Alicia Erickson

Alicia Ericksonhttps://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/about/contributors/alicia-ericksonAlicia Ericksonhttps://public-web-wn.uat.wng.me/travel-wiser/practical/stay-safe-civil-unrestHow to stay safe while civil unrest unfolds2026-02-23T11:00:00Z https://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/travel-wiser/practical/stay-safe-civil-unresthttps://www.worldnomads.com<p>Months into living in Himachal Pradesh, my peaceful life in the Himalayan foothills was unexpectedly shaken. Within a matter of days following the attack in Kashmir, India began shutting down airports near the Pakistan border, flights were rerouted, and military drills were planned across the country.</p> <p>From contested elections in Tanzania, to deadly riots in the eastern Congo, I’m no stranger to traveling in politically unstable places. Yet, the escalating conflict between India and Pakistan still caught me off-guard. This recent encounter gave me pause on how to prepare for and what to do during civil unrest abroad.</p> <p>The following safety tips can prepare travelers in unstable countries in the event of a worsening situation. </p> <ol> <li><a href="#alerts">Before you go: Sign up for embassy and government alerts</a></li> <li><a href="#consider-insurance">Before you go: Consider travel insurance</a></li> <li><a href="#access">On the trip: Have access to cash, important documents and a charged phone</a></li> <li><a href="#evaluate-situation">During civil unrest: Take a moment to evaluate the situation before acting</a></li> <li><a href="#alert-parties">During civil unrest: Alert essential parties as soon as unrest breaks out</a></li> <li><a href="#low-profile">During civil unrest: Keep a low profile and avoid major tourist sites or protests</a></li> <li><a href="#restrictions">During civil unrest: Stay updated with current events and restrictions</a></li> <li><a href="#go-bag">During civil unrest: Have a to-go bag</a></li> </ol> <h2 id="alerts">1. Before you go: Sign up for embassy and government alerts</h2> <p>While a sudden outbreak of civil unrest is often unpredictable, there a few ways to prepare for the unexpected prior to your trip. To start, research your prospective destination and learn about its current political climate. Is it currently experiencing unrest or are there any upcoming elections that are predicted to be volatile?</p> <p>If so, consider postponing your vacation or changing the destination. Wherever you decide to go, sign up for updates with your local embassy, such as the <a href="https://mytravel.state.gov/s/step">Smart Traveler Enrollment Program</a> in the United States, which sends alerts in the event of political unrest and dangerous weather.</p> <h2 id="consider-insurance">2. Before you go: consider travel insurance</h2> <p>Consider travel insurance for your trip, and research how their Emergency Assistance team could assist you in the case of civil unrest. Does the plan offer evacuations, if needed? Could the team help you with rebooking or offer reimbursement if your trip is interrupted? Read your policy and keep the Emergency Assistance team’s phone number easily accessible. I save it as a contact in my phone; I don’t want to be searching for who to call in a true emergency.</p> <p><em>Travel insurance doesn't cover everything, and coverage may differ depending on the country of residence, state or province. Carefully read the policy wording for a full description of coverage, including the terms, conditions, limitations, exclusions and termination provisions of the plans described.</em></p> <h2 id="access">3. On the trip: Have access to cash, documents, and phone</h2> <p>You never know when you’ll need to make an emergency phone call, book last minute flights, or leave quickly when traveling in an unstable country. Keep a few basic resources with you that can help you at a moment’s notice, regardless of what the political environment is.</p> <p>I keep these items handy, at all times, when traveling:</p> <ul> <li>Emergency cash in different denominations</li> <li>My passport</li> <li>My phone and a phone charger (or even better, a power bank in case the electricity goes out)</li> <li>My travel insurance documents, with the emergency number highlighted</li> </ul> <h2 id="evaluate-situation">4. During civil unrest: Take a moment to evaluate the situation before acting</h2> <p>Imagine you’re vacationing on the sandy beaches of Zanzibar and suddenly news circulates of mass riots following the election in Tanzania. It’s natural to consider booking the next flight out of town, but before you flee, pause to evaluate the situation. Sometimes it’s best to just hunker down in your hotel while getting all the latest updates. In many instances, rising tensions may deescalate and you won’t find yourself on the road during the chaos.</p> <p>Violence or unrest may be isolated to specific regions or cities, and not impact the location you’re in. Election-related unrest may simmer down—or it could trigger a widespread movement that topples the government. Cross-country attacks may be one-off, or they could escalate into a full-scale war. Evaluate each situation individually and proceed accordingly.</p> <h2 id="alert-parties">5. During civil unrest: Alert essential parties as soon as unrest breaks out</h2> <p>While you don’t always need to take drastic action immediately, there are a few important steps to ensure you’re prepared for what happens next. At the first sign of violence or growing unrest, alert essential parties where you are and of the situation. Inform your embassy, which can assist you with emergency evacuation plans if necessary. If you have travel insurance, call their emergency assistance line as soon as possible, as they may be able to help. Also be sure to let family or friends know where you are; they could assist with gathering information or changing plans.</p> <h2 id="low-profile">6. During civil unrest: Keep a low profile and avoid major tourist sites and protests</h2> <p>Major tourist sites are often targets of attacks. If there’s escalating unrest, stick close to your accommodation until you have a clearer understanding of the situation.</p> <p>Places to avoid during civil unrest:</p> <ul> <li>Crowded markets</li> <li>Popular tourist attractions</li> <li>Metro stations</li> <li>Areas near embassies and government buildings</li> <li>Anywhere with crowds</li> </ul> <p>If there are protests happening, avoid them. Protests could be targeted for attacks, or you may get caught in the crossfire of a violent police response. Foreigners partaking in anti-government protests may also be arrested and treated poorly.</p> <p>Same goes for political discussions, online or offline. Avoid joining in on conversations about regional politics with locals or fellow travelers. Keep a low profile digitally, as well, refraining from criticizing local authorities on social media sites that might bring unwanted attention.</p> <h2 id="restrictions">7. During civil unrest: Stay updated with current events and restrictions</h2> <p>During the onset of a protest movement or following a contested election, governments may issue temporary restrictions. It’s critical you know this information; ask your hotel front desk how best to get the latest updates. Curfews might be mandated, public transportation routes and telecommunications may be suspended or limited, and certain roads or sites could be closed.</p> <h2 id="go-bag">8. During civil unrest: Have a ‘to-go’ bag</h2> <p>In extreme situations, you may need to evacuate your destination. This is hard to prepare for, as each situation is so different. But, you can prepare your ‘go bag’. You don’t want to be hauling a gigantic suitcase around as you are trying to leave an area quickly. Be sure you have a backpack that you can stuff with just the essentials. You can always replace clothes or gear – it’s important you move quickly in this case.</p>Getty Images / CandyRetriever 11497072175 Getty Images High angle view crowd of people crossing street crosswalk in Tokyo City, Japan in raining day

https://public-web-wn.uat.wng.me/travel-wiser/practical/safety-tips-solo-female-travelersFrom destination knowledge to being equipped technologically, these nine tips can help you set sail confidently on your next solo trip abroad.2025-08-25T10:00:00Z https://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/travel-wiser/practical/safety-tips-solo-female-travelershttps://www.worldnomads.com<p>According to a 2024 <a href="https://skift.com/2024/10/14/the-woman-traveler-key-data-and-insights-skift-research/">report by the Woman Traveler</a>, more than 64% of today’s travelers are women— of whom a significant amount are solo travelers. Solo female travel may be <a href="https://www.forbes.com/sites/angelinavillaclarke/2024/11/11/travel-trends-report-2025-the-rise-in-the-female-adventurer/">on the rise</a>, but many women travelers still <a href="https://www.solofemaletravelers.club/solo-female-travel-stats/">cite safety as their top concern</a>—so how do you explore independently, while staying safe?</p> <p>I’ve been traveling solo for well over a decade and have never looked back. My insecurities—would I meet friends, get lost, feel lonely— are distant memories. I have traveled solo to Colombia, India, South Africa, Morocco, and dozens more countries. I’ve found some of my favorite hobbies and met some of my closest friends during these independent trips—and I couldn’t recommend it enough to other women.</p> <p>I get endless questions from skeptics about my safety—even in places where I have spent extensive time. The biggest piece of advice I can extend is to book that flight and embrace the freedom of your solo adventure—but remember to stay safe. From destination knowledge to being equipped technologically, these nine tips can help you set sail confidently on your next solo trip abroad.</p> <ul> <li><a href="#1">Tip 1: Research Your Destination Thoroughly</a></li> <li><a href="#2">Tip 2: Get Bundled Travel Insurance</a></li> <li><a href="#3">Tip 3: Share Your Itinerary with Someone You Trust</a></li> <li><a href="#4">Tip 4: Blend In with the Locals</a></li> <li><a href="#5">Tip 5: Trust Your Instincts and Set Boundaries</a></li> <li><a href="#6">Tip 6: Be Smart About Technology </a></li> <li><a href="#7">Tip 7: Keep Emergency Essentials Handy</a></li> <li><a href="#8">Tip 8: Be smart about going out at night and partying</a></li> <li><a href="#9">Tip 9: Don’t be afraid to get lost and learn to go with the flow. </a></li> </ul> <h2 id="1"><strong>Tip 1: Research Your Destination Thoroughly</strong></h2> <p>No matter how experienced you are, each destination comes with its own set of customs and expectations—whether it’s dress codes, tipping etiquette, local transportation, or how to get a SIM card. Taking time to research the basics before you go can help you arrive better prepared, with a clearer idea of what to expect and how to navigate your surroundings respectfully and safely.</p> <p>It’s also wise to check for political or environmental instabilities by reviewing current events and travel advisories from sources like the <a href="https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/traveladvisories/traveladvisories.html/">US Department of State</a> and the <a href="https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice">UK FCDO.</a> These alerts don’t always mean you shouldn’t go, but they do flag areas or situations to be aware of. To round out your research, connect with experienced travelers through online communities like <a href="https://solotravelerworld.com/">Solo Traveler</a>, <a href="https://girlswhotravel.org/">Girls Who Travel</a>, and the <a href="https://thesolofemaletravelernetwork.com/">Solo Female Traveler Network</a> for personal insights and destination-specific tips.</p> <h2 id="2"><strong>Tip 2: Get Bundled Travel Insurance</strong></h2> <p>Purchasing travel insurance is one of the best investments you can make for your trip. You never know what can happen: missed planes, delayed trains, food poisoning, road accidents, natural disasters. While you never anticipate the worst happening, it’s always best to prepare for it so you can travel with peace of mind.</p> <p><a href="https://www.worldnomads.com/travel-insurance">World Nomads</a> offers a variety of plans, depending upon your country of residence. The specific plan you purchase will depend on where you’re traveling, how much your trip costs and the activities you plan to do. Once you have a rough idea of your itinerary and the adventures you plan on taking, it’s time to consider purchasing a plan. Look for bundled coverage that includes emergency medical, emergency evacuation, trip cancellation, and baggage coverage.</p> <h2 id="3"><strong>Tip 3: Share Your Itinerary with Someone You Trust</strong></h2> <p>Jet setting solo is exciting—but it’s also important to let someone else know where you’ll be. If something happens, this person can assist in locating you in the event of an emergency. This can be as informal as creating a note on your phone and sharing it with a couple of close friends and/or family members.</p> <p>Consider using apps that allow real-time location sharing such as <a href="https://www.icloud.com/find">Find My iPhone</a> and <a href="https://www.life360.com/">Life360</a>. If you are caught in an emergency situation, your trusted contact can get you to help more easily. Even if you don’t share your location all the time, it can be smart to do it on specific occasions when you might be particularly vulnerable, such as going on a solo trek or on a night out by yourself.</p> <h2 id="4"><strong>Tip 4: Blend In with the Locals</strong></h2> <p>In many destinations, you won’t fully blend in—and that’s okay. But making an effort to dress in a culturally appropriate way shows respect and can help you feel more at ease. Embrace local styles when possible, and in more conservative areas, such as many Islamic countries, modest dress is expected: cover your shoulders and knees, opt for loose-fitting clothing, and carry a light scarf for extra coverage.</p> <p>Beyond how you dress, learning a few basic phrases in the local language can go a long way. It shows curiosity and respect, helps build connections, and can be especially useful if you need help or directions. These small efforts make a big difference in how you're received—and how confidently you navigate your journey.</p> <h2 id="5"><strong>Tip 5: Trust Your Instincts and Set Boundaries</strong></h2> <p>There’s no exact guidebook for navigating the real world of solo travel. Listen to your intuition. If a situation or a person feels off, trust that instinct. When we travel, we are eager to meet new people and go on spontaneous adventures—but it’s also okay to say no. I sometimes feel guilty or rude when a man I meet at a café invites me to an event or to a meal, but learning from lessons past, I would rather not find myself in an uncomfortable or compromising situation.</p> <p>On the other hand, I’m much more likely to say yes when a woman or family invites me somewhere. Connecting with friends of friends in a new city or country is another great way to connect with locals and know they’re coming from a trusted mutual friend.