december-2009

starkids
A child street vendor sells
peanuts in Cambodia
RIGHT: In the Philippines,
Haryl helps his grandmother
sell fi sh at the local market
or have been abandoned. These children
need money to survive, however little they
may be paid.
So when you’re shopping overseas,
think about the real cost of your purchases.
Ask the retailer where the product comes
from and who actually made it. If you don’t
get satisfactory answers, move on to
another store.
Buy local
One way to ensure that you’re shopping
ethically is to buy souvenirs, handicrafts and
art directly from the makers in local villages,
rather than in larger towns and cities.
This can put more money in the hands of
local producers and less in the hands of
greedy middlemen.
Also, remember to bargain fairly and with
respect. Getting charged a little bit extra
because you’re not a local is not going to ruin
you. It might also ensure that the person who
made or sold you the item can provide his
or her family with food, clothes or money for
school fees.
More tips for an ethical trip
James A. Michener once said, “If you reject
the food, ignore the customs, fear the religion
and avoid the people, you might better stay
at home.” There are lots of simple things you
can do to ensure your trip is memorable for
you, and a positive experience for all those
you meet along the way:
• Learn taboos and traditions and be aware
of the current issues affecting the country
you’re visiting.
86 DECEMBER 2009
• Listen, be open to new experiences and go
with the fl ow.
• Be patient. Public displays of anger will not
get you better service.
• Talk to the locals to learn about their lives
and share yours.
• Try the local cuisine: you’ll gain greater
cultural understanding, and might discover
a new fl avour sensation.
• Dress modestly in Asian and Islamic
regions, particularly when visiting places of
historic or religious signifi cance.
• Try to be kind to the environment you’re in
so that others can enjoy visiting after you.
• When shopping, take your own bag.
• Water is a precious resource anywhere you
travel — conserve it!
YOU CAN HELP
Vulnerable children need our help.
The StarKids partnership between
Jetstar and World Vision was
formed to help children enjoy a
brighter future.
You can support StarKids by
donating loose change in the
donation envelope located in your
seat pocket.
Let your small change
create change!
ABOUT STARKIDS
Tim Costello, CEO World Vision
How did StarKids come about?
StarKids is a humanitarian partnership
between World Vision Australia and Jetstar.
Th e partnership supports community-based
development projects in Australia and across
Asia and aims to improve the lives of families
living in poverty. It’s about giving children a
brighter future.
What does StarKids aim to achieve?
StarKids aims to raise AU$3 million
in three years. Th e support given to
World Vision through StarKids will
go towards transforming the lives of
vulnerable children.
How can Jetstar passengers help?
Your donations would be most welcome!
Please place your small change (all currencies)
in the StarKids envelope located in your seat
pocket. Th e money collected from Jetstar
passengers will be given to World Vision
Australia for community development
projects in Australia and Asia. You can also
donate online at www.jetstar.com/starkids
Where can I get more information about
World Vision projects?
Visit www.worldvision.com.au
or www.jetstar.com/starkids for
more information.