To me, a better traveller is curious about the place, the people in that location and cares about what kind of impact is left behind by the visit.
It could be leaving behind a clean room, not touching/stepping on monuments in order to get a perfect shot, packing extras from dinner for breakfast the next day and having a conversation with a local. I also think that a better traveller can start from home, we don't have to wait till we travel to be a better traveller. Plenty to explore at home too

it sounds like you've got some awareness of such practices, the next thing i'd suggest is to do a lot of reading up about the organisation that you would like to volunteer with. Ask them questions about their impact and their operations to get a sense about how genuine they are in supporting the cause. And then ask the locals when you are there. nothing beats local insights.

To me, a better traveller is curious about the place, the people in that location and cares about what kind of impact is left behind by the visit.
It could be leaving behind a clean room, not touching/stepping on monuments in order to get a perfect shot, packing extras from dinner for breakfast the next day and having a conversation with a local. I also think that a better traveller can start from home, we don't have to wait till we travel to be a better traveller. Plenty to explore at home too

@Lin-Yanqin Thanks! I'll bear this in mind when considering whether i hire a car or take the train .

Is traveling by train more environmental friendly than by car? or is it the other way round?

Has anyone seen such little free libraries like this anywhere in Asia? Thought its a great idea and eco-friendly for book lovers too!!

personally i think it's ok, i've visited minority communities in China and tourism has become their key source of income. without that income, they'll be working in cities or factories and the culture will be lost. But instead of participating in put up shows for tourists, i recommend seeking out experiences where you get to interact with the locals and learn about their culture from them. I usually seek out a friendly elderly to ask questions and they're always happy to share some nuggets of information.

Hello, I'm planning a trip to Bali. Would love to join in a beach clean-up and stay at an eco-friendly place. Does anyone have any recommendations to share?
thanks!

it sounds like you've got some awareness of such practices, the next thing i'd suggest is to do a lot of reading up about the organisation that you would like to volunteer with. Ask them questions about their impact and their operations to get a sense about how genuine they are in supporting the cause. And then ask the locals when you are there. nothing beats local insights.