</p> <h2 id="6"><strong>Tip 6: Be Smart About Technology </strong></h2> <p>While technology can sometimes pull us out of the moment, it’s also one of the best tools for solo travelers. A smartphone puts everything you need in one place—digital copies of your passport, hotel reservations, maps, and emergency contacts. One of the first things to do upon arrival is to get connected, either with a local SIM or an e-SIM downloaded in advance, which can make navigating from the airport much easier. For longer stays, local plans often offer the best value.</p> <p>It's also wise to plan for limited connectivity. Download offline maps, save emergency contacts, and install local rideshare apps—many countries use alternatives to Uber. Keep key phone numbers on hand, like your accommodation or nearby hospitals, in case of emergency. And don’t forget a power bank, so your lifeline to all these tools stays charged throughout your trip.</p> <h2 id="7"><strong>Tip 7:</strong> <strong>Keep Emergency Essentials Handy</strong></h2> <p>Even a small setback—like a lost or stolen passport—can quickly derail your trip. Keeping hard copies of important documents, such as your passport, visa, insurance details, and emergency contacts, can be a lifesaver if your phone is lost or stolen. While digital backups are useful, don’t rely on technology alone—a physical backup offers peace of mind.</p> <p>It’s also smart to manage your money and cards carefully. Never carry all your cash or credit cards at once. Instead, take only what you need for the day and store the rest securely at your accommodation, if possible.</p> <h2 id="8"><strong>Tip 8: Be smart about going out at night and partying</strong></h2> <p>Places that feel safe during the day can feel very different at night. Before heading out after dark, read up on other travelers’ experiences and stick to well-lit, populated areas. If you're venturing out solo, let someone know your plans, carry a charged phone, and bring only what you need—some cash, one card, and a backup charger.</p> <p>The same caution applies when partying or going to clubs and festivals alone. You don’t have to skip the fun but stay aware and in control—consider staying sober so you can better assess situations. Be cautious about accepting drinks from strangers and never leave your drink unattended to avoid the risk of <a href="https://www.worldnomads.com/travel-safety/worldwide/drink-spiking">spiking</a>. It’s okay to meet new friends on the dance floor but also remember to use your best judgement.</p> <h2 id="9"><strong>Tip 9: Don’t be afraid to get lost and learn to go with the flow. </strong></h2> <p>We are often so worried about preventing things from going wrong that we plan out every detail. But getting lost and having hiccups along the way are <em>part </em>of the adventure. A wrong turn may bring you to an unexpected restaurant or cool festival.</p> <p>Wrong turns also help us grow, teaching us how to navigate both the good and bad of traveling. From cyclones to motorcycle accidents, I’ve weathered my fair share of storms on the road. Each of these incidents has made me a more resourceful and confident traveler and has taught me to let go of expectations, accept the unexpected, and go with the flow.</p> <h2><strong>Conclusion:</strong></h2> <p>Solo travel as a woman can be both empowering and intimidating. While you can’t predict every mishap, taking a few smart precautions can help you explore with confidence. Researching your destination helps you understand local customs and potential challenges, while essentials like <a href="https://www.worldnomads.com/usa/travel-insurance?utm_source=5838843&utm_medium=affiliate&utm_campaign=Affiliate&utm_content=quick_quote">travel insurance</a> and a local SIM card give you tools to stay connected and protected.</p> <p>Awareness is key—stay mindful of your surroundings, limit alcohol, and keep up with local news that might affect your plans. Solo travel can open the door to a more confident, adventurous version of yourself. Embrace the experience—just do it wisely.</p> <small>This post originally appeared on Dollar Flight Club and has been reshared with permission.</small>Getty Images 0 A woman with a backpack standing on a train station platform watching a train approach

https://public-web-wn.uat.wng.me/travel-safety/southern-asia/india/india-travel-safetyTraveling to India? This guide shares essential safety tips—from avoiding Delhi belly to navigating scams, road safety, and women’s safety. Learn what to expect and how to stay safe, healthy, and informed.2025-06-30T10:00:00Z https://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/travel-safety/southern-asia/india/india-travel-safetyhttps://www.worldnomads.com<p>India conjures up a range of images: yoga, meditation, Ayurveda, and age-old traditions; technicolored clothing and vibrant celebrations; spicy curries and bustling chaat stands. Picture snowy mountains, dense jungles, vast deserts, tuk-tuks weaving through traffic, and long train rides across the country. For many, India’s sensory overload is part of the appeal—though for others, it may feel overwhelming.</p> <p>Spanning over 1.2 million square miles and home to nearly 1.5 billion people who speak more than 750 languages, India is vast and incredibly diverse. Naturally, your experience will differ depending on the region you visit.</p> <p>Before I first visited India nearly a decade ago, I was equally intrigued as I was intimidated by this exciting, vibrant South Asian destination. Over the past nine years of nearly annual travel to India across many of the states from the southern jungles of Tamil Nadu to the high desert mountains of Ladakh, I have grown familiar with the ins and outs, highs and lows of exploring this incredible country. While India presents its challenges, it's one of the most rewarding places I’ve ever traveled. Below are some key tips to help you stay safe and make the most of your journey.</p> <h2>Food Safety and Drinking Water Tips for Travelers in India</h2> <p>The “Delhi belly” is real. Food- and water-borne illnesses are among the most common grievances travelers face in India. But let’s face it, sampling the local cuisine is an integral part of experiencing India, particularly its infamous street food scene where the bites are tasty, but sanitation is inconsistent. Indulge in the local food—but with caution. Dishes that use water such as chutneys or pani puri, are best to have in a restaurant, as street food vendors won’t necessarily use filtered water. A street food tour can also help, as your guide will know where to take you to sample from clean and reputable stands.</p> <figure><img src="https://media.worldnomads.com/travel-safety/india/street-food-in-delhi.jpeg" alt="Street food vendor in Delhi" /> <figcaption> Street food vendor in Delhi. Courtesy: Alicia Erickson</figcaption></figure> <p>Avoid drinking tap water. Many restaurants offer filtered water, which is typically safe to drink, but when in doubt, stick with bottled water.</p> <p>An upset stomach isn’t <em>always</em> an indication food poisoning. The rich, spicy curries can sometimes just take some getting used to. If you do find yourself with a bout of Delhi belly, rest, hydrate, and eat bland food for a few days. If it does turn out to be a bad bout of food poisoning, having travel insurance and a 24/7 Emergency Assistance line will come in handy. The team has likely helped others through your situation and can direct you to the best clinic or pharmacy.</p> <p> <a href="https://www.worldnomads.com/travel-insurance/destinations/india">Learn how travel insurance may help you in India, and get a travel insurance quote.</a></p> <h2>Common Tourist Scams and Crime Safety Tips in India</h2> <p>Violent crime is extremely uncommon for travelers to experience in India. At most, you may experience petty theft but even pickpocketing is a rarer occurrence than in many popular travel destinations. Parts of India can be incredibly crowded, though, so keep an eye on your bag and phone in busy places including markets, train stations, or festivals such as the colorful celebrations of Holi. The only time I’ve almost encountered petty theft was at the Pushkar Camel Festival, where I stopped a group of kids trying to unzip my backpack.</p> <p><a href="https://www.worldnomads.com/travel-safety/southern-asia/india/indian-scams-a-rupee-a-dozen">You may encounter some scams along your travels in India</a>, which will become easier to detect the longer you spend in the country. Bargain with tuk-tuk and taxi drivers and vendors at markets for fruit and crafts. The first price they quote you is likely inflated, but remember to keep the bargaining friendly and make sure they get a fair price.</p> <p>India also draws many spiritual seekers to places like the ghats of Varanasi or the yoga ashrams of Rishikesh. While many Hindu holy men—or sadhus, often dressed in orange robes—are authentic, fake ones do exist. Some imposters pose as sadhus to collect donations from unsuspecting tourists.</p> <p>You’ll also likely see children <a href="https://www.worldnomads.com/travel-safety/southern-asia/india/hassle-city-india-and-how-to-avoid-touts">begging on the streets</a>. As heartbreaking as it is, giving them money only fuels exploitative crime rings that prey on these kids. A better option is to offer them something to eat instead.</p> <h2>Political unrest in Kashmir</h2> <p>Political unrest and terrorism are rare across most of India. However, Kashmir—located in northwestern India near the Pakistan border—is an exception. The April 22, 2025 attack was the first of its kind since 2019 and heightened tensions between India and Pakistan.</p> <p>Following the attacks, airports in Kashmir, Punjab, and Himachal Pradesh temporarily closed. Some flights were canceled or rerouted to avoid Pakistani airspace. Across India, mock drills were conducted, including metro shutdowns and sirens, in preparation for potential future escalations.</p> <p>The situation in Kashmir remains sensitive. Always check the local news and your government’s travel advisories for the latest updates before visiting.</p> <h2>Is India Safe for Solo Female Travelers?</h2> <p>Media reports on rape, acid attacks, and sexual assault can paint India as unsafe for women. While such crimes are deeply troubling, they predominantly affect Indian women. Foreign women are less likely to be targeted.</p> <p>Generally, I’ve felt incredibly comfortable travelling solo in India. I find locals welcoming, helpful, and curious to engage in conversation. In some places, you will solicit stares and small talk. People—especially young men—might ask to take a selfie with you, but I’ve generally found these encounters to be polite and harmless. Simply turn them down with a smile and keep walking.</p> <p>As with anywhere, use your common sense as you’re making new friends and if you’re attending yoga schools. Most likely, you’ll have a fantastic experience at your yoga school, but with the rise of alternative travel, I have heard stories of women being violated or taken advantage by their yoga teachers or at tantra workshops.</p> <p>Dress modestly—and perhaps locally. Long skirts, loose pants, crop tops, a lightweight button down, and a scarf are my go-to in India. They’re comfortable, versatile, and easy to sit on the floor in (which is a common thing in many cafes, temples, and homes.) Consider buying local clothing. Indian textiles are colorful, beautiful, and a fun way to blend in more with the local scene.</p> <figure><img src="https://media.worldnomads.com/travel-safety/india/flower-shopping.jpeg" alt="Women shopping for flowers" /> <figcaption>Women shopping for flowers. Courtesy: Alicia Erickson</figcaption></figure> <p>Goa is an exception for clothing. Thanks to the influx of foreigners and the beach vibe, tourist-heavy parts of Goa are okay to wear short dresses and shorts in. On the topic of Goa, it is one of a few places in India where drinking, drugs, and partying are abundant. While it can be a fun stop on your India itinerary, stay aware— especially at night and at the big psytrance parties. Because of its reputation as a party place, it has also attracted all sorts of local male tourists curious about foreign women there and is one of the few places I’ve felt uncomfortable.</p> <p><a href="https://www.worldnomads.com/travel-safety/southern-asia/india/womens-travel-safety-in-india">For more tips, learn how safe India is for women traveling alone.</a></p> <h2>Motorbike and Road Safety in India for Tourists</h2> <p>Motorcycle trips are a popular way to explore India. Whether you choose to rent a motorbike and cruise across the green hills of Kerala or buy a Royal Enfield and take on the winding roads of the Himalayan regions, an Indian adventure by motorcycle is exciting. It also comes with risks. I’ve met many travelers who first learned how to drive upon buying their bikes in Delhi and immediately headed up to the mountains—a few who were holed up in hostels recovering from accidents!</p> <p>Traffic in big cities is hectic and requires a lot of vigilance and confidence to navigate safely. Rural areas come with their own set of obstacles: cows, goats, potholes, and narrow, winding roads. Places like Ladakh and Spiti Valley provide incredible backdrops for two-wheeled adventures, but the mountain passes are high and narrow. Wear a helmet and take your time as you navigate these regions. Goa is another place to be careful, as the distances can be sizeable between towns along narrow, winding roads and people are driving from parties, often under the influence. Police will stop travelers quite frequently here as well.</p> <h2>Health and hygiene for travelers in India</h2> <p>Pollution can be highly problematic in major cities. It is particularly bad in New Delhi and Agra during winter months, when weather patterns mixed with burning season trap pollution and create a smog enveloping the city. Limit your visits to these areas this time of the year or if you must be there, wear a mask when you’re outside.</p> <p>Health care is readily available and often quite affordable around most areas of India. Whether you need a general check-up or are facing a more specific illness, you can find a mix of western style clinics and Eastern medicine places. Pharmacies are also plentiful, where you can access medications and herbal supplements alike at affordable costs.</p> <p>And if you’re curious about more traditional medicine explore practices from Ayurvedic oil massages to Tibetan clinics to panchakarma (a multi-day detoxification), your options are numerous.</p>Alicia Erickson 0

