Make a difference

Make a differencehttps://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/responsible-travel/make-a-differenceMake a differencehttps://public-web-wn.uat.wng.me/responsible-travel/make-a-difference/participation/an-interview-with-simon-monkWorld Nomads’ Footprints program offers travelers a way to give back to the places they visit. Find out how this program got started and the positive impact it’s had over its 20 years.2025-01-03T11:00:00Z https://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/responsible-travel/make-a-difference/participation/an-interview-with-simon-monkhttps://www.worldnomads.com<p>20 years ago, in January of 2005, World Nomads launched <a href="/responsible-travel/footprints">our Footprints program</a>. A groundbreaker at the time, Footprints allows World Nomads and Travel Insurance Direct customers to give a microdonation to a project of their choice when they buy a <a href="/travel-insurance">travel insurance policy</a>. Since its launch, Footprints has funded <a href="/responsible-travel/footprints/projects/?status=open">274 community development and conservation projects</a> around the world and raised AUD $5.7 million dollars (World Nomads and TID combined).</p> <p>We spoke to World Nomads and Footprints co-founder Simon Monk about the inspiration behind the program and how it has evolved over the years.</p> <p><em><strong>WN: You were a founder of World Nomads in 2002. Can you talk about what inspired you to start the Footprints program in 2005?</strong></em></p> <p>SM: Nomads was a couple of years old by that stage – we had a handful employees in a tiny office in Sydney. And, on the news was the <a href="https://apnews.com/article/indian-ocean-tsunami-anniversary-photo-gallery-65a5fdaeed08d68336523e7e4a4835a2" target="_blank">huge Asian tsunami</a> that killed over a quarter of a million people [in December 2004]. All of us were travelers, and it affected us deeply because we could see all these villages that we’d been to over the years, and they had no means of dealing with anything so catastrophic. So, we said, what can we possibly do?</p> <p>We decided to use our skill set, which was in internet and travel, to try to raise some funds. That was the genesis of the idea. And then I came back in the morning, and said, “Right, let’s just add a $2 donation as a check box in the purchase path.” And off we went! At this stage, the [money raised] just went into a relief fund for the tsunami.</p> <p><em><strong>WN: And you ended up raising quite a bit right away.</strong></em></p> <p>SM: Yes, we surpassed [our initial goal of $50,000] pretty quickly, like in a few weeks, I suppose. And we went, wow, we’ve really got something here.</p> <p><em><strong>WN: And once you were done funding that cause, the idea was to keep going and continue to support causes around the world?</strong></em></p> <p>SM: I suppose what really resonated was that we’d built something that connected with our travelers. It was beyond our imaginings of how successful it would be in terms of engagement. So, rather than just putting $2 into a bucket, we decided to give our travelers the choice of where they wanted their money to go. And that evolved into a process of choosing and funding particular projects. So, you might [set a goal of] $4,500 to fund a school in a particular village. And once that was funded, it would automatically stop, and the next project would kick in.</p> <figure><img src="https://media.worldnomads.com/responsibletravel/footprints-20th-anniversary/surfaid-indonesia-food-security.jpg" alt="A woman smiles while tending to her vegetable garden on a remote island in Indonesia." /> <figcaption>This Footprints project helped local communities in Indonesia establish climate-resilent nutrition gardens. Image credit: SurfAid</figcaption><figcaption></figcaption></figure> <p><em><strong>WN: How did you initially decide which projects to fund?</strong></em></p> <p>SM: We originally toyed with the idea of funding schools ourselves, but it’s not our core expertise. And when you think, for example, about digging wells in villages, it seems a very tangible outcome but the more you speak to NGOs in this arena, you discover those aren’t the issues at all. [Through the <a href="/responsible-travel/footprints/who-we-fund/wateraid">organization WaterAid</a> we learned] it’s not just providing the water, it’s educating the children about sanitation, in local language. So, we worked in partnership with NGOs who were more experienced in this space.</p> <p><em><strong>WN: All Footprints projects are aligned with one or more of the United Nations <a href="https://sdgs.un.org/goals" target="_blank">Sustainable Development Goals</a>. What was behind the decision to do that?</strong></em></p> <p>SM: You can’t fund everything, so you need some guidelines to choose what to fund. The SDGs provided a really good framework to work within – it’s education, or it’s sanitation, it’s health, etc. Even with less obvious ones, such as environment, we tried to ensure that local people would have a tangible outcome based on those SDGs.</p> <figure><img src="https://media.worldnomads.com/responsibletravel/footprints-20th-anniversary/snow-leopard-project.jpg" alt="A woman milks her goats in a snow-leopard-proof enclosure in the Himalayas." /> <figcaption>This project helped conserve snow leopards while protecting the livelihoods of local villagers. Image credit: Australian Himalayan Foundation</figcaption></figure> <p><em><strong>WN: Have you been able to visit any of the projects yourself?</strong></em></p> <p>SM: Just a handful. With the best will in the world, I try to stay out of the way and let the agencies get on with it, but occasionally I’ve been invited, and it’s always a pleasure and it’s always humbling. You’re treated to hospitality by people who have next to nothing compared to yourself.</p> <p><em><strong>WN: You left World Nomads in 2016. Were you still with Footprints at that time?</strong></em></p> <p>SM: I was still on the committee, trying to run it. Structurally, it became a bit difficult. With the best of intent, I handed it over to a team that could keep running it well.</p> <p>In any program when you raise money, there are governance issues around how funds are allocated. If you say you’re going to raise money for an organization then you need to have the proof you’re actually doing what you said you’re going to do.</p> <p><em><strong>WN: 2025 marks the 20-year anniversary of the Footprints program. We’ve completed 274 projects and raised more than $5.7 million from more than 2 million travelers. How do you feel about meeting these milestones?</strong></em></p> <p>SM: Slightly surreal, I suppose. 2 million travelers, that’s an awful lot of donors.</p> <p>I suppose the proudest thing is, when you build a service like World Nomads, you build it to try and take a segment of the market that is like you. Or in this case, like me – I’m a keen, adventurous, independent traveler. I built a service for me and discovered there’s lots of people globally who are of similar mind. And it’s basically the same with Footprints. Most travelers of that ilk have experienced the places and understand the people locally.</p> <figure><img src="https://media.worldnomads.com/responsibletravel/footprints-20th-anniversary/gaza-save-the-children.jpg" alt="Aid workers funded by Save the Children organize humanitarian aid in Gaza." /> <figcaption>Save the Children staffers organize humanitarian aid in Gaza. Image credit: Save the Children</figcaption></figure> <p><em><strong>WN: I think Footprints really taps into the desire of travelers to give back. When you travel to a place, you take a part of it with you forever.</strong></em></p> <p>SM: Yes, Footprints taps into that.</p> <p><em><strong>WN: What would you like to see happen with Footprints in the years to come?</strong></em></p> <p>SM: If I could pick any one thing, it would be to build on that sense of connection to a place.</p> <p>We’ve done it to some degree. What happens is you fund a project, and once the goal is reached, it’s closed. And then two years later, you can actually go to the 3,163 people who funded it and tell them what the outcome was! And when we do that, we’ve had extraordinary feedback, going, “Wow! I gave $2 and here’s a detailed report on what my $2 did!” That always makes you feel good.</p>Australian Himalayan Foundation 0

https://public-web-wn.uat.wng.me/responsible-travel/make-a-difference/participation/is-airbnb-an-ethical-optionShort-stay accommodation platforms like Airbnb were hailed as a way for travelers to enjoy a more authentic, local experience. Then came the backlash. Can these rentals still be part of an ethical travel experience?2024-03-11T11:00:00Z https://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/responsible-travel/make-a-difference/participation/is-airbnb-an-ethical-optionhttps://www.worldnomads.com<p>The surge in short-term residential platforms has transformed the travel industry in recent decades. So why is the sector being blamed for everything from the housing crisis to overtourism worldwide?</p> <ul> <li><a href="#rise">The rise and rise of Airbnb</a></li> <li><a href="#issue">The issue with short-stay vacation rentals</a></li> <li><a href="#restrictions">Are restrictions on STRAs justified?</a></li> <li><a href="#balance">Balancing the tourism economy and affordable housing</a></li> <li><a href="#change">How travelers can help change the industry for the better </a></li> <li><a href="#why">Why choose a short-stay vacation rental?</a></li> <li><a href="#back">Getting back to the original idea behind Airbnb</a></li> </ul> <h2 id="rise">The rise and rise of Airbnb</h2> <p>Back in the day – 2008 to be exact – many travelers discovered a new way to find a roof over their head in far-flung areas around the globe.</p> <p>This was the year Airbnb came into play and, while it wasn’t the first short-stay accommodation platform, it revolutionized travel for many. Choices opened up for travelers, beyond hotels and motels. And better still, they could vet their options with online reviews from previous users.</p> <p>These platforms also provided a way for locals to rent out their homes and make some extra cash from travelers.</p> <p>Now Airbnb is one of the world’s most-visited travel websites and competitors, like VRBO and Booking.com, are also big players in the hosted and non-hosted short-stay residential accommodation (STRA) sector.</p> <h2 id="issue">The issue with short-stay vacation rentals</h2> <p>In many tourist hotspots, local governments are now trying to curb the growth of STRAs, particularly non-hosted stays (where the host does not live on site permanently), to address chronic housing shortages and rising rents for locals.</p> <p>In 2023, one of Italy’s most popular cities and a World Heritage UNESCO site, Florence, <a href="https://edition.cnn.com/travel/article/florence-airbnb-ban/index.html" target="_blank">banned any new Airbnbs in the historic center of the city</a>, due to overtourism.</p> <p>In Australia, state governments are imposing restrictions on the sector in an attempt to confront a housing shortage and surging rents. The state of Victoria imposed a levy on short-term rental property owners and restrictions are already in place in New South Wales, where non-hosted STRAs are limited to 180 days. And in some of the most popular tourist areas, <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2023/sep/26/byron-bay-shire-nsw-60-day-short-term-holiday-rental-airbnb-cap-approved" target="_blank">there have been calls to restrict this further</a>, to only 60 days.</p> <p>In New York City, there have long been restrictions on these kind of short-stay rentals but it wasn’t until 2023 that <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2023/09/05/nyregion/airbnb-regulations-nyc-housing.html" target="_blank">NYC’s Law 18</a> meant more serious enforcement of the rules.</p> <p>Some say these rules are already working to open up rentals; others say they’re unfair to locals trying to make some extra cash, while giving hotels an unfair advantage.</p> <h2 id="restrictions">Are restrictions on STRAs justified?</h2> <p>That depends who you speak to. Academics, governments, media – and Airbnb – have all been crunching the numbers to determine just how much STRAs affect long-term housing supply, and how much restrictions will hurt the tourism industry.</p> <p>In a statement from Airbnb Australia entitled <a href="https://news.airbnb.com/en-au/housing-crisis-demands-action-not-scapegoats/" target="_blank">Housing Crisis Demands Action not Scapegoats</a>, the company claims restrictions have made it more expensive for visitors to New York and cautions against Australia going down the same route.</p> <p>“Visitors have fewer accommodation options and face higher hotel prices – both of these trends are discouraging potential visitors from travelling to the Big Apple. As has been proven time and time again, more competition, not less, is vital to keeping prices down.”</p> <p>Airbnb claims that other factors play a bigger part in exacerbating the housing crisis in Australia, including new housing supply not keeping up with demand, record-low interest rates, tax breaks for investors, and population growth.</p> <p>It also cites the issue of second homes laying empty all year round and not available for rent at all. This is a legitimate argument – in the Australian state of New South Wales, according to the 2021 census, there are approximately 10 times as many vacant houses as there are short-term rentals. But these are more difficult for governments to regulate.</p> <h2 id="balance">Balancing the tourism economy and affordable housing</h2> <p>So, while housing advocates call for regulations, governments in areas reliant on the tourist dollar face the task of ensuring sufficient visitor accommodation, while retaining affordable housing for locals and the very people who keep that economy going.</p> <p>Jen Clark is a former accommodation manager and founder of Australian-based <a href="https://hostingwithheart.net.au/" target="_blank">Hosting with Heart</a>, which she created to address issues within the STRA sector and make it more ethical.</p> <p>It’s billed as “the world’s first online property directory managed by hosts who give a s**t about people and the planet as much as they do profit.”</p> <p>Jen believes there is a long way to go to find a healthy balance between quality, responsibly operated accommodation and longer-term rental housing stock and that not regulating STRAs in Australia has resulted in an oversupply of short-term accommodation.</p> <p>“This benefits no one, as every STR operator <span>–</span> be them ethically-minded or not <span>–</span> suffers lower occupancy rates as a result.”</p> <p>Jen believes the recent study commissioned by Airbnb (cited above) made the figures look rosier “in order to suit their commercial agenda.”</p> <p>Consistent regulation and incentives for multi-property owners to list secondary properties long-term would make a difference, according to Jen.</p> <p>With this in mind her new STRA marketplace, ‘Heartful’, encourages hosts to move their properties to the long-term rental market if they’re sitting vacant for a significant part of the year.</p> <figure><img src="https://media.worldnomads.com/responsibletravel/short-term-rentals/airbnb-local-stay.jpg" alt="Two young women walk down the front stairs of an apartment building in a European town." /> <figcaption>Short-term rentals let travelers live like locals – but is it fair to the actual locals? Image credit: Getty Images / Cathedral Falls Commercial</figcaption></figure> <h2 id="change">How travelers can help change the industry for the better</h2> <p>Heartful also connects travelers with responsible hosts by only featuring properties that focus on sustainability and inclusive hosting practices. Jen believes travelers can influence the market by looking closely at the ethos of accommodation providers and asking more questions:</p> <p>“Does a particular property showcase products and services from its local community? Do they operate with sustainability? Do they practice inclusion and aim to ensure an enjoyable, comfortable stay for guests with diverse access needs?”</p> <p>These sound practices by hosts, rather than being a burden, give them a competitive business edge, Jen says.</p> <p>“A growing number of travelers are seeking holiday experiences that align with their own values and cater to their needs… We want them to feel empowered by the impact their travel choices have on people, communities, and the planet.”</p> <h2 id="why">Why choose a short-stay rental?</h2> <p>Tracy Bickley is a writer and artist who travels around the world. Mostly, she opts for short-stay residential accommodation for affordability and an immersive cultural experience, compared to a hotel.</p> <p>She seeks either hosted or non-hosted STRAs, and credits them with “opening up the world” to someone like her – a single parent with an unreliable income living in central London during a <a href="/travel-wiser/practical/travel-cheaply-in-cost-of-living-crisis">cost-of-living crisis</a>.</p> <p>On a recent trip to Japan, she stayed in a large hotel first, but found it impersonal and anonymous, so she booked into a traditional Ryokan via an online booking platform.</p> <p>“I learned about Japanese culture and kindness,” she says. “In Spain and France, I’ve stayed in homes where I’ve gained insight just looking at the bookshelves or the spices in the kitchen cupboards. You’re living the culture.”</p> <p>She finds residential stays usually more environmentally sound than large hotels, too:</p> <p>“I don’t need my room cleaned every day, or new sheets and towels that use so much water. I don’t need free toiletries, slippers, or plastic toothbrushes and cutlery… huge hotels are often more detrimental to climate change than someone opening up their home for a week.”</p> <h2 id="back">Getting back to the original idea behind Airbnb</h2> <p>Tracy also points to the economic benefit for those renting out their homes, with friends and neighbors in London often doing it to pay bills and survive.</p> <p>“If you're really wealthy, there's no need for anyone to ever come into your home and you can lock the doors and go away.”</p> <p>This fits with the original ethos of Airbnb. Its disruptor model was founded when its creators struggled with the rent on their San Francisco apartment – they had the bright idea of raising cash by letting out air mattresses on their living room floor.</p> <p>Perhaps like many things – including some of the world’s best tourist destinations – STRAs can become a victim of their own success.</p> <p>Short stays don’t need to be off the agenda though – they can still offer some wonderful accommodation options. As responsible travelers, we can do the research and choose wisely.</p>Getty Images / Milko 11462177558 Getty Images A pair of senior travelers arrive at their vacation rental.

https://public-web-wn.uat.wng.me/responsible-travel/make-a-difference/participation/international-womens-day-2025From an all-woman-run safari camp in Tanzania to female breadwinners in Mongolia, here are seven travel experiences that help make the world a more inclusive place for women.2024-02-27T11:00:00Z https://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/responsible-travel/make-a-difference/participation/international-womens-day-2025https://www.worldnomads.com<p>Mothers, sisters, daughters, friends. Artisans, chefs, entrepreneurs, farmers. Stewards of the land, keepers of traditional knowledge. Women occupy many titles and roles – they are the backbone of their families and the heart of their communities. Yet far too often, women still face discrimination, from less access to education to fewer income opportunities.</p> <p>The theme for <a href="https://www.internationalwomensday.com/" target="_blank">International Women’s Day 2025</a> is “Accelerate Action<span>”</span>. Women’s Day reminds us of the unrelenting uphill battle that women around the world face. It also serves as a reminder of the power that the tourism industry holds and how it can be used as a force for change.</p> <p>This year, let travel be an opportunity to connect with host communities, invest in local economies, and champion <a href="/responsible-travel/make-a-difference/participation/best-cities-to-visit-with-great-public-transport">environmental initiatives</a>. An opportunity to interact with women around the world and support their endeavors so they can continue to practice and share their wisdom, preserve their culture, invest in their children, and occupy new spaces.</p> <p>On your upcoming adventures, ask yourself, “How can I, as a traveler, help accelerate positive change for women around the global?”</p> <p>We’ve rounded up a few ideas to get you started.</p> <ul> <li><a href="#peru">Experience Peru with its female changemakers</a></li> <li><a href="#kerala">Explore the culture and cuisine of Southern India</a></li> <li><a href="#safari">Safari the female way in the Serengeti</a></li> <li><a href="#kigali">Walk and weave with the women of Kigali</a></li> <li><a href="#mongolia">Explore Mongolia and learn about the lives of local women</a></li> <li><a href="#pakistan">Journey through the landscapes of Pakistan</a></li> <li><a href="#india">Connect with acid attack survivors in India</a></li> </ul> <h2 id="peru">Experience Peru with its female changemakers</h2> <p>With the hopes of tackling the gender imbalance in the travel industry, <a href="https://www.explorationscompany.com/latin-america/experience-latin-america/peru" target="_blank">Explorations Company</a> has recently launched <em>Las Poderosas</em>, or “The Women of Peru<span>”</span>. The journey connects guests to Peru’s abundant nature and dynamic cities in a profound way: through the eyes of Peruvian women who are shaping the country. Journey to the barrios with Vania Masias, a former ballerina who is connecting the local children to the art of street dance. Explore the Amazon alongside the matriarchs who are leading conservation movements in the rainforest, such as conservationist Tatiana Espinosa, whose women-led non-profit <a href="https://www.arbioperu.org/en/" target="_blank">ARBIO</a> is leading new ways to protect the Amazon.</p> <p>Each trip can be specially crafted to fit each travelers’ interests, allowing them to dive deep into the country’s culture, art, and landscapes, while better understanding and supporting the livelihoods of Peruvian women.</p> <h2 id="kerala">Explore the culture and cuisine of Southern India</h2> <p>Kerala is known for its backwater villages, Ayurvedic traditions, and misty tea plantations. A trip through southern India’s rich cultural heritage and lush landscapes is enhanced through the guidance of local stewards. Join <a href="https://villageways.com/" target="_blank">Village Ways</a> for a ten-day, women’s-only <a href="https://villageways.com/kerala-itinerary-womens-group-holiday/" target="_blank">adventure to Kerala</a>, experiencing the abundant state through the lens of Keralan women. Take weaving classes, listen to drumming, explore a coffee plantation, cook Keralan curries, and stay in local communities – all with the expertise of female guides. The benefits of the trip go both ways. Beyond connecting visitors to the traditions of Kerala, it allows Keralan women to be the storytellers of their home, while supporting their industries and livelihoods.</p> <p>Beyond the female-focused Kerala trip, Village Ways runs ethical journeys through rural regions across India. Started in the foothills of the Himalayas with the intention of preserving traditional ways of life, each carefully designed adventure works hand-in-hand with the villages. Co-founder and director Manisha Pande’s hope is to empower rural Indian women as guides to tell the story of their home through their eyes, while lifting communities out of poverty.</p> <h2 id="safari">Safari the female way in the Serengeti</h2> <p>Opened in Tanzania’s Serengeti National Park in 2016 by Asilia Africa, <a href="https://www.asiliaafrica.com/camps-lodges/dunia-camp/" target="_blank">Dunia Camp</a> is the first all-female-run safari camp. From guides and chefs to housekeepers and managers, everyone behind this stunning property is a woman. There is an unparalleled impact in placing women in roles that they aren’t traditionally seen in, shifting the dialogue around gender norms in East Africa. In addition to economic and professional empowerment, Dunia provides local Tanzanian women with a sense of personal empowerment as they trade a traditional life for a life in the wilds of the bush.</p> <figure><img src="https://media.worldnomads.com/responsibletravel/womens-day-2024/asilia-grace.jpg" alt="A woman safari guide with Dunia camp in Tanzania." /> <figcaption>Grace Matemba, a safari guide with Dunia. Image credit: Dunia/Asilia</figcaption></figure> <p>Travelers can search for lions and zebras on sunrise and sunset game drives, track footprints and wildlife on foot during a walking safari and unwind with handcrafted meals in the calming tempo of the Serengeti – all with Tanzanian women as your guides.</p> <p>Dunia’s vision goes beyond the camp. Partner projects support current and future generations of East African women in multiple capacities. Asilia’s scholarship program enrolls disadvantaged youth in a Tourism and Hospitality Course to jumpstart their careers in tourism, and <a href="https://www.themaatrust.org/" target="_blank">Maa Trust</a> employs over 600 Maasai women in honey and bead collectives.</p> <p>Says Grace Matemba, who is in the process of completing her training as a walking safari guide, “Working as a woman helps to support our families and remove the idea that we can’t bring any progress into our societies. Most of our local communities still do not have gender equality. For example, if a woman decides to go to work, she might be excluded for breaking the traditions of these communities.</p> <p>“For me, being with Asilia has brought a great light to my guiding career based on the training I get whenever I'm at camp. During that time, I had the opportunity to join the walking training where soon I will become one of the first certified female walking guides. I hope I can bring motivation and inspiration to upcoming female guides.”</p> <h2 id="kigali">Walk and weave with the women of Kigali</h2> <p>Rwanda may be known for its mountain gorillas, but its capital, Kigali, is worthy of a visit too. Join a women-led walking tour with <a href="http://www.nwc-umutima.org/tours.html" target="_blank">Nyamirambo Women’s Center</a> (NWC) through the colorful streets of Nyamirambo. Learn about the neighborhood’s Muslim history, browse local produce markets, stop for a glass of fresh milk at a milk bar, and learn a few Kinyarwanda words along the way. Afterwards, join the women for a cooking or weaving class.</p> <p>NWC was started in 2007 by 18 Rwandese women to address gender-based violence, gender inequality, and discrimination. Profits built a children’s library and provide ongoing literacy, sewing, computer, and weaving classes for women, in addition to workshops like women’s rights and health.</p> <figure><img src="https://media.worldnomads.com/responsibletravel/womens-day-2024/nyamirambo-street-scene.jpg" alt="A street in the Nyamirambo neighborhood in Kigali, Rwanda." /> <figcaption>The Nyamirambo neighborhood in Kigali. Image credit: Alicia Erickson</figcaption></figure> <p>If you’re interested in learning more about the weaving heritage of Rwanda, take a class at <a href="https://talkingthroughart.org/" target="_blank">Talking Through Art</a>. The initiative supports Kigali women living with disabilities, as well as their children, and helps them stay off the streets by employing them as weavers and teaching them life skills. Master basics of Rwandan basket making in the sunny garden and you may be tempted to bring a few of the shop’s gorgeous baskets home with you.</p> <h2 id="mongolia">Explore Mongolia and learn about the lives of local women</h2> <p>From the Gobi Desert to the Altai Mountains, the landscapes of Mongolia are an idyllic backdrop for extraordinary adventures. Now, imagine experiencing Mongolia’s steppes and mountains through the lens of Mongolian women. <a href="https://www.responsibletravel.com/" target="_blank">Responsible Travel</a> and Eternal Landscapes have crafted an <a href="https://www.responsibletravel.com/holiday/24665/women-only-tour-in-mongolia" target="_blank">unparalleled expedition to Mongolia</a> led by women, for women. Along the way, travelers will stay at the homes of many female breadwinners. A Kazakh eagle huntress, an embroiderer, and a herder are among the hosts along the journey.</p> <p>Beyond welcoming you into their homes, these women will include you in their daily activities, from planting trees to combing yaks, to help you understand their livelihoods, customs, and challenges through an unfiltered lens.</p> <figure><img src="https://media.worldnomads.com/responsibletravel/womens-day-2024/assistant-mongolia-trip.jpg" alt="A female trip assistant lights a fire on a tour of Mongolia." /> <figcaption>An Eternal Landscapes trip assistant lights a fire. Image credit: Eternal Landscapes</figcaption></figure> <p>Odonmicheg, one of the Mongolian trip assistants on these journeys reflected on the impact on her life: “My life has grown since I started to work with Eternal Landscapes. I’m an English teacher but I always work with tourists in the summer months and my English skills and that of my students are developing year by year. After some difficult years as a single mother, I am now financially independent and feel confident about myself.”</p> <p>Responsible Travel also offers other fantastic women-only trips, including a <a href="https://www.responsibletravel.com/holiday/34611/women-of-south-africa-cultural-tour" target="_blank">cultural tour of South Africa</a> and a <a href="https://www.responsibletravel.com/holiday/27750/women-only-tour-in-pakistan" target="_blank">Pakistan trip</a>.</p> <h2 id="pakistan">Journey through the landscapes of Pakistan</h2> <p>The vivid scenery, cuisine, and heritage of Pakistan are a big draw for travelers seeking adventure. But, Pakistan isn’t the easiest place to visit as a female solo traveler. <a href="https://themadhatters.pk/about/" target="_blank">Mad Hatters</a>, a women-run travel company, is working to make travel in Pakistan more inclusive and accessible for female travelers, while providing Pakistani women a platform to pursue work in tourism. Each carefully crafted trip focuses on immersive experiences that create economic opportunities in remote regions of Pakistan.</p> <p>Learn culinary traditions as you cook with Pakistani women, adventure through the stunning mountains of the Hunza and Kalasha Valleys, visit the ruins of ancient empires, stay at the homes of locals, and meet local artisans and women-run businesses. With a wide range of trips to choose from, Mad Hatters (along with their partners) also runs a few <a href="https://www.intrepidtravel.com/en/pakistan/pakistan-womens-expedition-146841" target="_blank">women-only</a> trips, which shine a light on women working on female-empowerment projects along the adventures through Pakistan.</p> <figure><img src="https://media.worldnomads.com/responsibletravel/womens-day-2024/mad-hatters-pakistan.jpg" alt="Women travelers on a trip to Pakistan." /> <figcaption>Women travelers on a Mad Hatters trip to Pakistan. Image credit: Mad Hatters</figcaption></figure> <h2 id="india">Connect with acid attack survivors in India</h2> <p>Wander beyond the famous silhouette of the Taj Mahal and pay <a href="https://www.instagram.com/sheroes_hangout/?hl=en" target="_blank">Sheroes Hangou</a>t a visit. The Agra café is run by acid attack survivors, providing women who would typically face discrimination an opportunity to gain economic independence.</p> <p>Sheroes, which also has locations in Lucknow and Noida, serves as a space for acid attack survivors to heal and feel confident showing their faces, shedding the stigma that so often causes acid attack survivors to hide. Take the time to listen to their stories during your visit. Learn about their personal journeys, as well as issues like acid attacks that continue to disproportionately impact women in India today.</p>Alicia Erickson 0 A Rwandan woman teaches a weaving workshop in Kigali, Rwanda.

