Take a look at these tips, they will help you a lot to integrate in the island, they will help us a lot to preserve Madagascar.
→ TIP ♥ 1
Reduce the “bargaining, you are in one of the 10 poorest countries in the world. It is insulting how far some travelers go….
→ TIP ♥ 2
We strongly discourage giving alms to organized networks of beggars operating in major cities as this would be feeding a pernicious practice for the local population. Charitable associations exist to help people with disabilities or economic and social problems.
→ TIP ♥ 3
Respect the rules of wildlife watching: always follow the local guide, do not disturb the animals or plants or damage the environments in which they live. Keep quiet so you can see the animals, if you raise your voice they will leave.
→ TIP ♥ 4
Do not visit “pseudo” reserves that do not comply with wildlife protection requirements, you will be contributing to turn the country into a “circus”… ask us for more information and send us your complaints if during your trip you observe irregular practices.
→ TIP ♥ 5
Don’t buy products made from endangered plants or animals.
→ TIP ♥ 6
Pick up your own trash, including your cigarette butts if you are a smoker. Turn off faucets and lights when you leave the hotel.
→ TIP ♥ 7
People are not part of the landscape, ask their permission before taking their picture. NO is NO.
→ TIP ♥ 8
You do not know the “fady” and taboos of the island, before you act get advice from our guide, he will explain you what to do and what not to do. Skipping a “fady” is very frowned upon by the local population and can lead to serious problems.
→ TIP ♥ 9
Do not flaunt material goods, you are exposing yourself to theft. In the most isolated areas of the country, never circulate at night and always travel in groups.
→ TIP ♥ 10
Do not resort to underage prostitution, it is a crime punishable by Malagasy law and can be prosecuted also in the EU.
→ TIP ♥ 11
Respect the customs of the place, don’t strive for privileges and don’t engage in offensive behavior. In Madagascar simply shouting or insulting a local person can land you in jail.
→ TIP ♥ 12
Choose legally constituted tourism companies for your trip that have adopted child and environmental protection policies and visit places that have ethics in this regard.
→ TIP ♥ 13
Take some time to learn some Malagasy phrases, they will make the exchange much easier.
→ TIP ♥ 14
Be careful with the tourist offer, all that glitters is not gold. Ask for licenses and contact the Tourist Office so they can tell you if they are truthful or not. Be wary of anyone who can not or will not show you the license, liability insurance, etc..
→ TIP ♥ 15
Take some time to learn some Malagasy phrases, they will make the exchange much easier.
→ TIP ♥ 16
Madagascar still lives anchored in time, based on its ancestors, the Malagasy culture has very different “forms” and “manners” than the ones we know, so use a lot of tact and respect when addressing the local population.
You have more information about Child Protection in the following post: Tips for Child Protection during your trip to Madagascar.
Sylvia Pallarès
©IndigoBeMadagascarSARL