https://public-web-wn.uat.wng.me/travel-wiser/practical/how-to-renew-your-passportRenewing a passport may seem complicated, but it’s not something that should be put off if you’re a regular traveler. These tips are mostly for US citizens but are useful no matter what country you’re from.2024-08-23T10:00:00Z https://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/travel-wiser/practical/how-to-renew-your-passporthttps://www.worldnomads.com<p>Passport renewal can be a dreaded task for frequent and novice travelers alike. I pretty much travel full-time so there’s never a convenient moment for me to renew my passport, especially when I’m getting close to my last page in the book. Being without a passport always leaves me feeling a bit nervous – how long will the new one take? Will it arrive within the estimated time and therefore, in time for my next scheduled international trip?</p> <p>I finally bit the bullet and renewed my almost-full passport at the beginning of this year. It felt safer to renew it when I was back stateside and still had a few pages left rather than risk filling it up while being on the road. The expedited mail-in option was straightforward and arrived in less time than anticipated – which is not guaranteed to be the case but was a relief for this nomadic traveler.</p> <ul> <li><a href="#when">How long is a passport good for and when should I renew mine?</a></li> <li><a href="#what">What do I need to do to renew my passport? </a></li> <li><a href="#how">How long does it take to renew your passport? </a></li> <li><a href="#expired">How to get a new passport if your current passport is expired</a></li> <li><a href="#lost">What is the process if my passport is lost or stolen?</a></li> <li><a href="#abroad">How to renew your passport from abroad</a></li> <li><a href="#non-us">How to renew your passport if you’re not a US resident </a></li> </ul> <h2 id="when">How long is a passport good for and when should I renew mine?</h2> <p>There are a few reasons to renew your passport: it's about to expire, your pages are full, or you’ve lost your passport. Passports are typically good for ten years if you're 16 or older when it's issued. However, in the US, UK, and Canada, passports are only valid for five years if you are under 16 (under 15 in Australia).</p> <p>Without any special circumstances such as a <a href="/travel-insurance/whats-covered/stolen-passports">lost, stolen, or damaged passport</a> (accidents do happen!), you should renew yours when it’s either about six months from expiration or close to being full.</p> <p>Many countries won’t let you in if you have less than six months before your passport expires – which is why you should keep a close eye on the expiration date. It won’t be a fun surprise to board a flight and be denied entry for your planned vacation! (Also, if you have to cancel your trip because of an expired passport, the <a href="/travel-insurance/whats-covered/cancellation">cancellation likely won't be covered by travel insurance</a>.)</p> <p>If you fill up your pages before the ten years are up, you will need to apply for a new passport earlier than the expiration date. Keep in mind that many countries require two to four blank pages for entry /exit stamps and visas. Some airlines won’t let you board, and some countries won’t allow you to enter without a few blank pages. Unfortunately, adding extra pages to your passport is no longer an option so if it’s getting close to full, it is best to renew your passport as soon as possible.</p> <p>If you don’t have special circumstances to consider, there are a few basic steps to follow to get your next passport in hand.</p> <h2 id="what">What do I need to do to renew my passport?</h2> <p>For US citizens, there are three ways to renew your passport: by mail, in person, or online. All these start at the US Department of State’s <a href="https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports.html" target="_blank">passport section</a>.</p> <h3>Renewing online</h3> <p>Renewing online has only recently become available and is currently in the process of a trial stage. If you meet the <a href="https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports/have-passport/renew-online.html#Step%20One" target="_blank">necessary requirements as listed on the US Department of State’s website</a>, online renewal might be the most convenient option for you. Online renewal works for tourist passports. Unfortunately, diplomatic passports and other special issuances don’t qualify for online renewal, and you must have the passport in hand (i.e. it hasn’t been lost or stolen). American citizens living outside of the US are ineligible for the online process.</p> <p>Once you verify that you are eligible to renew your passport online, you can <a href="https://mytravel.state.gov/s/?utm_source=web&utm_medium=link&utm_campaign=Renew%20Online%20TSG&utm_id=Renew%20Online%20TSG" target="_blank">create your account</a> and start your application. You will need a new photo, which can be uploaded online in the application system.</p> <p>Because the online system is in the testing stage, online application slots are only available in limited slots at midday eastern time each day. You can try another day if you can’t start your application on that day – or simply renew by mail instead.</p> <h3>Renewing by mail</h3> <p>Another way to renew your passport is by mail. This is a great option if you don’t meet all the requirements for online renewal, or if you want to expedite the process. Once you confirm that you<a href="https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports/have-passport/renew.html#Step%20One" target="_blank"> meet the requirements</a>, you can download the application, fill it out, and print it. Along with your completed form, you’ll also need to mail in a photo and your current passport.</p> <h3>Renewing in person</h3> <p><a href="https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports/get-fast/passport-agencies.html" target="_blank">Renewing your passport in person</a> should be your last option and is saved for emergency cases. You must make an appointment at a passport agency. If you are traveling within 14 calendar days, you can book an appointment at a passport center to renew your passport. However, if you’ll also need a foreign visa for your trip, then your appointment will have to be within 28 days of your trip.</p> <h3>Next steps</h3> <p>Regardless of the renewal method you choose, you will need to take a new photo. Make sure your <a href="https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports/how-apply/photos.html" target="_blank">photo meets the requirements</a>, such as being a color photo and taken within the last 6 months.</p> <p>The cost to renew your passport book is USD $130. If you’d like to get a wallet-sized <a href="https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports/need-passport/card.html" target="_blank">passport card</a> as well, the cost is an extra $30. Passport cards are not valid for international air travel and only work land and sea travel from Mexico, Canada, Bermuda, and Caribbean countries.</p> <h2 id="how">How long does it take to renew your passport?</h2> <p>For US citizens, the typical processing time to renew a passport is 6-8 weeks. This can fluctuate during popular travel times, such as over the winter and summer holidays. You need to consider the mailing time as well, which isn’t included in the 6-8 week estimate and can add at least a few days. The Department of State <a href="https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports/how-apply/processing-times.html" target="_blank">updates current renewal times</a>.</p> <p>If your passport renewal is super time sensitive, you can select the expedited passport renewal service, which takes an estimated 2-3 weeks. Remember that expedited services are only available via mail-in renewal and cost an additional $60.</p> <h2 id="expired">How to get a new passport if your current passport is expired</h2> <p>Renewing an expired passport is straightforward and not too different from the regular process. However, if your passport was issued more than 15 years ago – meaning that it expired five or more years ago – you aren’t eligible to renew your passport. Instead, you will need to apply for a new one.</p> <figure><img src="https://media.worldnomads.com/travel-wiser/passport/passport-renewal-stamps.jpg" alt="A man holds a passport open to a page filled with stamps." /> <figcaption>If your passport pages are getting full or your passport is near (or past) expiration, it's time to get a new one. Image credit: Getty Images / Jake Wyman</figcaption></figure> <h2 id="lost">What is the process if my passport is lost or stolen?</h2> <p><a href="https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports/have-passport/lost-stolen.html#:~:text=Want%20to%20immediately%20replace%20your,you%20want%20a%20replacement%20passport." target="_blank">Losing a passport</a>, whether by accident or by theft, can create a stressful situation, especially if it happens while you’re traveling. The first thing you should do is report your lost passport, which can be done online, by mail, or in person when you’re replacing your passport. If your lost passport is also expired, there is no need to report it because it isn’t valid for international travel.</p> <p>If you report your missing passport online, the system will also give you the option to apply for a new passport, directly linking you to the forms to fill out. In limited circumstances, you may also apply for an emergency passport, which is valid for one year or less. Emergency passports are issued in circumstances like having your passport stolen.</p> <h2 id="abroad">How to renew your passport from abroad</h2> <p>The process to apply for a new passport if you’re outside the US differs from country to country. In most cases, you’ll need to apply in person at the US embassy or consulate. Check the <a href="https://www.usembassy.gov/" target="_blank">US embassy page</a> for the country from which you’ll be applying for country-specific details.</p> <p>If you’re applying from Canada, you can skip the trip to the embassy and apply via mail. This applies in both cases of standard and expedited passport renewals.</p> <p>The process is the same whether you’re simply traveling abroad or living abroad as a resident of another country.</p> <h2 id="non-us">How to renew your passport if you’re not a US resident</h2> <p>Passport renewal looks a bit different for every country, although some general rules do still apply like renewing your passport six months before it expires or if it has less than two to four blank pages. It is best to check your country’s government website for the specific process.</p> <p><a href="https://www.gov.uk/renew-adult-passport" target="_blank">UK citizens</a> can renew online or mail in a paper form. The processing time is typically three weeks, although the government also offers a <a href="https://www.gov.uk/get-a-passport-urgently" target="_blank">fast-track service</a>. It costs £88.50 to renew online and £100 to renew passports with a paper form.</p> <p><a href="https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/canadian-passports/renew-adult-passport.html" target="_blank">Canadian citizens</a> can renew via mail or in-person, depending on the timeframe in which the passport is needed. If you need to renew your passport within 10-20 business days, you can renew via mail or in person at a Service Canada Center or passport office. If you need an “express” renewal (2-9 days), you’ll need to renew your passport at a passport office with express service. In the event that your passport renewal is urgent (needed by the end of the next business day), you’ll need to go to a passport office with urgent service. In addition to new photos, you’ll also need two references to renew your Canadian passport. A five-year adult passport costs CAN$120 and a ten-year adult passport costs CAN$160.</p> <p><a href="https://www.passports.gov.au/HowToRenew" target="_blank">Australian citizens</a> who meet all the criteria can renew their passports online. If online access isn’t possible, you can call 131 232 to have a form sent to you. You will need to send in two photos with the completed forms. Plan for passports to take a minimum of six weeks for renewal, although in special circumstances you can apply for <a href="https://www.passports.gov.au/urgent-applications" target="_blank">expedited renewal</a> for an additional cost. A ten-year passport for adults costs AUD$398.</p>Getty Images / SDI Productions 192565759 Getty Images A woman smiles and holds her passport and boarding pass while waiting for her flight at the airport.

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/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/explore/southern-africa/south-africa/3-road-trips-near-cape-townYou don’t have to venture far from Cape Town to discover rugged peaks, world-class wines, and dramatic expanses of desert. 2023-03-16T11:00:00Z https://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/explore/southern-africa/south-africa/3-road-trips-near-cape-townhttps://www.worldnomads.com<p>After a long day of driving, we relished the blissfully sunny afternoon. We devoured a spread of freshly baked goods at an unassuming farm stop overlooking the rolling plains of Cederberg. “So far, so good,” we thought, proud of how smoothly our <a href="/travel-insurance/activities/road-trip">road trip</a> from Cape Town to Tankwa Karoo National Park had gone so far. Until about 15 minutes later when we realized the road we wanted to follow the next day would not, in fact, lead us to the Karoo.</p> <p>While the charms of Cape Town, with its commanding views from Lion’s Head and Table Mountain and its world-class food scene, are undeniable, what lies beyond the Mother City is arguably even more rewarding. The promise of wild coastline, rugged mountains, sprawling desert, and rolling vineyards lured us out onto the open road. And despite the occasional wrong turn, it didn’t disappoint.</p> <ul> <li><a href="#winelands">Western Cape winelands </a></li> <li><a href="#cederberg">Cederberg Nature Reserve</a></li> <li><a href="#karoo">The Karoo </a></li> <li><a href="#trip-notes">Trip notes</a></li> </ul> <h2 id="winelands">Western Cape winelands</h2> <p>With the windows rolled down, I wound through sloped hills lined with rows of grapevines tinted burnt orange and red, hinting at the onset of autumn. Grand, white buildings with thatched roofs and a distinctive “H” shape, characteristic of the classic Cape Dutch style architecture of the late 17th-early 19th centuries, sit on road’s edge. Upon entering the grand wine estates, the landscapes are even more striking. Flowering trees, petite ponds, and elaborate gardens line the entrances while vineyards slope into the distance.</p> <p>The winelands in the Western Cape sprawl across many subregions that range from approximately 45 minutes to two-hours’ drive from Cape Town, ranging from more heralded names like Stellenbosch and Franschhoek, to the lesser-known regions such as Durbanville and Swartland. The extensive nature of winelands is a bit intimidating at first glance. And with over 500 wineries in the Cape, they certainly can’t all be tackled in one trip.</p> <p>On numerous visits to <a href="/explore/southern-africa/south-africa/things-to-do-in-south-africa">South Africa</a>, I’ve visited these stunning vineyards on many occasions. As impressive as the elegant, high-end estates are, I tend to veer towards the smaller, family-run vineyards that prioritize growing organic or biodynamic grapes and embrace the spirit of minimal intervention.