https://public-web-wn.uat.wng.me/responsible-travel/make-a-difference/planet/sustainable-travel-trends-2024With the new year comes fresh opportunities to travel more responsibly. Discover new wildlife initiatives, innovations in transport, and eco-friendly tours that benefit the traveler as well as the planet.2023-12-06T11:00:00Z https://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/responsible-travel/make-a-difference/planet/sustainable-travel-trends-2024https://www.worldnomads.com<p>Travel never stands still. Movement, change, and adaptation are in its nature. But after another year in which more parts of the world experienced extreme temperatures, weather events, and natural disasters – while travel continued its post-pandemic boom – it could be time for a reality check.</p> <p>It seems we’ve reached a fork in the road. In one direction, this scenario: our wanderlust increasingly curtailed as the climate crisis affects more destinations more often in more unpredictable ways. Or, the path we must take, collectively and individually: a fresh approach to travel, one that consciously prioritizes people, animals, and the planet we depend on – and makes travel more enriching for us all in the process. In some parts of the travel industry this is already happening. Here are 11 changes we can look forward to in 2024 and beyond.</p> <ul> <li><a href="#era">A new era for wildlife protection </a></li> <li><a href="#climate">Climate-resilient destinations</a></li> <li><a href="#wilder">A wilder Europe</a></li> <li><a href="#trains">More sleeping on trains</a></li> <li><a href="#ancient">Ancient stories told in new ways</a></li> <li><a href="#carbon">Carbon labeling</a></li> <li><a href="#trees">Protecting (not just planting) trees</a></li> <li><a href="#more">Coming soon(ish): Four more sustainable travel trends </a></li> </ul> <h2 id="era">A new era for wildlife protection</h2> <p>In a radical move promising to help travelers find <a href="/responsible-travel/make-a-difference/participation/ethical-safari-camp-wilderness-experience">ethical wildlife-watching destinations</a>, reduce animal suffering, and involve local communities in protecting wild animals and their habitats, <a href="https://www.worldanimalprotection.org.au/" target="_blank">World Animal Protection</a> and the World Cetacean Alliance launched <a href="https://www.wildlifeheritageareas.org/">Wildlife Heritage Areas</a> in October.</p> <p>The project is an extension of the successful <a href="https://whaleheritagesites.org/" target="_blank">Whale Heritage Sites</a> program that has combined wildlife tourism and whale and dolphin conservation at 11 marine reserves worldwide since 2015. There are already three Wildlife Heritage Areas – two in the Amazon (the Night Monkey Heritage Area in Peru-Colombia and the Uakari Heritage Area in Brazil) and the Marsican Bear Heritage Area in Ambruzzo, central Italy, for critically endangered Marsican brown bears – with more to follow, designated by a network of wildlife experts, community leaders, and responsible tourism stakeholders who will ensure that wildlife-viewing experiences in each Area meet the highest animal welfare standards, adhere to experts’ wildlife-watching guidelines, and benefit local communities.</p> <h2 id="climate">Climate-resilient destinations</h2> <p>While we’ve long known about low-lying cities (Venice, Amsterdam) and island nations (the Maldives, Fiji, Tuvalu) at risk from rising sea levels, “climate-resilient destinations” are fast becoming a thing. Earlier this year Architectural Digest <a href="https://www.architecturaldigest.com/reviews/solar/most-climate-resilient-cities" target="_blank">evaluated the climate resilience of 50 major American cities</a>, using data from the University of Notre Dame that included each city’s elevation, vulnerability to extreme weather events and clean energy policies, among other factors.</p> <p>Denver, Salt Lake City, Austin, and Seattle all made the top 10; Miami, Los Angeles, and New York, all hugely popular tourist destinations, were in the bottom 10. Meanwhile dozens of <a href="https://halifax.citynews.ca/2023/10/08/canadian-municipalities-looking-to-become-spongier-to-build-climate-resilience/" target="_blank">Canadian cities, including Vancouver and Toronto</a>, are applying the “sponge city” concept, originally developed in China, to help urban environments withstand the effects of intense rainfall events through measures such as green roofs and holding ponds.</p> <h2 id="wilder">A wilder Europe</h2> <p>In October, Europe’s largest network of protected natural areas, the EUROPARC Federation, partnered with <a href="https://rewildingeurope.com/" target="_blank">Rewilding Europe</a> to scale up rewilding already happening in some of its national parks, biosphere reserves and other protected areas, which cover a whopping 1.2 million km<sup>2</sup> of Europe’s land mass, an area the size of France and Spain combined.</p> <figure><img src="https://media.worldnomads.com/responsibletravel/2024-trends/rewilding-europe-wolf.jpg" alt="Grey wolf photographed in the Bieszczady Mountains of Poland." /> <figcaption>A grey wolf in the Bieszczady Mountains of Poland. Image credit: Grzegorz Leniewski / Rewilding Europe</figcaption></figure> <p>The rationale is that if we’re serious about tackling the biodiversity and climate crises, it’s not enough to simple protect wild places. We need to “rewild” them by working with local communities to, say, <a href="https://rewildingeurope.com/blog/beyond-protection-towards-wilder-european-parks/" target="_blank">reintroduce keystone species</a> such as wolves and wildcats, regenerate forests, restore natural fire regimes and watercourses, and encourage natural grazing patterns. Rewilding Europe also offers trips in <a href="https://rewildingeurope.com/visit-our-rewilding-landscapes/" target="_blank">rewilded landscapes</a> that include <a href="https://visitdundreggan.co.uk/" target="_blank">rewilding walks in Scotland</a>, <a href="https://www.wewilder.com/" target="_blank">wildlife tracking in Romania</a>, and <a href="https://rewilding-apennines.com/rewilding-experiences-en/" target="_blank">hands-on fieldwork in Italy</a>.</p> <h2 id="trains">More sleeping on trains</h2> <p>This year France made official its world-first move to <a href="https://www.forbes.com.au/news/innovation/france-legally-bans-short-haul-flights/" target="_blank">ban short domestic flights</a> to cut emissions. As a result, and because of a rising climate-consciousness among travelers, there’s been a boom in rail travel in Europe, <a href="/responsible-travel/make-a-difference/planet/why-traveling-overnight-means-traveling-light">night trains in particular</a>.</p> <p>Eurail and Interrail recently announced that its passes, valid for train (and ferry) travel in 33 countries, can now be used on overnight trains run by Dutch-Belgian start-up <a href="https://www.europeansleeper.eu/en" target="_blank">European Sleeper</a>, which launched in May this year, including on its inaugural Brussels-Amsterdam-Berlin route. In March 2024, European Sleeper will extend this route to Dresden and Prague, and plans an Amsterdam-Barcelona route for 2025. Meanwhile, Eurostar, the network that links the UK and mainland Europe, has <a href="https://mediacentre.eurostar.com/mc_view?language=uk-en&article_Id=ka43z000000bv1xAAA" target="_blank">a new winter service</a> (running December-February) that aims to help skiers reduce their emissions on trips between London and the French Alps.</p> <figure><img src="https://media.worldnomads.com/responsibletravel/2024-trends/aboard-the-european-sleeper.jpg" alt="A traveler reads aboard the European Sleeper train." /> <figcaption>Aboard the European Sleeper train. Image credit: European Sleeper</figcaption></figure> <h2 id="ancient">Ancient stories told in new ways</h2> <p>It seems counterintuitive: using 21st century technology to showcase a culture more than 65,000 years old. But that’s the beauty of <a href="https://www.ayersrockresort.com.au/wintjiri-wiru/experiences" target="_blank">Wintjiru Wiru</a>: it’s an ancient and contemporary cultural experience.</p> <p>Launched in May this year on Anangu country near Uluru in central Australia by the Indigenous-owned Voyages Indigenous Tourism Australia, it’s also a world first. Never before has any Indigenous story been told using lights, lasers, and projections, on such a large scale; more than 1100 choreographed drones criss-cross the starry outback sky over Uluru every night, in the two shows, with narration in the local Pitjantjatjara language.</p> <p>Meanwhile, visitors take in the spectacle from a purpose-built open-air theatre designed to rest lightly on the dunes to allow sand and wildlife to move naturally underneath. This could just be the future of Indigenous storytelling.</p> <h2 id="carbon">Carbon labeling</h2> <p>“You can’t manage what you don’t measure,” says Sam Bruce, co-founder of Much Better Adventures which, in 2021, became the first global travel company to <a href="https://www.muchbetteradventures.com/magazine/carbon-label-to-all-trips-and-calls-on-the-travel-industry-to-follow-suit/" target="_blank">add carbon labels</a> to each of its 160 adventure trips. The company’s six-night hike in Slovakia, for instance, produces 246kg of CO2 per person, taking into account emissions produced by local transport, accommodation, meals, and activities.</p> <p>Displaying a trip’s carbon footprint not only helps travelers make better decisions about how we travel, it helps travel companies reduce their emissions; Much Better Adventures is now working towards halving its average carbon footprint to 17kg per person per night across all its trips by 2030.</p> <p>Other travel brands have been slow to follow but this year <a href="/responsible-travel/make-a-difference/people/responsible-travel-heroes">Intrepid Travel</a>, the world’s largest travel B Corp, <a href="https://www.intrepidtravel.com/au/intrepid-carbon-labelling" target="_blank">introduced carbon labeling</a> on 500 (about half) of its trips – including its top 100 itineraries such as the 13-day <a href="https://www.intrepidtravel.com/au/morocco/morocco-uncovered-149857" target="_blank">Morocco Uncovered</a> tour (42.85kg of CO2 per person per night) – with plans to show carbon emissions for the rest of its trips by the end of 2024, in addition to various decarbonization measures like reducing internal flights and discontinuing scenic flights on all its trips in 2024.</p> <figure><img src="https://media.worldnomads.com/responsibletravel/2024-trends/intrepid-tour-morocco.jpg" alt="Ait Benhaddou, Morocco." /> <figcaption>Ait Benhaddou, Morocco. Image credit: Intrepid Travel</figcaption></figure> <h2 id="trees">Protecting (not just planting) trees</h2> <p>It’s a common refrain at hotels everywhere: if you stay a night, we’ll plant a tree. GAdventures also introduced a <a href="https://www.gadventures.com/community-tourism/trees-for-days" target="_blank">Trees for Days</a> program this year: for every day you’re on one of their trips, GAdventures plants and, importantly, maintains a tree in one of 17 community-led projects in deforested countries like Madagascar and Bolivia.</p> <p>But tree-planting is complicated. Deforestation is certainly a major cause of climate change and trees are natural “carbon sinks,” but the right type of seedlings aren’t always planted in the right place and don’t always grow into big trees; <a href="https://www.earthday.org/reforestation-fact-sheet/" target="_blank">a tree has to be 10-20 years old before it makes a difference to the environment</a>. And plantation forests sequester less carbon than natural forests. “<a href="https://adventure.com/role-of-trees-global-deforestation/" target="_blank">The earth grows its own trees better than we can,</a>” says American ecologist Robert Langellier.</p> <p>So, some travel companies are now protecting existing forests rather than planting trees. Newly launched conscious hotel booking platform <a href="https://www.gokinda.com.au/" target="_blank">GoKinda</a> is one of them; it protects five trees for every booking, through <a href="https://onetribeglobal.com/" target="_blank">One Tribe</a>, a global B Corp helping businesses preserve tropical rainforests and biodiversity by working with Indigenous communities who live in those forests.</p> <h2 id="more">Coming soon(ish): Four more sustainable travel trends</h2> <ol> <li><strong>Zero-emissions flight.</strong> Sweden’s government recently announced that <a href="https://www.thelocal.se/20190416/sweden-airlines-fossil-free-biofuel-climate-compensate-sas" target="_blank">all domestic flights will be fossil fuel-free</a> by 2030, international flights by 2045. Going a step further, Airbus is developing the first <a href="https://www.airbus.com/en/innovation/low-carbon-aviation/hydrogen" target="_blank">zero-emissions commercial jets</a>, to be powered by hydrogen, which they hope to roll out by 2035. Meanwhile UK-based <a href="https://www.hybridairvehicles.com/" target="_blank">Hybrid Air Vehicles</a> plans to launch a helium-filled, hybrid-electric airship, the Airlander 10, by 2027 with zero-emissions airships to follow by 2030.</li> <li><strong>Carbon-zero destinations:</strong> Queenstown in Aotearoa/New Zealand is on track to become the <a href="https://www.queenstownnz.co.nz/regenerative-tourism-2030/the-plan/" target="_blank">world’s first carbon-zero destination</a> by 2030 with decarbonization initiatives such as electric jetboats, hydrogen-powered ferries, and EV coaches, bikes and cars. Hainan in southern China is also angling for the title.</li> <li><strong>An Arctic Ocean reserve:</strong> Set up by Arctic explorer Pen Hadow, the <a href="https://www.90northfoundation.org/" target="_blank">90 North Foundation</a> hopes to establish the world’s largest wildlife reserve, a 2.8 million square kilometre Central Arctic Ocean Marine Reserve, around the North Pole by 2037 to safeguard the biodiversity and ecosystems of the Arctic, the fastest-warming region on Earth.</li> <li><strong>Carbon passports:</strong> By 2040, according to <a href="https://www.intrepidtravel.com/au">Intrepid Travel</a>’s latest Sustainable Future of Travel report, we can expect to have “carbon passports” keeping us within personal carbon allowances of around 2.3 tons a year (equivalent to a return economy flight from Sydney to Bangkok), well below current per capita emissions in the US (16 tons), Australia (15 tons) and the UK (11.7 tons).</li> </ol>Getty Images / Gennaro Leonardi 11255026048 Getty Images An endangered Mariscan brown bear in Ambruzzo, Italy.

https://public-web-wn.uat.wng.me/responsible-travel/make-a-difference/participation/best-cities-to-visit-with-great-public-transportUsing public transport when you travel helps you get under the skin of a destination, interact with local people, and it’s cheaper.2023-11-08T11:00:00Z https://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/responsible-travel/make-a-difference/participation/best-cities-to-visit-with-great-public-transporthttps://www.worldnomads.com<p>As sustainability-minded travelers are prioritizing <span><a href="https://www.worldnomads.com/responsible-travel/make-a-difference/people/the-destinations-turning-green">eco-friendly travel destinations</a>, having the ability to take public transportation during a trip can be a big selling point. Not only is taking public transit while traveling a great way to cut back on car emissions, but it is also far more affordable, and faster (sometimes), and it can be a fun, unique way to get to know a destination. Here are four cities with excellent public transportation.</span></p> <ul> <li><a href="#1">New York City, USA</a></li> <li><a href="#2">Edinburgh, Scotland</a></li> <li><a href="#3">Mexico City, Mexico</a></li> <li><a href="#4">Tokyo, Japan</a></li> <li><a href="#5">Other notable cities</a></li> </ul> <h2 id="1"><strong>New York City, USA</strong></h2> <p>It’s no surprise that the Big Apple tops the list as it has, by far, the best public transportation system in the USA. Not only does the <span><a href="https://new.mta.info/">MTA system</a> run 24/7 (something few cities can boast), but the train network is extensive, and a league of buses helps fill in further-out corners of the five boroughs that the trains don’t reach. A single ride costs less than $3, and frequent riders can save even more money by purchasing a weekly or monthly MetroCard). Considering that <a href="https://www.worldnomads.com/responsible-travel/make-a-difference/people/putting-cycling-first"></a></span></p> <p>What I love best about the New York City subway is that it is a true slice of New York. Everyone – and I mean <em>everyone</em> – rides the train, from stockbrokers and politicians to cooks, cleaners, and content creators. Riding the train is the best way to experience the diversity of the city, as you’ll hear nearly every language in the world spoken, and you’ll probably also be entertained by some pretty preposterous performances. While locals sometimes tire of metro magicians, singers, dancers, and acrobats, their shows are usually a real treat for visitors. To get out of the city, there’s also the Long Island Rail Road that can easily whisk you away to Long Island, the MetroNorth that spreads around upstate NY and Connecticut, and Amtrak to get you everywhere else.</p> <h2 id="2"><strong>Edinburgh, Scotland</strong></h2> <p>Scotland’s <span><a href="https://www.scotrail.co.uk/">ScotRail</a> system makes it easy to get around all over the country (and to England), as it seamlessly connects large cities such as Glasgow and Edinburgh to Highland areas such as Fort William and Inverness, stopping in tiny towns and villages along the way. Trains are clean, quick, and easy to use, and they travel through some of the most fantastic scenery. In general, Scotland is an easy country to navigate by public transit, but Edinburgh stands out in particular simply due to the sheer number of different public transit options. Edinburgh has set an ambitious <a href="https://www.edinburgh.gov.uk/climate-2/climate-target-net-zero-2030">goal of net zero emissions by 2030</a>, which includes the decarbonization of its extensive public transport system. </span></p> <p>In addition to ScotRail’s several stations throughout Edinburgh, you’ll also find loads of buses that are clean, convenient, and run all over town and to airports (you can even catch a bus from Edinburgh Airport to central Glasgow, which is what I did). The brand new <span><a href="https://edinburghtrams.com/">Edinburgh Trams</a>, which was completed in June 2023, offers a pleasant way to get from central Edinburgh out to the airport, the Ocean Terminal, and the traveler hotspot neighborhood of Leith. A month after it opened, I took the tram from the city center out to explore Leith and again to the airport, and in both cases, the ride took about as long as a cab would have, yet it was a fraction of the price and it gave me a new way to see the city.</span></p> <h2 id="3"><strong>Mexico City, Mexico</strong></h2> <p>Latin America’s largest city is home to nearly 23 million people spread across 16 municipalities and 300 neighborhoods. To accommodate this steadily growing population, Mexico City continuously improves and expands its public transportation while also placing an increasing number of restrictions on cars to encourage people to take public transit. The result? A dizzying array of options, including a sprawling <span><a href="https://www.metro.cdmx.gob.mx/">Metro</a> train network, aboveground light rail, Metrobus (known as bus rapid transit, or BRT), regular buses, minibusses, and loads of interstate buses that can quickly and easily get you to Tepoztlan, Cuernavaca, Oaxaca and beyond. </span></p> <p>system. While minibusses might be a bit confusing for first-time visitors, the proper Metro trains Metrobus buses are very straightforward, with clear signage and maps.</p> <h2 id="4"><strong>Tokyo, Japan</strong></h2> <p>There isn’t a metro network anywhere else in the world quite like the labyrinth of the Tokyo transit system. Not only is the Tokyo subway system sprawling (and said to serve the most riders in the world), but it’s also shockingly clean, efficient, well-maintained, and timely – something that can’t be said about most other networks. You won’t be able to ride every route 24/7 (so be sure to check schedules if you plan to be out late), but the Tokyo public transportation system is, by far, the best way to get around. It’s fast, far more affordable than cabs, and it goes just about everywhere, including all the popular attractions.</p> <p>Tokyo has two separate train systems, the <span><a href="https://www.tokyometro.jp/en/index.html">Tokyo Metro</a> and the <a href="https://www.kotsu.metro.tokyo.jp/eng/services/subway.html">Toei Subways</a>, but they are interlinked very well, and the only time you have to worry about the two separate systems is when you buy an individual ticket. To skip the confusion, buy a subway pass or prepaid card, which can be used on either system. Prepaid cards like the <a href="https://www.jreast.co.jp/multi/en/welcomesuica/welcomesuica.html">Welcome Suica</a> and <a href="https://www.pasmo.co.jp/visitors/en/buy/">Pasmo Passport</a> are sold at the airport and a handful of metro stops, rail stations, and other locations. Not only can the cards be used to pay for the train, but you can also use them to pay for goods and services all over Japan, and they are much faster and easier than dealing with individual tickets. Ready to be amazed? Check out this <a href="https://www.jreast.co.jp/e/routemaps/pdf/RouteMap_majorrailsub.pdf">Tokyo Combined Subway and Train map</a>.</span></p> <h2 id="5"><strong>Other notable cities</strong></h2> <p>We didn’t have enough space to really dig into every city offering great public transportation around the world, but some other top spots to keep in mind are London, Stockholm, Barcelona, Berlin, Montreal, Mumbai, Shanghai, Taipei, Chicago, and Copenhagen. Some cities’ public transportation networks also include unique and iconic ways to get around, such as continent-crossing ferries in Istanbul and Lisbon’s famous tram network.</p>Getty Images/B.S.P.I. 1522169322 Getty Images A Yamanote Line Train Crosses Over Pedestrians and Traffic at Shinjuku Station in Tokyo, Japan

