Purposeful travel by design: Can tourism lead the way to a sustainable future?
Aayusha Prasain lays out her vision for purposeful travel and why the tourism industry should lead by example.
It’s a “Good Tourism” Insight. (You too can write a “GT” Insight.)
Purposeful travel involves more than just the joy of exploration.
It encompasses a mindful approach that preserves the environment, empowers local communities, promotes ethical practices, and ensures a sustainable future. It’s a way to learn and grow while making a positive difference.
When we, as tourism industry people, travel responsibly and with purpose, we lead by example. We encourage others in the industry and the travelling public to do the same, creating a better future for everyone.
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How can we travel responsibly? And, by extension, how can we design and promote responsible travel options?
It is easy to use buzz words and phrases like ‘sustainability’, ‘responsible travel’, ‘women’s empowerment’, among others, to present a feel-good option to our customers. But how do we give meaning to these ideas through our actions?
Supporting local communities
Responsible tourism emphasises the support of local communities.
One of the best ways you can support locals is by choosing community-based accommodations for yourself and for your clients; accommodation like community homestays that are truly led and owned by local people, where you can live with your hosts and learn their way of life.
Immersive experiences like cooking with locals with ingredients that have been sourced locally, or investing your time to learn ancient script and art, among others, opens up opportunities for travellers to explore the local culture and have a meaningful connection with local people.
Based on my own experiences travelling and living in diverse communities, I have come to appreciate … Read the full “Good Tourism” Insight for free at The “Good Tourism” Blog.
