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Written by Serena Hejazi Just a short two-hour drive from the well-known Uyuni town, you'll find the peaceful village of Santiago de Agencha. It's a place where time seems to slow down, offering a break from the rush of everyday life. But underneath this calm surface, the village faced some big challenges. With only about 280 people living here, Santiago de Agencha deals with issues similar to many small towns. Younger people often leave for cities in search of better jobs, leaving behind mostly older folks and kids. This makes it tough for the village to keep up its traditions and culture. Living here is also pricey because the village is far from big cities, even though most people don't earn much. And on top of that, there are often droughts that threaten the crops they rely on, like quinoa, which makes life even harder. Despite challenges,  the people of Santiago de Agencha are dedicated to keeping their way of life alive. Through things like sustainable farming and eco-tourism, they're working toward a better future while honouring their heritage. Tourism, especially at places like Jukil Lodge, plays a big part in this. It brings in money for the village and helps people from different places learn about their way of life. It's a way for visitors to really connect with Santiago de Agencha and its people. Thanks to travellers passing through from Uyuni to the Atacama Desert in Chile, places like Jukil Lodge (a homestay located in Santiago de Agencha) have popped up, offering a cozy place to stay in the mountains. Before Jukil Lodge teamed up with Planeterra, things were tough. Not many tourists came, and it was hard for the locals to make a living. But now, with about 300 visitors every month, the lodge has become more than just a place to stay—it's a way for six local families to earn a living. My own trip to Jukil Lodge was amazing. As we drove through the winding roads, surrounded by stunning views, I knew I was in for something special. The staff were so friendly, and the cabins were cozy and welcoming. Waking up to the sounds of nature outside my window was pure joy. As travellers, it's important for us to be respectful and mindful of the impact we have on places we visit. By supporting places like Jukil Lodge and embracing the culture of places like Santiago de Agencha, we can help make the world a better and more connected place. So, if you're looking for an adventure that's exciting and peaceful at the same time, I highly recommend visiting Jukil Lodge in Bolivia. It's an experience you'll remember for years to come. About the author: Serena Hejazi is a passionate traveler and the author of Sere Travels, a blog that focuses on sustainable tourism. Visit http://seretravels.com/ to learn more about Serena's travels. 

Written by Dr. Niraalee Shah Tourism plays a vital role in India's economy, cultural exchange, and global recognition. The country's rich heritage, diverse landscapes, and vibrant traditions make it a compelling destination for travellers worldwide. However, with the rapid growth of the tourism industry, it is essential to prioritize sustainability and minimize the environmental and socio-cultural impacts of tourism activities.  This article explores the concept of tourism sustainability in India, highlighting the initiatives, challenges, and the path to achieving a greener and more responsible tourism sector.  Source: Researchgate.net THE IMPORTANCE OF TOURISM SUSTAINABILITY: Tourism sustainability refers to the practice of promoting responsible tourism development that conserves natural resources, preserves cultural heritage, and benefits local communities. Embracing sustainability in the tourism sector is crucial for several reasons: Environmental Protection: Sustainable tourism minimizes the ecological footprint by promoting resource conservation, reducing pollution, and protecting fragile ecosystems. Socio-cultural Preservation: It aims to safeguard the cultural authenticity of destinations, preserve local traditions, and support the well-being of host communities. Economic Benefits: Sustainable tourism generates long-term economic opportunities, including job creation, community empowerment, and inclusive growth. Traveling Sustainably India strives towards sustainable tourism; it faces various challenges while also uncovering opportunities for progress. One major hurdle lies in balancing infrastructure development with eco-friendly practices, necessitating meticulous planning and innovative design solutions. Waste management remains another critical issue, requiring effective systems for disposal and recycling alongside efforts to cultivate responsible tourist behaviour. Moreover, engaging local communities in tourism planning is imperative to ensure their active involvement, foster socio-economic benefits, and safeguard cultural heritage. Promoting awareness among tourists, industry players, and communities about sustainable practices is pivotal for driving positive change. Moving forward, collaborative endeavours are essential to realize the vision of sustainable tourism in India. Governments must enact and enforce policies conducive to sustainability while providing incentives and clear guidelines for developers and operators. Industry stakeholders, including tour operators and hoteliers, should prioritize sustainability in their operations and offer eco-friendly options to travellers. Community participation is paramount, necessitating involvement in decision-making processes, capacity building, and equitable distribution of benefits. Concurrently, raising awareness through campaigns, workshops, and educational initiatives will instil a culture of responsible tourism, ensuring a brighter and more sustainable future for India's tourism sector.  COMMUNITY-LED SUSTAINABLE TOURISM INITIATIVES IN INDIA In India, community organizations are pioneering innovative approaches to sustainable tourism, fostering positive impacts on both local communities and travellers. Two notable examples include the "City Walk" program by Salaam Baalak Trust and the "Women with Wheels" initiative led by Sakha Consulting Wings. City Walk by Salaam Baalak Trust This youth-led walking tour of Delhi not only offers a fresh perspective of the city but also serves as a platform for youth to develop essential skills. Funds generated from the program support scholarships, job placements, and shelter resources. Over 33 guides, including girls, have participated, with many leveraging their experiences to pursue higher education and careers in various sectors. 37 Youth Guides Trained 8,000+ Children and Youth Benefitting . Women with Wheels by Sakha Consulting Wings Challenging societal norms, this program empowers women by providing opportunities in traditionally male-dominated fields, such as professional driving [...]