https://public-web-wn.uat.wng.me/responsible-travel/make-a-difference/planet/destinations-combating-overtourismFrom Bhutan to Barcelona, here’s what’s being done to curb mass tourism which makes destinations pricey, crowded and bad for the environment.2025-01-15T11:00:00Z https://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/responsible-travel/make-a-difference/planet/destinations-combating-overtourismhttps://www.worldnomads.com<p>From cheap flights to remote work conditions, there are numerous reasons why some of our favorite cities are becoming saturated with tourists. Crowds make travel more expensive, frustrating, and difficult, and they can also be dangerous to the destination by trampling on sensitive environments and eroding local culture.</p> <p>What should an ethical traveler to do? The first step is to consider <span><a href="https://www.worldnomads.com/responsible-travel/make-a-difference/participation/how-to-avoid-the-masses-when-you-travel">visiting less-crowded alternatives</a> to popular destinations or to prioritize <a href="https://www.worldnomads.com/responsible-travel/make-a-difference/people/the-destinations-turning-green">destinations putting the planet first</a>. Also, contemplate traveling during off-peak seasons, which are less crowded and less expensive.</span></p> <p>Wondering which places have figured out how to limit the number of tourists passing through? We’ve rounded up a list of global destinations that have taken significant steps to curb mass tourism.</p> <ul> <li><a href="#1">Bhutan</a></li> <li><a href="#2">Barcelona, Spain</a></li> <li><a href="#3">Manchester, UK</a></li> <li><a href="#4">Amsterdam, Netherlands</a></li> <li><a href="#5">Venice, Italy</a></li> </ul> <h2 id="1"><strong>Bhutan</strong></h2> <p>The Eastern Himalayan <a href="/explore/southern-asia/bhutan/10-things-i-wish-i-knew-before-going-to-bhutan">Kingdom of Bhutan</a>, which is landlocked between China and India, is known for clifftop monasteries, misty terraces, and Himalayan hiking trails. Since last year, Bhutan is also now known for a hefty tourist tax that was introduced to curb the number of visitors and preserve its unique cultural heritage. Bhutan follows the tourism motto of "high value, low volume" and its government believes that if travelers have journeyed all the way there, they should contribute towards the country's development.</p> <p>As a result, the previous daily visitor fee of US $65 (which remained unchanged since 1991), jumped up to $200 per day in September 2022. (The fee was revised again in 2023 and is currently USD $100 per day.) Known as the <span>Sustainable Development Fee, it is utilized to support healthcare, education, and environmental infrastructure projects and it is separate from the mandatory $40 visa fee.</span></p> <p>According to Brijesh Sarsar, of <a href="https://www.authenticindiatours.com/">Authentic India Tours</a>, which operates tours in Bhutan, while the previous fee covered expenses such as guides, hotels, and meals, the new tax does not include these services, it simply allows you to visit. He also adds that his company’s Bhutan office saw an immediate and substantial fall in new travel bookings after the new tax went into effect, so it would appear the new rules are working.</p> <h2 id="2"><strong>Barcelona, Spain</strong></h2> <p>As one of the most tourist-choked cities in the world, Barcelona has long struggled with how to balance welcoming the visitors – who are necessary to sustain the local economy –while also maintaining quality of life. Residents have long complained that the 32 million annual tourists clog their streets, clutter their beaches, and create loud nuisance. Barcelona, which was, in 2012, one of the first cities to implement a city tourist on top of the regional tax, announced in 2022 that guided tours would also have capped numbers and limited routes. They also would have to adopt headsets and earpieces instead of megaphones.</p> <p>While the city has not yet found a perfect solution, economy professor, Pedro Aznar, says the answer is <span><a href="https://en.ara.cat/society/barcelona-tourism-mass-easter-overcrowding_130_4350435.html">distinguishing between different types of tourism</a>. For instance, he says there is a large economic difference between a bachelor party ( which comes to spend one night in a budget hotel) and a family (who stays multiple days and plans a full schedule of cultural and gastronomic activities). In 2022, Barcelona announced an incremental growth of this city tax that will vary based on the accommodation type. <a href="https://www.euronews.com/travel/2024/07/01/barcelona-is-increasing-its-tourist-tax-heres-how-much-youll-have-to-pay-in-2023" target="_blank">As of October 2024</a>, visitors to the city must pay €4 on top of the regional tax. This means guest rentals will cost an addtional €5.25/night, and five-star hotels will charge an additional €7.50/night.</span></p> <h2 id="3"><strong>Manchester, UK</strong></h2> <p><a href="/explore/northern-europe/united-kingdom/top-pubs-to-visit-in-manchester-uk">Manchester</a> became the first UK city to impose a tourist tax on April 1, 2023. Dubbed the “city visitor charge,” the tax will impose an additional £1 per night, per room in hotels in the city center. Though the fee is modest, it’s expected to draw in £3 million per year, which will go towards the new Manchester Accommodation Business Improvement District (ABID) and its goal of supporting the city’s visitor economy and experience.</p> <p>Its strategy will include increasing overnight visitors by amplifying marketing campaigns but balancing that push by securing large-scale events during low-season periods. For instance, it plans to hold large sporting events, concerts, conferences, and festivals during off-peak months to incentivize travelers to visit when the city is less crowded.</p> <h2 id="4"><strong>Amsterdam, Netherlands</strong></h2> <p>While the Dutch city of Utrecht is helping combat climate change by <span><a href="https://www.worldnomads.com/responsible-travel/make-a-difference/people/putting-cycling-first">putting cycling first</a>, its sister city, Amsterdam, is focused on combating overtourism by decreasing visitors to its famed Red Light District. What’s unique about its approach is that it’s specifically targeted at British male visitors aged 18-35, who tend to focus their travels on drinking and using drugs. Many of these visitors specifically come for raucous stag (bachelor) parties, which the city is actively trying to discourage.</span></p> <p>In a campaign launched in March 2023, would-be British tourists searching terms such as “pub crawl Amsterdam” and “stag party Amsterdam” were greeted with a<span> <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DDwhRdHk7hc">serious video advertisement</a> warning visitors of the consequences of an alcohol- and drug-fueled trip. Amid images of police arrests and jail stays, viewers seeking a “messy night” are warned to stay away.</span></p> <p>On top of their ad campaign, on May 25, 2023, Amsterdam also enacted a new rule <span><a href="https://nltimes.nl/2023/05/20/last-weekend-legally-smoke-cannabis-outside-red-light-district">prohibiting marijuana smoking on the street in the Red Light District</a>. A majority of the city council approved the measure to curb the crowds, noise, and general nuisance associated with tourists in the area.</span></p> <h2 id="5"><strong>Venice, Italy</strong></h2> <p>As visitors far outnumber residents on the narrow streets of Venice’s historic center, the city implemented a new rule that went into effect in 2024. Day trippers will no longer be able to just show up in the historic center; rather, they must first make an online reservation up to four days in advance and pay a fee. Overnight visitors, whether staying in hotels, guesthouses, or other accommodation, are exempt from the rule. Considering that about 80% of the city’s visitors are day trippers (approximately 19 million per year), the new policy stands to have a tremendous impact.</p> <p><span>The daily trip fee is 10 euros (USD $10.30) per person and <a href="https://cda.veneziaunica.it/contributo-di-accesso" target="_blank">will be applied on specific days during the high season</a> (April 18 through July 27). Violators risk fines as high as 300 euros (USD$315) if they are stopped and unable to prove (via QR code) that they pre-booked and pre-paid.</span></p>Getty Images/Alexander Spatari 11428441295 Getty Images Crowds of people on the shopping street in Vienna, Austria

https://public-web-wn.uat.wng.me/responsible-travel/make-a-difference/participation/world-refugee-dayWorld Refugee Day, which falls on 20 June each year, is a day of remembrance and a call for action. 2023-06-20T10:00:00Z https://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/responsible-travel/make-a-difference/participation/world-refugee-dayhttps://www.worldnomads.com<p><span>In 2015, a European migrant crisis was declared. Around 1.3 million migrants applied for asylum in the EU member states, Switzerland, and Norway. This set a <a href="https://www.pewresearch.org/global/2016/08/02/number-of-refugees-to-europe-surges-to-record-1-3-million-in-2015/">record high</a>, nearly double the previous record set in 1992 following the fall of the Iron Curtain. Refugees fled to Europe from Afghanistan and Iraq, among other countries, with more than 440,000 of them going to Germany.  Syrians by far topped the list, accounting for nearly one-third of all asylum seekers in Europe in 2015, total <a href="https://www.pewresearch.org/global/2016/08/02/number-of-refugees-to-europe-surges-to-record-1-3-million-in-2015/#:~:text=Refugees%20from%20Syria%20numbered%20378%2C000,recent%20surge%20in%20asylum%20applications.">378,000 refugees</a>.</span> </p> <p><span>In the wake of the influx of these extraordinary numbers of people, a crisis was declared. Local economies, workforces, and housing in host countries floundered beneath the weight of the new migrants. However, the framing of this phenomenon is problematic. People were, and still are, understood through numbers and statistics rather than as individuals. Human lives are perceived as a crisis on a continent, rather than as human beings who were forced to flee unimaginable circumstances.</span></p> <p><span><a href="https://www.unhcr.org/world-refugee-day">World Refugee Day</a>, which falls on 20 June each year, is a day of remembrance and a call for action. A time to elevate the voices and the stories of individuals impacted by war, conflict, and natural disasters, who fled home in search of safety and new beginnings. To bridge the gap between “them” and “us” and simply connect through human nature. As travelers, conscious explorers of the world and seekers of culture, we can be ambassadors of awareness.</span></p> <p><span>In light of the 2023 World Refugee Day (that has the theme 'hope away from home'), I spoke with Mohamad, a tour designer and guide with <a href="https://refugeevoicestours.org/">Refugee Voices Tours</a> in Berlin. Refugee Voices Tours was founded in 2015 by refugees and activists with the intention of informing the public why so many refugees were forced to flee and seek refuge in Europe. Whether it be on your next trip to Berlin, or from afar virtually, join this innovative company on immersive walking tours. Experience a different side to this popular European city and understand why so many asylum seekers found themselves in Germany and Europe over the past decade.<br /><br /></span></p> <h3><strong><span>Alicia: Can you tell me more about yourself and how you ended up in Berlin?</span></strong></h3> <p><strong><span>Mohamad: </span></strong><span>I’m originally from a small town outside of Damascus, Syria. I left in 2013 to go and find work elsewhere to support the rest of my family. My younger brother and I went to Libya and stayed there for about two years, where we built a business. Things were going relatively well until Libya itself, or Benghazi specifically, became a war zone. We lived through it for a couple of months and then decided to go to Europe because we didn’t know how long the conflict would last. Our Syrian passports were pretty much useless to go anywhere else legally besides Europe. Our parents were in Turkey, but we couldn’t even get to the airport to fly to them. The airport in Benghazi was not functional until mid-2015.</span></p> <p><span>We ended up coming to Europe with smugglers on a fishing boat. First to Sicily, then to mainland Italy, and then on trains from Milan to Berlin. About seven months after submitting our papers, we were granted asylum.</span></p> <h3><strong><span>Alicia: Can you elaborate on the situation facing refugees arriving in Germany?</span></strong></h3> <p><strong><span>Mohamad: </span></strong><span>It varied quite a lot depending on when they came, where they came from, and which state in Germany they went to. Not all conflicts were seen as equal or eligible for asylum. Before 2014 and 2015, Syrians were given asylum on the fly. It was typical to wait between seven months and a year to receive your papers. During that time, you’re not allowed to visit people in different cities or leave the camp for more than 40 hours.</span></p> <p><span>Once you get asylum, you’re put through an integration course, which is mostly a German language course, for six months. And then you’re pushed to find work. They encourage you to certify the degree you already have, but it’s a tedious process. Many times, it’s easier to go back and study again than have your degree officially acknowledged. To give you a close example, my sister is a dentist and it took her nearly seven years to verify her degree. Their assumption was that Syrian education was bad, that you know nothing and need to start from scratch. This is a lot of loss of skill and makes it difficult for people to feel integrated. The last eight, ten years of their life was wasted, and they need to start basically over.</span></p> <h3><strong><span>Alicia: How did Refugee Voices Tour first emerge?<br /> </span></strong></h3> <p><strong><span>Mohamad: </span></strong><span>In 2016, I met Lorna Cannon, founder of Refugee Voices Tours. The tour that Refugee Voices Tours was built on was led by refugees from Africa—like Libya and Sudan— who fell outside the system and would not be granted asylum. They organized a <a href="https://oplatz.net/">big demonstration in Oranienplatz</a> in 2012. People built tents and were there for over a year (until April 2014). Eventually, the state decided to give more rights to refugees but since they didn’t fit that criteria, it didn’t apply to them.</span></p> <p><span>Lorna knew the demonstrators and lived in the neighborhood where it was going on. There was a suggestion to build this tour for people to learn about the movement and its outcome. When I met Lorna, the tour was still running so I experienced it. It was so powerful and made me think: “How can we build something like this about Syria and allow people to learn about the Syrian conflict firsthand?” The idea was to use the history of Berlin to talk about some of the current events happening in Syria. We spent time putting it together, trying it, and adjusting the design. It’s been going on for almost seven years now.</span></p> <h3><strong><span>Alicia: What do the tours aim to show to participants? How are they shaped by your personal experience?</span></strong></h3> <p><strong><span>Mohamad: </span></strong><span>I used to go to these dinners connecting people coming from different parts of the world. When they asked where I’m from and I said Syria, you could tell they have lots of questions but they’re not sure if it’s the right place or time. I figured the tours could be the platform for people to ask these questions.</span></p> <p><span>The tour that I designed is called “Why We’re Here.” The whole idea is to try and answer this question. Why are there refugees in Europe and specifically, why are Syrians in Germany? We want to make what happened in Syria digestible. Why it happened and why it forced people to seek refuge all around the world. It’s like a crash course in the Syrian conflict but still related to Berlin and its rich history. Trying to relate pieces of history that people are aware of to something they have no clue about; to connect people so they don’t just see it as another conflict in the Middle East.</span></p> <h3><strong><span>Alicia: What has been the impact you’ve seen from Refugee Voices Tours?</span></strong></h3> <p><strong><span>Mohamad: </span></strong><span>I honestly didn’t think it was going to go anywhere but it grew much bigger than I expected. It was timely as people were discussing the refugee crisis in Syria when the tour launched and gained momentum from there. We started on a weekly basis up to just before the pandemic. Now we are doing biweekly tours and hope by summer to return to a weekly basis.</span></p> <p><span>Every time I question why I keep doing these tours, I’ll have a group or an individual in the tour that reminds me why I’m doing this. At the end of the tour, we go to a restaurant where people can process it and feel comfortable enough to ask questions. It becomes a discussion about the many nuances and layers to it. Which makes it much more lasting and helps them unpack any piece of news they may come across.  </span> </p> <h3><strong><span>Alicia: What impact do you believe travelers can have in raising awareness around and having an impact on refugee-related issues?</span></strong></h3> <p><strong><span>Mohamad: </span></strong><span>I try to show them how much the humanitarian efforts they saw in 2015 and in 2022 were heavily motivated by politics and how the rhetoric can assign values and select who is deserving of being treated as human beings and who is not. And I try to leave an impact on them. Even if they can't change anything on a governmental scale, at least they detect the bias that exists in every political decision and hopefully inspire them to spread that idea and understanding to others.</span></p> <h3><strong><span>Alicia: What message do you want to send to the public for World Refugee Day?</span></strong></h3> <p><strong><span>Mohamad: </span></strong><span>Nobody chooses to be a refugee. We were reminded by that again with the invasion of Ukraine where people went to sleep with all of their hopes and dreams for the next day and then they needed to leave. To show that nobody who has been displaced because of war is inhumane. I want people to Imagine themselves as displaced and how they would react, what they would do if the whole world started looking at and treating them differently just for the fact that they’re displaced. I am a refugee and am one of the privileged ones that had the chance to start over and the opportunity to have the platform to talk to people. This is not the case for the vast majority of refugees around the world. </span></p>Getty Images / Jasmin Merdan 0 A group of migrants walking against a sunrise

https://public-web-wn.uat.wng.me/responsible-travel/make-a-difference/participation/help-save-our-planets-coral-reefsIf no action is taken, we could be living in a world without coral reefs by 2050. 2025-09-01T10:00:00Z https://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/responsible-travel/make-a-difference/participation/help-save-our-planets-coral-reefshttps://www.worldnomads.com<ul> <li><a href="#1">Coral gardening</a></li> <li><a href="#2">Coral spawning</a></li> <li><a href="#3">Coral rehabilitation<br /></a></li> <li><a href="#4">Knowledge generation and community involvement </a></li> <li><a href="#5">Awareness and citizen action</a></li> </ul> <p><span>Over the past several years, <a href="https://www.outsideonline.com/outdoor-adventure/environment/obituary-great-barrier-reef-25-million-bc-2016/?scope=anon">headlines</a> claiming the Great Barrier Reef is dead or dying have sent the world into an uproar. However, while the world’s largest coral reef system (which stretches for more than 1,400 mi (2,250km) off the coast of Queensland, in Australia’s Coral Sea) is not dead, the headlines did get something right: the future of the Great Barrier Reef is not secure.</span></p> <p><span>The future isn’t looking bright for any of the world’s coral reefs. To put it grimly, if no action is taken, we could be living in a world without coral reefs by 2050<strong>. </strong>Take a moment to imagine living in a world where the oceans are depleted of their reefs, and all the life that thrives on them is gone, too, so that they can only be viewed in a tank at an aquarium. It sounds quite dystopian, doesn’t it?</span></p> <p><span>Coral reefs are crucial ocean habitats that are the home, breeding grounds, and source of food for many marine creatures. Reefs contain the highest biodiversity on the planet, and with the disappearance of reefs comes the extinction of many aquatic plants and animals. The impact also reverberates to life on land, impacting local communities who rely on the reefs as a source of income, from fishing to tourism.</span></p> <p><span>A planet without coral reefs doesn’t <em>have</em> to be the future, though. There is still time to preserve and regenerate coral reefs, and we are at a pivotal moment in marine conservation. In recent years, important steps have been taken to prioritize innovative action to preserve the future of our reefs and oceans. Knowledge and action have been put at the forefront of many ocean conservation agendas, and marine biologists and engineers, among other experts, have been busy researching and testing out innovative techniques in labs and in the ocean. Their tireless work gives hope to the future survival of coral reefs. The next few years will be crucial as the long-term impact of current research and innovations unfold. Coral conservation is a complex dance between repairing damage done by unsustainable marine tourism, overfishing, ocean waste, and mitigating the impact of climate change causing ocean temperatures to rise and bleaching coral.   </span></p> <figure><img src="https://media.worldnomads.com/responsibletravel/participation/reef-belize-content-resized.jpg" alt="A scuba diver working on a reef" /><figcaption><span>Coral bleaching at Glovers Beach Marine Reserve.</span> Photo credit: A.Tewfik and WCS</figcaption></figure> <h2 id="1">Coral gardening</h2> <p>Coral gardens are a phenomenal way to revive reef ecosystems in a protected setting. Nurseries provide a safe space where corals can be grown in large numbers and <a href="/explore/caribbean/5-unforgettable-experiences-in-the-caribbean">later transferred to reefs</a>. Fragments of healthy corals are carefully collected from existing coral colonies, typically coming from coral fragments that have already been broken off due to natural causes. The fragments are then planted in the coral nursery, which are either floating or fixed structures that are designed to hold the coral fragments in place. Once the coral fragments have grown to a large and healthy enough state, they are out planted back onto damaged reefs.</p> <p>Most coral nurseries are field based, in areas off-site from natural reefs. While field nurseries are relatively low cost and require less advanced technology, they also have disadvantages. They are susceptible to environmental extremes such as storms and warmer water temperatures, for example. Land based nurseries are more easily monitored and can be sheltered from external forces like disease and bleaching, however, are much more complicated.</p> <p>A growing number of organizations, including the <span><a href="https://rrf.org.au/">Reef Restoration Foundation</a> in Queensland, Australia, are dedicated to planting coral in gardens. <a href="https://coralgardeners.org/pages/our-work">Coral Gardeners</a> (CG) is another organization paving the way in coral nurseries. Initially started on the island of Mo’orea in French Polynesia, Coral Gardeners has developed a comprehensive strategy to tackle reef restoration through a coral adoption and replanting program that allows anyone to adopt a coral for the team to plant. So far, its team of gardeners has planted more than 30,000 corals. The initiative also develops innovative tolls at CG Labs to scale up reef conservation, refine techniques, and monitor progress. </span></p> <h2 id="2">Coral spawning</h2> <p>The future of coral reefs is brightened by their ability to regenerate. This natural phenomenon by which corals reproduce and create new coral colonies is known as coral spawning. While there is no way to know exactly when it will take place, coral spawning is a yearly event that occurs around October or November in conjunction with the full moon and depends on specific conditions, including warm water. When it happens, the event is quite spectacular to witness. Corals release eggs and spawn into the water at the same time. The bundles rise to the surface, where the fertilization process starts. If it’s successful, the fertilized eggs will settle on the ocean floor and eventually creates new coral colonies. Coral spawning is imperative to the future of reefs, as the phenomenon helps maintain genetic diversity within the coral population, replenish damaged and depleted reefs, and restores the complexity and functionality of reefs.</p> <p>Recently, a handful of scientists have begun using the power of nature to their advantage. Essentially, corals grown in nurseries are being used to help facilitate coral spawning. Using experimental techniques that were <span><a href="https://www.reuters.com/article/us-environment-coral-idUSKCN1VD06G">pioneered in Florida</a>, the Reef Restoration Foundation transformed a coral fragment into to a reef colony that will continue to reproduce on its own. These corals were grown in Australia’s first coral nursery off the coast of Cairns on Fitzroy Island. In November of last year (2022), these nursery-grown corals spawned for the first time in the Great Barrier Reef.</span> </p> <p>“We planted coral cuttings in a degraded patch of reef and these pioneer species have grown to around 1m in diameter helping to create a healthy and complex habitat for various corals and marine life,” commented Marine Biologist and Master Reef Guide Azri Saparwan. “The spawning was a showcase of how the Great Barrier Reef generates new coral recruits each year as part of its regeneration process.”</p> <h2 id="3">Coral rehabilitation</h2> <p>From restoring damaged reefs to creating artificial reefs that allow the development of coral colonies, the numerous approaches to reef restoration and rehabilitation reflect a concerted and creative effort to tackle coral conservation. </p> <p><span>One example is <a href="https://www.reefmagic.com.au/">Reef Magic</a>, a sustainable marine tourism company off the Great Barrier Reef. It is dedicated to the reef’s preservation and has been experimenting with the use of reef stars to help protect damaged areas of the reef. Reef stars were first conceptualized in 2011 by <a href="https://www.mars.com/news-and-stories/articles/coral-reef-rehabilitation">MARS</a>, a purpose-driven company that began installing reef stars in South Sulawesi, Indonesia to provide a stable surface for corals to grow. Since this initial experiment, these limestone-coated steel structures have been used to help secure damaged reefs in Australia, Bali, and beyond. The first reef stars were placed on a part of Moore Reef off the coast of Cairns in June 2020, a project implemented by Reef Magic and <a href="https://www.gbrbiology.com/">GBR Biology</a>, a team of marine biologists conducting research and leading educational snorkel tours on the Great Barrier Reef. Initially, the findings on Moore Reef show that Reef Stars increase coral growth or transform rubble dominated areas to coral dominated areas. In the past 18 months, there has been a 50% increase in coral growth. </span></p> <figure><img src="https://media.worldnomads.com/responsibletravel/participation/reef-belize-content-2-resized.jpg" alt="An aerial shot of a coral reef in Belize." /><figcaption><span>Aerial of Belize Barrier Reef Reserve.</span> Photo credit: Julio Maaz and WCS</figcaption></figure> <h2 id="4">Knowledge generation and community involvement</h2> <p>With all the intensive research and innovations in the field of marine conservation comes a responsibility to share it with other countries and organizations. The <span><a href="https://www.barrierreef.org/">Great Barrier Reef Foundation</a> has been heading up a united, comprehensive approach to achieve the change needed through its Reef Recovery 2030 program. Improving water quality, restoring damaged reefs and coastal ecosystems, and the protection of at-risk reefs are among the target strategies, and 43 interventions complement these goals, including enhanced coral breeding, reducing the exposure of reefs to heat stress, and treatment of damaged corals.</span></p> <p>Recently, a landmark partnership was initiated between UNESCO, the Great Barrier Reef Foundation and the Belize government to protect coral reefs and the communities that rely on them for their livelihoods. The strategy aims to safeguard the Belize Barrier Reef Reserve System, home to more than 1,400 species of plants and animals, from the impacts of climate change, overfishing, and unsustainable tourism. The scheme has a long-term plan that focuses on three main areas: restoring coral reefs, realizing the potential of blue carbon, and investing in sustainable livelihoods among local communities.<br /><br />“We know that the solutions for coral reefs will not rest with one country or community, commented Anna Marsden, the Great Barrier Reef Foundation’s Managing Director. “Which is why the Great Barrier Reef Foundation has a global focus and works in partnership with Indigenous people and local communities that are on the frontline of the fight against climate change. By working with a united purpose, we can still have hope that people and planet can thrive.”<br /><br /></p> <h2 id="5">Awareness and citizen action</h2> <p>A holistic approach to safeguarding the future of coral reefs is non-negotiable. From Coral Gardeners to Reef Restoration Foundation, awareness is at the center of all these organizations dedicated to coral conservation. The successes of their projects rests on knowledge from the general public and everyday actions taken by individuals. With a global awareness around the urgency of protection of reefs, businesses and individuals alike can check their own contribution to the protection of reefs. If you’re a frequent ocean visitor or are planning some aquatic adventures on your next vacation, look to book with a company that takes ocean conservation into account. Or, go a step further and take an educational snorkel or dive. <span><a href="https://www.moua.com.au/">The Museum of Underwater Art </a>in Townsville, Queensland allows you to snorkel among submerged sculptures that raise awareness surrounding reef conservation.</span></p> <p>Other ways to help? “The biggest thing we need to do is reduce carbon emissions as quickly as we can,” said Eric Fisher, Master Reef Guide with Reef Magic. “Currently, the Great Barrier Reef has not lost its ecosystem function and is quite capable of recovering on its own. However, it is under incredible pressure from climate change and individual reefs are subject to increasing cumulative disturbances in a short period of time.” So, take the bus instead of driving, and switch out your plane ticket for a train ticket.</p> <p>If you’re looking for a way to directly contribute to the critical efforts of coral conservation on World Ocean Day or any day, all the organizations in the throes of conducting research benefit from support. You can even <span><a href="https://coralgardeners.org/products/adopt-a-coral">adopt a coral</a> with Coral Gardeners and choose between one of five different climate-resistant corals that the team with collect from the lagoon, plant and grow to maturity in their nursery, and plant back into the natural reef to revitalize the biodiversity in the ocean. One coral at a time, we can all help preserve the future of coral reefs and their brilliantly abundant ecosystems. </span></p> <p><strong> </strong></p>Henry Brown 0 Coral reef and fish

