How can I support local communities through my tourism spending?

Stay in locally-owned guesthouses rather than big hotel chains. Eat at small family restaurants instead of tourist-only places. Buy directly from artisans and farmers (ask your guesthouse to connect you). Use local guides and drivers. Choose community-based tourism projects when available (there are some excellent ones in villages near national parks and in the hill country). Even small choices like buying fruit from a roadside vendor instead of a supermarket help.