From the colourful streets of San Martín Tilcajete, Oaxaca, the women of Zoológico Mágico are transforming the art of alebrijes into a tool for empowerment and change. In the photo, Daniela Hernández stands on the right, alongside her sister-in-law Karina and mother-in-law Leonila. Rosario Fabián, the association's President, is on the far left. Zoológico Mágico is a collective of talented women from San Martín Tilcajete, a community renowned for its rich cultural heritage and skilled artisans in the art of alebrije crafting. Their craftsmanship skills have been passed down through three generations, but it was the onset of the pandemic that prompted a significant shift. With their husbands and other male members exploring alternative income sources to support their families during challenging times, these women decided to take matters into their own hands. Faced with limited options due to the pandemic, they relied on their skills and knowledge in crafting alebrijes to establish a workshop aimed at selling their art and welcoming visitors. Motivated by their deep connection to their roots, culture, and traditions, these women sought to capture the essence of the alebrije—a fusion of dreams, fantasies, and personal experiences. What sets Zoológico Mágico apart is not just the beauty of their creations, but also the fact that it is led entirely by women who oversee every stage of the crafting process, including the intricate sculpting of wooden pieces, a task traditionally associated with men! Check out Rosario Fabián, President of Zoológico Mágico, in action as she carves wood into beautiful sculptures: Copal: A Mystical Tree Copal has been used since pre-Hispanic times. This tree holds deep significance for the community of San Martín Tilcajete; it's sacred to them. The women of Zoológico Mágico use Copal to craft their pieces. The whimsical way it grows provides artisans with a canvas to unleash their creativity, allowing them to visualize and then shape detailed alebrijes with each swing of the machete. The sap or resin of the copal tree, also known as incense, is used in various cultural rituals. It's believed that the smoke from burning incense purifies the soul, protects families, attracts love and abundance, and wards off malevolent spirits. The residents of San Martín Tilcajete place great importance on the utilization and preservation of the copal tree. Consequently, every year, the entire community - including workshops and residents alike - collaborates on a collective endeavour. They participate in a reforestation initiative, planting approximately 2000 trees to nurture life and sustain their environment. Crafting a Magical Piece For some, the price of an alebrije might seem high, but let us assure you, it's more than fair considering the intricate process behind crafting each of these magical pieces. It all begins with the selection of the copal trunk, which must be of the highest quality. Its natural structure is what inspires the creation of the figure. A second step is the curing process, which involves treating and dehydrating the piece. It must be restored and patched as many times as necessary before it's ready for colour. Then comes the painting process, where each stroke tells a story. At Zoológico Mágico, artists work with [...]