https://public-web-wn.uat.wng.me/responsible-travel/make-a-difference/participation/sustainability-conferencesThe responsible travel train has well and truly left the station, but these organizations are doing more than talking about change – they’re making it happen.2023-05-31T10:00:00Z https://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/responsible-travel/make-a-difference/participation/sustainability-conferenceshttps://www.worldnomads.com<ul> <li><a href="#1">How to beat greenwashing</a></li> <li><a href="#2">The United Nations Climate Change Conference</a></li> <li><a href="#3">IMPACT Sustainability, Travel, and Tourism Conference</a></li> <li><a href="#4">SYNERGY and The Retreat Show</a></li> <li><a href="#5">Regenerative Travel Earth Day Summit 2023</a></li> <li><a href="#6">Green Destinations</a></li> <li><a href="#7">Our Ocean</a></li> </ul> <p><span>“Tourism is a truly global force that in and of itself has the power to effect change,” remarked Robert Sandford, leading Canadian expert on sustainability in his opening speech at this <a href="https://www.tourismvictoria.com/impact">year’s IMPACT Sustainability, Travel, and Tourism Conference</a>. IMPACT is a yearly summit that takes place in Victoria, British Columbia, Canada every January. “It’s up to tourism everywhere to alert people of the beautiful world we live in that we are at risk of losing if we don’t act now.”</span></p> <p>The buzz around responsible tourism is growing louder by the day. Conversations around topics such as regenerative tourism have an increasingly significant voice. Putting these changes into practice is a different story, however. The rise of sustainable travel as a trend is watering down actionable change; the changes that <em>need</em> to happen to get ahead of the climate crisis and to make the travel industry a more equitable and inclusive space.</p> <h2 id="1">How to beat greenwashing</h2> <p>One of the biggest challenges to arise amidst the buzz is greenwashing, a tactic of conveying misleading information about an entity’s environmentally sound practices. The vision of responsible tourism isn’t simply about hotels running off of 50% renewable energy, businesses buying credit to offset their carbon emissions, and establishments banning single-use plastic. Not to discount these efforts, but individually they’re insufficient and can detract attention from the real work that needs to take place.</p> <p>International conferences at the confluence of climate action and responsible tourism have become formidable spaces to leverage substantial change in the industry and have the power to become even more so. By bringing together experts from many industries, these conferences host immersive experiences in intentionally chosen destinations, feature keynote speakers on crucial topics, and facilitate breakout sessions that can critically address the gaps in the industry and lay the groundwork for future change.</p> <h2 id="2">The United Nations Climate Change Conference</h2> <p>Also known as COP, The United Nations Climate Change Conference, is perhaps the most well-recognized global conference on climate concerns. <a href="https://www.un.org/en/climatechange/cop26">COP26</a>, held in Glasgow in 2021, exclusively focused on sustainable tourism. While the conference aimed to build on past successes and set the foundation for future action, it fell short. Instead, COP26 became a lesson in the gap between conversation and action.</p> <p>In the 2022 Emissions Gap Report, Inger Anderson, Under-Secretary-General of the United Nations and Executive Director of the UN Environment Programme, commented: “At the Glasgow climate summit last year, countries committed to updating their climate pledges to deliver far greater emissions cuts. The Gap report documents that, collectively, the limited number of updated pledges shave less than 1 percent off projected greenhouse gas emissions in 2030. This is completely insufficient.  We need to cut 45 percent off emissions by 2030, over and above what current policies will deliver, to get on track to limiting global warming to 1.5°C.”</p> <p>Anderson isn’t alone in her assertion that COP26 failed to deliver what it promised. Both the climate world and the travel industry, and the intersection of the two, are muddled by conversations and trendy initiatives that lack action. In recent years, there has been a rise of small, focused conferences that are asking difficult questions and putting in the hard work to map out a plan to help countries, businesses, and environmental areas reach these goals. Goals that aren’t just a suggestion but that are necessary to get ahead of the global climate crisis and include all communities as part of the conversation, so the world doesn’t reach a tipping point from which there is no return, a point which we’re approaching at full speed.  </p> <h2 id="3"><strong><span>IMPACT Sustainability, Travel, and Tourism Conference</span></strong></h2> <p><span><a href="https://www.tourismvictoria.com/impact">IMPACT</a> lies at the intersection of environmental sustainability and tourism and is dedicated to laying out a detailed plan to get ahead of the climate crisis by 2030. While IMPACT’s focus lies predominantly in Canada, travel industry leaders from around the world congregate to learn, share, and discuss fundamental topics in responsible tourism and the overarching lessons are universally relevant. One of the biggest takeaways from the four-day conference: the tourism industry needs to take the climate warnings seriously, which involves laying out and following an action-oriented plan that will lower global temperatures. </span></p> <p>Before entering the conference rooms, IMPACT opens with a Day of Impact. Participants experience firsthand the changes and green initiatives stirring in Victoria, which recently became the first North American urban destination to receive a <a href="https://www.biospheretourism.com/en">Biosphere certification</a>. The harbor city is abundant in carbon-conscious hotels and farm-to-table eateries celebrating the bounties of local farmers. I flew over the pine-studded hills and deep blue waters of Vancouver Island on <a href="https://harbourair.com/">Harbour Air</a>, a seaplane company set to become the first commercial airline to go fully electric. We cruised along the Salish Sea aboard an <a href="https://www.eaglewingtours.com/">Eagle Wing</a> boat, a carbon-neutral establishment that equips its boats with ultra-silent engines to not disturb marine life. Individuals from the Lekwungen First Nation welcomed us to their ancestral land and spoke about the importance of conserving it while we sailed through <a href="https://seaforest.ca/our-story/">Sea Forest</a>, a floating kelp farm dedicated to sustainable aquaculture practices.</p> <p>With a newfound appreciation for witnessing responsible tourism in action, we gathered inside the eco-conscious <a href="https://www.tourismvictoria.com/meetings/victoria-conference-centre">Victoria Conference Centre</a> for three days of workshops and breakout discussions. Speakers from across British Columbia and Canada sparked crucial conversations and laid out actionable plans. From major names in the travel industry like <a href="https://www.intrepidtravel.com/en/be-sustainable">Intrepid Travel</a> and the <a href="https://serve360.marriott.com/sustain/">Marriott Hotels</a>, to local initiatives such as <a href="http://geazone.ca/">GeaZone</a> and <a href="https://www.sharcenergy.com/">SHARC Energy</a>, topics around hemp and other sustainable building materials, hydrogen vehicles, indigenous tourism, and responsible communication took center stage.</p> <figure><img src="https://media.worldnomads.com/responsibletravel/participation/sustainable-article-content-image.jpg" alt="An aerial image of people swimming in a natural swimming hole" /> <figcaption>A natural swimming hole in the jungle Photo credit: Getty Images / Thomas Barwick</figcaption></figure> <h2 id="4"><strong><span>SYNERGY – The Retreat Show</span></strong></h2> <p><span>Wellness-based travel retreats are in the unique position to shape tourism for the better, though until recently haven’t capitalized on their potential. Inspired by her love for travel and the deep impact wellness experiences had on her life and the vision to blend the two, Laura Montesanti founded Synergy. “For me, travel was a healing tool,” she reflected. “It’s a shame that the industry doesn’t have more healing tools available for individuals when they’re traveling, to use the resources around them. Go on a mindful walk in the forest while guided through a meditation, for example.” </span></p> <p><a href="https://www.theretreatshow.com/">Synergy – The Retreat Show</a> blends slow travel and sustainability through consciously curated wellness experiences. At this annual international conference, hotels, buyers, and wellness professionals converge in an intimate, intentional space and focus on the creation of retreats that are as impactful for guests as they are for local communities and the environment. Over three days, the intimate group exchanges ideas and knowledge participates in immersive wellness experiences and inspires the future of wellness retreat travel.</p> <p>The locations are carefully chosen to connect with a destination well-positioned for wellness travel. The Retreat Show’s second iteration will take place in October 2023 on the Riviera Maya in Mexico and will draw on many elements of Mayan culture. Balance was an important element of Mayan culture so the theme of “balance” will be woven throughout the conference, encouraging participants to reflect on how they can bring balance into their lives and the role it plays in sustainability.</p> <p>Each unique detail of Synergy is a reflection of Laura’s background in tourism, wellness, and yoga. For her, wellness extends far beyond a spa, it includes immersive travel, sustainability, and community connection, including volunteering. Laura advocates for how much more we can do and experience while traveling by connecting travelers in the right spaces and to the right people. And Synergy strives to accomplish just that: to inspire individuals in the industry to take action, to include wellness as part of their experience, and to understand the concrete impact they can have in community and environmental sustainability while traveling.</p> <h2 id="5"><strong><span>Regenerative Travel Earth Day Summit 2023</span></strong></h2> <p>In honor of Earth Day on 18 April 2023, <a href="https://www.regenerativetravel.com/">Regenerative Travel</a> hosted a summit in Brooklyn, New York. Regenerative Travel was founded with the intention of creating a community of action-oriented spaces and changemakers in the travel industry dedicated to eco-friendly tourism. The vision? Developing a portfolio of hotels that regenerate people and places through innovation, creativity, and lifting up underrepresented groups. Regenerative Travel’s single-+day summit packed in a lot of information featuring speakers addressing crucial topics. Topics included regenerative safaris in remote, off-grid camps; developing regenerative leadership in teams; and the importance of stewardship and educational opportunities in the travel industry.</p> <h2 id="6"><strong><span>Green Destinations</span></strong></h2> <p>A non-profit dedicated to destination development and certification, <span><a href="https://www.greendestinations.org/gd-2023-estonia/">Green Destinations</a> is guiding cities and towns to operate more sustainably. The organization supports destinations, alongside their businesses and communities, with training programs. Green Destinations also offers a range of certifications that destinations can achieve through specific tools and parameters that verify their sustainable practices. Each year, Green Destinations hosts a summit in one of their certified destinations. This year’s summit will take place in Tallinn, Estonia, named the European Green Capital of 2023. Over the course of the summit, travel industry professionals come together to attend workshops tackling timely topics and collectively explore challenges and exchange potential solutions. The ultimate goal? To achieve collective, holistic, and sustainable growth in the tourism industry. </span></p> <h2 id="7"><strong><span>Our Ocean</span></strong></h2> <p><a href="https://ouroceanpanama2023.gob.pa/areas-of-action/">Our Ocean</a> is an international conference exclusively focused on marine conservation. The eighth annual conference was held in Panama in March, where marine pollution, ecological connectivity, and sustainable tourism were among the primary focuses. Governments, civil society, scientists, and experts in the field came together to tackle the biggest challenges facing the ocean through uniting knowledge, technology, and finance. The creation of Marine Protection Areas was one priority, which can play an important role in the management and conservation of ocean biodiversity. Blue economies were another priority, meaning developing economic systems that conserve marine systems while using oceans and their resources in sustainable ways for economic growth. Finally, joint efforts to solve marine pollution—from raising awareness around ocean conservation to taking preventative and corrective action to clean the ocean, took center stage.</p>Getty Images / Yagi Studio 0 A hiker on a wooden walkway

https://public-web-wn.uat.wng.me/responsible-travel/make-a-difference/people/travelling-cheaply-good-for-planetInstead of feeling limited by a tight budget, consider how being thrifty can have a positive impact on the environment and communities we visit.2023-05-02T10:00:00Z https://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/responsible-travel/make-a-difference/people/travelling-cheaply-good-for-planethttps://www.worldnomads.com<p>While hitting the road on a shoestring budget might not sound like the most enjoyable approach to seeing the world, it can actually be a great way to encourage more sustainable travel habits. From the modes of transport we take to the activities we participate in, here are just a few ways being a frugal traveler can have a positive impact on people and the planet.  </p> <ul> <li><span><a href="#1">Off-season travel supports ecosystems and local economies </a></span></li> <li><span><a href="#2">Cheaper accommodation can be sleek and sustainable </a></span></li> <li><span><a href="#3">Simple adventures encourage richer connection </a></span></li> <li><span><a href="#4">Go vego and BYO to cut costs and emissions </a></span></li> <li><span><a href="#5">When it comes to transport, think slow and low </a></span></li> </ul> <h2 id="1">Off-season travel supports ecosystems and local economies</h2> <p>There are plenty of perks to traveling over the quieter months in addition to significant savings, like avoiding the crowds and taking advantage of more availability in sought-after destinations. However, heading on an off-peak adventure also benefits the communities and places we visit, particularly when they are economies that rely heavily on tourism. Traveling to a region during a time when trade is scarce can help to keep local businesses afloat when they might otherwise go for months without an income.</p> <p>Off-season holidays mean you're not contributing to over-tourism, therefore reducing pressure on natural resources and giving nature a chance to regenerate. Less rubbish to be disposed of and more water to go around can ease the strain on the environment, while those traveling by car will likely notice a decrease in traffic and air pollution when hitting the road off-season.</p> <p><strong>TIP – try seeking out '<a href="/explore/europe/italy/what-to-see-and-do-in-lecce">second cities</a>' or lesser-known destinations that have just as much to offer without the 'tourist hotspot' price tag.</strong></p> <h2 id="2">Cheaper accommodation can be sleek and sustainable    </h2> <p>Budget hotels and hostels have come a long way in recent years, with many now designed to offer both stylish and sustainable lodging that caters to families, professionals and backpackers alike. Having a smaller overall footprint than larger hotels means modest accommodation is often inherently more eco-friendly, while common spaces such as kitchens and laundry areas allow resources to be shared. If you'd prefer privacy, there are plenty of <a href="/responsible-travel/make-a-difference/planet/why-small-stays-are-a-greener-choice">cabins, tiny houses and wilderness huts</a> that might be more your style.   </p> <p>Avoiding the well-known chains for locally owned accommodation can also mean your dollars are going back into the local economy. For example, a homestay can support the livelihood of an entire family, and a small-scale hotel that's a little bit further from the town center might grow its own produce and use renewable energy. At the end of the day, it pays to do some research before you book to ensure your money is spent responsibly, no matter your budget.</p> <p><strong>TIP – try <a href="https://fairbnb.coop/">Fairbnb</a>, an ethical alternative to Airbnb that supports sustainable community projects, or consider house-swapping as a low-cost, environmentally-friendly option if this is available to you</strong>. </p> <figure><img src="https://media.worldnomads.com/responsibletravel/people/travel-cheaply-body-image.jpg" alt="Two backpackers sitting in front of mountains" /><figcaption>A couple backpacking in the mountains. Photo credit: Getty Images/Jordan Siemens</figcaption></figure> <h2 id="3">Simple adventures encourage a richer connection</h2> <p>Making travel dollars go further means getting creative with your choice of activities. Walking or <a href="/responsible-travel/make-a-difference/people/putting-cycling-first">cycling around a new city</a> are great ways to discover the sights and tread lighter along the way, while camping is a sustainable vacation option that also delivers on adventure and that much-needed connection to nature.</p> <p><strong>TIP – save money before you even leave the house by borrowing the items you might not have a lot of use for later, such as a backpack, yoga mat or hiking boots.</strong></p> <p>Activities such as walking, cycling and setting up at a campsite allow us to see and experience more than if we were sitting in a car or a high-rise hotel room and encourage us to engage with local people and cultures, not to mention the health benefits of staying active and spending time outdoors.</p> <p><strong>TIP – many volunteering opportunities such as conservation work, fruit picking, or joining a WWOOFing program offer free board and meals and enable to you to connect with the local community while learning a new skill.</strong></p> <h2 id="4">Go BYO to cut costs and emissions</h2> <p>Meal expenses are a key factor in budgeting for travel, and, with a little planning, it's an area where you can also avoid unnecessary waste. Packing your own lunch in stainless steel food containers when you're heading out for the day means you won't be tempted to grab a pre-packaged sandwich on the go, while carrying a reusable water bottle can save countless plastic bottles from landfill.</p> <p><strong>TIP – many cafes offer a discount for those who bring their own coffee cup, so it's a win-win.</strong></p> <p>Much like at home, eating a vegetarian diet while traveling benefits both the earth and our grocery bill, with farming and processing animals for meat generating 20 times the greenhouse gases of vegetables. Go for the vegetarian option wherever possible and opt for seasonal markets over fancy restaurants to benefit the health of your body, your bank balance and the planet. Eschewing meat and dairy will also make your meals easier to digest, which is always a plus when you're on the road.</p> <h2 id="5">When it comes to transport, think slow and low</h2> <p>How we get to our destination is one of the most important decisions impacting our carbon footprint, and there's no denying the high price of air travel on our wallets and on our planet. You might have found yourself Googling train timetables to avoid the cost of a last-minute flight, however, there's more to love about a rail pass than the price. <a href="/responsible-travel/make-a-difference/participation/the-return-of-train-travel">Traveling by train</a> is one of the most energy-efficient modes of transport, and it's also one of the most scenic.</p> <p>As a rule, the shorter the distance you travel, the lower your carbon footprint, although covering fewer miles doesn't mean missing out on experiences. On the contrary, staying put for longer can lead to a richer experience and understanding of a place. When you're not focused on getting to your next destination, you'll have more time to chat to locals, seek out traditional culture and cuisine, and get a better sense of what it feels like to live in and be a part of a community.</p>Getty Images / SolStock 0 A woman traveler on a boat under palms