</p> <figure><img src="https://media.worldnomads.com/explore/south-africa/road-trips/winelands-in-autumn.jpg" alt="Vineyards showing autumn colors in the Cape Winelands, South Africa." /> <figcaption>Autumn in the Western Cape Winelands. Image credit: Getty Images / wilpunt</figcaption></figure> <p>Stellenbosch blends the best of everything: centuries-old history, estates set atop hills overlooking the valley, and a sprinkling of smaller wineries among the big names. <a href="https://www.reynekewines.co.za/">Reyneke</a> is one of a few fully biodynamic vineyards in South Africa and is a small, family-run business. During the private tasting (advanced booking required), I was able to try about a dozen wines while comparing the same grapes of different years side-by-side to understand the impact of the season and the aging process by year. Just down the road and atop the valley is <a href="https://karibib.co.za/">Karibib</a>, which is an innovative, architecturally striking space that serves wines from small-batch, sustainably minded winemakers. Or unwind with a picnic in the lush gardens at <a href="https://demorgenzon.com/">DeMorgenzon</a>, a vineyard known for their stunning Chenin Blanc varietals and playing music to their grapes.</p> <p>Durbanville has some fantastic family vineyards that specialize in niche experiences. Sip on wines named after family members in private wine caves at <a href="https://kleinroosboom.co.za/">Klein Roosboom</a>, or try invariably delicious vintages on picnic tables at <a href="https://diemersdal.co.za/">Diemersdal</a> while sampling some of the innovative small plates from their kitchen.</p> <p>Swartland is a wine region north of Cape Town and offers an adventure in the wild throws of wine country with more experimental wineries – and a few olive-oil farms. What it lacks in fancy wine estates it makes up for in family-run, innovative wineries leading the way in sustainable and natural wines. <a href="https://aabadenhorst.com/">A. A. Badenhorst</a> is an unmissable stop. This family-run establishment is a pioneer of natural wines in the region, hosts tastings and events, and offers funky farm accommodation on the property.</p> <h2 id="cederberg">Cederberg Nature Reserve</h2> <p>The further north we drove from Stellenbosch, the narrower the roads became while the increasingly immense peaks loomed ahead. The car climbed up steep passes and dipped back down ago across uninhabited terrain dotted with mountain fynbos (shrubland plants specific to the region). Traces of civilization are scarce here aside from the occasional farm stands that emerge after a long stretch of deserted road.</p> <p>Cederberg Nature Reserve is a long, mountainous area about 110mi/177km (or just over a 2-hour drive) northeast of Cape Town. The reserve spans over 71,000 hectares of rugged land with rocky escarpment, arid low-lying mountains, carved sandstone formations, serene swimming holes, and ancient rock art. <a href="/travel-insurance/activities/hiking-travel-insurance">Hiking</a> and <a href="/travel-insurance/activities/rock-climbing">rock-climbing</a> opportunities are aplenty, as are campsites, which can be reserved in advance. In late April, though, there wasn’t a need as the empty campsites were almost eerily quiet. We stayed at the more southerly Cederberg Kliphuis on the first night and Cederberg Algeria on the second night.</p> <figure><img src="https://media.worldnomads.com/explore/south-africa/road-trips/cederberg-with-fynbos.jpg" alt="A landscape covered with mountain fynbos in Cederberg Nature Reserve, South Africa." /> <figcaption>Mountain fynbos in Cederberg Nature Reserve. Image credit: Alicia Erickson</figcaption></figure> <p>With little advance planning, we showed up at our campsites and took off hiking along nearby trails. We meandered down paths paralleling a river and scrambled over boulders and through thick brush that opened up to small pools surrounded by rocky slopes. A perfect place to take a quiet dip on a sun-soaked morning. Warm days gave way to crisp sunsets, best enjoyed with a bottle of wine beneath acorn trees while admiring the surrounding mountains cast in golden shadows.</p> <p>Temperatures plummeted come nightfall and after a sleepless night in unexpectedly freezing temperatures, we were delighted to discover a winery just a short drive down the road. <a href="https://www.cederbergwine.com/">Cederberg Wine</a> ended up being one of my favorite wineries in South Africa. A morning tasting of their delicious wines, ranging from experimental styles to elegant vintages, was the perfect antidote to our frigid night, as we prepared to head into the Karoo.</p> <h2 id="karoo">The Karoo</h2> <p>The Karoo is South Africa’s equivalent of the wild west. If Cederberg seemed sparsely populated, the Karoo is dramatically more remote. This region of vast semi-desert and flat-topped mountains is perfect road trip country. The Karoo is technically divided between Klein Karoo (Little Karoo) and Groot Karoo (Great Karoo). Over the years, it has become something of a mecca for sculptors, novelists, painters, farmers, brewers, and other creative types eager to leave city life behind and let the inspiration of unhindered landscapes wash over them.</p> <p>Driving to and through the Karoo requires a bit of planning. As we discovered, Google Maps GPS is not necessarily reliable for navigating here. After an afternoon of intensely studying the map and chatting with some locals, we were able to salvage our road trip without too much of a detour.</p> <p>Towns, gas stations, and food are scarce in this region. However, when the odd farm stand does rise from the otherwise deserted horizon, you can rest assured there is a story to accompany it. <a href="https://tankwapadstal-tourism.co.za/">Tankwa Padstal</a>, a roadside farmstall between Ceres and Calvinia is a particularly storied stop. This padstal is a favorite on the drive from Cape Town to Tankwa Town for AfrikaBurn and every year between late April and early May, you’re sure to meet some colorful characters.</p> <p>The Karoo is also rather famous for its festivals. Celebrations around food, dancing, and culture take place throughout the year. <a href="https://www.afrikaburn.org/">AfrikaBurn</a> is the best known, drawing attendees from around South Africa and the world. Elaborate themed camps and psychedelic art structures are set up in the sweeping sands of Tankwa Karoo National Park. People from all walks of life dressed in imaginative costumes leave behind the constructs of the real world to gather, create, connect, release, dance, and celebrate for a week. There’s no place more suited for AfrikaBurn than the Karoo and perhaps no event more reflective of the soul of the Karoo than AfrikaBurn.</p> <figure><img src="https://media.worldnomads.com/explore/south-africa/road-trips/afrikaburn-sunset.jpg" alt="A fanciful sculpture on a desert plain at AfrikaBurn festival in South Africa." /> <figcaption>AfrikaBurn at sunset. Image credit: Alicia Erickson</figcaption></figure> <p>Perhaps the biggest draw of the Karoo? The open road with no particular destination in mind. Take in the thrill of winding dirt roads that rise to about 5,000ft (1,524m) in elevation. Drive through the staggering, rocky formations of Swartberg Pass, bringing you from the Klein Karoo to the Groot Karoo into a vast world of unexplored wonders. The wild reaches of this desert region can be rediscovered on countless occasions, bringing you to new corners on each visit. Allow yourself the time to get a bit lost among the wide-open terrain, where sunrises are as dramatic as sunsets, night skies are heavy with the glow of stars, and the silence echoes for miles.</p> <h2 id="trip-notes">Trip notes</h2> <p>The shoulder seasons of autumn (March-May) and spring (September-November) are the best times to embark on these road trips. Summer weather tends to be relatively mild in Cape Town, although temperatures are typically higher the further inland you go, including the winelands, Cederberg, and the Karoo. Wintertime (June-August) will be cool and wet – not so ideal for outdoor adventures. Car rentals are abundant and inexpensive in South Africa, with both international and local companies to choose from with offices around Cape Town. If you’re planning to camp, come prepared with food, drinks, fire makings, and warm clothes, as well as all necessary camping gear. A car with 4WD is recommended if you’re adventuring beyond the winelands. Gear rentals are abundant in Cape Town if you don’t have your own supplies.</p>Alicia Erickson 0

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/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/explore/north-america/mexico/southern-baja-beyond-los-cabosAway from the resorts, bars, and crowds of Cabo San Lucas, southern Baja offers quieter pleasures: swimming with marine life near La Paz, desert hikes to hidden hot springs, and glorious beaches and ocean views near Todos Santos.2023-02-10T11:00:00Z https://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/explore/north-america/mexico/southern-baja-beyond-los-caboshttps://www.worldnomads.com<p>Rugged mountains rise from a narrow swath of a peninsula, where the desert meets the sea. Twisted sage-green cacti rise from parched brush in crevices and along sloped valleys. Outwards, deep blue sea spans as far as the eye can see where whales can often be spotted breaching.</p> <p>Baja California Sur (BCS), a region relatively isolated from mainland Mexico, is one equally underestimated. This narrow peninsula state offers worlds beyond the curated resorts and nightlife hot spots of Los Cabos (encompassing Cabo San Lucas and San Jose del Cabo), on the southern tip of the peninsula. Drive in every direction from BCS’s main starting point and you’ll stumble across desert mountains and cacti-dotted canyons, dusty towns steeped in history, and wide, wind-swept beaches. Thrill seekers will find a variety of outdoor adventures while <a href="/explore/north-america/mexico/how-to-eat-mexico">foodies</a> can indulge in an endless slew of street side taco and ceviche stands.</p> <ul> <li><a href="#la-paz">La Paz and outdoor adventures </a></li> <li><a href="#diving">Diving and snorkeling with sea lions</a></li> <li><a href="#todos">Discovering the secrets of Todos Santos</a></li> <li><a href="#around">Getting around</a></li> </ul> <h2 id="la-paz">La Paz and outdoor adventures</h2> <p>The capital of BCS, La Paz, is a sprawling town on the center of the eastern coast that mixes adventure tourism with a local beat. We stayed a fair distance outside the main boardwalk area, known as the Malecon, which is clogged with touristy restaurants. Our unassuming neighborhood boasted tiny taco, ceviche, and fresh juice stands that had unpredictable hours and reliably tasty offerings. Beach goers can go on a mini road trip around mountain cliffs and through the desert to reach the region’s best beaches. The favorite of the area is Playa Balandra but its popularity has resulted in limited entry during one of two timeframes, either in the morning or the afternoon. If luck isn’t on your side, settle for nearby Playa Tecolote, which still offers spectacular views as well as some fantastic seaside restaurants.</p> <p>La Paz is also a phenomenal base from which to explore the wide range of underwater adventures in the area, varying by season. With shipwrecks and dive sites like Sea Lion Colony and Espiritu Santu, La Paz is heaven for <a href="/travel-insurance/activities/scuba-diving-travel-insurance">scuba divers</a>. It’s recommended to book in advance and your chosen company can help shape your underwater excursions, from whale sharks and diving, to snorkeling with sea lions and <a href="/explore/north-america/mexico/kayaking-in-loreto-bay">sea kayaking</a>. I worked with <a href="https://mexicotraveladventure.com/en" target="_blank">Mexico Travel Adventure</a> to decide on a number of adventures that combined my interests in the area.</p> <p>We specifically came in January to experience the whale shark migration in the Sea of Cortez. Each morning, the boat companies put in a bid for time slots to bring visitors to swim with the whale sharks. At 10am we met our boat captain and pulled away from the dock aboard a white speed boat. After about half an hour cruising the cerulean waves, our guide spotted the first shark, and we quickly donned our snorkels and fins and jumped into the water. I swam against the waves while searching for these mighty creatures. The cloudy water made them difficult to spot and suddenly I looked right down and was face-to-face with the wide mouth and immense, spotted body. Floating in the water, I admired the whale shark feeding before it disappeared into the depths of the sea.</p> <p>To be transparent, I much preferred my whale shark experience in Mozambique, where it felt more organic. In Baja, there are a fair number of boats in the water at once, all of them competing for space to swim with the whale sharks. The guides were shouting at everyone to jump into the water quickly and then back out within a couple of minutes to drive to the next spot. But nonetheless, the whale sharks were still the star of the show, enchanting us for the few minutes that we were in their presence.</p> <h2 id="diving">Diving and snorkeling with sea lions</h2> <p>Our adventure also included diving with sea lions later that week. After two hours of flying across choppy waves, wrapped in coats and towels to shield us from the winter wind, our boat finally slowed down. As the rays of sun restored warmth to our bodies, a chorus of barking grew louder and louder. Here, in the middle of the Sea of Cortez, was a sea lion colony. We watched in amusement as hundreds of sea lions dove into the water, slid along slippery rocks, and sunned on boulders. Snorkelers swam alongside the sea lions, while I chose to take a deeper dive.</p> <figure><img src="https://media.worldnomads.com/explore/mexico/southern-baja/sea-lions-la-paz.jpg" alt="Playful sea lion pups frolic beneath the waves near La Paz, Mexico." /> <figcaption>Playful sea lion pups at the sea lion rookery near Isla Espiritu Santo. Image credit: Bernard Radvaner / Getty Images</figcaption></figure> <p>I geared up with a scuba tank and descended into the sea surrounding the boulders. We quietly navigated our way through murky, green waters. From time to time, sea lions flipped in the water, gliding beside us as we slowly made our way beneath the rocks and emerged on the other side of the cave. Later in the day, we continued on to Espiritu Santo, where we did a shallow dive near the shore and filled up on ceviche on the white sand beaches of this uninhabited isle.</p> <p>It’s worth noting that while whale season runs during the winter into early spring, these months aren’t ideal for scuba diving. The visibility is limited, and the water is cold. Prime diving season is in October when the waters are clear and comfortably warm.</p> <p>The area is also filled with spots for freediving and spearfishing. If you have a car, head to Ventana, a small coastal town about 45 minutes’ drive from La Paz. Ventana is known for its windy beaches and optimal kiteboarding conditions. Baja’s onshore adventures aren’t to be missed either. I recommend a cruise along winding desert roads to the region around Santiago, a town steeped in 18th century history from the Spanish occupation. Along the way, <a href="/travel-insurance/activities/hiking-travel-insurance">stop and hike</a> through desert mountains to Cañón de la Zorra and swim in the pool at the base of the Cascada Sol de Maya waterfalls. After a day of adventures, take a soak in the Santa Rita hot springs surrounded by palm trees.