Asociación de Artesanos de Madera Imbert Imbert, Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic Impact The primary goal of the association is to preserve and celebrate Dominican culture and the artisanal process of crafting wooden pieces as cultural heritage. Forty artisans and their families directly and indirectly benefit from the association. Through Planeterra's partnership, they connected with travellers inside an Iberostar Resort, allowing guests to experience the culture and learn how to carve petrified wood. This additional revenue will increase their income, enabling community growth. 40 artisans directly impacted 250 community members indirectly impacted . Critical Need Imbert, a town nestled in Puerto Plata, is celebrated for the intricate woodwork crafted by local artisans, notably the renowned "petrified wood." Established in 1997, Asociación de Artesanos de Madera Imbert (ASOARTEP) endeavours to elevate the visibility of artisanal work and establish it as a sustainable and legitimate source of income for artisans and the wider community. With 40 active members, the association positively impacts approximately 250 families. Furthermore, it's imperative for ASOARTEP to intertwine the diverse wooden sculptures with Dominican culture, thus perpetuating and honouring its rich heritage. Our Involvement integration into one of the Iberostar resorts in the Dominican Republic. Here, visitors can engage in a short woodcarving experience and learn about the local culture, with the option to purchase various woodwork pieces. Additionally, Planeterra provided funding to establish stands that immerse travellers in the community atmosphere and replicate a community tourism experience within the hotel. We also conducted training sessions on developing such experiences. Thanks to these efforts, many Iberostar clients can now enhance their resort experience by participating in community tourism activities within the hotel. . Related projects View all projects > Restaurante El ManglarLife Monteverde View all projects >

Chocolate de la Cuenca de Altamira Altamira, Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic Impact Chocolate de la Cuenca de Altamira (CHOCAL)  has been working diligently since 2008 to foster employment and economic development opportunities for women. Founded by 30 women, they established a production plant where they craft various chocolate products. Through Planeterra's partnership, Chocal has connected with travellers inside an Iberostar Resort, allowing guests to experience Dominican culture and indulge in delicious, high-quality chocolate. This additional revenue will boost their income, enabling the community to grow and thrive. 30 women directly impacted 100 community members indirectly impacted . Critical Need CHOCAL produces high-quality organic chocolate products. It has provided many women in Altamira with the opportunity to acquire new skills and generate sustainable income. Now, numerous women have become empowered business owners and experienced chocolate producers. The "Women of Altamira" serve as role models for other women and youth in the community, earning respect and admiration. Through their hard work and dedication, they have showcased their capacity for learning, leadership, and their commitment to enhancing the economic, social, and environmental conditions of the area. They are the driving force behind the sweetness of CHOCAL, setting its heart in motion every morning. Our Involvement Planeterra collaborated with CHOCAL to create a community tourism experience that could be integrated into one of the Iberostar resorts in the Dominican Republic. Here, visitors can enjoy a short experience learning about chocolate production from the plant to the table and purchase various chocolate products. Additionally, Planeterra provided a grant to set up stands within the hotel, allowing travellers to feel immersed in the community and recreate a community tourism experience onsite. We also conducted training sessions on how to develop such experiences. Thanks to these efforts, many of the Iberostar guests can now enjoy community tourism within the hotel, going beyond the typical resort experience. . Related projects View all projects > Art Creation FoundationSan Antonio Women’s Co-op View all projects >

In case you haven’t heard, Planeterra has joined forces with Evaneos to champion community tourism worldwide, and we couldn't be more thrilled about it. The timing of our partnership announcement couldn't be more perfect, coinciding with International Women’s Day.  So, let's take a moment to celebrate and shine a spotlight on three extraordinary women who are at the forefront of the first community tourism enterprises supported through this collaboration. Get ready to be inspired by the stories of Yenny Quispe Sallo, Ni Komang Sariadi, and Jenny Rasija as they lead the charge and uplift others with their remarkable work. Yenny Quispe Sallo Community member and former President of the Urpis de Antaquillka Association Before joining the Urpis de Antaquillka Community Association, Yenny Quispe Sallo made a living by weaving belts and chullos (Andean beanies) to sell at a local market. However, this work was exhausting and unprofitable due to the low selling prices. After meeting with her colleague Roxana, they decided it was time for a change. They wanted to showcase their amazing creations and explore new opportunities in tourism. So, even though Yenny lacked experience in the area, she eagerly accepted the position of secretary in the association, backing up Roxana, who served as president at the time. Years later, Yenny ended up taking the presidency twice!  