https://public-web-wn.uat.wng.me/responsible-travel/make-a-difference/people/responsible-travel-heroesHow Intrepid Travel is helping to decarbonize the global travel industry under Global Environmental Impact Manager, Dr. Susanne Etti.2023-04-11T10:00:00Z https://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/responsible-travel/make-a-difference/people/responsible-travel-heroeshttps://www.worldnomads.com<p>Melbourne-based Intrepid Travel, one of the world’s largest travel companies, has long been a leader in responsible, ethical and sustainable travel. Intrepid’s first Global Environmental Impact Manager, Dr. Susanne Etti, explains how she came to be at the helm of Intrepid’s latest, greatest mission: to decarbonize travel.  </p> <p>Growing up in Germany, with a love of nature and an interest in biology, spending any free time she had hiking and skiing in the Alps, Etti couldn’t have predicted that life’s winding path would eventually lead her to Melbourne, Australia, where she would become a passionate advocate for climate action in tourism.</p> <p>This latest chapter in her life started in January 2019 when Etti – who has a Ph.D. in biology – joined <a href="https://www.intrepidtravel.com/au">Intrepid Travel</a> as the adventure tour operator’s first Global Environmental Impact Manager. It’s a role that seems tailor-made for Etti and is integral to everything Intrepid does, given the company’s longstanding commitment to ethical, sustainable travel and climate action.</p> <p>Straight out of the blocks, Etti helped Intrepid become the world’s first travel company to commit to a science-based emissions reduction target that aligns with a 1.5°C future, which was verified in 2020 by the <a href="https://sciencebasedtargets.org/">Science Based Targets Initiative</a> (SBTI). In 2022, Intrepid ramped this up by committing to SBTI’s long-term net zero target: a 90 per cent reduction in emissions by 2050, with carbon removal (not offsets) used to neutralize any remaining emissions. Etti was also involved in Intrepid becoming one of the first travel companies to <a href="https://www.tourismdeclares.com/">declare a climate emergency</a> and develop a climate action plan in 2020, and one of the first signatories to the UN-backed <a href="https://www.unwto.org/the-glasgow-declaration-on-climate-action-in-tourism">Glasgow Declaration on Climate Action in Tourism</a> launched at COP26 in Glasgow in 2021. And these are just a few of her achievements so far.</p> <p>So how did Etti get here and what does the future of travel look like to her?   </p> <figure><img src="https://media.worldnomads.com/make-a-difference/index-responsible-travel/people/dr-susanne-etti-dolomites-in-articlejpg.jpg" /><figcaption>Dr. Susanne Etti in the Dolomites.</figcaption></figure> <h2><strong>Was there a moment in your life when the climate crisis became real for you? </strong></h2> <p>I think spending a lot of time in the European Alps as a child, on skis and in walking boots, I grew up being aware of glaciers and the fact that they were changing. Scientific knowledge about climate change wasn’t as advanced back then as it is today, but the conversation was definitely starting. Then, when I was in high school, there was a growing awareness of deforestation happening in the Amazon. I realized that if I studied biology it would give me an understanding of how the natural world works. I ended up doing my Master’s and Ph.D. theses on the impact of climate change on infectious diseases, specifically malaria and Lyme disease, and while I was at university I got to spend three months in the Ecuadorian rainforest, in the Amazon, doing field research, which had a big impact on me.</p> <h2><strong>In what way?</strong> </h2> <p>Experiencing primary rainforest was quite magical, just seeing the enormous diversity of species there. I saw my first hummingbird, a tiny thing that weighs only three grams. I also saw first-hand the impact of deforestation; even if there is regrowth, you lose so much biodiversity. That experience made me realize I was on the right track studying biology and that I didn’t want to specialize in ornithology or taxonomy. I wanted to look at the bigger picture, see how all the various elements fit together, and use that knowledge to help change things for the better.</p> <h2 id="help">How did you get from studying biology to working in sustainability?</h2> <p>During my Ph.D., I worked part-time with a carbon-offsetting start-up and I got full-time employment with them when I finished my degree in 2005, which led to various consulting roles in corporate <a href="/responsible-travel/make-a-difference/participation/what-the-uns-sustainability-goals-mean-for-travel">sustainability </a>around the world [until 2019]. Leaving academia was a very conscious decision for me. I wanted to work <em>with</em> industry, in the business sector, and I thought that as a scientist I could bring some rigor to the conversation.</p> <h2><strong>Was it also a conscious decision to work in the travel industry?</strong></h2> <p>Not at all. How it happened was that I could see the climate crisis was intensifying, I wanted to work in the climate space and when I saw this role with Intrepid I was just really impressed with what they were doing. They were a <a href="https://www.intrepidtravel.com/adventures/why-we-became-a-b-corp/">certified B Corp</a> [since 2018], they were carbon neutral way back in 2010, and their climate journey actually started in 2005 when everyone in senior management read <em>The Weather Makers</em> by Tim Flannery. <em>An Inconvenient Truth</em> came out around the same time and Intrepid took all its staff and customers to see the film. Then they got to work, measuring their carbon footprint. They just have this “we want to do more” attitude across the entire company, from the board to their trip leaders, and that seemed a great match for my experience.</p> <h2><strong>What does your work at Intrepid involve?</strong></h2> <p>In one sense, I’m continuing what Intrepid has been doing since 2010 and scaling it up so we can improve what we do. Through Intrepid’s annual Greenhouse Gas Inventory, for instance, we now know exactly what the carbon footprint is per passenger per day for every trip we run. That’s exciting because we can now give more precise data to our product team that creates all our trips and use that data to ramp up decarbonization. It’s no longer about carbon neutrality; that’s not going to save us from the climate crisis. Our focus now is on decarbonizing all our operations, including all the trips we run, worldwide. My job is basically to ensure that climate action and decarbonization are top of mind throughout the company and all it does.</p> <figure><img src="https://media.worldnomads.com/make-a-difference/index-responsible-travel/people/dr-susanne-etti-in-article-india.jpg" /><figcaption>Dr. Susanne Etti hiking in India.</figcaption></figure> <h2><strong>How did the pandemic pause in travel affect sustainability in the industry?</strong></h2> <p>I think it helped us all start working together more on climate action. When I joined Intrepid, I really wanted to help create change across the whole industry and during the pandemic, I became really focused on helping other travel companies – most of which are small-medium businesses that don’t have someone like me on staff – use that time when they weren’t able to run trips, to act on climate change. We encouraged them to sign <a href="https://www.tourismdeclares.com/">Tourism Declares a Climate Emergency</a>. We published a free <a href="https://www.intrepidtravel.com/adventures/decarbonise-travel/">10-step guide to decarbonizing your travel business</a>. We made available our <a href="https://www.intrepidtravel.com/au/download-our-carbon-measurement-blueprint-for-tour-operators">methodology around measurement</a> and decarbonization because unless you measure, you don’t know how to reduce your emissions. And on the animal welfare side, we created the <a href="https://www.intrepidtravel.com/au/download-our-animal-welfare-policy-toolkit">Animal Welfare Policy Toolkit</a> for companies that include animals in their tour offerings, which we developed with <a href="https://www.worldanimalprotection.org.au/">World Animal Protection</a>.</p> <h2>What do you love about your job?</h2> <p>I love engaging with people to create change. I try to make sure that every single staff member within Intrepid understands that they’re part of decarbonization. I was trained by Al Gore in 2011 as part of<span> </span><a href="https://www.climaterealityproject.org/">The Climate Reality Project</a><span> </span>to present his slideshow from<span> </span><em>An Inconvenient Truth</em>, so I hold virtual sessions with our staff around the world [Intrepid has more than 1,700 staff members] to explain why we need to change and help them figure out how they can change. It’s about developing a culture, and reminding people that climate action happens at every level.</p> <h2><strong>Anything you don’t love about it?</strong></h2> <p>While the measurement side is super important, it is <em>extremely</em> time-consuming. You want to be as accurate as possible and we’re always broadening our scope, adding more detail; for example, we’re counting working-from-home emissions now and the emissions of professional services we use. Coming out the other side of our annual Greenhouse Gas Inventory is always a big relief!</p> <h2><strong>What’s ahead for Intrepid in terms of reducing its environmental impact?</strong></h2> <p>We’re really committed to our decarbonization strategy and staying on track to meet our near and long-term science-based targets. We’re also developing a biodiversity strategy because we don’t just have a climate crisis, we’re in a biodiversity crisis too. And we have an ongoing commitment to reducing plastic pollution, at all levels of our operations, working with our suppliers to provide, say, water filters or jerrycans on trips to avoid single-use water bottles.</p> <h2><strong>What do you think “sustainable travel” will look like in 2030 and beyond?</strong></h2> <p>I think aviation is the biggest challenge for the travel industry, so innovations around sustainable fuels will be critical. But there will also be changes in the way people travel, which we’re already seeing, like staying longer when we fly long-haul and using trains more. Intrepid is switching to high-speed <a href="/responsible-travel/make-a-difference/participation/the-return-of-train-travel">trains</a> in countries like Japan, for instance, to reduce short flights on certain trips. There’ll be changes in seasonality; the hiking season in Europe might extend into October, for instance, while August might become too hot for hiking.</p> <p>As more and more people consider the impact of their travels, I think the industry will have to provide more responsible, sustainable, low-carbon trips. We know that travel improves our lives and often the places we visit, but it also has a huge carbon footprint, contributing around 8 per cent of global emissions, so it’s going become increasingly important that we all reduce our impact on the natural environment as much as possible.</p>Images provided by Dr Susanne Etti 0 A woman hike rests on a hillside with snow

https://public-web-wn.uat.wng.me/responsible-travel/make-a-difference/people/destination-zero-wasteWe can travel more consciously by visiting those places making bold leaps towards zero waste… and by leaving them just as we found them.2023-04-11T10:00:00Z https://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/responsible-travel/make-a-difference/people/destination-zero-wastehttps://www.worldnomads.com<p>Fortunately for us travel lovers, some of the best destinations on earth are also some of the most progressive in their commitment to waste reduction, aiming towards a <a href="/responsible-travel/make-a-difference/people/zero-waste-dining">zero-waste economy</a>. And it’s not just some of the big names – those large modern cities where we expect to find plenty of innovation towards waste management. I’m thinking San Francisco, Copenhagen, Singapore.</p> <ul> <ul> <li><span><a href="#global">Global movement</a></span></li> <li><span><a href="#what">What is zero waste?</a></span></li> <li><span><a href="#plastic">The plastic problem</a></span></li> <li><span><a href="#help">What can travelers do to help?</a></span></li> <li><span><a href="#leave">Leave nothing behind</a></span></li> <li><span><a href="#local">Local legislation</a></span></li> <li><span><a href="#zero">Zero waste – a win-win</a></span></li> <li><span><a href="#success">Success in Sardinia</a></span></li> </ul> </ul> <h2 id="global">Global movement</h2> <p>In far-flung corners of the globe, there are also smaller, more remote – and beautiful – destinations making impressive efforts to eliminate waste.</p> <p>Take Siquijor, a tiny island province in the Philippines home to around 100,000 people. Plastic is prohibited on the island meaning that people often take their own bags to markets and grocery stores, and their own reusable containers to restaurants.</p> <p>The island’s roads, parks, beaches, and markets are free of plastic litter – and the local marine and bird life can breathe a sigh of relief in the nation’s third largest producer of marine plastic pollution.</p> <h2 id="what">What is zero waste?</h2> <p><a href="https://www.no-burn.org/about/">The Global Alliance for Incinerator Alternatives (GAIA)</a> recently defined zero waste as “a comprehensive waste management approach that prioritizes waste reduction and material recovery. <br /><br />“Strategies include policy interventions and business approaches to drive the redesign of products and delivery systems; and increasing access to reuse, repair, recycling, and composting.</p> <p>“The ultimate aim is to create a circular economy, shrinking waste disposal to zero.”</p> <p>So, zero waste is more than just managing waste – it’s about not producing it in the first place and increasing reuse and recycling. Traditional disposal systems that rely on incineration and landfill to handle waste are not zero waste – these are expensive and harmful to the environment.</p> <figure><img src="https://media.worldnomads.com/make-a-difference/index-responsible-travel/people/zero-waste-in-article-image.jpg" /><figcaption>Punta Don Diego beach in Sardinia (Italy) Photo credit: Getty Images/virtualphoto</figcaption></figure> <h2 id="plastic">The plastic problem</h2> <p>The issue for many tourist destinations is that they often end up being spoiled by their success; while they attract plenty of visitors, with those greater numbers comes extra rubbish and many smaller places don’t have the extra resources to deal with it.</p> <p>Claire Arkin, Global Communications Lead for GAIA, told us: “Many tourist destinations tend to be near bodies of water like oceans, rivers and lakes. But the natural beauty that draws tourists to these areas become hotspots for waste pollution, threatening the tourism economy for residents.</p> <p>“Plastic pollution in particular causes major problems,” Arkin said. “Most single-use plastic is used for a short period and then stays in the environment in one form or another for hundreds of years.</p> <p>“So many tourist destinations have to deal with growing volumes of plastic waste that are impossible to manage. This plastic gets into bodies of water, litters streets, clogs gutters and drains, etc.”</p> <p>This not only detracts from the destination’s beauty, Arkin told us, but it’s expensive to clean up. It can also make areas more prone to flooding, and exposes residents to toxic pollution from sources like microplastics and emissions from burning plastic.</p> <h2 id="help">What can travelers do to help?</h2> <p>“Tourists can seek out and support accommodations and businesses that practice zero waste,” Arkin said. <br /><br />“Travelers can also take the opportunity to learn more about the community groups and organizations working towards zero waste in the place that they are visiting – these kinds of cross-regional exchanges help the zero-waste movement grow!”</p> <p>Or she suggests joining such groups to support their efforts towards zero waste, including <a href="https://www.no-burn.org/join-gaia/">GAIA</a>. </p> <h2 id="leave">Leave nothing behind</h2> <p>Camila Aguilera of GAIA Latin America offers practical ways tourists can help destinations on their road to zero waste. Aguilera works with Puerto Natales, a city in Chilean Patagonia making deep inroads towards zero waste.</p> <p>Puerto Natales is the primary transit point of travelers to Torres del Paine National Park, “one of the most visited natural in Chile,” said Aguilera. During some periods the city’s overpopulation with tourists seriously affects its waste management, exacerbated by its remote location.</p> <p>GAIA Latin America works with a local environmental conservation organization <a href="https://www.instagram.com/fundacionlenga/?hl=en">Fundación Lenga</a> and collaborates with a tour operator and a hostel on a program to reduce waste and promote recycling.</p> <p>“Although recycling is very difficult since the city cannot be reached by road,” Aguilera said. “Making the transport of recyclable waste not only very difficult, but also costly.</p> <p>“Where possible, always refill and reuse containers. When visiting national parks, return with waste at least to the nearest town. If it is difficult to manage waste in Puerto Natales, it is much more complex to do so in a remote national park.”</p> <p>Auguilera also advises asking tourist operators and hotels and hostels if they have zero-waste initiatives in their businesses.</p> <p>“Tourism is the economic engine of the area and if tourists themselves start making zero waste demands, it can accelerate the efforts of local communities and organizations such as Fundación Lenga.”</p> <h2 id="local">Local legislation</h2> <p>However, Aguilera said it’s not tourists themselves that are the problem, but the lack of legal mandates to control waste.</p> <p>“Of course, tourists generate a lot of disposable waste because they are just passing through, but it is not the tourists themselves who are the problem. The real problem is that in places as remote and naturally important as Patagonia, the use of disposable containers should not be allowed. </p> <p>“There should be a legal mandate forcing companies to provide the possibility of reuse and refilling. But until that happens, tourists' waste is affecting overburdened management systems… We are talking about a tremendously windy place, where waste can end up far away in nature.”</p> <figure><img src="https://media.worldnomads.com/make-a-difference/index-responsible-travel/people/zero-waste-in-article-2.jpg" /><figcaption>Siquijor island, Philippines. Photo credit: Getty Images/Max Shen</figcaption></figure> <h2 id="zero">Zero waste – a win-win</h2> <p>Back to Siquijor in the Philippines, which made such mandates, with great success. </p> <p>According to <a href="https://www.no-burn.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/Community-Voices_single.pdf">a report on the island’s waste reduction</a>, making waste management part of the agenda results in “a win-win scenario for local communities, especially in highly urbanized and/or tourism areas with challenges in land space for sanitary landfills.”</p> <p>“The community gets to maintain the beauty of the place and invite more tourists while also saving money that would otherwise be spent on managing increasing waste.”</p> <p>Aiming for <a href="/responsible-travel/make-a-difference/people/sustainable-terms">zero waste</a> through waste reduction, reuse, repair and recycling also can also boost local economies by job generation with not only more, but better, jobs, according to GAIA. </p> <p>They estimate that, compared with incinerators and landfills, repair creates over 200 times more jobs; recycling, over 50 times more jobs; and remanufacturing, almost 30 times more jobs.”</p> <h2 id="success">Success in Sardinia</h2> <p>Over in Europe, another destination that has become a model for zero-waste progress is the beautiful Italian island Sardinia. A combination of government legislation and incentives <a href="https://www.missionzeroacademy.eu/miza/leading-by-example-sardinias-zero-waste-model/">has transformed waste management on the island over twenty years</a>, despite the challenges of its relative remoteness from the mainland and large visitor numbers.</p> <p>The island aimed to stop biowaste from ending up in landfill with a compulsory separate collection, as well as targets on the amount of biowaste per inhabitant and the introduction of a reward/penalty system.</p> <p>Now, 206 out of 377 municipalities have achieved a recycling rate above 65 per cent. To put this in perspective, the European recycling target for 2035 is 65 per cent, so over half of Sardinia’s municipalities are already there.</p> <p>That sounds like a win-win for both locals and visitors.</p>Getty Images/Javier Ghersi 0 A town at sunrise

https://public-web-wn.uat.wng.me/responsible-travel/make-a-difference/participation/international-womens-dayThese seven inspiring women are helping change the tourism industry for the better.2023-03-06T11:00:00Z https://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/responsible-travel/make-a-difference/participation/international-womens-dayhttps://www.worldnomads.com<ul> <li><a href="#akashinga">Akashinga</a></li> <li><a href="#warriors">Women Warriors of the Amazon</a></li> <li><a href="#dhonk"> Divya Khandal, Dhonk Crafts </a></li> <li><a href="#soul"> Abi Osho, Soul Melanin </a></li> <li><a href="#byway">Cat Jones, Byway Travel</a></li> <li><a href="#warrior">Matricia Bower, Warrior Women</a></li> </ul> <p><span>A group of young travelers gathered on couches and chairs in a cozy living room where a fire roared one stormy, rainy night. The minute Jenny began to speak, silence fell across the room. Jenny, the owner and heart and soul behind <a href="https://www.wildspiritlodge.co.za/">Wild Spirit</a>, a sustainable backpackers’ retreat in the heart of Tsitsikama Forest along South Africa’s Garden Route, had a presence that was at once captivating and gentle. Intrigued by her story and her deep reverence for the surrounding land, I spent the next week joining her on excursions to her favorite spots: wide beaches with powerful waves, orange-tinted lagoons, her veranda overlooking the dense green forest. All the while she regaled the many fascinating chapters of her life. The accidental circumstances that led her to the property where Wild Spirit now sits, keeping the doors open without discrimination during apartheid South Africa, staunchly advocating for the protection of the local ecosystem against development, petitioning the government on numerous occasions against the destruction of the species in the area, and creating environmental education programs in local schools. Jenny infused all of these feats with meditation, art, creativity, and an infectious energy, a true woman warrior in all senses. Through Wild Spirit, she acted as a fierce protector of the land and animals she loved, while creating an inviting home for travelers to rest, connect, learn, and create while on the road in South Africa. </span></p> <p>On my travels and international work over the past decade and a half, I’ve been continuously humbled by the women I’ve encountered, Jenny being one among many. The women who have opened up their homes and shared food and traditions with me; women who have told me their fears, their frustrations, and their dreams. I have talked about women’s rights with young women on the steps of Chefchaouen, Morocco and helped a new friend get ready for her wedding day in Orchha, India while talking about arranged marriage. In a salon in Siem Reap, I listened to a Cambodian woman talk about being divided by her love for her culture and her fear of the government. And at the end of gender empowerment workshops in rural northwestern Tanzania, during which women shared stories of abuse and their hopes for their future, they drew me into a joyful dance circle celebrating community.  </p> <p>These women are changemakers, trailblazers, and everyday heroes standing up for something they believe in. They are humble, brave, and fiercely resilient, often in the face of discrimination and oppression. In celebration of International Women’s Day on 8 March and the entire month of March, women’s history month, I am commemorating women far and wide. I’ve rounded up a handful of inspirational women who are shifting the norms in the tourism industry, steering the industry to a more equitable and sustainable future.<strong><span> </span></strong></p> <h2 id="akashinga">Akashinga</h2> <p><span><a href="https://www.iapf.org/akashinga">Akashinga</a> means “Brave Ones” in Shona, and in Zimbabwe is bridging the gap between gender inequality and wildlife conservation. This powerful force of women is Africa’s first all-women, plant-based, anti-poaching unit. Akashinga’s focuses on educating the community to understand the benefits of preserving wildlife, and shifting the way that animals on the continent are protected. The work is both mentally and physically challenging, as well as dangerous at times, requiring all women to undergo intensive training including first aid, communications, weapon handling, and field combat. While this is traditionally a job held by men, these women have fought against societal standards, embody courage, and have well earned their title as “The Brave Ones.” Purity Mapa, former title junior ranger and current Coach Ranger Life Saver</span> commented, “The most rewarding aspect of my work is that the IAPF is constantly bringing me opportunities I would otherwise not have had. The role of women in the African culture is to take care of children at home and do most of the household chores… The IAPF is changing much of this… they came to my community and empowered economically and socially disadvantaged women.” And her message for girls around the world? “I just want to say that, no matter what, don't look down upon yourself. Keep on seeing possibilities only. As long as you're focused you can achieve everything that you want.”</p> <h2 id="warriors">Women Warriors of the Amazon</h2> <p><span>In the heart of Caru Indigenous Territory, where the rainforest opens up to the coast of northeastern Brazil, a group of Guajajara women warriors stands at the forefront of protecting the Amazon. They have named themselves “<em>guerreiras da Floresta</em>,” or “guardians of the forest.” In a male-dominated field, these women represent a necessary shift within the environmental movement. After bearing witness to the unsuccessful efforts of men in their community to stop illegal logging, a group of 32 women stepped in to take over. The path to being recognized as equals was one riddled with challenges but their efforts have paid off. Deforestation has decreased and the sale of illegal wood in their territory has been eradicated. The <em>guerreiras da Floresta</em> have also gathered larger groups of indigenous women across many regions in the Brazilian Amazon to create unity in this struggle. “This whole movement is extremely important because it shows this strength, and that women have a lot to contribute to the movement because they are part of the territory and are concerned with it, and with future generations,” said Rodrigues da Silva, guardian of the forest.</span></p> <h2 id="dhonk">Divya Khandal, Dhonk Crafts</h2> <p><span>Inspired by her background in wildlife conservation, Divya Khandal saw an opportunity to support women in northern India and play a unique role in regional conservation around Ranthambore National Park through <a href="https://dhonkstore.myshopify.com/">Dhonk Crafts</a>. She works with women living in the vicinity of the park, specifically the wives of former poachers, who are trained in block printing and stitching. The impact is two-fold: the work fills an employment gap in a rural area, empowering women with skills they can use to earn a living and contribute to the livelihood of their families. This alternative form of employment also provides job opportunities for people previously working in illegal activities such as hunting, woodcutting, and poaching, which has a positive impact on the conservation efforts in the region. Divya also has started a microfinance program that allows women to take out small loans to start a business, buy a sewing machine, pay for school fees or anything that will help them live a more independent lifestyle.</span></p> <h2 id="soul">Abi Osho, Soul Melanin</h2> <p><span>From the English countryside to the rolling green hills of Rwanda, Abi Osho connects black women on soul-stirring retreats specifically designed to help them connect with their ancestral roots and other women with shared experiences. A brainchild that emerged from the pandemic, <a href="https://www.soulmelanin.com/retreats">Soul Melanin</a> fills a gap in the travel and retreat space. When reflecting on her past experience of often being the only black woman in retreat spaces, Abi commented: “It felt to me that there was still a disconnect regarding understanding more about myself, my challenges as a black woman, and how differently I navigated my lived experience.” Cue Soul Melanin, which offers safe, self-growth experiences solely for black women where they are nourished and heard. The concept is very much a reflection of her own journey, in stepping away from a life overwhelmed by stress and burnout and pursuing a path of holistic well-being and energetic alignment. “I wanted to create a space where we could genuinely be ourselves, discuss issues around, self-discovery, and health and embrace the power of nature-based spaces,” Abi said. “It's very much about connecting back to their ancestral roots, re-centering their internal power, and embracing who they are becoming on their self-discovery journey.”</span></p> <h2 id="byway">Cat Jones, Byway Travel</h2> <p><span>Cat Jones embodies the concept of slow living, and slow travel. Noticing a gap in the travel industry, she founded <a href="https://www.byway.travel/">Byway Travel</a> in 2020 from her UK home during the first lockdown. Her goal? To curate custom trips that eliminate airplanes and minimize their carbon footprint. “Having never owned a car myself, I’ve always taken a multi-stop, multi-modal approach to my trips,” Cat commented. “I founded Byway… to create the technology that would make my kind of travel possible at scale.” Byway takes the work off the plate of travelers and has made airplane-free possible, to the places “in-between.” In essence, Byway changes how one travels and draws tourists away from travel spots. During the 2.5 years that Byway has been in operation, the company has experienced incredible growth. One of the best parts? More than 60% of the travelers booking are traditionally flyers, suggesting a shift in the way in which people travel. “Slow travel is a mindset,” Cat reflected. “It’s about traveling overland, staying in locally owned accommodation, stopping en route and taking time to get to know a place, its food, history, culture and its people.”</span></p> <h2 id="warrior">Matricia Bower, Warrior Women</h2> <p><span>A mother-daughter duo running immersive experiences across Alberta, Canada, <a href="https://warrriorwomen.ca/">Warrior Women</a> seeks to educate about the culture and traditions of the Cree First Nations. They host pow-wow experiences and drumming shows, among other cultural offerings that help preserve and bring to life their ancestral traditions. A major focal point of its work is in plant medicine, including leading experiential plant medicine experiences in Jasper National Park. Reflecting on the significance of plant medicine in her indigenous roots, Matricia commented, “Indigenous peoples have been coexisting, healing and taking care of the environment for centuries. Each plant has a creation story and a song and a Cree name… So, I share Indigenous ways of knowing and being and challenge visitors to think outside what they know.” And her reminder for girls and women around the world for this International Women’s Day? “We all have a story and we deserve to take up space sharing it.”</span></p>Getty Images / Klaus Vedfelt 0 A woman celebrates with laughter

