How does Paul RYKEN ensure he supports local economies during his travels?

Key Focus Areas

1. Accommodation: I prioritise homestays, small hostels, B&Bs and locally owned short-term rentals over big international chains. I avoid corporate-style STRs with hundreds of listings and look for places where the host actually lives on-site or nearby.
2. Experiences: I book tours and activities run by local operators, with small groups, and ask how the community benefits before I book.
3. Food: I eat at local eateries, markets and family-run restaurants rather than international chains or “tourist” places.
4. Transport: I use local buses, trains and other public transport where practical.
5. Longer stays: Through house sitting and volunteering, I live more like a local, spend at local businesses and often help homeowners or small projects directly.