</p> <h2 id="todos">Discovering the secrets of Todos Santos</h2> <p>Tucked into a desert-sea oasis on the southwestern coast of the Baja peninsula is the once barely known town of Todos Santos. Today, the main road running through the town has a distinctly bohemian vibe, complete with chic cafes and boutique shops. The dusty side streets of Todos Santos are where the magic is at, in my opinion, and still hold the type of wonder the town once held before it was designated a haven for foreigners. Walking down dirt roads to deserted beaches was one of my favorite ways to take in the scenery, admiring open fields, the shadow of cacti dancing in the morning light, and brilliant orange and magenta bougainvillea crawling up dusty-rose adobe walls.</p> <figure><img src="https://media.worldnomads.com/explore/mexico/southern-baja/todos-santos.jpg" alt="Dusty streets and bright bougainvillea in the town of Todos Santos, Mexico." /> <figcaption>The dusty streets of Todos Santos. Image credit: Alicia Erickson</figcaption></figure> <p>From quiet coastline with sea turtle hatchlings, to vibey beaches with music, crowds, and makeshift cocktail carts, you have your pick of beaches in Todos Santos. The whole area is known for its <a href="/explore/north-america/mexico/chasing-waves-on-the-west-coast">surfing</a>, though Playa Los Cerritos draws the biggest crowds. La Pastora is a quieter option for surfing just a few miles north of town. However, the waves in Todos Santos can be immensely powerful in winter and the swells should only be attempted by experienced surfers during this season.</p> <p>Todos Santos is best savored with a view. As the sun beat down on my shoulders, I followed the Sugar Port Trail up a meandering path to Punta Lobos. After a couple of miles, I arrived at a flat overlook, with crashing blue waves below. My curiosity led me past the viewpoint and down a steep trail to a quiet cove below. I scrambled across an empty beach of big, black boulders and soaked my feet in the cool water.</p> <p>And after a day of long adventures in Todos Santos the thing to do is catch a sunset, of course. We sat down on a deserted stretch of sand, just a short walk from our house, and watched the waves roll out and come crashing back in with mesmerizing force, getting misted by sea spray. The sun slowly sank into the ocean, casting tangerine and golden reflections across the water. The moon rose and dusk gave way to a star-speckled sky, while crickets chirped in the distance.</p> <figure><img src="https://media.worldnomads.com/explore/mexico/southern-baja/cove-below-punta-lobos.jpg" alt="Clifftop view of a rocky cove and deep blue water near Todos Santos, Mexico." /> <figcaption>View of the cove from Punta Lobos. Image credit: Alicia Erickson</figcaption></figure> <h2 id="around">Getting around</h2> <p>Baja California Sur is ideally explored with your own set of wheels. As I planned the trip, I imagined myself taking in the freedom of the road and driving with open windows in search of hidden trails, hot springs, small coastal towns, and roadside taco stands.</p> <p>These dreams were quickly dashed upon arrival to the car rental pick up at Cabo Airport, where we were handed a very steep and unexpected fee: an extra $700 in non-refundable car insurance through the car rental company. The company refused to accept insurance from credit cards or other companies and refused to give us the car without us paying the fee. In the heat of our standoff, we called other friends in our group who were at a different car rental company and learned they faced the same obstacle. Refusing to pay triple the cost of our rental in insurance alone, we walked to the side of the road feeling defeated. Fortunately, an employee of one of the rental car companies came to our rescue and drove us the three hours to La Paz in his own car.</p> <p>We encountered this issue again when trying another rental car company in La Paz, so we shifted our plans. Uber operates to a limited extent in La Paz, which works to get around town and to beaches. InDrive, a regional rideshare app, was another great tool. The friendliness of locals was astounding, as we befriended many of our Uber drivers who took us on other trips through the region. And when all else failed? We hitchhiked. I wouldn’t always recommend hitchhiking but there were a few elements that made me comfortable doing so in this situation. I was with friends, the region is known for being quite safe, and hitchhiking is common here – we waited at most a minute for a ride to pick us up.</p>Alicia Erickson 0 Alicia Erickson

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/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/participation/ethics-around-slum-tourismVisiting dense, poverty-stricken areas of a destination can show travelers a side of the culture they wouldn’t otherwise see. But how can travelers do so safely, and without exploiting those who live there?2022-10-20T11:00:00Z https://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/responsible-travel/make-a-difference/participation/ethics-around-slum-tourismhttps://www.worldnomads.com<p>I walked along the edges of the train tracks, which cut through dense urban sprawl. On either side of the tracks were makeshift stands selling used electronics, food, and other basic necessities. Twice a day, the train passed through and people hopped on and off the rail to transport them to and from the city center. This makeshift market was abuzz with people and businesses and ran parallel through Kibera, a densely packed human settlement in southern Nairobi at the epicenter of the ebb and flow of human life.</p> <p>Slums are a reality in many large cities around the world. Packed into compact urban spaces are houses, people, schools, businesses, and centers of worship. A dense and sometimes seemingly impenetrable entity to outsiders, slums are home to some of the city’s poorest residents. While commonly associated with poverty, crime, and deteriorating infrastructure, slums are also brimming with life, stories, and innovation, and reveal a unique side to a city that typical tourist spots don’t show.</p> <ul> <li><a href="#ethical">How to find ethical slum-tourism experiences </a></li> <li><a href="#recommended">Recommended experiences</a></li> </ul> <h2 id="ethical">How to find ethical slum-tourism experiences</h2> <p>If you’re curious to experience the hidden face of Mumbai, Nairobi, Rio de Janeiro, or another city, it’s not advisable to adventure into a slum on your own, but there are a number of safe and ethical ways to visit these dense urban settlements.</p> <p>Slum tourism can be controversial and complex. To avoid experiences and tours that exploit communities living in slums, ask yourself what your motivation is for visiting. Are you curious to learn more and get in touch with a very real side to a city, or are you doing research for a project? Krishna Pujari, the co-founder of Reality Tours in Mumbai, recommends asking yourself three questions when finding the right tour for you: “Who is running the tours, how are they doing it, and why are they doing it?”</p> <p>Krishna and his business partner, Chris Way, first imagined the concept of tours through Dharavi in 2005 when slum tourism was an unheard-of concept in Mumbai. “When we first came up with the plan, my friends laughed at us,” commented Krishna. “’ You guys are crazy,’ they said. ‘Who wants to go in the slum? If you go into Dharavi, you won’t come out.’” On his first visit to Dharavi, Krishna was surprised. The slum he had grown up hearing about wasn’t unsafe. Instead, he was struck by the entrepreneurship and commercial activity abuzz in the area.</p> <figure><img src="https://media.worldnomads.com/responsibletravel/slum-tourism/dharavi-kumbharwada-pottery-colony.jpg" alt="The pottery colony in the Kumbharwada neighborhood of Mumbia's Dharavi slum." /> <figcaption>The pottery colony in the Kumbharwada neighborhood, the oldest area of Dharavi. Image credit: Reality Tours</figcaption></figure> <p>“I wanted to show the positive side of Dharavi. Yes, there are electricity wires hanging, a lack of sanitation, and poor working conditions. But there is a strong sense of community. We want to show this to people and change the mindset they have. This is exactly why Reality Tours started. And to raise funds for projects in Dharavi.”</p> <p>In my experience, I’ve found a few elements that are positive indicators of ethical tours: a photo ban to <a href="/responsible-travel/make-a-difference/people/how-to-take-photos-responsibly">protect the privacy of the community</a>; highlighting small businesses to showcase entrepreneurship as opposed to degradation; and experiences run by community members themselves to elevate local voices. A little research can go a long way to familiarize yourself with the company well and look out for potential scams.</p> <h2 id="recommended">Recommended slum-tourism experiences</h2> <p>I’ve found some great companies that are careful to provide experiences with dignity but also directly benefit small businesses and entrepreneurs living and operating within the slums. Word of mouth and Airbnb Experiences have both been fantastic resources to help me find educational, empowering inner-city and slum walking tours. Read reviews and tour details to learn more about the authenticity of the experience and where your money is going. Below are a few recommended slum experiences for the curious and conscious traveler.</p> <p><strong><a href="https://realitytoursandtravel.com/" target="_blank">Reality Tours</a></strong> (Mumbai): from Shantaram to Slumdog Millionaire, Dharavi – a heaving slum in the center of Mumbai – has gained quite some notoriety in popular media. If you’re curious to learn more about one of the world’s largest slums, where nearly a million people live in just over .75mi<sup>2</sup> (2km<sup>2</sup>), Reality Tours runs immersive and educational walking tours that are deeply rooted in benefiting the local community. Photos are banned during the tour, the experience is led by members of the community, and 80% of the profits from tours go back to the community through Reality Gives, the company’s NGO that supports educational programs in Dharavi.</p> <p>“Access to quality education is one of the biggest challenges in India,” noted Krishna. “So, our funds go to help that.” Beyond education, Reality Tours also supports employment and families in Dharavi.</p> <p>You can choose between a morning or afternoon tour and will be met by your guide at Mahim Railway Station. Over the next few hours, you’ll walk through narrow alleys, past bright-hued buildings, and into the energetic depths of Dharavi. You’ll catch views over the stretches of tin roofs and pass by Hindu temples and long mats where Muslim residents worship for afternoon prayer. You’ll visit numerous businesses in Dharavi, including a women-run poppadum entity, a recycling business, and a leather tanning company. The tour ends at Reality Gives, the NGO branch of Reality Tours, where you can learn about the educational innovation happening within Dharavi.</p> <figure><img src="https://media.worldnomads.com/responsibletravel/slum-tourism/dharavi-metal-recycling.jpg" alt="A recycling business in the Dharavi slum in Mumbai, India." /> <figcaption>A recycling business in Dharavi. Metal and plastic come from all over the world to be recycled in Dharavi. Image credit: Reality Tours</figcaption></figure> <p>If you’re curious to learn more, add on a lunch at a family home, street art tour, or pottery-making class. Reality Tours also operates in Delhi and Agra and is growing to rural areas of India, dedicated to telling authentic stories about the real side of India, while directly supporting the communities it works in.</p> <p><strong><a href="https://www.airbnb.com/experiences/561991" target="_blank">Kibera Empowerment Tour</a> </strong>(Nairobi): after making several trips to Nairobi, I was curious to experience a part of the city I had previously studied in university but hadn’t seen firsthand: Kibera, the largest urban slum on the African continent that originated as a settlement in the forest on the outskirts of Nairobi, where Nubian soldiers returning from service with the British colonial army were allocated plots of land.</p> <p>Among many tours of Kibera on Airbnb Experiences, I ultimately chose Moses’ Empowerment Tour, as I admired his story and how it shaped his personally led walking tours. He was born and raised in Kibera, is a current Kibera resident, and works tirelessly as an entrepreneur to tell the story of his home through the lens of his personal experience and other entrepreneurs in Kibera. “I show Kibera from the insiders’ point of view,” commented Moses. “I bring to you all the community-led projects that are meant to uplift people from devastating poverty.”</p> <p>After I met Moses outside a shopping center on the outskirts of Kibera, we navigated across bumpy, mud pathways and past small wooden stands selling produce and made our way to Moses’ humble, one-room home, where guests got a glance at typical living conditions in the slum and learn about the complex makeup of this dynamic urban space.</p> <p>After we left his home, we continued a few-hour exploration of Kibera. Moses’ walking tour highlights a number of businesses within Kibera, including stops at a metal and jewelry welding shop, a bakery, and a center to support HIV-positive women. “By visiting Kibera with me,” said Moses, “guests are able to understand how locals lead their lives and what entrepreneurs are doing to turn things around.”</p> <p><strong><a href="http://www.comuna13tours.com/" target="_blank">Comuna 13</a></strong> (Medellin): Comuna 13 walking tour in Medellin is a fantastic walking tour through some of the Colombian city’s most harrowed landmarks that played a role in its dark history with the drug cartel. The sites on the tour have been reinvented as positive infrastructure in the community, such as schools or government buildings. Beyond memorializing the history, the walking tour highlights the reinvention of Medellin as a vibrant city rich in innovation.</p> <p>Even if you might be initially unsure of tours through slums – I certainly was at first – don’t discount all experiences. While it is a complex topic and there are certainly slum tours to avoid, ethical experiences are mutually beneficial for both parties. Slum experiences done right have the power to tell the stories of marginalized communities and provide a sense of dignity rather than shame to their livelihood, while also directly impacting residents with employment and community development projects. And as travelers, we get to learn about communities and livelihoods we otherwise wouldn’t be exposed to, while witnessing the direct impact tourism dollars can have when invested in hyper-local, community endeavors.</p>Getty Images / cookelma 01283363191 Getty Images A vast slum on the outskirts of Mumbai, with skyscrapers in the background.