https://public-web-wn.uat.wng.me/responsible-travel/make-a-difference/people/sustainable-termsStaying up-to-date with the latest sustainability terms can ensure we’re all on the same page and may even broaden our ideas of what the future of travel could look like.2025-01-27T11:00:00Z https://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/responsible-travel/make-a-difference/people/sustainable-termshttps://www.worldnomads.com<p>Ecotourism, carbon offsets and greenwashing are <em>so</em> five minutes ago. As our planet changes and traveling sustainably increasingly becomes the new normal, new words keep busting down the door of our ethical lexicon.</p> <p>Of course, words can still be used to hide our true intentions and hoodwink others (greenwashing will probably always be a thing). But words can be a force for good too, connecting us with like-minded travelers and immersing us in a more sustainable future; speak the lingo and you’re already part of the responsible travel revolution.</p> <p>Here are a few sustainable travel terms we’re all going to be hearing – and saying – a lot more.</p> <ul> <li><a href="#nature"> Nature positive </a></li> <li><a href="#foodprint">Foodprint</a></li> <li><a href="#decolonizing"> Decolonizing </a></li> <li><a href="#guerilla"> Guerilla humanitarianism </a></li> <li><a href="#zero">Net zero</a></li> <li><a href="#climate">Climate positive</a></li> <li><a href="#untourism">Untourism</a></li> <li><a href="#jomo">Jomo travel</a></li> </ul> <h2 id="nature">Nature positive</h2> <p>“Nature positive” has become the buzz phrase of our time, particularly since the UN’s Biodiversity Conference, COP15, in Montreal in December 2022, where an historic global agreement was signed to, among other things, <span><a href="https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2022/dec/19/cop15-historic-deal-signed-to-halt-biodiversity-loss-by-2030-aoe" target="_blank">protect 30 per cent of the planet for nature</a></span> and halt biodiversity loss by 2030 (the “30 by 30” target).</p> <p>“Nature positive” is essentially the idea that limiting our damage to the natural environment isn’t enough; we need to ensure our actions have a <em>positive</em> impact. How? The World Travel and Tourism Council's <span><a href="https://research.wttc.org/nature-positive-travel-and-tourism?utm_source=twitter&utm_medium=organic&utm_campaign=nature-positive-report&utm_content=pensara_video" target="_blank">Nature Positive Travel & Tourism report</a></span> focuses on “reversing damage to nature” through recovery and regeneration and include tips on how to protect biodiversity and travel in harmony with nature.</p> <h2 id="foodprint">Foodprint</h2> <p>A play on “carbon footprint”, this one relates to the environmental, animal welfare and social impact of the foods we eat. It might be trickier to calculate your “foodprint” than the carbon emissions of a trip, but it’s more about eating as ethically as we can, using guides such as Melbourne-based <a href="https://sustainabletable.org.au/all-things-ethical-eating/" target="_blank">Sustainable Table</a> and US-based <a href="https://foodprint.org/" target="_blank">Foodprint</a> and its <span><a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/what-youre-eating/id1609268111" target="_blank">What You’re Eating</a></span> podcast.</p> <p>A related term is “climavore” – someone who reduces their impact on the climate through their food decisions. Being a climavore goes beyond eating plant-based or choosing SLOW (seasonal, local, organic, whole) foods when we travel. It involves considering the fossil-fuels used to grow, process, store, transport and cook what we eat, particularly in remote locations, and making food decisions as specific, and as beneficial, as possible to the destinations we visit.</p> <h2 id="decolonizing">Decolonizing</h2> <p>This growing movement – also called “rejecting neo-colonializm” – seeks to challenge predominantly white, Western perspectives that dominate how many destinations are presented and experienced. The goal: a truly inclusive, local-centric way of seeing and experiencing those places. “Decolonizing” travel means being aware of our privilege in traveling and questioning messages we might be presented with, asking at any given moment, “Is this the voice of the colonizer or the colonized?<span>”.</span></p> <p>As travelers, we can choose tours that shine a light on the realities behind tourism – such as those offered by <span><a href="https://www.makingtheroad.com/" target="_blank">Making the Road</a></span> and the Hawaii DeTours Project (and companion <span><a href="https://read.dukeupress.edu/books/book/2667/DetoursA-Decolonial-Guide-to-Hawai-i" target="_blank">book</a></span>) – avoid white saviorism (particularly when volunteering) and words like “discover” and “colonial charm”, and support local guides and locally owned businesses, restaurants and hotels to ensure that the money we spend stays in the communities we visit.<br /><br /></p> <figure><img src="https://media.worldnomads.com/responsibletravel/7sustainabletravelterms/beach-cleanup.jpg" /><figcaption> Picking up litter when you travel makes a difference. Photo credit: Getty Images: Solstock</figcaption></figure> <h2 id="guerilla" style="text-align: left;">Guerilla humanitarianism</h2> <p>Less institutional and more hands-on than voluntourism, “guerilla humanitarianism” is simply about doing good while you’re on the road. At its most basic, it can involve doing spontaneous beach clean-ups during a surf trip. Or you could pack specific items needed by people living where you’re going, whether it’s shoes or school books or medical supplies, donating them via hotels and tour operators through US-based <span><a href="https://www.packforapurpose.org/" target="_blank">Pack for a Purpose</a></span>, which runs projects in more than 55 countries.</p> <p>Similarly, <span><a href="https://www.wavesforwater.org/couriers/about" target="_blank">Waves for Water</a></span> has a “courier” program whereby travelers can crowdfund compact water filters they then carry in to remote, often inaccessible, communities; each water filter can provide 100 people with clean water for up to five years.</p> <h2 id="zero">Net zero</h2> <p>“Zero carbon” – not producing <em>any</em> carbon emissions – might be the holy grail when it comes to climate action, but total decarbonization is practically impossible for the travel industry, which is responsible for roughly <a href="https://sustainabletravel.org/issues/carbon-footprint-tourism/" target="_blank">8 per cent of global emissions</a>. The next best thing is a “net zero” approach, which involves travel companies using <span><a href="https://sciencebasedtargets.org/net-zero" target="_blank">science-based targets</a></span> to make “rapid, deep emissions cuts”, reducing their emissions by 90-95 per cent by 2050 and neutralizing the remaining 5-10 per cent through carbon removal.</p> <p><a href="https://www.intrepidtravel.com/au" target="_blank">Intrepid Travel</a>, which has been carbon neutral since 2010, has signed up to this approach. Their decarbonization measures include removing short-haul flights from 14 of their most popular trips in destinations such as Vietnam, Turkey, and Egypt.</p> <h2 id="climate">Climate positive</h2> <p><span>In a perfect world, being “climate positive” would involve actually removing more carbon, and other greenhouse gases, from the atmosphere – through, say, carbon storage technology – than you produce. In reality, climate-positive companies use carbon offsetting, to offset more carbon than they emit. You might also hear travel companies marketing themselves as “</span>climate-conscious<span>” or “</span>climate-aware<span>”, meaning they’re taking action to reduce their contribution to the climate crisis, throughout their supply chains.</span></p> <p>Going next level, Bhutan became the<span> </span><a href="https://protect-au.mimecast.com/s/Q_qHCk815Yh46kR6FJozQU?domain=earth.org/" target="_blank">world’s first “carbon-negative” destination</a><span> </span><span>in 2021; its extensive forests act as a carbon sink, absorbing more carbon than the tiny Himalayan country produces. And</span><span> </span><a href="https://protect-au.mimecast.com/s/tqKEC91W8JHxgz6ghoLBoe?domain=discovergabon.com/">Gabon</a><span> </span><span>in central Africa uses its equatorial rainforests to do the same, but calls itself the most</span><span> </span><a href="https://protect-au.mimecast.com/s/XItNC0YKgwF4Dk9DFDKeIU?domain=karryon.com.au/">“carbon positive”</a><span> </span><span>nation on earth</span><em>.</em></p> <h2 id="untourism">Untourism</h2> <p>First, there was overtourism. Then came undertourism, with tour operators promoting unsung hiking trails and “second cities”, to share the travel love.</p> <p>Now there’s “untourism” which, in its purest form, is all about wandering, without a list or an itinerary, letting serendipity be your guide. It’s about travelers interacting directly with locals who get to show off their favorite places and the things they love doing to a select few, in an ad hoc fashion – not on organized tours. It’s personal, unplanned, affecting and refreshingly non-commercial – although, inevitably, there are “untours” such as the wildly popular <span><a href="https://www.wehatetourismtours.com/" target="_blank">We Hate Tourism Tours</a></span> in Portugal.</p> <h2 id="jomo">Jomo travel</h2> <p>You’re likely familiar with the term FOMO (fear of missing out). This type of social pressure often has travelers packing as much into their itinerary as possible. What if you don’t check out that restaurant or beach or museum everyone is raving about?</p> <p>JOMO (the joy of missing out) turns that on its head. Similar to the “<a href="/responsible-travel/make-a-difference/participation/the-beauty-of-slow-travel">slow travel</a>” movement, Jomo travel is about intentionally limiting the number of stops or attractions you visit, and instead taking the time to truly savor and enjoy the place you’re in. It’s OK not to see or do everything. And it’s OK not to share every moment on social media. Putting phones down and keeping your schedule light makes for a much more relaxing holiday.</p> <p>Jomo travel often involves spending time in nature or seeking out wellness retreats, but it can apply to a city visit or stay-cation too. It has the added benefits of helping local economies and reducing your carbon footprint, since you’re staying longer in one place.</p>Getty Images / Pamela Joe McFarlane 0

https://public-web-wn.uat.wng.me/responsible-travel/make-a-difference/people/indigenous-foodWe can all learn from ancient, seasonal food practices and traditions when we travel.2023-02-21T11:00:00Z https://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/responsible-travel/make-a-difference/people/indigenous-foodhttps://www.worldnomads.com<p>After escaping the tourist crowds of Tulum, I found myself sleeping in a hammock beneath a thatched roof hut in a small, dusty Mayan village on Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula. Every morning and every evening, I had the pleasure of sitting beneath the shade of palm trees while indulging in a colorful spread of fresh foods prepared by the women in the village. Green avocado smashed with lime and salt. Magenta-hued water pressed from fresh hibiscus leaves (or, in Spanish, <em>jamaica</em>). Corn tortillas, black beans spiced with chilies, and steaming tamales wrapped in corn husks cooked underground. Many of these dishes are familiar suspects commonly associated with contemporary Mexican cuisine. In reality, all of these dishes have much older roots. They have origins with the indigenous Mayan peoples inhabiting the Yucatan peninsula of modern-day Mexico, whose cuisine dates back as far as 1500 BC.</p> <p>Many of our favorite foods from around the world have ancient indigenous heritages. From familiar ingredients such as quinoa, avocado, cacao, wild salmon, squash, and maple syrup, to lesser recognized ancient ingredients that were once commonly foraged such as yaupon (the only indigenous caffeinated plant in North America), chokeberries, and <em>timpsula</em> (a wild prairie turnip) in the Americas, to lemon myrtle and finger limes in Australia, indigenous cuisine is deeply tied to the local land.</p> <p>Over the past several centuries, colonialism and globalization spurred an unprecedented movement of people, goods, and ideas. Consequently, the trajectory of the world and food as it once existed was permanently altered. Indigenous foods and techniques were blended with new ingredients and over time new dishes and fusion foods commonly recognized in contemporary cuisine emerged. Consequently, the purity of indigenous cuisine was lost, along with its culture association.</p> <p>As original stewards of the land who lived in rhythm with the changing of seasons, a celebration of seasonal, local ingredients with conservation-focused techniques such as foraging, pickling, and curing was, and still are, fundamental to indigenous diets. The native Sami people from the Lapland region of Sweden, Norway, and Finland, for example, have at least eight seasons of food. Reindeer is central to Sami cuisine and every part of the animal is used, in stews, cured into sausages, reserved after slaughter, so it lasts through the winter. Cloudberries, mushrooms, and lingonberries are some of the goods the Sami forage in the forest, used fresh, in jams, and in herbal concoctions.</p> <p>In an age where hyper-local, hyper-seasonal cuisine is taking the center stage in dining experiences, we should look to indigenous traditions to understand this increasingly important ethos to how we eat. It’s nothing revolutionary but rather a return to ancient wisdom and a reverence for the land.</p> <h2><strong><span>Indigenous food experiences</span></strong></h2> <p>From North, Central, and South America, to Australia and New Zealand, indigenous communities around the world are working to preserve and celebrate the food of their ancestors and the food that is still prominent in their cultures today. For foodies, history buffs, and conscious consumers alike, there are an array of cafes, restaurants, and immersive experiences focused on fostering the cuisine of indigenous communities. On your next travels, whether they be far afield or simply at a dining establishment in your hometown, seek out culinary experiences that celebrate indigenous food. We’ve rounded up a few of our favorites for some inspiration. Keep in mind, that while some are curated, others can be experienced by tapping into the local food scene in countries such as Mexico and Guatemala.</p> <p><span><a href="https://www.makamham.com/cafeohlone"><strong>Café Ohlone</strong></a><strong> in Berkeley, CA, USA: </strong>described as a “love song to Ohlone culture,” Café Ohlone transports guests to a reimagined time as they enter a redwood-framed shadow box where native plants dance in the sun and wind. This café at the University of California Berkeley’s Hearst Museum of Anthropology is dedicated to the preservation and celebration of the history and culture of the Ohlone tribe. A garden thrives with aromatic native plants that are used in various teas and dishes on the menu. The dining experience at Café Ohlone is intentional and educational, designed to immerse visitors in every element of Ohlone culture. Traditional, seasonal foods such as black oak acorn soup, chanterelle mushrooms, Dungeness crab, and teas made from yerba Buena, elderberry, and hummingbird sage make for a colorful and intriguing menu. Café Ohlone is as much a celebration of Ohlone culture for guests to experience, as it is a gathering space for the Ohlone people, where language classes, cultural sessions, and food drop-offs are held.</span></p> <p><span><a href="https://www.songheesevents.ca/food-truck"><strong>Songhees Nation Food Truck</strong></a><strong> in Victoria, British Columbia, Canada: </strong>the Songhees Nation hold a prominent place along the waters of southern Vancouver Island, British Columbia. To honor this heritage and promote cultural awareness, the Songhees Nation Food Truck was started in 2016 as a partnership between the Songhees Nation and Clipper Vacations (the ferry traveling between Victoria and Seattle). Currently, the food truck is fully Songhees-owned and run. Aaron, or Cheethlum in Coastal Salsih, says that the goal behind the truck is to “use modern twists on traditional foods. The features we do are fun, and we like to use seafood when possible.” The menu features fresh, local ingredients like wild salmon, bison, and bannock (a flatbread), that echo the culture of the Songhees. These Songhees-inspired culinary creations can be enjoyed in a relaxed seating area designed to look like a traditional longhouse.</span></p> <figure><img src="https://media.worldnomads.com/responsibletravel/indigenousfood/beach-walk.jpg " alt="Daintree beach walk." /> <figcaption> Visitors are shown indigenous food sources on a Queensland beach in Australia. Photo credit: Walkabout Cultural Adventures and Tourism Australia.</figcaption></figure> <p><span><a href="https://walkaboutadventures.com.au/"><strong>Walkabout Cultural Adventures</strong></a><strong> in Queensland, Australia</strong>: Juan pointed to the tree trunk crawling with green ants. “Do you see these green ants? They have a distinct lime flavor.” He held the head of a squirming ant as I bit off the end and waited for the burst of citrus. In Kuku Yalanji country around the Daintree Rainforest, green ants are commonly used for seasoning and medicine. Seven Seasons has even distilled a <a href="https://www.seven-seasons.com.au/product/green-ant-gin-700-ml">Green Ant Gin</a>, which has a distinctively citrus pop. Beyond emerald-colored insects, the Daintree Rainforest in Tropical Northern Queensland is abundant with fresh ingredients found within the thick tangles of the forest, including berries and fruits like Damson, native gingers, and pencil cedar fruit. And among the marshy mangroves bordering the coast, one can collect shellfish, snails, cockles, crabs, and fish. With Walkabout Cultural Tours, an aboriginal-run company, you can accompany guides like Juan into the rainforest and along the coast to learn about what the Kuku Yalanji people traditionally ate and what they foraged for in the bush for food and medicine. “Sharing our culture and creating an understanding with a broader audience is a pathway to preservation and reconciliation,” remarked Juan. “And like most cultures, the sharing of food brings family and people together.”</span></p> <p><span><a href="https://www.hiakai.co.nz/"><strong>Hiakai</strong></a><strong> in Wellington, New Zealand: </strong>Maori culinary experiences aren’t the easiest to come by in New Zealand, or Aotearoa as the modern nation is called in Maori. Traditional dishes and ingredients from the native stewards of Aotearoa include the likes of fresh mussels in <em>puha </em>juice (fern thistle), <em>pikopiko </em>(fern roots), <em>kumara</em> (sweet potato), and local species of fish. <em>Hangi</em> is a traditional method of cooking beneath the ground, using heated rocks buried in a pit oven. If you find yourself in Wellington, it’s worth making a reservation at <a href="https://www.hiakai.co.nz/">Hiakai</a>. First started as a pop-up series hosted by chef Monique Fiso that focused on exploring and showcasing Maori cooking techniques, Hiakai has now landed in a permanent space in Wellington. This women-led establishment has challenged and pushed the boundaries of Maori cuisine in New Zealand, paving the way for an innovative exploration of indigenous cuisine meeting modern, exploratory techniques. The menu is inspired by “the whenua (land), moana (sea), and tāngata (people) of Aotearoa”; a reflection of the Maori’s deep respect for the earth and the ocean.</span> </p> <p><span><a href="https://owamni.com/"><strong>Owamni by the Sioux Chef</strong></a><strong> in Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA: </strong>Sean Sherman, author of <em>The Sioux Chef’s Indigenous Kitchen, </em>first opened Owamni as a catering company. In 2021, it transitioned into a permanent establishment serving Dakota and Ojibwe dishes. The menu is completely decolonized, meaning that it exclusively uses ingredients that were found in North America prior to European colonization. Curious what this looks like? Blue corn bread, elk with blackberries and cranberries, wild rice, and bison and black bean stew are among the dishes that guests can choose between. Colonial ingredients, such as dairy, cane sugar, and wheat flour won’t be found on the menu. At its heart, Owamni serves decolonized food of “Mni Sota Makoce: Land Where the Waters Reflect the Clouds.”</span></p>Walkabout Cultural Adventures and Tourism and Events Queensland 0 Walking on a beach near Daintree

