Tourism is one of the most important industries in the world for providing employment to people. In fact, almost one in ten jobs globally are linked to tourism and in some countries, this is much higher.
Here are some ways you can ensure that the host communities that you visit benefit from your trip and share a stake in ensuring the longevity of the destination.
Honeypot locations are those that attract huge numbers of tourists each year, who subsequently place excessive pressure on the local environment and people. While honeypot sites can generate revenue for a country, they are sometimes associated with problems such as overcrowding and diluting of local culture.
Next time you travel, ask your Travel Counsellor for their recommendation on an alternative to a popular favourite so that you can enjoy the type of holiday you want while experiencing something different.
Food is one of the principal reasons for many people to travel abroad. The chance to try new dishes that open our eyes to fresh flavours is an enticing prospect and one that shouldn’t be missed.
The best way to ensure you get an authentic flavour of your destination is to eat at locally owned restaurants, using recipes that have been passed down through generations.
By using a local tour guide you’ll get the opportunity to see your destination through the eyes of a local, seeing off-the-beaten-track spots that the average tourist doesn’t get to see. You’re also likely to get an insight into local culture as guides happily share stories and customs from their homeland.
Pack for a Purpose helps travellers to make a meaningful contribution to the places they visit by packing items that are most in need there.
They provide supply lists to travellers that have been created by community-based projects, in the host destination, that ultimately receive and use the supplies enabling travellers to make informed decisions and to take items that meet the needs of those who will be using them.
Asides from being a great way to support the host economy, choosing locally produced goods makes for the best souvenirs as it allows you to take away an authentic piece of the places you visit and also makes for an interesting gift for friends and family.
Whether that’s Aboriginal dot paintings from Australia, classic Vietnamese lanterns from Hoi An, or intricate shawls from India, you can get some amazing gifts by shopping local.
For more advice on how you can travel more responsibly, get in touch today.
Swap everyday routines for sunshine, lakeside swims and easy family days with this 14 night summer escape to Lake Garda in northern Italy. Based at the popular Bella Italia Resort in Peschiera del Garda, this holiday is designed for families who want plenty to do and flexibility to enjoy each day at their own pace.
Spend nine nights in Mauritius on a relaxed all inclusive break, well suited to couples who want warm seas, good swimming and an easy place to switch off. Fly from Dublin with Turkish Airlines via Istanbul, then transfer privately to Shandrani Beachcomber Resort & Spa. The resort sits on a peninsula on the south east coast, with beaches and lagoon swimming on one side and open sea views on the other.
This thirteen night journey through Vietnam and Cambodia suits travellers who want variety in their destinations and a clear flow from place to place. Starting in Hanoi, the route moves south through central and southern Vietnam before continuing into Cambodia, combining guided touring with time to enjoy each location without overloading the days. With private transfers, internal flights and key experiences included, the trip works well for first time visitors who want to see the highlights done properly.