https://public-web-wn.uat.wng.me/responsible-travel/make-a-difference/people/world-refugee-day-how-travelers-can-helpNot everyone who travels around the world is a traveler. Millions of people are on the move because they have been displaced by war, famine and failing economies. But those of us who do travel for pleasure can make a difference to their lives.2022-06-17T10:00:00Z https://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/responsible-travel/make-a-difference/people/world-refugee-day-how-travelers-can-helphttps://www.worldnomads.com<ul> <li><a href="#day">World Refugee Day</a></li> <li><a href="#help">What can travelers do to help?</a></li> <li><a href="#displaced">Travel experiences run by displaced people</a></li> <li><a href="#online">How to help online</a></li> </ul> <p>“On my way to Kenya from Burundi, I spent four days traveling overland in a truck,” explained Kaoma, a young Congolese man I met in Kenya. “The days were long and increasingly hot as the green mountains gave way to flat, arid desert. When we finally arrived in Kenya, I was surprised to see how different the landscapes were.” Kaoma was not recounting a thrilling overland adventure but rather, his exhausting journey fleeing war for the second time, from Bujumbura to northern Kenya. Kaoma is a refugee. More than that, Kaoma is a father, a son, an engineer, an entrepreneur, and a business owner.</p> <p>We live in a global world where goods, people, and ideas seemingly move freely across borders. International travel is more accessible than ever for much of the world (well, in a pre-and post-pandemic world, that is). There is an undeniable allure in the freedom that comes with leaving behind your home and the anticipation of heading into the unknown as you explore new landscapes, savor new flavors, learn new languages, and experience new cultures.</p> <p>But what about individuals who leave their homes and are driven across borders not by choice but rather by fear, out of survival, and for hope for a better life? For Simon Peter, a South Sudanese teacher, becoming a refugee was to “seek peace in my mind, to leave the memory of what happened in my home behind, to forget what I have seen with my eyes and what happened to me, my family, my country.”</p> <h2 id="day">World Refugee Day</h2> <p>June’s annual World Refugee Day acknowledges the 31 million people classified as refugees and asylum seekers, for whom leaving home is not accompanied by the thrill and privilege of travel. Most refugees do not take planes or trains to their anticipated destinations but make the journey by foot, in cars traversing militia-occupied roads, or in boats enduring harrowing crossings. When reflecting on his journey from Bujumbura to Kenya with his wife and young son, Kaoma commented: “We spent four days hidden in the back of a container on a truck. When we arrived in Kakuma, I didn’t know whether to laugh or cry. I thought, ‘How can anyone live in these conditions?’ Here we are in the desert, living in a tent, where nothing can grow. Where are the mountains from my home?”</p> <p>Refugees – a term I generally like to avoid due to the stigma associated with it – don’t have tour guides, plush hotels, and exciting excursions awaiting them. And yet, rather than being welcomed as they cross borders into unfamiliar territory escaping the throws of war, natural disasters, and unimaginable circumstances, many forcibly displaced individuals are met with suspicion and are forced to reside in cramped conditions, remote settlements, and typically inhospitable circumstances. An exhausting list of barriers often faces displaced communities, from bans on obtaining SIM cards, work permits, and business licenses, to water, health care, and electricity shortages.</p> <h2 id="help">What can travelers do to help?</h2> <p>Beyond the joys of experiencing other cultures and finding personal growth on the road, if there is one thing that my years of travel have taught me it is that the world is intimately interconnected. Travelers are global citizens and part of being a conscious traveler includes supporting and bringing awareness to global issues and the communities impacted by them.</p> <p>So, as travelers, how can we help support displaced communities? While we may not be able to change the circumstances that have forced millions of people to flee from their homes, there are many ways that we, a community deeply embedded in the global trajectory, can extend a helping hand. After all, we surely have benefited from the kindness of strangers while abroad, at least once or twice.</p> <p>One of the most rewarding parts of travel is experiencing new cultures. Whether you’re at home or are exploring abroad, there are many ways to learn about the cultures of people who have been displaced. At home, look into volunteering with local entities that support asylee and refugee communities. This could mean teaching ESL classes, providing transport to appointments, offering temporary housing, or donating goods to help families get set up in their new homes.</p> <p>Many countries you visit, from Turkey and Jordan to Uganda and Germany, are host to significant displaced populations. On your next trip, rather than just seeking out your typical “travel” experience, why not break from the norm and explore experiences and businesses run by displaced communities? Food halls, art galleries, artisan shops, in-home dining experiences, and walking tours are among some of the many ways you can support displaced communities around the world while also having the opportunity to celebrate the cultures of the places they left behind. Below are just a handful of businesses run by displaced people that you can visit to find out more.</p> <h2 id="displaced">Travel experiences run by displaced people</h2> <p><a href="https://www.amanigardencafe.org/" target="_blank">Amani Café</a>- Nairobi, Kenya: a lush garden space in the south Nairobi neighborhood of Kilimani, Amani was started by four refugee women in 1996 who fled to Kenya in search of peace. Combining their love of African textiles and sewing skills, these women brought Amani ya Juu (meaning Peace from Above) to life. Amani now has a production center, a boutique shop selling beautiful art crafted by refugees in Kenya, and a breakfast and lunch café.</p> <p><a href="https://www.arthereistanbul.com/" target="_blank">Arthere Istanbul</a>- Istanbul, Turkey: home to approximately four million refugees, Turkey hosts dozens of interesting projects supporting displaced populations that contribute to the dynamic trajectory of the city. Arthere was established by Syrian artists in Istanbul as a space to continue their practice after having to leave their home country. Explore the exhibitions or attend one of the cultural events taking place in this creative space.</p> <p><a href="https://www.muhra.org/" target="_blank">Muhra</a>- Istanbul, Turkey: Muhra is an enterprise founded by Syrian women who met in Istanbul and craft beautiful jewelry, embroidery, and metalwork with the aim of creating opportunity and storytelling. Their goods can be found in markets around Istanbul, as well as shops worldwide featuring handicrafts made by refugee artisans.</p> <p><a href="https://www.tibetworld.org/" target="_blank">Tibet World</a>- Dharamshala, India: in Dharamshala, a Himalayan town in Himachal Pradesh that is the home-in-exile of the Dalai Lama, attend a cultural event at Tibet World. This community center is dedicated to the education and preservation of the Tibetan community and offers a whole range of dance, music, language, and cultural performances throughout the week.</p> <p><a href="https://refugeevoicestours.org/" target="_blank">Refugee Voices Tour</a>, Berlin, Germany:<strong> </strong>experience Berlin’s major sites through an entirely new lens. Rather than showing visitors the typical side to the city, refugees residing in Berlin lead walking tours that shed light on their experience. Refugee Voices Tour offers a walking tour that brings you through the journey of the refugee rights movement. They also offer a tour that sheds light on the Syrian revolution and conflict, exploring the roots of why people have fled, using Berlin as the backdrop while drawing parallels with the German capital’s own history of revolutions and war. They also lead a tour in Copenhagen.</p> <p><a href="https://www.rederijlampedusa.nl/home_en/" target="_blank">Rederij Lampedusa</a>, Amsterdam, Netherlands: skip the typical Amsterdam canal trip in favor of one led by Rederij Lampedusa. Aboard boats that previously transported refugees across the Mediterranean, you will be guided down the canals of Amsterdam by a crew who have roots in Egypt, Syria, Somalia, Eritrea, and the Netherlands. Along the ride, learn how the boats were once used to smuggle migrants across the Mediterranean and listen to stories from your guides about how they became refugees.</p> <p><a href="https://festival.refugee-food.org/" target="_blank">Refugee Food Festival</a>, France: each year leading up to World Refugee Day in June, the Refugee Food Festival takes place across several cities in France. Experience the flavors of Tibet, Syria, Sudan, Ukraine, and beyond at lunches, dinners, and cooking workshops from Paris to Marseilles. Food has a universal power. Despite having to leave so much behind, culinary traditions can be carried across borders and are an important way to preserve and tell stories about flavors, agriculture, and traditions from one’s home.</p> <p>From <a href="https://spicebridge.org/)" target="_blank">Spice Bridge</a> in Seattle to <a href="https://www.flavorsfromafar.co/about-us-2" target="_blank">Flavors from Afar</a> in Los Angeles, North American cities are home to innovative food halls run by refugee and immigrant chefs, who are given the space and support to start a small food business. This concept paves the way for business opportunities that provide economic stability to refugee and immigrant communities, while also giving them the space to celebrate a piece of their culture and homeland through food. At these colorful kitchens, sample aromatic Afghan rice and meat, saucy Ethiopian dishes, Somali-style sambusas, fresh Persian salads, and so much more. At Spice Bridge, read poems on the walls of the restaurant written by refugee students in south Seattle, reflecting on what they miss from home and their experiences in transitioning countries.</p> <h2 id="online">How to help online</h2> <p>If you can’t visit a place in person, head to online shops such as <a href="https://refugeesarts.org/" target="_blank">Refugee Arts</a>, a global e-commerce hub selling goods impeccably crafted by Afghan, Ethiopian, and Burmese women, and <a href="https://www.darzah.org/" target="_blank">Darzah</a>, an online shop selling embroidered shoes, bags, and scarves by Palestinian artisans. Football fans can get their latest sportswear from <a href="https://klabu.org/" target="_blank">Klabu’s online shop</a>, which supports football clubs and sports libraries in Kenyan refugee camps.</p> <p>Beyond supporting businesses, simply take the time to learn about the culture, the food, the language, the history, and the people of a country you might not have the opportunity to visit. These experiences allow individuals who have had to flee their homes a chance to preserve, celebrate, and share a piece of their story that the world might not otherwise know. For Esther, a young woman who escaped unimaginable violence in South Sudan, her message is this: “Being a refugee is not a crime. We never wanted to be refugees; it is just the circumstances that brought us here. We all have equal rights and as long as I get the opportunity to study, I want to go as high as I can. I want to bring impact.”</p>Getty Images/Jasmin Merdan 01179649824 Getty Images

https://public-web-wn.uat.wng.me/travel-safety/middle-east/united-arab-emirates/safetyThe emirate's strict laws make Dubai almost crime-free, but there are other safety concerns.2024-10-03T10:00:00Z https://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/travel-safety/middle-east/united-arab-emirates/safetyhttps://www.worldnomads.com<p><span>Dubai is a remarkably international city with one of the lowest crime rates in the world. Petty incidents such as <a href="/travel-insurance/whats-covered/baggage">pickpocketing</a> are rare and violent crimes are more or less non-existent. On a recent visit, I never felt uneasy in crowded places or when I was out at night and traveled without worry for my personal safety or my belongings. Personal safety in Dubai is largely attributed to strict laws and a general obedience to the rigorous government.</span></p> <p>While Dubai is, in general, less strict than the other Emirates, still be wary of a few sensitive topics, from <a href="/travel-safety/middle-east/united-arab-emirates/drinking-and-the-united-arab-emirates-dont-mix">alcohol laws</a> to LGBTQ+ laws. And despite Dubai’s reputation as a safe and crime-free place for travelers, there are still some factors to consider when visiting both the city and the emirate of Dubai, including precautions when it comes extreme heat and desert excursions.</p> <ul> <li><a href="#women"> Women’s safety</a></li> <li><a href="#lgbtq+">LGBTQ+safety</a></li> <li><a href="#heat"> Avoiding heat stroke</a></li> <li><a href="#desert">Desert safety in Dubai</a></li> <li><a href="#driving">Driving in Dubai</a></li> </ul> <h2 id="women">Women’s safety</h2> <p>Generally, Dubai is a very safe destination for women travelers, solo or in a group. English is widely spoken, public transportation is abundant, and there are free WiFi zones located across the city. Personal safety in Dubai is among the highest in the world, with 98.5% of women saying they felt safe walking alone in their neighborhoods at night in the UAE in the 2021 Women, Peace and Security Index’s community safety survey.</p> <p>Women’s safety is partly a result of the strict local culture. That being said, I did have a number of unwelcome encounters in bars and clubs in Dubai and Abu Dhabi when I was followed around and harassed. I never experienced anything like this on the streets, though.</p> <p>When it comes to clothes, Dubai is less strict than other emirates, such as more traditional Sharjah, the third largest emirate, where it is advisable to dress conservatively. Due to the large number of Europeans in Dubai, it is relatively acceptable to wear shorts or a short dress in the more westernized establishments. The time of the year when you should be particularly careful about what you dress, however, is during the month of Ramadan, when observances of the Islamic holiday are in place. While this doesn’t require foreign women to cover their heads, it is recommended to dress more modestly, such as wearing pants, a long dress, and modest shirts.</p> <figure><img src=" https://media.worldnomads.com/travel-safety/uae/Jaddaf-Waterfront.jpg" /> <figcaption> Jaddaf Waterfront, view from Jameel Arts Centre. Photo credit: Alicia Erickson </figcaption></figure> <h2 id="lgbtq+">LGBTQ+ safety</h2> <p><span>Although Dubai has a cosmopolitan front with its flashy hotels and upscale restaurants, that doesn’t mean it is progressive in every way. The United Arab Emirates has some of the <a href="/travel-safety/worldwide/lgbtq-travel-safety-tips">strictest laws surrounding LGBTQ+ rights</a> and Dubai is no exception. Every type of same-sex act is illegal and punishable by severe measures, including fines, deportation, and imprisonment. While the most extreme consequences are typically applicable to Muslims, it is important to be aware of these laws and be cautious about not engaging in same-sex public displays of affection. This rule applies for heterosexual couples as well, for that matter, as all public displays of affection – including holding hands </span><span>– is illegal and should be avoided.</span></p> <h2 id="heat">Avoiding heat stroke</h2> <p>Heat is a significant consideration when visiting Dubai. During a large part of the year, temperatures climb to more than 100°F (40°C). June through September are the hottest months, with the peak heat hitting in August. You’ll need to to come prepared for these temperatures if you plan to be outside. Much of the city’s population spends its time inside air-conditioned restaurants and malls during these months to avoid the heat. If you plan to go outside, wear lightweight clothing and stay hydrated. You’ll want to think carefully before planning any outdoor adventures during these hot months. Luckily, there is no shortage of swimming pools at hotels throughout Dubai if you’re hoping to get some sun while staying cool.</p> <p>While there’s a belief that Dubai is excessively hot year-round, this desert city does experience a few months’ reprieve. November through February have cooler, more pleasant temperatures. January is the coolest month with highs in the mid-70s (low-20s C) and lows in the low-mid 60s (15-18°C). These months are ideal for hiking, camping, and other outdoor excursions.</p> <h2 id="desert">Desert safety in Dubai</h2> <p>Accessing the desert on your own as a first-time visitor is not recommended unless you’re an experienced outdoor adventurer. There are plenty of types of four-wheel drive desert safaris you can book with a local guide, or you can choose to pay a visit to the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve.</p> <p>The desert can reach even more extreme temperatures than the city, so it’s important to pack appropriately. Wear lightweight, loose-fitting clothing that keeps you covered from the sun. Use sunscreen and bring sufficient water. If you do choose to embark on a solo desert excursion, know that you’ll be in wide swaths of sand with minimal to no infrastructure and intermittent phone service. Always bring more than enough water and food, hydration tablets, a spare tire, and appropriate camping gear if you’re staying overnight. While there are no large predators in the Dubai desert, be aware of venomous critters such as vipers, scorpions, and spider species endemic on the Arabian Peninsula.</p> <figure><img src=" https://media.worldnomads.com/travel-safety/uae/Dubai-Desert-Conservation-area.jpg" /> <figcaption>Dubai’s Desert Conservation Area. Photo credit: Alicia Erickson </figcaption></figure> <h2 id="driving">Driving in Dubai</h2> <p>One of the most exciting parts about exploring a new place is the freedom to drive through unknown territory. Non-residents can drive in Dubai with an international driver’s license and you can <a href="/travel-insurance/activities/road-trip">rent a car</a> if you are over 21.</p> <p>Dubai is a very busy city with massive highways that can be daunting at first. Maneuvering the multi-lane highways is initially intimidating, there are helpful traffic signs in both Arabic and English. The left lane is the fastest and should be avoided if you’re not comfortable contending with aggressive drivers. Be aware of speed limits and traffic rules to avoid traffic fines.</p> <p>While there is a certain thrill to off-roading on sand dunes, ensure that if you head off for a sand bashing adventure, you’re equipped with spare tires and a car with four-wheel drive.</p>Alicia Erickson 0