https://public-web-wn.uat.wng.me/responsible-travel/make-a-difference/people/putting-cycling-firstBy prioritising cycling, these cities are becoming more flexible, sustainable and liveable.2025-04-08T10:00:00Z https://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/responsible-travel/make-a-difference/people/putting-cycling-firsthttps://www.worldnomads.com<ul> <li><a href="#madison">Madison, USA</a></li> <li><a href="#nyc">New York City, USA</a></li> <li><a href="#utrecht">Utrecht, Netherlands</a></li> <li><a href="#bogata">Bogotá, Colombia </a></li> <li><a href="#paris">Paris, France</a></li> </ul> <p>Not only are cars incredibly damaging to the planet, as their fuel pollutes the air we breathe, but many people simply can’t afford to own cars so they rely on public transportation and bicycles to get around. <a href="/travel-insurance/activities/cycling-travel-insurance">Cycling</a> affords flexibility and freedom, where your leg strength (and the condition of your bike, of course) are the only factors limiting you from getting where you need to go.</p> <p>By making cycling a more accessible option, cities can create a more level playing field where everyone – regardless of whether or not they own a car – can move around the city safely, easily, and in a way that doesn’t harm the environment.</p> <p>The best-known and most popular example of cycling infrastructure is the cyclist’s beloved bike lane, which comes in many forms. Some lanes are shared with cars, with nothing more than minimal on-street markings, while others are fully separated, protected paths.</p> <p>Bike lines create a demarcated safe space for cyclists that both encourages more cycling and forces drivers to respect the street space afforded to cyclists. They are a great start to encourage more pedal-powered transportation but they are just that, a start, as they are only one tool in the cycling tool box.</p> <p>Some cities around the world have made strong investments in education and broader cycling infrastructure that make cycling easier, safer, and more enjoyable. Here are some of the top global destinations that are putting cycling first.</p> <h2 id="madison">Madison, USA</h2> <p>This small state capital may be known to visitors for its lively nightlife, frequent political rallies, and “forever young” college town vibe but, for locals, it’s also well-known for its love of cycling. Wisconsinites are a hearty bunch, as anyone who lives here needs to put up with brutally cold and snowy winters, including cyclists.</p> <p>Madison city officials have responded by not only installing bike tools along popular bike routes, but by actually plowing bike lanes in the winter so that cyclists can still ride. Bike lanes often get ignored by snow plows (most of which can’t even fit in them) and it’s especially rare to find a small city footing the bill to plow them. But because Madison lanes are plowed, you’ll see Madisonians riding no matter the weather.</p> <p>The city has also received one of the coveted few <a href="https://www.cityofmadison.com/mayor/blog/2024-02-07/madison-renewed-as-platinum-bicycle-friendly-community" target="_blank">Platinum Bicycle Friendly Community status awards</a><span> from the League of American Bicyclists. The award was granted as a result of Madison investing in pedestrian and bicycle bridges over major highways, cross-flow bike lanes (bike lanes going in both directions on a one-way street), a citywide <a href="https://madison.bcycle.com/" target="_blank">Madison BCycle</a> bike share system, bicycle crossing signals at intersections, and an extensive network of bike lanes that connect Madison with surrounding communities.</span></p> <h2 id="nyc">New York City, USA</h2> <p>The city that never sleeps is one of the best places in the world for cycling, in no small part thanks to the priority the city has placed on cycling infrastructure. While local cyclists (myself included) still complain about how much more could be done (and about the NYPD cops who consistently park in the bike lanes), there is no denying the huge investment the city has made to make cycling safer and easier here. From installing bike lanes – and maintaining them in good condition – to offering free helmet giveaways in the summer, the Big Apple has long prioritized and promoted cycling as a way to stay fit and reduce the city’s famous congestion problem.</p> <p>New York City has an extensive network of bike lanes across the city, including dozens of large, wide, fully protected bike paths along main avenues. In many cases, entire parking and driving lanes have been eliminated to create space for cyclists, much to the anger of local drivers. New York’s <span><a href="https://citibikenyc.com/" target="_blank">CitiBike bike share program</a> is the largest in the country, with over 26,000 bikes spread across Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, the Bronx, and two communities across the Hudson River in New Jersey.</span></p> <p>New York’s Department of Transportation also produces highly detailed, extremely useful <a href="https://www.nyc.gov/html/dot/html/bicyclists/bikemaps.shtml" target="_blank">NYC bike maps</a> each year, which not only plot out all the bike lanes, but also include bike shop information, and have close-ups of difficult-to-navigate bridge crossings.</p> <h2 id="utrecht">Utrecht, Netherlands</h2> <p>Surprise, surprise, the Netherlands made the list of most bike-friendly destinations. Many <a href="/explore/europe/netherlands/dutch-cities-worth-visiting-beyond-amsterdam">Dutch cities</a> could actually appear on this list (and Amsterdam often gets all the attention, thanks to its many bike lanes and public bike parking options), but Utrecht deserves special mention thanks to its enormous bike parking storage lot. This behemoth of a bike garage, <span><a href="https://www.utrecht.nl/city-of-utrecht/mobility/cycling/bicycle-parking/bicycle-parking-stationsplein/">Stationsplein</a>, is the world’s largest, accommodating an astounding 12,500 bicycles. The garage was strategically located near Utrecht Central Station popular public transportation terminal (to further encourage carless transportation) and it’s open 24 hours per day. Best of all, parking is actually free for the first 24 hours, as a way to both encourage its use while also discouraging misuse (using it for permanent storage).</span></p> <h2 id="bogata">Bogotá, Colombia</h2> <p>Colombia’s cultural and political hub may be known for its history, museums, and street art, but many visitors are surprised to learn how bike-friendly it is. Bogotá is blanketed with about 250 mi (400km) of bike lanes and is extremely proud to be home to Latin America’s oldest and largest Ciclovía ride. <span>Ciclovía, also known as Open Streets, was founded in 1974 and <a href="https://www.weforum.org/stories/2024/11/50-years-ciclovia-open-streets-cycling-cars/" target="_blank">celebrated its 50th anniversary</a> in December 2024. </span>Each Sunday, tens of thousands of cyclists hit the streets to enjoy 75 mi (120km) of car-free lanes in the otherwise congested capital city.</p> <p>Even if you can’t make the Sunday ride, you’ll find large, well-defined bike lanes (many of which are protected) throughout the city but know that cars are still king here so you’ll want to stay alert while riding.</p> <p>Either rent a bike from a local shop or borrow one from the city’s brand new bike share system, <span lang="EN-US"><a href="https://tembici.com.co/en/" target="_blank">Tembici</a><span style="color: #0e101a;">. The program launched in 2022 and, with 1,500 mechanical bikes and 1,500 electric bikes across 300 stations, it’s the largest in Latin America. Bringing the whole family? Look out for one of the 150 bikes that comes equipped with a children’s seat!</span></span></p> <h2 id="paris">Paris, France</h2> <p>In late 2021, Paris announced that it would spend $291 million on infrastructure to make the entire city “100% cyclable” by 2026. The city’s impressive <span><a href="https://www.paris.fr/pages/un-nouveau-plan-velo-pour-une-ville-100-cyclable-19554">Bike Plan</a> details how Paris would gain 112 mi (180km) of new, permanent segregated bike lanes and how it will prioritize infrastructure that will connect the city to neighboring suburbs.</span></p> <p><a href="https://www.paris.fr/en/pages/bicycles-outperform-cars-in-paris-and-its-inner-suburbs-by-far-28354" target="_blank">According to a 2024 study</a>, far more people already get around Paris by bicycle than by car. This can cause traffic jams on more popular routes. Additionally, most of the city’s current bike “lanes” are actually just shared spaces with cars and not segregated lanes that are fully separated from traffic. So, this plan is a dramatic improvement.</p> <p>Also, not only will Paris add 30,000 new metal arches to increase the number of bicycle parking spots from 60,000 to more than 130,000, but 1,000 of these arches will be dedicated to cargo bikes, which many people rely on to transport goods, groceries, and children around town.</p>Getty Images / peterspiro 0 Cyclist on the Brooklyn bridge

https://public-web-wn.uat.wng.me/responsible-travel/make-a-difference/participation/the-return-of-train-travelAs travelers try to balance a desire to explore the world with trying to battle the causes of climate change, could traveling by train be the answer?2024-11-12T11:00:00Z https://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/responsible-travel/make-a-difference/participation/the-return-of-train-travelhttps://www.worldnomads.com<ul> <li><a href="#comeback">Train travel makes a comeback</a></li> <li><a href="#environment">Breakdown of environmental benefits</a></li> <li><a href="#sustainable">Sustainable advances and the future of the train industry</a></li> <li><a href="#global">Global train adventures</a></li> </ul> <p><span>The unsteady tempo of the train lurched back and forth, carving its way through steep emerald tea fields. Standing on the edge of the open doorway, I allowed the wind and rain to tickle my face as we made our ascent into Sri Lanka's vivid hill country. I had the best place on board, privy to the ever-changing climate and scenery, watching small towns, Buddhist relics, and plantations pass by. Behind me, the train car was flooded with chaotic and joyful music as a Sri Lankan family beat drums and sang to the rhythm of the train. I smiled to myself, reminded that the actual journey adds a level of depth and element of surprise to travel that the destination simply cannot.</span> </p> <h2 id="comeback">Train travel makes a comeback</h2> <p>Before traveling in the great blue sky became as common as taking the bus, there was a time when overland travel by train wasn’t just a trend, it was the norm. Train travel to destinations near and far was once a leading means to adventure across the globe (unless you had to cross an ocean, that is). During the mid-20<sup>th</sup> century, airplanes slowly started to become the standard rather than a luxury mode of transport and in 1955, for the first time, more people in the United States traveled by plane than train. The world hasn’t really looked back since, as an explosion of air travel shrunk the globe, turning once days-, if not weeks- or months-long travel into mere hours. The consequences on the environment have been dire, as aviation travel is responsible for 2.5% of global carbon emissions and road travel accounts for approximately 10% of these direct emissions.</p> <p>In an age where slow, intentional travel is finding its place again and green living takes center stage, the allure of train travel is making a comeback. From commuter trains, <a href="/responsible-travel/make-a-difference/planet/why-traveling-overnight-means-traveling-light">sleeper trains</a> to slow, scenic journeys reminiscent of travels from a bygone era, train travel in every sense is on the rise. Outdated rails are being replaced by high-speed, modern structures and as a whole, trains are becoming more efficient, and more alluring to the carbon-conscious traveler.</p> <h2 id="environment">Breakdown of environmental benefits</h2> <p>Beyond simply immersing travelers in their surroundings, train travel also offers steep environmental benefits, particularly in comparison to plane and car travel. Since trains still burn a significant amount of fuel, what exactly makes trains so much more sustainable?</p> <p>Even though the train may be a big carbon emitter, it’s designed to carry a lot more passengers than either cars or domestic jets, so the per capita emissions are much lower. And trains are increasingly being powered by electricity. Train travel isn’t just a sustainable alternative to flying, it’s also vastly better for the environment than driving.</p> <p>Based on <a href="https://ourworldindata.org/travel-carbon-footprint" target="_blank">research</a> conducted by UK Government, Department for Energy Security and Net Zero in 2022, domestic flights are responsible for the highest carbon emissions, at 246g per capita, with long-haul flights coming in at 148g. Gas-powered cars with four passengers emit 43g/capita, however if cars only carry one person, they jump ahead of flights at 171g. Emissions from trains vary based on the type of train and route. Domestic rail came out to 35g/person, while the Eurostar experienced a significant drop with only 4g/person.</p> <p>Besides being efficient and convenient, Eurail is one of the <a href="https://www.eurail.com/en/eurail-passes/everything-you-need-know-about-eurail/advantages-train-travel/why-eurail-your-greenest-choice">greenest option to explore Europe</a>. The average Eurail trip emits between 66% and 75% less carbon than traveling by car or plane.</p> <figure><img src="https://media.worldnomads.com/responsibletravel/traintravel/train-travel-in-copy.jpg" alt="The Amtrak Pacific Surfliner travels through Southern California." /> <figcaption> The Amtrak Pacific Surfliner travels through Southern California. Photo credit: Getty Images/Laser1987</figcaption></figure> <h2 id="sustainable">Sustainable advances and the future of the train industry</h2> <p>The environmental benefits of trains may be outweighed by other factors at first glance when it comes to ease of travel. Trains have a reputation of being slower and more expensive, and often outdated. Thus, travelers are put in the position of choosing between affordable travel and environmental sustainability. This is changing, though, with many countries jumping on the train, figuratively that is, to make train travel cheaper, faster, and more modern.</p> <p>The rise of <a href="https://edition.cnn.com/travel/article/future-rail-travel-cmd/index.html">bullet trains</a>, an experience once just associated with Japan, where they are known as the <em><a href="/explore/eastern-asia/japan/getting-around-in-japan">shinkansen</a>,</em> are setting out to make train travel more efficient. The fastest bullet trains can travel up to 200mph (320kph). New lines are currently underway in Japan, as well as Germany, Spain, France, India, and China. In the United Kingdom, the new High Speed 2 trains are underway and by the time they’re launched in the early 2030s, they’ll hold the title of the world’s fastest conventional trains.</p> <p>Train systems are being revitalized to reduce their carbon emissions. Many major train lines, especially in Europe, are run by electricity. When coupled with electricity generated by renewable energy sources, rails have the potential to be carbon-free. Other alternatives include trains running on hydrogen or batteries.</p> <p>There are still great strides to be made, as many trains still run on diesel – 90% in the US and Canada. However, even many diesel trains are underdoing green modernization. <a href="https://www.alstom.com/" target="_blank">Alstom</a>, a UK-based sustainable travel company, for example, is helping renovate existing trains with tabletops made from recycled plastic bottles and biodegradable carpets, while recycling old parts to create a circular economy. </p> <h2 id="global">Global train adventures</h2> <p>Shake the need to hop from point A to point B at high speed and look into booking a cross-country or cross-continental train trip instead. Needing to cross a body of water? Look into crossing by ferry and then hopping on a train once you’re on dry land.</p> <p>Choose between scenic railways far and wide. You can traverse the vast terrain of North America by <a href="https://www.amtrak.com/routes">Amtrak</a> and along the way, glimpse national parks, cruise along the vast Pacific Coast, and admire the snow-capped peaks of the Cascade Mountains from your window.</p> <p>Across the pond, small towns and historic sites of Europe can be journeyed to by train. While most travelers are no strangers to the expansive reaches of the Eurail, new additions are continuously being added. The new <a href="https://www.europeansleeper.eu/" target="_blank">European Sleeper train</a> from London to <a href="/explore/europe/germany/berlin-locals-guide">Berlin</a>, Amsterdam, and Brussels launched in May 2023, for example. Other intriguing developments in European trail travel include Inntravel’s rail pilgrimage from Bilbao to Bordeaux, satiating the curiosity of food and wine lovers. <a href="https://www.railbaltica.org/route-alternative-approved-for-the-future-construction-of-the-rail-baltica-railway-from-kaunas-to-the-border-with-poland/" target="_blank">Rail Baltica</a> is starting new lines to connect the Polish border to Baltic cities.</p> <p>And as for the rest of the world, your options are almost limitless. Head to Mombasa by train instead of plane. Reaching Kenya’s biggest port city by train doesn’t just reduce your carbon emissions, it takes you on an epic adventure through the wild terrain of Kenya. This scenic journey aboard the <a href="https://metickets.krc.co.ke/" target="_blank">Madaraka Express</a> winds its way through Tsavo National Park and if you’re lucky, you can spot grazing giraffes and zebra along the way. <br /><br />In late 2023, <a href="https://www.trenmaya.gob.mx/" target="_blank">Tren Maya</a> launched on Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula. This new rail route takes you from the Mayan ruins at Palenque to the dreamy beaches of Cancun, through spectacular scenery along the way. The most adventurous wanderers can hop aboard the <a href="https://www.bbc.com/travel/article/20190904-an-exhilarating-train-journey-across-the-sahara">Train du Desert</a>, Mauritania’s 1960’s-era train that carries passengers for over 700km across the Sahara Desert. Noted as being one of the longest trains in the world, the Train du Desert consists of metal boxes traversing long stretches of hot desert, making stops at tiny towns along the way.</p> <p><em>Planning an epic journey by train? Find out <a href="https://www.worldnomads.com/travel-insurance">how travel insurance</a> can cover lost or stolen baggage, sudden illness, or other mishaps and help your trip stay on track.</em></p>Getty Images / Jonathan Filskov Photography 0 Getty Images A train travels through autumnal trees

https://public-web-wn.uat.wng.me/responsible-travel/make-a-difference/people/calendarHere's how to make travel help others – every month of the year.2023-01-16T11:00:00Z https://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/responsible-travel/make-a-difference/people/calendarhttps://www.worldnomads.com<p>The global wave of support for responsible travel needs momentum to keep it going, so we’ve rounded up some inspiring ideas to do just that – one for every month of the year. </p> <h2>January</h2> <h3>Take a rickshaw tour in India</h3> <p>The <span><a href="http://pinkcityrickshawcompany.com/">Pink City Rickshaw Company</a></span> has trained and empowered 200 women from low-income households in Jaipur to run local tours in custom-designed, eco-friendly rickshaws. The well-run tours immerse travellers in the local culture, food, sights and heritage of Jaipur. The tour operators signed up to become equity holders in the rickshaw company, which they now proudly own and manage.</p> <h2>February</h2> <h3>Help street dogs in Greece</h3> <p>Exploring the Greek islands is a heavenly way to holiday but when you get to Crete, consider pausing for a couple of weeks to help out at an <span><a href="https://www.volunteerworld.com/en/volunteer-program/support-greek-dog-shelter-gr-in-greece-iraklio">animal shelter</a></span>. You’ll spend your mornings feeding and walking the dogs and cleaning cages and helping with the rescue of stray dogs. Your afternoons can be spent as you please.</p> <h2>March</h2> <h3>Stay with a local in Nepal</h3> <p>The <span><a href="https://www.communityhomestay.com/">Community Homestay Network</a></span> is a social enterprise that connects travelers with families across Nepal. Host families share their culture and daily life with their guests who, in return, give families access to a sustainable source of income through tourism. As well as being welcomed like a member of the family, you’ll have the chance to get involved with cooking and other daily chores and get to know the local community.</p> <h2>April</h2> <h3>Walk your way around Japan</h3> <figure><img src="https://media.worldnomads.com/responsibletravel/calendarofevents/calendar-in-copy.jpg " alt="A hiker on the Kumano Kodo." /> <figcaption> A hiker on the Kumano Kodo pilgrimage in Japan. Photo credit: GettyImages/Janice Chen</figcaption></figure> <p>Self-guided walking tours abound in Japan, and it’s one of the best ways to immerse yourself in the country’s culture – and much kinder to the planet than getting around by car, bus or train. Walk from village to village on the Nakasendo Way, staying at local inns and soaking your worries away in the hot springs en route – or tackle the more challenging 70km <span><a href="https://worldexpeditions.com/Japan/Self-Guided-Walking/Kumano-Kodo-Self-Guided-Hike">Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage</a></span>. The mountainous UNESCO World Heritage pilgrimage route is steeped in Buddhist history. The only other pilgrimage route to obtain UNESCO World Heritage status is Camino de Santiago in Spain.</p> <h2>May</h2> <h3>Mend a broken bear in Asia</h3> <p>Adventure World has teamed up with Animals Asia to end bear bile farming. More than 10,000 sun bears, moon bears and brown bears are held in captivity in Asia to have bile extracted from their gallbladders for use in Chinese medicine. Adventure World now donates $300 to Animals Asia for every one of its <span><a href="https://www.adventureworld.com.au/asia/">Asia trips</a></span> booked. Adventure World has also launched a <span><a href="https://www.adventureworld.com.au/conservation-collection/">Conservation Collection</a></span> of trips endorsed by the <span><a href="https://www.treadright.org/">Treadright Foundation</a>.</span></p> <h2>June</h2> <h3>Visit One Planet Expo in The Netherlands</h3> <p>Science and culture museum, <span><a href="https://oneplanet.nl/">Museon Omniversum</a></span>, is home to One Planet Expo, an exhibition based on the 17 Sustainable Development Goals formulated by the United Nations. The interactive exhibition is an engaging way for visitors of all ages to learn how we can work together to ensure a healthy and sustainable future for the planet.</p> <h2>July</h2> <h3>Visit an ethical elephant sanctuary in Thailand</h3> <p>Not all elephant sanctuaries are created equal, but the <span><a href="https://www.phuketelephantsanctuary.org/en/">Phuket Elephant Sanctuary</a></span> – endorsed by National Geographic and World Animal Protection – is among the most ethical. A 600m-long, 6m-high canopy walkway at the 30-acre sanctuary allows visitors to observe elephants doing their thing without disturbing them. The sanctuary rescues sick, injured and old elephants from the logging and tourism industry. You won’t find elephant riding or bathing here, but you will have a moving experience that supports the sanctuary’s good work.</p> <h2>August</h2> <h3>Help restore the Great Barrier Reef in Australia</h3> <p>Join EarthWatch researchers measuring environmental conditions and the diversity of marine life on an expedition helping to restore the reef. Coral reefs around the world are being impacted by climate change and other threats, but what scientists learn here will help the recovery of reefs everywhere. You’ll spend much of this <span><a href="https://earthwatch.org/expeditions/recovery-great-barrier-reef">five-day expedition</a></span> in scuba gear underwater.</p> <h2>September</h2> <h3>Walk to help Vietnamese youth </h3> <p>One in five Vietnamese children are living in poverty so The Intrepid Foundation has teamed up with the Blue Dragon Children’s Foundation to support its annual <span><a href="https://bdmarathonwalk2022.raisely.com/">Blue Dragon Marathon Walk</a></span>. You can sign up to do a 21km or 42km fundraising walk anywhere in the world on September 10, 2023. Last year, walkers raised almost $200,000 to help Vietnamese kids in need.</p> <h2>October</h2> <h3>Save sea turtles in Costa Rica</h3> <p>All seven sea turtle species are endangered, and volunteers play a vital role in saving them. In <span><a href="https://www.volunteerworld.com/volunteer-program/sea-turtle-conservation-ambassador-in-costa-rica-quepos">Costa Rica</a></span>, you can patrol beaches for turtle nests with biologists, keep them safe from poachers and predators, and help young ones make it safely into the ocean. Talk about a feelgood getaway!</p> <h2>November</h2> <h3>Cycle through Kenya to help children</h3> <p>This 500km <span><a href="https://rideafrica.org/kenya-ultimate-cycle-safari">cycle safari</a></span> raises money for child.org programs that support women and children’s health in Africa and Sierra Leone. Setting off from the elephant playgrounds of Amboseli National Park, you’ll peddle your way through three incredible national parks to the Indian ocean coastline at Mombasa. The ride has a support team of guides, vehicles, a nurse, and a police escort.</p> <h2>December</h2> <h3>Go souvenir shopping in Sri Lanka</h3> <p>Meaning ‘woman’ in Sinhala and Tamil languages, ‘Sthree’ provides a market for disadvantaged women and disabled people to sell their high-quality handcrafted wares, thus empowering them in their homes and communities. The <span><a href="https://sthreestore.com/">Sthree</a></span> store and cafe, a social enterprise located in Kandy, produces everything from sarees to jewellery made by women throughout Sri Lanka, while the cafe provides employment and training opportunities. Find out more about it <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dQiW-F9tXnc">here</a>. </p>Getty Images/Sirachai Arunrugstichai/Stringer 1 Getty Images woman feeds elephant

