Responsible Travel Choices

Opportunities to make travel more socially and environmentally responsible are on the rise; Eco-tourism, educational/cultural travel and volunteering are examples of how travellers are respecting the places they visit. Choosing to visit countries that are protecting their own environment is another responsible choice.

Our preferred partners offer some interesting options which are easy to arrange. Take a look at these programs:

• Gap Adventures - Voluntourism and environmentally friendly tour options
  A leader in sustainable tourism, Gap tours strive to minimize their impact on the environment while respecting the local people and culture. Gap is also making a difference through Planeterra, its non-profit branch. With a range of projects around the globe in health, education employment skills training, cultural heritage preservation and environmental conservation, Planeterra gives back to the communities Gap tours visit. It also gives you the opportunity to visit and volunteer on the projects as part of your vacation.
• Abercrombie & Kent - "Philanthropic Journeys"
  Deliver school supplies while on safari in Kenya; maintain climate equipment on Mr. Kilimanjaro; present a research team in Antarctica with specialized scientific equipment. These are the unique experiences currently offered by Abercrombie & Kent as part of the Philanthropic Journeys collection.
• Regent Seven Seas - Ocean Futures Society
  World-renowned oceanographer and environmentalist Jean-Michel Cousteau is a regular guest with Regent. The founder of the widely-respected Ocean Futures Society, which explores and protects global oceans, Cousteau gives a series of lectures with videos about his work during the voyage.
• Holland America Line - "Cruise with Purpose"
  You'll have a chance to be a research biologist in the wilds of Alaska. This exclusive wildlife and research tour from Juneau is offered in conjunction with Alaska Sea Grant Marine Advisory Program and the Marine Conservation Alliance. Three other unique experiences in Alaska are offered as part of the program.
• Gateways International - "Authentic Experiences rich in culture"
  A leader in Europe and Latin America, Gateways offers packages and custom vacations with an emphasis on seeing the destination as the locals do.
• Adventures Abroad - "Cultural Journeys"
  These soft-adventure educational trips concentrate on the culture, history and nature of the area. Led by knowledgeable destination specialists, tours are offered around the globe from Albania to Zambia.
• Voyages of Discovery - Destination focused, educational cruising
  This brand new cruise line is making a name for itself as a leader in cultural cruising. A range of educational shore excursions are included in the price. Leading intellectuals host each cruise, lead excursions and lecture throughout each voyage.

These programs certainly give you the opportunity to do something different and meaningful on your next vacation.

By Susan Milne