When preparing for your next ecotourism vacation it’s good to consider the country’s cultural norms and social etiquette. This is important so we can maintain a good, positive and sustainable tourist-host relationship. As we have mentioned in our previous Know Before You Go blogs, a great way to do this is by taking just a little time before your travels to learn about your host country’s culture, social norms, and codes of conduct. A little effort goes a long way and the locals will recognize your efforts, as it  demonstrates you respect and curiosity about their home and ways of life.

Connecting with nature can be a big part of our international trip, and as the world’s largest rainforest, the Amazon offers an unparalleled setting of adventure and biodiversity. Covering much of Brazil and extending into nine countries across South America, Amazonia draws visitors from all over the world seeking unique experiences of its cultures and ecosystems. New wildlife continues to be discovered, adding to the over 40,000 plant species, 427 mammals, close to 800 reptiles and amphibians, and many more.

There's no better place for adventure and ecotourism than Costa Rica.  The country is hard to beat for its winning combination of innate beauty, tropical climate, developed infrastructure, political support for natural and cultural resources, and Pura Vida attitude.  Costa Rican adventure tours are tried and true, but even the most experienced guides are consistently impressed by the unexpected novelties offered by the jungle, ocean and mountains on a daily basis.  Below are a few top picks for travelers who seek original first-time experiences and/or new approaches to familiar territory.

Chances are that if you're reading this, you're up for an adventure. You already know that Brazil is nearly the size of the contiguous United States with vast expanses of wilderness in the absence of first-
world infrastructure. It follows that you've given up hope on one-click purchasing a "Brazil in 14 Days"
tour package because, let's face it, Brazil will never be an all-inclusive destination. Brazil embodies
neither cohesion nor interconnectedness; instead, its beauty lies in the contrast of distinct cultures,
histories, climates and geographies. And, as any well-traveled soul can attest, an authentic encounter
with such complexity is well worth the extra research and time required to tap it.

The ancient ruins of Machu Picchu is one of the wonders of the world, visited every day by thousands of people. The Cusco Tourism Board (DIRCETUR) has just announced that it will be implementing a new entrance program, in order to regulate crowds and preserve this historic attraction.