https://public-web-wn.uat.wng.me/responsible-travel/make-a-difference/participation/what-the-uns-sustainability-goals-mean-for-travelIf undertaken consciously, travel can be a force for good – helping to create more equitable communities, conserve delicate ecosystems, and promote clean energy. Here’s how the travel industry is rising to the challenge.2023-01-03T11:00:00Z https://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/responsible-travel/make-a-difference/participation/what-the-uns-sustainability-goals-mean-for-travelhttps://www.worldnomads.com<p>In 2000, as the world welcomed in the new millennium, the United Nations set a series of <a href="https://www.un.org/millenniumgoals/">Millennium Development Goals</a> to be achieved by 2015. These goals were groundbreaking – the first international consensus drafted with the intention of tackling global problems such as poverty and hunger, access to education, and environmental sustainability.</p> <p>In September 2015, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) laid out another set of goals to be accomplished by 2030, including <a href="https://sdgs.un.org/goals">17 Sustainable Development Goals</a> (SDGs). One distinction that sets the 2030 iteration apart is the inclusion of the tourism industry in the plan to achieve the SDGs: clean water and sanitation (SDG #6), affordable and clean energy (SDG #7), sustainable cities and communities (SDG #11), responsible consumption and production (SDG #12), gender equality (SDG #5), economic growth (SDG #8), life below water (SDG #14), and life on land (SDG #15).</p> <p>The vision behind the goals is that governments, along with the public and private sectors, can collaboratively tackle these universal problems.</p> <ul> <li><a href="#tourism">How do the Sustainable Development Goals translate to changes in tourism?</a></li> <li><a href="#travelers">How can travelers help work towards these goals?</a></li> </ul> <h2 id="tourism">How do the Sustainable Development Goals translate to changes in tourism?</h2> <p>While it’s one thing to put goals on paper, how are they put into practice and how do they translate into tangible change? From shifts in how we travel – slow travel, train travel, sustainable aviation fuels – to rethinking the restaurant, hospitality, and travel businesses, the tourism industry at large is abundant with innovators and changemakers leading the way. The impact is immense. In conducting research and reflecting on my own travels, I was humbled to come across so many examples of action-oriented tourism rooted in ethical, sustainable experiences.</p> <h3>Elimination of single-use plastics</h3> <p>From plastic bag bans to eliminating plastic straws, <a href="/responsible-travel/make-a-difference/planet/how-to-reduce-plastic-use-while-you-travel">plastic</a> is no stranger to the issue of environmental responsibility. Bangladesh was the first country to introduce a full ban on single-use plastics in 2002. Now, 80 countries, including Rwanda, Thailand, Kenya, Tanzania, and the Caribbean islands of Aruba and Dominica, have implemented a full or partial ban on single-use plastics. In late 2018, Peru banned single-use plastics in Machu Picchu to help preserve this iconic site.</p> <p>What does this mean for travelers? Bring your reusable tote bag and a refillable water bottle on your travels, to start. Many hotels provide reusable water bottles for guests’ use, and some restaurants in places where the tap water is undrinkable offer filtered water instead of bottled water as an option.</p> <h3>Carbon footprint reduction</h3> <p>The travel industry’s carbon footprint is one of its biggest environmental challenges. Efforts to achieve carbon neutrality have sparked a movement to reconceptualize what it means to be sustainable. Though transport is one of the greatest contributors to carbon emissions, electric vehicles and other alternatives are becoming more prevalent, with companies like Nairobi-based electric vehicle company, <a href="https://www.roammotors.com/" target="_blank">Roam</a>, popping up, as well as green options on transport apps like Uber.</p> <p>Tourism companies are also beginning to switch to electric vehicles. <a href="https://www.emboo.camp/" target="_blank">Emboo River</a>, a safari camp in Kenya’s Maasai Mara, for example, has taken their traditional Land Cruisers and updated their old engines with electric systems charged by solar power. This eliminates the carbon footprint from both the fuel and the electricity. An added bonus? Guests have the privilege of taking silent safaris through the grassy plains of the Maasai Mara while leaving no fuel trail behind.</p> <figure><img src="https://media.worldnomads.com/responsibletravel/undp-goals/electric-safari-vehicles-emboo.jpg" alt="A driver parks next to a herd of elephants in an electric-powered safari vehicle in Kenya." /> <figcaption>One of Emboo River's electric-powered safari vehicles. Image credit: Emboo River / Brian Siambi</figcaption></figure> <p>Emboo is East Africa’s first carbon-neutral camp. Beyond running off solar power and using electric safari vehicles, the team has taken measures to reduce their footprint in every way they can while increasing their positive impact on local communities and ecosystems. Natural cleaning and shower products, local plants to filter wastewater, a vertical, on-site garden, and converting food waste into biogas are just a few examples.</p> <p>One of the most exciting evolutions in the global effort to reduce carbon emissions is the research being poured into <a href="https://www.worldnomads.com/responsible-travel/make-a-difference/participation/carbon-offset-schemes">sustainable aviation travel</a>. United Airlines, for example, has <a href="https://www.united.com/ual/en/us/fly/company/global-citizenship/environment.html" target="_blank">pledged to become 100% green</a> by 2050 without relying on traditional carbon offsets. As part of this effort, United signed an agreement to buy up to 52.5 million gals of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF), produced from 100% sustainably sourced renewable waste (including cooking oil, waste oil, food scraps, paper, and textiles). While some types of SAF are more efficient than others, they all provide a significant reduction in carbon emissions in comparison to traditional jet fuels.</p> <h3>Renewable energy</h3> <p>Renewable energy sources such as solar and wind are key in expanding access to electricity and reducing carbon emissions. Alternative energy has grown at an annual rate of 15% since 2015. If exponential growth continues at this rate, renewables will comprise 45% of energy by 2030. The use of partial or full renewables is becoming an increasing standard in accommodation, households, and cooking worldwide.</p> <p>Recently, a sustainability revolution has been rippling its way through Kenya. At the United Nations Climate Change Conference in 2021 (aka <a href="https://www.un.org/en/climatechange/cop26" target="_blank">COP26</a>), the Kenyan Government committed to achieving sustainable tourism at large by 2030. Their goals include restricting vehicles in national parks and reserves to only those using non-fossil renewable energy and requiring hospitality and tourism facilities in Kenya to adopt renewable energy by 2030.</p> <p>In reflecting on these changes, Valery Super, co-founder and CEO of Emboo River noted, “We are excited by these recent initiatives by the Kenyan government… In order to reach the UN SDGs, action and coordination are needed by various actors including policymakers, civil society, businesses, and individuals.”</p> <figure><img src="https://media.worldnomads.com/responsibletravel/undp-goals/water-heater-hotel-roof-kenya.jpg" alt="A “sun collector” (system for heating water from sunlight) on a hotel roof in Kenya.." /> <figcaption>A “sun collector” (solar water-heating system) on a hotel roof in Kenya. Image credit: Getty Images / fotomem</figcaption></figure> <h3>Sustainable communities and economic development</h3> <p>Sustainable tourism extends far beyond eco-friendly properties. True sustainability includes local communities as part of the plan, both from an environmental and economic development perspective.</p> <p>In Rwanda, a country entrenched in conservation efforts, innovations in the tourism industry are in constant motion. One of the country’s newest lodges, <a href="https://www.umvamuhazi.com/" target="_blank">UMVA</a>, a space dedicated to adventure and community on the shores of Lake Muhazi, is at the forefront of this movement. Iwona Bisaga and Nick Hu, the masterminds behind the endeavor, bring expertise in renewable energy and the humanitarian sectors – and the level of accountability that’s necessary in advancing tourism in line with the 2030 UNDP goals.</p> <p>From its earliest imaginings, UMVA has worked to tell a story about Rwanda that takes into account the local environment, people, and culture. The free-standing structures are made with local soil, the walls showcase the striking work of artisans from Rwanda and sub-Saharan Africa, and their community dining experience includes Rwandese dishes created with ingredients primarily grown on-site.</p> <p>“We’re supporting the new generation of responsible operators that hold sustainability as a key value,” Bisaga and Hu told me. “From the moment we broke ground and decided on rammed earth construction (30-40% fewer carbon emissions than traditional building techniques) to not using single-use plastics, we always look for ways to reduce our footprint on the ecosystem.”</p> <p>UMVA seeks to create an inclusive environment that invests in the local ecosystems and community. The construction of the property provided more than 600 jobs, of which more than 45% were carried out by women. UMVA also maintained the natural vegetation of Muhazi and planted an additional 2,000 new local species. Through its future-oriented model, UMVA hopes to make a long-term contribution to the economic growth and sustainable communities within Rwanda. “We love working with aspiring leaders and entrepreneurs. We offer an environment where our team members can get exposure to different parts of the business and its operations and can develop their leadership skills as they grow with us.”</p> <h3>Protection of environments and species</h3> <p>Efforts to protect biodiversity on land and in the sea are not just at the core of numerous experiential tourism offerings, they’re often closely intertwined. In recent years, research by marine biologists at the Great Barrier Reef to understand reef regeneration and coral spawning has been linked to sustainable underwater adventures for tourists. One example is <a href="https://www.reefmagic.com.au/" target="_blank">Reef Magic</a>, an eco-certified company operating diving and snorkeling from a pontoon on the reef, where marine biologists simultaneously are studying coral health. Similarly, infrastructure that’s crucial to protecting the environment and livelihoods of mountain gorillas in the rainforests of Central Africa relies on tourist dollars generated from visitors trekking with the primates (such as at <a href="https://virunga.org/" target="_blank">Virunga National Park</a> in the Democratic Republic of the Congo).</p> <figure><img src="https://media.worldnomads.com/responsibletravel/undp-goals/reef-magic-pontoon.jpg" alt="A floating pontoon for diving, snorkeling and marine research in the Great Barrier Reef." /> <figcaption>Reef Magic's pontoon in the Great Barrier Reef. Image credit: Reef Magic</figcaption></figure> <p>At the COP15 Biodiversity Summit in Montreal in December 2022, around 190 countries approved a sweeping United Nations agreement to protect 30% of the planet’s land and oceans by 2030. Organizations like the <a href="https://www.awf.org/" target="_blank">African Wildlife Foundation</a>, which undertakes imperative work to protect natural environments and promote anti-poaching efforts, engaged in discussions surrounding best practices in conservation.</p> <p>The scope of efforts to protect wildlife and environments can be further be seen through organizations like <a href="https://www.africanparks.org/" target="_blank">African Parks Network</a> (APN), which works to rehabilitate devastated national parks and their resident wildlife. In November 2021, APN helped facilitate the relocation of 30 white rhinos to Akagera Park in Rwanda to create a protected habitat for this endangered species.</p> <h3>Gender equality</h3> <p>Despite playing a major role in tourism, women are often underpaid, overworked, and excluded from leadership positions. <a href="/responsible-travel/make-a-difference/people/how-wmnswork-is-diversifying-the-travel-industry">Gender equity</a> is a vital component of the 2030 goals and the tourism sector can play a role in achieving it. There are many miles still to travel for this equitable future to be a reality, but significant strides have been made.</p> <p>In November 2021, <a href="https://www.unwto.org/gender-and-tourism" target="_blank">United Nations World Tourism Organization</a> (UNWTO) in Malaysia hosted the first conference on women’s empowerment in tourism in the Asia Pacific region. While women comprise 53% of the tourism workforce in Asia, they primarily hold lower-paid positions. The conference set the stage for shifting gender norms in tourism in the region.</p> <p>In Zimbabwe, <a href="https://www.iapf.org/akashinga" target="_blank">Akashinga</a> is Africa’s only all-women anti-poaching unit. This female force is revolutionizing the way wildlife is protected against poachers with minimal conflict. The impact of Akashinga isn’t just felt in anti-poaching efforts – it’s also resulted in a team of empowered women who can buy property, send their children to school, continue their education, and provide for their families.</p> <figure><img src="https://media.worldnomads.com/responsibletravel/undp-goals/akashinga.jpg " alt="Members of an all-female anti-poaching unit on patrol in Kenya." /> <figcaption>Members of the Akashinga anti-poaching unit out on patrol. Image credit: International Anti-Poaching Foundation</figcaption></figure> <p>Just last month, Emboo hosted the first Women’s Empowerment Meeting for the tourism sector. Super commented: “The tourism industry in Kenya – and in many other places around the world – is male-dominated. At Emboo River we are changing this by having many trailblazing women in the team… challenging stereotypes and setting an example for other women. By joining forces, sharing experiences, speaking up, and taking action we are paving the way for ourselves and other women in our community.”</p> <h2 id="travelers">How can travelers help work towards these goals?</h2> <p>Awareness is the first step. Understand where your money is going. Are you staying at hotels and eating at restaurants that support local farmers, chefs, and other community members? Is your wildlife experience ethical and does it contribute to the conservation of vulnerable species and local ecosystems? Does the company you choose to trek with support fair wages and working conditions for the local workforce?</p> <p>Sometimes, these questions can be tricky to answer from afar and it’s best to revert to the experts. Over the past few years, a number of travel companies have popped up that are dedicated to curating trips that are conscious of local communities and environments.</p> <p>Switzerland-based travel company <a href="https://fairvoyage.com/" target="_blank">Fair Voyage</a> is a B Corp-certified entity that connects travelers to sustainable experiences and local guides. Fair’s trips aim to benefit local communities and minimize one’s footprint. <a href="https://www.viatu.com/" target="_blank">Viatu</a>, a relative newcomer to the travel space, uses tech to design high-impact, low-footprint travel experiences across the African continent and make sustainable travel accessible for everyone. Their motto? “Travel with a purpose.”</p> <p>Another way travelers can help is through <a href="/responsible-travel/footprints">World Nomads' Footprints Network</a>. Travelers can choose to give a micro-donation to a community development or conservation project when they buy a <a href="/travel-insurance">travel insurance policy</a>. All Footprints projects are carefully vetted and align with the UN's Sustainable Development goals.</p> <p>Travel doesn’t have to cause a negative impact on the globe. If undertaken consciously and in collaboration with mindful, goal-oriented entities, travel can actually contribute to global development, equitable communities, and the conservation of delicate ecosystems and species. So do as Viatu suggests and travel with a purpose.</p>Emboo River / Brian Siambi 0 Emboo River / Brian Siambi A Maasai guide drives an electric-powered safari vehicle in Kenya.

https://public-web-wn.uat.wng.me/responsible-travel/make-a-difference/planet/benefits-of-quiet-travelFrom quiet parks and silent hikes to quiet hotel rooms and train carriages, quiet travel is on the rise, reconnecting us to an ancient, intuitive way of experiencing the world. 2022-12-28T11:00:00Z https://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/responsible-travel/make-a-difference/planet/benefits-of-quiet-travelhttps://www.worldnomads.com<p>A few years ago, I was halfway through a six-day trek in central Australia* when our guide announced we’d be doing something different that morning. Her instructions: my fellow trekkers and I would leave the campsite one at a time, five minutes apart, and follow each other along a high, open ridge in silent single file. It wasn’t just about not talking, we soon discovered. Silent hiking was liberating, a chance to step away from the human-centric world, tune in to our senses and be where we were, under a big sky.</p> <p>Since then, I’ve done other silent hikes, in other parts of the world. In Japan, they call it forest bathing. Sometimes it’s called mindful walking. But it’s all just the tip of a quiet travel iceberg that’s been growing in recent years, particularly post-pandemic. Today there are more ways to travel quietly than ever before. What’s going on? And why does quiet travel often feel so… good?</p> <ul> <li><a href="#ancient">Ancient bodies in a modern world</a></li> <li><a href="#planet">Why silence is good for the planet</a></li> <li><a href="#country">Listening to country</a></li> <li><a href="#experiences">Where to find quiet travel experiences</a></li> <li><a href="#city">City-based quiet places</a></li> <li><a href="#sleep">Sleep soundly (without noise)</a></li> <li><a href="#travel">How to travel more quietly</a></li> </ul> <h2 id="ancient">Ancient bodies in a modern world</h2> <p>We evolved to listen closely to our surroundings, says Seattle-based acoustic ecologist Gordon Hempton. “As a species, we’re essentially, genetically, the same as our ancestors who walked the earth more than 60,000 years ago,” he says. “Of course<span>,</span> today’s world is dramatically different from theirs, but still we’re in these ancient bodies; they’re very well equipped to handle the challenges of modern life, but all our senses evolved to extract valuable, survival-relevant information from the environment, to literally make sense of the world.”</p> <p>Our sense of hearing is particularly important, he says. “Separate from our own evolution, we also had the advent of the industrial revolution in the mid-18th century, when noise began to be a larger part of people’s lives and the printing press and mass media took off. Today we live in a world of noise pollution<span>,</span> and we get most of our information about the world through reading and other visual means, so we have this misconception that we are visually dominant, but we’re still reliant on sound, just like every other animal species.</p> <p>“Why is that? Because sound gives us information in the dark, all around us, from miles away, even on the other side of objects blocking something from view. Have you ever wondered why we have no earlids like we have eyelids? Because it’s entirely too risky: to stay alive as animals we needed to constantly listen to the world around us to know that we were safe or where we could find food or a mate.”</p> <h2 id="planet">Why silence is good for the planet</h2> <p>Our ancient need to listen requires, of course, a certain amount of quiet. Hempton has been on a decades-long quest to find and protect the quietest places in the world and in 2018 co-founded <a href="https://www.quietparks.org/" target="_blank">Quiet Parks International</a>, the world’s first and only organization dedicated to “saving quiet for the benefit of all life”.</p> <p>“Before COVID-19, the question we received most often was: ‘Why is quiet important?’ People would say, ‘We have climate change, endangered species, habitat loss, the world is becoming more chemically toxic, and you want me to think about quiet?’ Well, yes, because when we save quiet places, we save everything else. When we go to truly quiet destinations, we find healthy ecosystems that are taking carbon out of the atmosphere, producing the oxygen we breathe, and native species that are thriving not just surviving.</p> <p>“Something magical and miraculous happens to us in those places, too: we become who we were meant to be. Our senses come into sensory balance and we begin to think clearly again. No one asks why quiet is important now, since the pandemic; they all experienced that for themselves during lockdowns.”</p> <figure><img src="https://media.worldnomads.com/responsibletravel/quiet-travel/yangmingshan-national-park.jpg" alt="Hydrangeas in bloom at Yangmingshan National Park in Taiwan." /> <figcaption>Yangmingshan National Park in Taiwan was awarded the world’s first Urban Quiet Park status on 5 June 2020. Image credit: Getty Images / BING-JHEN HONG</figcaption></figure> <h2 id="country">Listening to country</h2> <p>Similarly, First Nations people in Australia often talk about “listening to country” as a way to realign with nature. “Our word for it is <em>gungaa</em>,” says Arakwal Bundjalung woman Delta Kay, who runs <a href="https://explorebyronbay.com/" target="_blank">Aboriginal tours in and around Byron Bay</a>, “and it’s about being still, not just using your hearing, but all your senses: looking, hearing, smelling, feeling. As a child, I learned it from my elders. I’d watch them move through the landscape and ask them, ‘What are you looking at? What are you listening to?’ <span>”</span></p> <p>There’s a strong thread of responsibility running through the practice of listening to country, says Kay. “If you don’t listen to country, you miss the things our Mother Earth is telling us, like what’s going on in the environment around us and how we should behave; appropriate behavior is a big part of it, walking softly on country. We don’t think of the earth as this never-ending resource; in our minds, we’re always thinking of our grandchildren’s children.”</p> <h2 id="experiences">Where to find quiet travel experiences</h2> <p>Hempton defines quiet as an experience rather than an absence of sound, so it makes sense to seek out activities that embrace quiet, even silence: wildlife safaris, birdwatching trips, cultural tours to <a href="/responsible-travel/make-a-difference/participation/respectful-travel">sacred sites</a>, or dive trips (at least while you’re underwater). You could learn to “walk softly” on an Indigenous-led tour; <a href="https://www.welcometocountry.com/" target="_blank">Welcome to Country</a>, a not-for-profit based in Sydney lists more than 200 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander experiences all over Australia. Or take a <a href="https://www.utracks.com/Walking/Self-Guided-Walking" target="_blank">self-guided hike</a>, where logistics are taken care of but there’s no guide, just you and your favorite quiet person.</p> <p>Quiet Parks International (QPI) has an interactive map showing quiet urban, wilderness, and marine parks worldwide, even quiet hiking and canoeing trails – the world’s first Quiet Trail was designated last year, in Taiwan – all of which are publicly accessible and have passed rigorous testing by Hempton and his colleagues. QPI also offers <a href="https://www.quietparks.org/quiet-experiences" target="_blank">Quiet Experiences</a> (online and in person) such as “sound walks” and “forest therapy” and Quiet Stays – including one in the world’s first Wilderness Quiet Park, in the Ecuadorian Amazon, which helps the local Cofan people protect their homelands. There are even “mindful adventure trips” in Quiet Parks now, run by US-based <a href="https://www.recaltravel.com/" target="_blank">Recal</a> (short for “recalibrate”), to help people <a href="/explore/worldwide/reconnecting-with-nature-on-a-family-getaway">reconnect with nature</a> and themselves.</p> <h2 id="city">City-based quiet places</h2> <p>But you don’t have to go remote, or be active, to find quiet. There are quiet airports such as San Francisco International (SFO) and Sydney’s T1 International Terminal where announcements are kept to a minimum. Some airlines, like <a href="https://support.airasia.com/s/article/AirAsia-X-Quiet-Zone?language=en_GB" target="_blank">Air Asia</a> and <a href="https://www.flyscoot.com/en/plan/booking-your-flight/economy-class" target="_blank">Scoot</a>, have child-free quiet zones on some of their aircraft. Trains all over the world – in <a href="https://help.raileurope.co.uk/article/43522-quiet-and-phone-zones-within-a-train" target="_blank">Germany</a>, <a href="https://transportnsw.info/travel-info/using-public-transport/travel-courtesy-etiquette" target="_blank">Australia</a>, <a href="https://www.amtrak.com/quiet-car" target="_blank">the US</a> and, most recently, <a href="https://www.irishrail.ie/en-ie/contact-us/faqs/travelling-by-train/QuieterCoach" target="_blank">Ireland</a> – have quiet carriages, where your phone must be on silent and you can’t make or take calls or watch videos without headphones.</p> <p>Major cities all over the world have unsung, and often under-rated, quiet places: public libraries (some of the newest are architectural marvels in their own right), museums and art galleries, cathedrals and botanical gardens, even <a href="https://quietgarden.org/" target="_blank">quiet gardens</a>. An app called <a href="https://www.soundprint.co/" target="_blank">SoundPrint</a>, launched in 2018, can help you find quiet cafes and restaurants.</p> <figure><img src="https://media.worldnomads.com/responsibletravel/quiet-travel/seattle-public-library.jpg" alt="The interior of the modern Seattle Public Library in Washington state, USA." /> <figcaption>The interior of Seattle Public Library in Washington State, USA. Image credit: Getty Images / Merrill Images</figcaption></figure> <p>And some cities are quieter than others. Think car-free Venice (although its motorized <em>vaporetti</em> waterbuses can make a racket) or Copenhagen, where bikes outnumber cars. Or Oslo (or any city in Norway) where most cars are near-silent EVs. Stockholm even has its own downloadable <em><a href="http://www.guidetosilence.com/now.html#guidesthlm2" target="_blank">Guide to Silence</a></em>, published in 2021, to help visitors and residents find “calm nature experiences” in the city.</p> <h2 id="sleep">Sleep soundly (without noise)</h2> <p>There are naturally quiet places to spend the night: a swag under the stars in South Australia’s Flinders Rangers, perhaps, or a <a href="/responsible-travel/make-a-difference/planet/off-the-grid-travel-stays-zero-emissions-maximum-fun">mountain hut</a> or any wellness retreat where serenity is the priority and the staff speak in smiles. And there are quiet hotels. <a href="https://www.quiethotelroom.org/en/" target="_blank">Quiet Hotel Room</a>, set up by Dutch sound engineers in 2014, has certified more than 150 Quiet Rooms, mostly in Europe, and <a href="https://www.ihg.com/crowneplaza/content/gb/en/exp/sleepadvantage" target="_blank">Crowne Plaza</a>’s 400-plus hotels globally have “quiet zones” with no housekeeping or maintenance between 9pm and 10am five nights a week and noise-reducing features such as soft-closing doors.</p> <h2 id="travel">How to travel more quietly</h2> <p>Want to help make the world a quieter place on your next trip? Gordon Hempton offers his top five tips:</p> <ul> <li><strong>Switch your phone to silent</strong> or airplane mode. Better yet, turn it off completely.</li> <li><strong>Set an intention.</strong> “If you travel with a friend, tell them upfront that you’d like to travel for quiet,” he says. “And try to be comfortable with the raw experience of being in a place without needing to talk about it or share it on social media.”</li> <li><strong>Be patient.</strong> “There’s usually a transition period when we visit quiet places. A lot of people think: I’ve worked so hard to come to this quiet place and now I’m bored! Embrace the boredom – you’re detoxing from a world that has been shouting for your attention – and give it time.”</li> <li><strong>Do nothing.</strong> “A willingness to stand still and just listen is important, especially in nature. If you remain motionless, and you’re wearing earth-tone clothing, you can become essentially invisible to wildlife. You begin to notice that everything that happens around you is not for our benefit yet it has so much to offer us. A bird doesn’t sing for us, for example, but we hear it as music.”</li> <li><strong>Quieten your mind.</strong> “Take a deep breath. What is the farthest sound you can hear? The longer you listen, the more you become aware of your auditory horizon. What is the faintest sound you can hear? That determines the fidelity of your experience. Now take another deep breath and listen to where you are, the whole place at once. Notice how you feel; you might find that different places feel different to you. That’s you tuning into the sensory experience of your destination, learning to trust your instincts, being where you are.”</li> </ul> <p><em>* The author’s first silent hike was on the Larapinta Trail with <a href="https://worldexpeditions.com/Australia/Trekking-Walking/Larapinta-Highlights" target="_blank">World Expeditions</a>, whose guides offer bouts of silent walking on various hikes around the world, at their discretion. </em></p>Getty Images / Thomas Barwick 11056062042 Getty Images A Black hiker on a solitary trail in Washington state, USA.