23 July 2017

Tourism for people with a social conscience can not only result in the tourists being exploited, but have a far-reaching negative effect on local communities.

A new type of tourism, called Orphanage Tourism, has become so popular in poorer countries, that orphanages are often filled with children who have parents. Globally, up to 8 million children live in institutions, but over 80% of these children have parents or family. They are in the orphanages because of the "demand" from the tourists.

Before heading off to "volunteer" or donate, check the bona fides of the institutions you're assisting. After all, children are not a tourist attraction.

Read more here