A simple guide on responsible travel

Undertaking a pilgrimage is not only a meaningful and spiritual experience for oneself but also an opportunity to practice responsible travel.

As pilgrims journey to classic pilgrimage destinations such as Lourdes, Fatima, Medjugorje, Rome, Santiago de Compostela, or France, there must always be a growing understanding of the importance of travelling with care.

Today, we would like to share a simple guide on responsible travel, making your pilgrimage one that is conscious of the impact we have on the planet we live on and the local communities we meet along the way.

1- Pack light and consciously

Small mindful actions are without any doubt a way to honor the sacred places we visit during our pilgrimage. One way to do so, is by packing light and consciously, this means less is more, and packing only what you need for your pilgrimage.

Carrying a refillable and reusable water bottle instead of single-use plastic ones, reusable bags like tote bags for local purchasing and carrying daily essentials, and even  recyclable toilet bottles, will make your journey one that is environmentally friendly and will help reduce your environmental footprint.

2- Recycle and leave no trace

Disposing our waste responsibly is also a way to care for the sacred place we visit during our pilgrimage.

Recycle whenever facilities are available or hold onto your recyclables until you reach a suitable location. Bring a small bag for collecting any waste throughout the day and leave recyclable items in your hotel room with a note, so the hotel staff will dispose them properly.

Whether you are walking the Station of the Cross in Lourdes, visiting the Chapel of the Apparitions in Fatima, or honouring Our Lady Queen of Peace in Medjugorje, always avoid leaving items behind. Even something as small as a candle, a fruit peel or snack wrapper should be properly disposed of.

Let’s ensure that these holy places remain clean and preserved for future pilgrims.

3- Support the local communities

Responsible travel also means helping the local communities that welcome us. This can be shopping from local artisans, dining at local restaurants or simply learning about the culture, language and history of the area you are visiting.

Even small gestures, like learning how to say hello, please, or thank you in the local language, demonstrates respect and helps build genuine connections with the locals who live there.

These conscious actions will also enrich your journey, turning it into a more meaningful and respectful pilgrimage.

4 – Be mindful in your accommodation

While in the comfort of your hotel room or guesthouse, we would always recommend to be mindful of your environmental impact. Small actions like turning off lights, air conditioning and heating when you leave your room can make a huge difference.

And of course, don’t forget to keep your space tidy and neat, this shows respect and consideration for the hotel staff who care for it each day.

5 -Be kind and respectful

Being polite to hosts, reps, hotel staff and fellow pilgrims can truly enrich your journey.

Remembering that as pilgrims, we are visitors in a sacred town or city, so it is important to be respectful not only with hosts but also with the natural spaces in the area.

Traveling with care shows gratitude for the path you are on and the people who make it possible.

For more upcoming pilgrimages or to organise a group trip contact the Joe Walsh Tours Pilgrimage travel experts.