https://public-web-wn.uat.wng.me/explore/middle-east/united-arab-emirates/getting-away-from-the-glitz-in-the-uaeThere’s more to Dubai than skyscrapers and malls. Nomad Alicia explores Dubai’s art scene and desert wilderness, and immerses herself in Sharjah, the cultural capital of the UAE. 2021-11-18T11:00:00Z https://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/explore/middle-east/united-arab-emirates/getting-away-from-the-glitz-in-the-uaehttps://www.worldnomads.com<p>The high rises, lavish hotels, glitzy restaurants, and rooftop pools that Dubai is renowned for were never a draw for me. In fact, these commercialized attractions were the reason that I avoided visiting the city for years. When I ended up in the UAE earlier this year, I was determined to seek out the creative and outdoors experiences in Dubai and the surrounding Emirates. Although at times the quest was exhausting – particularly in the 100°F heat – it reminded me of the joy I find in seeking an alternative face to a locale when traveling.</p> <ul> <li><a href="#art">Dubai culture: Art exhibits and galleries </a></li> <li><a href="#sharjah">Cultural landmarks in Sharjah</a></li> <li><a href="#desert">Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve </a></li> <li><a href="#trip-notes">Trip notes</a></li> </ul> <h2 id="art">Dubai culture: Art exhibits and galleries</h2> <p>Beyond the more obvious attractions in Dubai lie a handful of creative-driven neighborhoods and innovative museums that host rotating and permanent exhibits. I was in town at the same time as <a href="https://worldartdubai.com/the-fair">World Art Dubai</a>, an annual event that hosts an impressive display of more than 2,000 works of art contributed by emerging and acclaimed artists from around the world. I was struck by the diversity of innovative, contemporary pieces juxtaposed against more traditional paintings. The expo even included an experiential corner that encouraged visitors to explore their creative side and spray-paint white, floor-to-ceiling canvases.</p> <p>Al Quoz, a neighborhood in an unassuming and dusty strip of the city, transported me to a different place altogether, as it echoed the vibes of places such as East London, Berlin, and Seattle. This eclectic corner of Dubai is characterized by clusters of colorfully graffitied shipping containers that have been converted into co-working spaces, cafes, and art galleries. I wandered in and out of a dozen small galleries along vibrant Al Serkal Avenue, admiring works representing themes from the theoretical Palestinian utopia – through colorful paintings in Zawyeh Gallery – to the abstract works of Syrian artist Thaier Hela in Ayyam Gallery, who experimented with broad concepts such as finding light among darkness and the meaning of existence.</p> <figure><img src="https://media.worldnomads.com/explore/uae/dubai-gallery.jpg" alt="Colorful paintings in Zawyeh Gallery, Al Quoz district, Dubai." /> <figcaption>Paintings in Zawyeh Gallery, Al Quoz. Image credit: Alicia Erickson</figcaption></figure> <p>Jameel Arts Center is an immersive museum on a peaceful stretch of the Jaddaf Waterfront. The innovative galleries in the space were among the most thought-provoking I encountered in Dubai. The artist’s garden outside the museum is filled with plant species native to the UAE, used both for food and medicinal purpose. The garden is an extension of the “Desert is a Forest” exhibit, which examines the politics of food and the way humans interact with the environment. Inside, I slowly browsed an exhibit comparing the individual self with the digital identity, and a powerful display of mixed media capturing an individual’s experience seeking asylum in Kurdish Iraq.</p> <h2 id="sharjah">Cultural landmarks in Sharjah</h2> <p>Commonly considered to be the cultural capital of the UAE, Sharjah is a 30-minute drive from Dubai and yet a world away. I spent the day exploring cultural hubs and walking along the peaceful harbor lined with elegant mosques that evoke the feeling of an Arab port town, a stark contrast from the futuristic elements characteristic of Dubai and Abu Dhabi. I walked along stretches of promenade parallel to the harbor and meandered through mazes of side streets filled with souks and Indian and Afghan food joints. I peeked into the traditional rock and adobe structure of the Sharjah Fort in the city center and browsed museums showcasing the art, history, and religion of the UAE and the MENA (Middle East / North Africa) region at large.</p> <figure><img src="https://media.worldnomads.com/explore/uae/sharjah-skyline-and-harbor.jpg" alt="Sharjah harbor and skyline, United Arab Emirates." /> <figcaption>Sharjah harbor and skyline. Image credit: Alicia Erickson</figcaption></figure> <p>On the Al-Majarrah Waterfront, the Museum of Islamic Civilization stands as a novel museum of its kind in the UAE. More than 5,000 art and culture relics from across the Islamic world are housed here, representing Islamic history, art, culture, and science throughout the centuries. Sharjah Art Museum is a more contemporary entity and one of the largest art exhibitions in the Gulf. At this museum, which showcases work by renowned artists from across the MENA, I spent most of my time captivated by the brilliantly colored, dream-like paintings of Tunisian artist Baya Mahieddine.</p> <h2 id="desert">Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve</h2> <p>Outside of the busy urban centers, there are conservation areas, mountains, and deserts perfect for camping, hiking, and other outdoor adventures. While it was too hot for the hiking trip in the Hajar Mountains I had hoped to go on, I headed instead to the desert for a couple of days to explore vast ecosystems buzzing with life. I was happy to see the Dubai skyline receding into the distance as I drove through arid, sparsely populated stretches of land on route to the desert.</p> <p>Once alive with diverse animal species, much of the desert region experienced significant depletion over the past decades. Several conservation initiatives have been established in recent years in an effort to restore the flora and fauna native to the desert regions. Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve area is among them, and I learned about <a href="/responsible-travel/make-a-difference/participation/how-to-choose-an-ethical-tour-operator">eco-friendly travel</a> and conservation initiatives. The Reserve was established in 2004 with the purpose of reintroducing fauna including the Arabian Oryx – or <em>Maha</em> in Arabic – and to protect native plants from grazing camels and goats.</p> <p>Just before dusk, I went on a desert safari led by a conservation expert. The 4x4 bumped over sweeping, sandy plains as we searched for the elegant, white-furred antelope graced with grand horns as well as other desert-roaming creatures. Along with curious gazelle, we spotted a few lone oryx resting gracefully beneath the foliage of acacia and ghaf trees. After sunset, the creatures of the night emerged, and the rhythm of the cicadas echoed deeply as I gazed up at the star-speckled sky, free from <a href="/responsible-travel/make-a-difference/planet/reach-for-the-stars">light pollution</a> and skyscrapers.</p> <figure><img src="https://media.worldnomads.com/explore/uae/dubai-desert-oryx.jpg" alt="An Arabian Oryx in the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve, United Arab Emirates." /> <figcaption>Arabian Oryx. Image credit: Alicia Erickson</figcaption></figure> <p>Early the next morning, we headed out before sunrise to witness the desert waking to the new day. We walked slowly, eyes on the ground, in search of small creatures and details that told stories of the life among the sandy landscapes. With the help of my guide, I spotted gazelle footprints and tracked the direction they were traveling, detected small insects moving beneath the swirls of sand, and picked the ripe, yellow fruits from buckthorn trees. As the sun gently rose, I was enveloped by the subtle stirrings of the desert and the endless rolling dunes; a reminder of a quieter, simpler era in the United Arab Emirates.</p> <h2 id="trip-notes">Trip Notes</h2> <h3>When to go</h3> <p>The best time to visit the UAE is from late October to early April. November, February, and March are the best months for outdoor activities when the weather will still be pleasant to hike and camp without the winds that are characteristic of December and January. I was there at the start of Ramadan, which impacts Dubai only to the extent that alcohol won’t be served until sunset. In Sharjah, however, every restaurant I went to was closed until sunset, making the eating situation there tricky.</p> <h3>What to pack</h3> <p>Bring lightweight clothing with layers, as many places are air conditioned, and sturdy walking shoes if you plan to head to the desert or mountains. Dubai is quite modern in terms of dress but bring more conservative pieces if you plan to visit Sharjah. The good news is that if you forgot something, you’ll surely be able to find it in one of the many massive malls in Dubai.</p> <h3>How to get around the UAE</h3> <p>There are several options to get around the area. Ubers and Careem (a local, cheaper option than Uber) are abundant and convenient for travelling around Dubai and other major cities. If you want to take a day trip, investigate hiring a car with Udrive, an app that allows you to locate and pick up cars parked all around Dubai.</p>Alicia Erickson 0 Alicia Erickson Visitors spray-paint a graffiti wall at World Art Dubai.

https://public-web-wn.uat.wng.me/explore/africa/uganda/a-road-trip-through-ugandas-national-parksFrom the dense rainforests and volcanoes in the southwest to the wildlife-abundant plains in the north, Uganda’s ecological diversity is nothing short of incredible. Nomad Alicia spots tree-climbing lions and mountain gorillas on an epic road trip around the country.2021-07-15T10:00:00Z https://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/explore/africa/uganda/a-road-trip-through-ugandas-national-parkshttps://www.worldnomads.com<p>I have been East Africa-based intermittently for the past decade, returning to Uganda time and again over the years. On my most recent trip, my mom joined me on a two-week road trip, traversing the wild landscapes of one of my favorite countries.</p> <ul> <li><a href="#sipi">Caves, mountains, and coffee near Sipi Falls</a></li> <li><a href="#kidepo">Game drives at Kidepo National Park</a></li> <li><a href="#murchison">Murchison Falls and the Nile</a></li> <li><a href="#crater">Uganda’s Crater Lakes</a></li> <li><a href="#lions">Tree-climbing lions at Queen Elizabeth National Park</a></li> <li><a href="#gorilla">Gorilla tracking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest</a></li> <li><a href="#trip-notes">Trip notes</a></li> </ul> <h2 id="sipi">Caves, mountains, and coffee at Sipi Falls</h2> <p>We arrived in Uganda on a rainy, cool morning, bleary-eyed after a short red-eye flight from Rwanda. Gerald, our driver for the next two weeks, picked us up from Entebbe Airport and we headed east towards Sipi Falls, a mountainous region a six to seven-hour drive from Entebbe. We drove through rich farmland, climbing into lush hills as the temperature steadily dropped.</p> <p>On our first evening, our local guide, Juma, took us on a short hike through banana fields and across plateaus with view of peaks in Elgon National Park. I stood overlooking green slopes cast in the golden shadows of the setting sun, mesmerized by the beauty of a region known as the “land of champions” because of its reputation as home to a number of world-champion runners.</p> <p>The next morning, we woke to the sound of a rushing river and a private view of Sipi Falls from our cottage, and hiked up to caves beneath the waterfalls. “Caves are very important in local culture here,” Juma explained. “When parents want to name their children, they bring them to the caves because ancestral spirits are thought to be present in them. They place a nail on the baby’s head and call out ancestors’ names—a grandparent or great-grandparent. If the nail falls, they will continue calling names. When the nail stands still, the parents know that this is their child’s name.” Juma led the way further into the hills, stopping to point out plants and flowers with medicinal properties. The hike peaked at the third and grandest of the falls, where we cooled off in the spray. In the afternoon, we roasted coffee beans over a fire and ground them by hand, sampling the beverage that the Sipi Falls region is renowned for.</p> <h2 id="kidepo">Game drives at Kidepo National Park</h2> <p>From Sipi Falls, Gerald took us to the northernmost reaches of Uganda, a region that had long held my fascination. Situated along Uganda’s borders with South Sudan and <a href="/explore/africa/kenya/the-swahili-coast-multicultural-lamu-island">Kenya</a>, Kidepo National Park is one of the last unspoiled wildlife reserves in the country. Although many choose to fly to the region to avoid the arduous drive along pothole-ridden dirt roads, the drive was one of my favorite parts of the journey. For hours, I was mesmerized by the passing scenery as green mountains opened into sunflower farms, which eventually flattened out into the arid Karamoja region dotted with small Karamojong settlements and young boys herding cattle.</p> <p>As we entered Kidepo, the rolling hills dipped into the pale green valley, a sign of the recent rainy season. Surrounding the expansive park are a series of mountain ranges that fade to a pale blue across the border into South Sudan. Once almost entirely inaccessible due to conflict along the Sudanese border and hostilities rampant in the Karamojong region, Kidepo opened up to tourism around 2008. With only a handful of accommodation options, Kidepo has yet to be tainted by the curse of over-tourism.</p> <figure><img src="https://media.worldnomads.com/explore/uganda/giraffe-pair-kidepo-valley.jpg" alt="A pair of giraffes in Kidepo National Park, Uganda." /> <figcaption>A pair of giraffes in Kidepo National Park. Image credit: Alicia Erickson</figcaption></figure> <p>During our days in Kidepo, we went on bush walks and game drives, watching hundreds of buffalos roaming through the park, spotting a cheetah hunting in a nearby field, and getting stuck behind a family of elephants crossing the road to drink water. Each day, zebra, warthogs, and waterbucks came to the watering hole near the breakfast area of our lodge, which blended seamlessly into the wild boundaries of Kidepo.