I've been lucky enough to travel quite extensively in the last 15 years. At first hauling 25kg suitcases around, riding in taxis and staying in generic and bland hotels, but very quickly I learned the best way to travel was when I carried just one small pack, used public transport, walked or cycled as often as possible and stayed in simple guesthouses or homestays.

The responsible travel movement encourages us to conserve the environment and improve the well-being of the local people and this way, I know you will get a whole lot more out of your travels and at the same time be giving something back. It's a win-win.

This guide is really for people travelling to less developed and possibly poorer nations than their own, nothing wrong with 2 weeks all-inclusive luxury in Antigua for example, in the past I've done that sort of holiday too, but this is to help you get a more immersive local experience.

Here are a few ideas. Some mine, some from guides I read when I first set out on my journey!
Feel free to add your own in the comments section.

• Read up on the countries you plan to visit and recognise cultural differences. This may seem like an obvious thing to say but always remember that people in the country may have different time concepts and principals from your own.This doesn't make them inferior, it makes them different, and it's those differences that we should embrace and cherish. Respect local cultures, traditions and religious buildings.

• Travel like Gandhi. This is, of course, a well-known concept, the idea being you travel with simple clothes, open eyes, and an uncluttered mind. One of my favourite travel philosophies.

• Find out where locals go when they are not working. Ask people in shops or who work where you're staying where they like to go, and what they like to do when they're not working.Showing an interest in this way has got me invites to weddings, parties, secret beaches etc. In fact, all my best memories have come from chatting with local people and been taken to and shown the places they love to go.

• Ask permission before you photograph people. This can cause offense in some cultures and to be honest, it's simply good manners. If you ask, there generally won't be a problem.

( photo courtesy of pixabay)

• Help the local economy by shopping in local markets and buying homegrown products, eating in small independent eateries, also remember that although bartering is often a part of buying something, that tiny discount you get that might not be important to you, may make a world of difference to them.

• Use public transport, cycle or walk when you can. You'll meet local people and get to know the place much better. And of course be more healthy.

• Cultivate the habit of asking questions. Again, by talking to and showing an interest in the local people and their lives, you'll find yourself experiencing deeper and more personal experiences than simply following the 'tourist trail'.

• Carry a few small packs of coloured pencils and notebooks. It's amazing how kids you meet will love even the most simplest gift!

OK, that's 8 for starters, please join in and let's make a huge list of interesting ideas.

It's not about the hustle, it's all about the humanity