by Ron Mader

A group of friends in Oaxaca are creating the Responsible Tourism Fair (January 17-30), our 10th event since 2001 and a veritable model of frugality and slow travel.

Visitors have a number of options, including weaver-guided walks in Teotitlán del Valle, photosafaris in public parks and authentic indigenous meals including Caldo de Piedra (Chinanteco), Maatsy (Mixe) and tamales (Zapotec-style). Self-guided treasure hunts asks foodies to try various cheeses, chocolates and mezcal. Photographers are invited to share photos in relevant Flickr Groups with prizes to be awarded at the end of the fair.

Responsible tourism is treating others the way they wish to be treated. A growing number of travelers want their journeys to be less invasive and more beneficial to the local community. They want to better understand the culture of the people they meet in the places they visit. Travelers should be mindful that they are entering a place that is someone else’s home. Interpretation begins long before the trip and ends long afterward. Those who enjoy a trip will look back fondly for the rest of their lives.

If you cannot attend in person, there are many ways to participate. We are inviting our friends to create your own RT event during this time and share the news via Flickr, Twitter, YouTube and all of the cool toys and and tools of Web 2.0. Twitter Hashtag: #rtf2010