Sustainable journeys & responsible tourism on World Tourism Day

On September 27th, the world comes together to mark World Tourism Day. This year’s theme highlights the power of purposeful investments in people, the planet, and prosperity. As we set out on exciting journeys of exploration and adventure, let’s embrace the positive impact we can make.

Sustainable tourism seeks to find a balance between cherishing destinations and safeguarding their natural wonders. Travel’s economic potential for tourism-centric areas is undeniable, yet we must acknowledge the inadvertent impacts of increased visitation. Enter sustainable tourism; its aim is to champion responsible travel, valuing both the environment and local communities.

From eco-friendly adventures that respect ecosystems to mindful wildlife encounters, the path to a greener footprint is clear. Eco-conscious transportation, waste management, and energy-efficient accommodation contribute significantly. Collaboratively, the tourism industry and travelers themselves can shape a sustainable future that fosters societies and protects our planet’s resources.

Corporate Travel Management (CTM) and its group of travel businesses understand this responsibility and commit to fostering a more sustainable path for exploration. Join us as we delve into the firsthand experiences of employees who practice responsible and sustainable tourism in their personal leisure travels as we mark World Tourism Day.

Sustainable resort experiences

David Petlin, an affiliate of 1000 Mile Travel Group, has a personal affinity for resort experiences that are taking strides toward enhanced sustainability.

He not only frequently recommends Grupo Xcaret’s Hotels to his clients but also chooses La Casa De La Playa for his own vacations – an adults-only, all-inclusive resort within the Hotels Xcaret Mexico collection. This resort is devoted to embracing many sustainable initiatives that elevate the guest experience.

Drawn particularly to La Casa De La Playa in Mexico, he commends the resort’s commitment to preserving Mexican heritage through practices such as Mayan and Melipona bee ceremonies. Additionally, the resort adorns the property with handcrafted decorations that highlight Mexican artistic talent.

Petlin emphasizes, “Beyond using recyclable glass bottles, eliminating single-use plastics, and employing electric vehicles for all transfers, their dedication to the environment shines through their jellyfish program.

“Each resort suite houses jellyfish tanks meant to cultivate and farm these creatures, with the goal of reintroducing them to the wild to replenish the area’s jellyfish population. It truly is a magical place and the responsible tourism practices make it even more enchanting.”

“Each resort suite houses jellyfish tanks meant to cultivate and farm these creatures, with the goal of reintroducing them to the wild to replenish the area’s jellyfish population. It truly is a magical place and the responsible tourism practices make it even more enchanting.”

Fostering responsible interactions with local cultures

Joanna Parker, Account Manager at 1000 Mile Travel Group, exemplifies a commitment to fostering responsible interactions with local cultures, caring for the environment, and uplifting communities during her personal travels.

Parker explains, “To me, this means being selective about my choices when booking and being mindful of how and where I spend my money abroad. I make sure to research suppliers in advance, considering their sustainability commitments and ratings before making any financial commitments.

“During my travels, I always aim to explore “mom and pop” restaurants and stores for souvenirs and cultural experiences. This might lead me to venture beyond common pickup/drop-off points and engage local guides, and these experiences have never let me down.

I think by being more intentional in how we travel, we can all play a part in promoting responsible tourism.”

Enriching local community experiences

Marla Everett, Director of Consulting Solutions, of Event Travel Management (ETM) shares, “Every destination in the world is unique, which is what makes traveling so exciting. You just never know what to expect with each new destination unturned, providing the opportunity to see something new and to learn about people and places that you may not normally encounter in your own neighborhood.”

 

Everett shares that in March of this year, she traveled to Banff Canada for an industry incentive summit. The event organizers offered several ways to learn about and contribute to the destination.

“At the welcome desk, we embraced a unique touch as we were gifted cozy socks from a local business. For those looking to spread kindness, an option to donate these socks to a local shelter or contribute directly via donation resonated with the spirit of giving.

A commitment to creating an enriching experience was further highlighted during the initial dinner session. We had the honor of a local indigenous individual grace us with a profound blessing and an open invitation to connect with the land we tread upon. Immersing ourselves in the vibrant culture of the region, another memorable dinner showcased traditional dances that echoed through time. To deepen the connection, they wove historical narratives into the present, thanks to the artistry of a local fashion designer. Their creations, paying homage to the indigenous communities of the area.

Experiences like these are a reminder that each journey is an opportunity to embrace not only new destinations but also the stories and the people that make them extraordinary. These types of journeys not only offer tourists an emotional connection to the history of the destination, but several of the attendees felt that they would likely return, which is a positive driver for tourism and commerce for the destination.”

Education for a greener future

Education plays a vital role for both travelers and professionals within the tourism industry. Travel Advisors can help support and direct tourists towards responsible travel practices while fostering respect for diverse cultures and the environment. Initiatives designed to enlighten individuals about their travel destinations provide them with the ability to make sustainable choices.

CTM’s Senior Marketing and Communications Specialist, Sara Cartwright, shares a recent experience during her journey to Colombia. “When I traveled to Colombia, I knew that the coffee industry was a huge part of the country’s economy and culture, so I researched sustainable coffee tourism before I scheduled any sort of coffee-related tour. I educated myself on the history of the coffee industry in Colombia and made sure that the tour I selected was one in which the focus was on sustainability and preservation.”

“This proactive approach didn’t just enhance my travel experience; it also played a role in preserving the environment and empowering local communities. It underscores the positive influence that well-informed travel choices can have on both the planet and its inhabitants.”

As we celebrate World Tourism Day, let’s recognize the journey toward sustainable tourism is a collective effort that requires the participation of individuals, businesses, and organizations. World Tourism Day serves as a great reminder that both travelers and industry professionals play a vital role in safeguarding the destinations we hold dear. Through knowledge and responsible practices, we can ensure that our explorations and adventures leave a positive mark on the places we visit.