In 2019, they formalized their association with 40 women, although not all of them are currently active members. Yenny Quispe Sallo Urpis de Antaquillka Association (Peru) Yenny and her colleagues also decided to level up their skills with some training in gastronomy and hospitality, getting ready to welcome travellers with open arms. They were all set to welcome their first visitors in March 2020, but then, the COVID-19 pandemic hit and drastically changed their plans. This brought them down, but despite the initial setbacks, they found the motivation to move forward and complete the construction of their premises, with the help of their husbands during the pandemic. Their perseverance paid off when they finally welcomed their first guests in July 2022, reigniting their determination. They've been hustling ever since, teaming up with local agencies to bring in more travellers. And by 2023, they were hosting 3 to 4 groups of tourists every month, which meant more jobs for the 23 incredible 'mamás' (as Yenny likes to call her colleagues), with plans to expand even more! Their vision for the future is to keep growing, and they are immensely grateful for the support of Planeterra and Evaneos. Through our partnership, we’re supporting Yenny and all the women from Urpis de Antaquillka in enhancing their current tourism experiences and upgrading facilities and infrastructure. This includes improving the llama hiking paths, kitchen facilities, and overall experience development. Additionally, we provide training and capacity building to ensure the success of their tourism enterprise. Ni Komang Sariadi (Ibu Sari) Founder of PKP Community Centre Ni Komang Sariadi (also known as Ibu Sari) has travelled a remarkable journey from adversity to empowerment, inspiring everyone she meets along the way. Despite enduring the heartache of a difficult divorce and being separated from her daughter for 12 years, she refused [...]

Overcoming the challenges of tourism requires decisive action, and Evaneos is setting a shining example. In an era where responsible tourism is imperative, collaboration between industry leaders is key to driving positive change. That's why we're thrilled to announce Planeterra has joined forces with Evaneos, the leading online marketplace for tailor-made tours, to advance fairer tourism globally. Evaneos, a European leader in responsible tourism, has been at the forefront of creating authentic and responsible trips for travellers for over 15 years. Through its platform, Evaneos has built a trusted network of local agencies worldwide, ensuring that at least 85% of the amount of each trip goes directly to local actors. Evaneos is committed to going even further in promoting fair distribution of revenues in the tourism supply chain. Harnessing the Power of Community Tourism Community tourism lies at the heart of this partnership. By partnering with Planeterra, Evaneos aims to harness the power of community tourism as a force to break down barriers and promote social equity. Together, we strive to make a meaningful impact on the destinations where Evaneos' local partners operate, supporting communities while promoting a better way to travel. This partnership isn't just about financial support; it's about creating lasting change. Through grants, technical training, and mentorship, Evaneos and Planeterra are empowering communities to become self-sufficient and resilient. By integrating community tourism experiences into Evaneos' offerings, travellers can engage with local cultures in meaningful ways, enriching their travel experiences while supporting community development. Planeterra and Evaneos are kicking off this partnership by supporting the development of three community tourism enterprises in 2024. These initiatives empower women, preserve cultural heritage, and foster economic and social growth within local communities, showcasing the immense potential of community tourism.  Urpis de Antaquillka Association 📍Cuper Bajo Community, Chinchero District, Cusco Region, Peru Urpis de Antaquillka is a community association formed by 23 women. They ventured into tourism to gain recognition for their handicrafts and generate direct economic income for their families. Through their experiences, this female-led association aims to share ancestral knowledge with those seeking genuine experiences. From immersive weaving sessions with local women to water ceremonies, traditional cooking classes, and unforgettable llama hikes in the Andes, Urpis de Antaquillka offers a rich tapestry of cultural immersion. In collaboration with Evaneos, we are focusing on three experiences: the Water Ceremony, Llama Hiking, and a meal experience where travellers learn about a traditional Peruvian dish, the Pachamanca. Our support involves helping Urpis de Antaquillka improve its current tourism experiences and upgrade its facilities and infrastructure, including enhancing the llama hiking paths, kitchen facilities, experience development, and providing training and capacity building to ensure the success of their tourism enterprise. The goal is for the community to attract more travellers and create a dependable income stream to sustain their community tourism enterprise. Impact: Directly employing 23 Indigenous women and touching the lives of 60 others. PKP Community Centre 📍Bali, Indonesia PKP Community Centre is a non-profit organization dedicated to fostering female empowerment and gender equality among vulnerable Balinese women and local girls. Through various initiatives, the center offers programs focused on teaching essential skills [...]

