• Ask permission when photographing people and please respect their wishes if they refuse.
• We strongly discourage the giving of individual 'gifts' - money to beggars, candy to children. This habit perpetuates the action and causes many people to become dependent on begging. We will be collecting and bringing 'donations' of a suitable nature and as a group we work with local agencies and groups to ensure that these are distributed equitably. Please ask us for details.
• Support local markets and artisans. When grocery or souvenir shopping think about buying from local famers, artists and craftspeople. Make a personal connection and your purchases will be that much more meaningful. Remember that bargaining is part of the shopping experience, however, remember to bargain in good faith - if you got a deal that is 'too good to be true' then someone has likely lost out.

Environmental Sensitivity

• Stay on trails to avoid erosion and other undesired environmental impacts.
• We hope to have many exciting wildlife sightings on our adventures but please keep in mind that we are viewing wildlife and sightings are a bonus, not a guarantee.
• Please do not approach wildlife, excellent photographs can be obtained from a safe distance - feeding, approaching or touching wildlife is unacceptable behaviour.
• Do not support the illegal trade of animal goods. Do not buy products that exploit animals, whether they are endangered species or not.
• Be conscious of reducing waste and setting a positive example when it comes to proper disposal of litter. Low-impact travel means not leaving a trail of where you've been. Bring a reusable water bottle, we carry water purification filters on every trip.
• Be aware of your own consumption of goods and energy. Clean water and electricity are a privilege in some countries and waste is strongly discouraged.