</p> <h2 id="murchison">Murchison Falls and the Nile</h2> <p>Several years ago, when I first visited Murchison Falls, I was enraptured by the roar of the waterfall and the wildlife peacefully roaming through the grassy stretches <a href="/stories/discovery/paddling-the-nile-uganda">along the Nile River</a>. Six years on, the area began to deteriorate as a result of over tourism and impending oil drilling. Tarmac roads now extend through the park and some of the interior is being torn up for drilling, detracting from the splendor that once enchanted me.</p> <p>Nonetheless, Murchison’s wildlife is still abundant. We marveled at large families of Rothschild giraffes grazing on branches dangling from tall trees. The long-faced Jackson’s hartebeest, elegant waterbuck, and Ugandan kob roamed through the grassy plains, while herds of tusked elephants dominated the landscape. Thanks to Gerald’s careful eye, we spotted a leopard and her young cub napping in the branches of a tree, and watched a lioness laying contentedly in the grass beneath an acacia tree. Later, we boarded a small boat and cruised along the Nile as hippos by the dozen spouted water. Our captain pulled into swampy lagoons where crocodiles sunbathed on the riverbanks. Murchison Falls, considered to be the strongest falls in the world, roared more loudly than ever, soaking us with its spray.</p> <h2 id="crater">Uganda’s Crater Lakes</h2> <p>The drive from northeastern Uganda down to the southwest near the <a href="/explore/africa/rwanda/a-wild-safari-and-camping-in-akagera-national-park">Rwandan</a> border is nothing short of a journey. The crater lakes region, abundant in primates and birdlife, extends from Fort Portal to Queen Elizabeth and is one of the best ways to break up the trip. I stepped from the car to find the blue waters of Kyaninga Lake deep within a crater, surrounded by green volcanic peaks. To reach the lake, we walked along wooden bridges suspended among the trees and down through a tangle of forest where black colobus monkeys sat perched on leafy branches. We dove in and floated in the quiet waters, before walking up and around the rim of the crater, watching the sunset over the lake.</p> <h2 id="lions">Tree-climbing lions at Queen Elizabeth National Park</h2> <p>After a much too short break at Kyaninga, we continued our drive south to Queen Elizabeth National Park. There are two sections in the park: Kazinga Channel in the north and Ishasha in the south. The open savannah in the north is spectacularly beautiful, although feels somewhat depleted in wildlife. Despite the noticeable absence of zebra and giraffe, we still found leopards sleeping in the trees.</p> <figure><img src="https://media.worldnomads.com/explore/uganda/tree-lioness-queen-elizabeth.jpg" alt="A tree-climbing lioness sleeps in a tree in Queen Elizabeth National Park, Uganda." /> <figcaption>A tree-climbing lioness in Queen Elizabeth National Park. Image credit: Alicia Erickson</figcaption></figure> <p>Crossing to the south, we drove over Kyambura Gorge, overlooking a dense, green forest. And in Ishasha, we spotted just what we had come for: the fabled tree-climbing lions. Lazily perched upon the branches of a fig tree were a mom and young cub deep in an afternoon nap. Despite our fortunate sighting, recent years have witnessed increased poaching in Queen Elizabeth, targeting the lion population.</p> <p>By nightfall, we found ourselves in a quiet camp on the Ishasha River. The gargled roar of lions echoed into the night. Come morning, we watched a pair of crested cranes slowly walk through the empty fields beneath the slow drizzle of rain.</p> <h2 id="gorilla">Gorilla tracking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest</h2> <p>After a 10-hour drive, bumping along muddy roads that wound past emerald-green tea plantations on sloped mountainsides, we reached our final destination in Nkuringo village near Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. Bwindi, situated in the southwestern corner of Uganda on the borders with Rwanda and the DRC, is vast, with four different entrances. Although it was the most remote section of the park, we chose to stay in the damp, misty southern region, high in the clouds and characterized by volcanoes and the culture of Batwa Pygmy communities.</p> <p>The main draw to the region is mountain gorilla tracking in Bwindi, an adventure that can only be taken in the rainforests of Uganda, Rwanda, and the DRC. Due to Uganda’s drastically lower cost of gorilla permits than Rwanda’s (even cheaper at the moment during the pandemic at a discounted cost of USD $400), we chose to see the gorillas here. On our first full day in the region, we drove to the Rushaga sector of Bwindi. My mom and I were assigned to the Nshongi gorilla family. The path was muddy from fresh rains and our boots sank deep into the mud as we walked along the Nshongi River.</p> <p>Eventually we crossed the river and ascended steep terrain, walking through tangled vines while our guide used a machete to hack away branches. After about two hours, we heard a distinct rustle and looked up to find two young gorillas swinging from the branches. Deeper into the vines, my eye caught the silver fur of the silverback male who was picking leaves and stuffing them into his mouth. Over the course of an hour, we followed the Nshongi family up and down the slopes of the mountain, as the adolescents swung from branches and babies clung to their mothers’ chests.</p> <figure><img src="https://media.worldnomads.com/explore/uganda/gorilla-bwindi.jpg" alt="A contemplative mountain gorilla sits amid branches in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, Uganda ." /> <figcaption>A contemplative mountain gorilla in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. Image credit: Alicia Erickson</figcaption></figure> <p>A light rain started as we began our precarious trek down the mountainside and back into civilization. Exhausted from the trek, we warmed up in front of a cozy fireplace at our lodge for our final day. We reminisced over the great lengths we had traveled over the past two weeks, in awe of the natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and unrivaled hospitality of Uganda.</p> <h2 id="trip-notes">Trip notes</h2> <p>The dry seasons are roughly June-October and January-March. Trekking and wildlife viewing are easier during dry seasons, although the terrain is lush and green during the rainy months. To get to the national parks and remote regions, it is best to have your own car, whether you <a href="/travel-insurance/activities/road-trip">self-drive</a> or hire a driver. A 4x4 is recommended to navigate some very challenging terrain and roads. Hiking boots, sturdy walking sandals, lightweight clothing, layers, and rain gear are necessary to accommodate for the varying climates across Uganda.</p> <p>During peak season, it is advised to book gorilla permits well in advance, but during the pandemic with less demand, it’s possible to book only a week or two before. <a href="https://www.lifetimesafaris.com/">Lifetime Safaris</a>, who arranged our car and driver, also booked our permits. It’s not necessary to have a tourist visa before booking a permit, although visas are required for entry into Uganda and are no longer available on arrival. Lodges will also book permits if needed. I booked the accommodation independently, but Lifetime Safaris also was able to do that.</p>Alicia Erickson 0 Alicia Erickson Two women stand on a cliff overlooking Elgon National Park, Sipi Falls, Uganda.

https://public-web-wn.uat.wng.me/responsible-travel/make-a-difference/planet/book-travel-to-help-wildlifeWildlife travel provides crucial funding for conservation and wildlife protection programs, even if your departure date is uncertain.2020-11-04T11:00:00Z https://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/responsible-travel/make-a-difference/planet/book-travel-to-help-wildlifehttps://www.worldnomads.com<p>As COVID-19 brought tourism to a screeching halt, conservation programs to protect some of the globe’s most delicate ecosystems began to face a funding crisis. From the open plains of the Maasai Mara in Kenya to the grassy riverbanks of Chitwan in Nepal, the impact has been felt across Asia and Africa. Without ongoing efforts to protect them, the diverse and vulnerable species that reside in these ecosystems – elephants, gorillas and rhinos, in particular – are in real danger.</p> <ul> <li><a href="#role">The role of tourism</a></li> <li><a href="#impact">Impact on local communities </a></li> <li><a href="#wildlife">Impact on wildlife</a></li> <li><a href="#enduring">Enduring impact </a></li> <li><a href="#help">How you can help</a></li> <li><a href="#safe">Safe travel</a></li> </ul> <h2 id="role">The role of tourism</h2> <p>An estimated 90 percent of <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41559-020-1275-6" title="African wildlife">African tour operators</a> have lost around 75 percent of their bookings. Wildlife-based tourism in Africa generates US$29 billion annually and employs 3.6 million people, which helps governments justify protecting wildlife habitats. Tourism dollars help in all sorts of ways, keeping lodges and their staff up and running, supporting national parks, paying safari guides, and funding conservation programs. Travel dollars help fund everything from anti-poaching units to rehabilitation centers for orphaned and injured wildlife to salaries for local communities working in wildlife reserves.</p> <p>The situation is similar in Nepal. According to Jack Edwards, director of South Asia conservation organization <a href="https://tigertops.com/" title="Tiger Tops">Tiger Tops</a>, COVID-19 has had a devastating effect on Nepalese wildlife conservation – when travelers stopped coming, safari lodges across the country were forced to shut down.</p> <h2 id="impact">Impact on local communities</h2> <p>What happens to the wildlife and people living in neighboring communities when the biggest source of revenue simply disappears? One of the most immediate impacts is the evaporation of salaries for workers in ecotourism and national parks. Lodges and tourism companies report many staff members have been sent home without wages, which puts park rangers, safari guides, and lodge staff and their families in vulnerable situations.</p> <p><a href=" https://virunga.org/" title="Virunga National Park">Virunga National Park</a> in the Democratic Republic of Congo shut down tourism quickly once COVID-19 emerged despite the major financial implications – limiting human contact with the gorilla population is the best way to protect them from potential transmission of any diseases. Almost overnight, Virunga lost 40 percent of its revenue.</p> <p>About five million people live in Virunga’s neighboring communities, many of whom rely on the park for their livelihoods. <a href="https://www.awf.org/" title="African Wildlife Foundation">African Wildlife Foundation</a> (AWF) CEO, Kaddu Sebunya, remarked: “We expect the levels of poverty among these communities to spike beyond anticipated levels.”</p> <p>Unfortunately, this creates a chain reaction. A job deficit leads to other devastating implications in wildlife conservation. As the threat of poverty looms, some people resort to drastic measures. Sebunya fears that “the kingpins of crime syndicates will take advantage (of this situation) leading to increased criminal activities in rural areas that can lead to insecurity and wildlife poaching.”</p> <h2 id="wildlife">Impact on wildlife</h2> <p>COVID-19 has depleted government budgets across Asia and Africa, reducing the <a href="https://www.awf.org/about/covid-19-emergency-response" title="funding available">funding available</a> for conservation programs and management of protected areas. Instead, funds are being allocated to more urgent causes, such as health care.</p> <p>Tourism provides a valuable source of revenue for the government to manage the parks. Fewer resources means less protection, and although Tiger Tops’ beloved elephants are unharmed – for now – poaching generally is on the rise. “There have been reports of increased poaching all over Nepal,” Edwards says. “Chitwan had its first rhino poaching in a number of years.</p> <p><a href="https://rhinoconservationbotswana.com/" title="Rhino Conservation Botswana">Rhino Conservation Botswana</a> and <a href="http://www.rhino911.com/" title="Rhino 911">Rhino 911</a> in South Africa have both reported an increase in rhino poaching. Although poaching is not unusual in sub-Saharan Africa, the reported cases of poaching occurred in tourist hotspots, which were considered safe zones for wildlife. Botswana has also experienced fatal clashes between security officers and poachers. In Kenya, conservation managers within the Tsavo ecosystem have reported increased cases of poaching for bushmeat due to reduced security and increased need for food as a result of lost livelihoods.</p> <p>Virunga National Park in eastern Congo removed more snares (gorilla traps) than usual in June and July. Due to the increased risk of COVID transmission to mountain gorillas, rangers must follow strict protocols to protect the endangered species. So far, this approach has been successful. The park even celebrated 14 new births this year.</p> <h2 id="Enduring impact ">Enduring impact</h2> <p>The long-term implications of COVID’s impact on conservation are uncertain. While many national parks and conservancies have been able to pull resources from reserve funds for the time-being, these pools of money are dwindling. Rural communities and wildlife conservation and rehabilitation centers are both in real need of investment.</p> <p>According to AWF, “wildlife and wild lands stand to be lost if these investments are not made to continue critical services within and around protected and conserved areas.”</p> <p>Safeguarding the livelihoods of the communities near the reserves strengthens conservation because communities act as the first line of defense in the conservation of nature reserves.</p> <h2 id="help">How you can help</h2> <p>Even with tourism largely at a halt, there are still ways to help preserve the diversity of species and their habitats in Africa and Asia. Although travel is an uncertain endeavor, you can still book future travel. With flexible travel policies suddenly the norm, you won’t have to worry about cancellation fees if travel dates change. By booking a safari or a stay at a lodge for next year, you are helping sustain conservation initiatives now.</p> <p>In Nepal, Edwards says the best move people can make is to book future holidays to help support the struggling conservation organizations stay afloat. Tiger Tops currently offers flexible cancellation policies and is eager to work with prospective visitors on future travel plans.</p> <p>Lodges in many countries, such as Rwanda and Kenya, have significantly discounted rates. <a href="https://saruni.com/" title="Saruni">Saruni</a>, for example, allows travelers booking a stay at one of its Kenyan lodges to <a href="https://saruni.com/revised-saruni-booking-terms-and-conditions_nov2020/" title="rebook dates ">rebook dates </a>within 24 months of the original booking if necessary.</p> <h2 id="safe">Safe travel</h2> <p>Wildlife-based tourism is likely to be one of the safest forms of travel as tourism slowly reemerges. The parks are in remote areas with few crowds, vast open space, fresh air, and limited interactions with other people.</p> <p>Safari lodges are frequently small-scale and are taking extra precautions to ensure health and safety. And one of the best parts? You’ll likely have the parks largely to yourself. AWF’s Sebunya noted seeing only 10 other cars in Tanzania’s Serengeti National Park during the wildebeest migration in August, peak season for one of the most popular national parks in Africa, which typically sees 500,000 tourists annually.</p> <p>Those who don’t plan to travel for at least a year can support wildlife protection via donation. Virunga National Park’s various fundraising opportunities include the option to <a href="https://virunga.org/support-us/adopt-a-gorilla/" title="adopt an orphaned gorilla">adopt an orphaned gorilla</a>, while a donation to the <a href="https://eawildlife.org/" title="East African Wildlife Society">East African Wildlife Society</a> can help pay for land leases in Kenya and support Maasai families operating conservancies.</p>Alicia Erickson 0