Travel, a benefit to local communities

Tour Hosts Review By Leigh Posted on History

As technology increases and the world shrinks, we truly are becoming more and more of a global village. With our ability to reach previously inaccessible destinations, that village is not only virtual but physical, as well. Like good stewards, the challenge we face as developed nations is to assist and empower our less fortunate neighbors, without destroying their unique natural and cultural heritage.

It seems fitting that over the last three decades as mass tourism has become commonplace, we’ve realized the need for ecologically sensitive travel and have as a global culture embraced the need to accept social responsibility for the land as well as its people.

The tour hosts highlighted this month have all made eco-tourism an active part of their operations, not simply as a marketing term, and we salute them. Many others have written articles for this issue. With all the problems our world faces today, the tourism industry has a prominent role in preserving and protecting our cultural and natural resources. I am honored that Cultural Travels can play its small part.

This month's tour hosts review:
Ker and Downey Pick of the Month
Location: East Africa
Specialty: Lodge and luxury tented safaris
Why We Like Them: Over 40 years dedicated to introducing travelers to the diversity of Africa and to preserving the natural wonders of the region. Through environmentally conscious land use and programs committed to maintaining cultural and natural integrity, involvement of the local peoples in the uses and conservation of their resources, and a commitment to providing their guests with a great experience, Ker and Downey stand out for their years of dedication to eco-tourism long before it was a popular marketing phrase. A company committed to the health and wealth of its destinations, it is my choice for this month’s Tour Host Pick.
 
Dreamweaver Travel Company
Location: West Africa
Specialty: Ecologically and culturally sensitive travel
Why We Like Them:  After 12 years living and working in West Africa with the Peace Corps, company founder Dudley Parkinson decided to share his love of the region with fellow travelers. By creating experiences that are beneficial for both the local communities and the traveler, Dreamweaver Travel fosters an understanding of Western African culture while insuring that the negative impact on the land and its people is minimal.
Article: High Adventure in the Heart of Africa
 
Great Canadian EcoVentures
Location: Canada’s Northwest Territories and Artic Circle
Specialty: Wilderness and wildlife experiences
Why We Like Them: A fantastic web site filled with information and incredible photographs of the region and 30+ years of experience are good indications that “Tundra Tom” and his crew can lead you on a journey to be remembered. Trips include special wildlife photography expeditions, Dreamcatcher natural history journeys, and Artic outpost expeditions to view the incredible wildlife and Northern Lights.
Article: Tales of the Tundra
 
Andean Trails
Location: South America
Specialty: Active adventures trekking, hiking and biking through the Andes
Why We Like Them: A dedication to the people and environments they serve. Their article is an eye-opener as to the exploitation of local people some companies engage in and a great insight into why the seemingly same trip costs more from different operators. If a company cares about the local families and people working for them, you can bet they do a great job for their clients as well.
Article: Don't walk all over them
 
Discover Ltd & the Kasbah du Toubkal
Location: Morocco
Specialty: Berber hospitality center and hotel near Marrakech
Why We Like Them: Taking the ruins of a 1940’s Kasbah and renovating it into a local center for travelers to Jbel Toubkal (a major trekking spot and highest mountain in the High Atlas range) and those seeking to understand the Berber culture, this property can be visited for a day or extended stays can be arranged. The property helps regenerate the local area with employment, not only during restoration, but by generating business that have sprung up to service the needs of visitors. Had I known about the Kasbah during my trip to Morocco a few years ago, I would have been sure to stay and experience Berber life up-close.
 
Maine Audubon
Location: United States
Specialty: Nature tours and camps
Why We Like Them: Dedicated to protecting the birds and natural environment of Maine, the organization offers a series of classes and fieldtrips to introduce people to the natural treasures in their own backyards. One such educational experience is Audubon’s camp on Hog Island. The core program of the island for over 60 years has been the Natural History of the Maine Coast. For the more active, Audubon has a couple of kayaking programs and for those just looking to get away and enjoy a retreat from everyday life, the island can serve as a retreat center for independent discovery and relaxation.
 
Proyecto Campanario
Location: Costa Rica
Specialty: Rainforest Biological Reserve
Why We Like Them: A remote reserve accessible only by boat and traversed by foot. As close to nature as you can get with jungle accommodations; tent cabins with “garden” bathrooms and fast food – plucking a fruit as you pass by! Programs include, rainforest conservation, a tropical ecology course, internships and a volunteer program. The reserve returns to its local community with education gifts from its visitors and special educational experiences for the local children.