Tourism, when done right, has the potential to break down barriers and engage underserved communities in meaningful, life-changing ways. However, often, due to factors such as limited resources, language barriers, or other challenges, local communities miss out on the job opportunities and income that the tourism industry offers, even when they reside near popular destinations.

Planeterra is on a mission to change this situation by connecting these communities to the benefits of tourism. In line with this commitment, we are excited to share that we have established partnerships with the following community tourism enterprises over the past year:

Good Work Foundation – Hazyview, South Africa

The Good Work Foundation (GWF) is a non-profit organization dedicated to training local youth in technology, conservation, Tourism, and Hospitality. It offers valuable opportunities within the tourism sector to young individuals residing in villages adjacent to the Kruger National Park. Each year, GWF provides complimentary training to 25 youths, facilitating their transition into employment opportunities within hotels and lodges in the region.

Learn more about their work, here.

Safi Kitchen – South Ghawr, Jordan

Safi Kitchen is a non-profit organization dedicated to preserving local culture and natural resources while promoting the southern region of the Jordan Valley (Ghawr) as a year-round tourist destination. The primary beneficiaries of this initiative are local women and youth who face limited financial opportunities within their communities. They actively engage in an authentic farm and meal experience, showcasing their traditions and culture through food.

Learn more about their work, here. 

Yimsoo Cafe – Bangkok, Thailand

Yimsoo Cafe is a social enterprise established to generate income to support the Universal Foundation for Persons with Disabilities to run its program that helps people with different abilities, empowers them and voices out through the community that they can do anything they set their minds to accomplish.

Learn more about their work, here. 

Lady Tuk Tuk Driver Association – Siem Reap, Cambodia

Lady Tuk-tuk Driver is a non-profit organization, formed in 2022 to empower women to break stereotypes, to be more confident and be able to work in the tourism industry, providing local transportation called Remorque in Khmer” to improve their livelihood. The income from tourism allows this group of women to establish a sustainable business model and support themselves and their families.

Learn more about their work, here.

Funtasia – Luxor, Egypt

Funtasia is a local NGO that focuses on developing life skills and social consciousness among young people in the West Bank of Luxor. As part of their efforts, Funtasia has developed an afterschool program that teaches art, communication, and social skills to youth. It particularly focuses on providing high school graduates during their gap year(s) before college with capacity building, income, and exposure to working in the tourism sector. The youth in the villages around the Valley of the Kings lead a bike tour experience.

Learn more about their work, here. 

D’danau Homestay – Kota Belud Sabah, Malaysia

D’danau is a beautiful community homestay located in Kota Belud Sabah, Malaysia, an ideal place to get away from the hustle and bustle of big cities. They provide accommodation, cooking classes, a natural fish spa, and other activities. D’danau’s mission is to promote their culture and way of life, protect the environment and enhance their livelihood.

Learn more about their work, here. 

Ban Ou Community Tourism – Luang Prabang, Lao PDR

Ban Ou is a small village comprising of 60 families whose livelihoods revolve around farming, fishing, and traditional crafts such as silk and cotton weaving, bamboo weaving, and blacksmithing. The village is situated between picturesque mountains and the Mekong River. Tourism helps them to improve the living conditions and job opportunities of local people.

Learn more about their work, here.

Asociación de Mujeres Artesanas Zoológico Mágico – Oaxaca, Mexico

This newly formed cooperative was founded by 13 women who want to preserve the Zapotec culture and the cherished artisanal process of creating alebrijes, a local cultural heritage. Their workshop is a haven of fantasy and art, where they breathe life into various animal creatures they can imagine. Each piece is meticulously crafted with their own hands, skillfully combining vibrant colors that enhance the beauty of the wood.

Learn more about their work, here. 

Tinkuy Community Tourism – Cuyo Chico community, Sacred Valley, Peru

The Cuyo Chico community, situated in the Sacred Valley near the well-known city of Cusco, is dedicated to preserving its rich traditions. In a collective initiative, 12 families from the Ricchariy Association of Cuyo Chico joined forces to create Tinkuy. This local enterprise provides cultural experiences and valuable income opportunities, particularly for women who previously had to leave their families to seek employment elsewhere.

Learn more about their work, here. 

How Planeterra Provides Support to Our Community Partners

Here are some of the ways in which Planeterra connects communities to the benefits of tourism:

• Providing Grants: We provide financial grants to help communities kickstart or expand their tourism projects.
• Training and Mentorship: Through training and mentorship, we empower community members with the skills and knowledge needed for success in the tourism industry. Members of the Global Community Network also have available resources from the Planeterra Online Learning Hub, which fosters continuous learning.
• Infrastructure Development: In some cases, Planeterra funds the creation of new infrastructure and enhancements to existing facilities, preparing community tourism enterprises to host travelers effectively.
• Marketing Partnerships: Through collaborations with our corporate partners, we facilitate marketing connections. This ensures that communities have a consistent income from tourism, making it a sustainable revenue source.

These efforts extend beyond profit; they are about fostering positive, enduring change. Planeterra is committed to making an even more significant impact worldwide in the future. The question is, will you join us?