Written by Ainsley Lawrence Studies show that 83% of US workers suffer from work-related stress, and 25% say that their job is the number one stress in their lives. Practicing self-care can make a big difference in managing stress, and one of the ways many people enjoy relaxing is by traveling and experiencing other cultures. However, it’s important to find ways to travel affordably and with a lower impact on the environment. Here are some ways that you can travel sustainably while immersing yourself in a new culture. . How Travel Helps Manage Burnout One of the stressful things about daily life is that it can feel very repetitive. You go to work, come home, have supper, go to bed, and do it all over again. It’s easy to feel like what you’re doing doesn’t make a difference and isn’t appreciated.  Unfortunately, this repetition and discouragement can lead to burnout, which can have long-term negative effects on your life. Burnout happens when you’re doing stressful work for long hours without much of a break. You can feel tired all the time, struggle with sleep, and have mood swings. Long-term burnout can cause headaches, high blood pressure, and digestive issues. The good news is that travel can help you break up your routine, have new experiences, and get a renewed perspective on life, especially when you experience new cultures. Travel can increase your creativity, allow you to reset, and improve your mental health and overall well-being. Traveling Sustainably As you take care of yourself, it’s essential to also take care of the communities you visit and the planet by traveling sustainably. Start with what you decide to bring with you. The lighter you travel, the lower your carbon footprint and impact on the places you visit. For example, instead of buying mass-produced fast fashion to wear on your trip, choose a high-quality wardrobe that will last for years. For example, you might choose durable Wrangler jeans, a high-quality Carhartt jacket, or a genuine leather belt. Next, think about the sustainable habits you can practice as you travel. Remember that sustainable travel is about protecting both the environment and the local communities you visit. Each individual makes a difference with their choices.  Consider supporting local businesses as you travel rather than national or international chains. You can choose local transportation that has lower emissions and prioritize spending money with companies that have strong sustainability practices. Best of all, immersing yourself fully in the culture of your destination can help you break out of the rut you’ve been in. By going to locally-owned restaurants and businesses, you can experience the true essence of a place, whether it’s near where you live or quite far away. How to Ensure Your Travel is Self-Care It’s easy to intend to relax as you travel, only to get caught up in stressful situations, unmet expectations, and unexpected challenges. Having the right mindset as you go on vacation can make a big difference. Start by thinking about where you’re headed and how you can embrace the culture. Tourism can help preserve local traditions and foster your awareness of [...]

Written by Sazza K.C. and Rubik Joshi from Community Homestay Network Tracing the journey from conception to realization, the Community Homestay Network and Planeterra recently joined forces to unite Global Community Tourism Network (GCTN) Nepal partners in a dynamic marketplace. Hear our story of how we turned an idea into a reality, along with the key takeaways and lessons learned from the event. Community-Haat-Bazaar attendees visiting one of the stands Forging a Sustainable Future: Planeterra and CHN's Visionary Partnership in Community-Based Tourism Established by Planeterra during the pandemic, the Global Community Tourism Network (GCTN) stands as a beacon of support for community tourism enterprises worldwide, actively dismantling barriers in the tourism marketplace. Through engaging activities like offering access to enriching online learning opportunities, fostering global connections among like-minded peers, and championing partnerships for increased visibility and sustainability, the GCTN is empowering community tourism enterprises to reach new heights. The emphasis here is on growth, learning, and collaboration—key ingredients for transforming dreams into reality. As an active supporter of community tourism, Planeterra has been working together with the Community Homestay Network to support various community tourism enterprises and initiatives in Nepal. The objective of this partnership is to strengthen community tourism in Nepal by providing funding and knowledge-sharing sessions by bringing them under the GCTN partner network. The Community Haat Bazaar was one such initiative. In the wake of the Planeterra team’s visit to Nepal for the First in-person meet of the GCTN, an interesting idea surfaced—to unite local members of the network under a common platform to showcase the local and traditional arts, products, and experiences—the notion aimed at fostering economic growth and providing extensive networking opportunities through organized events. Subsequently, a series of monthly meetings unfolded between key stakeholders from the Community Homestay Network (CHN) and Priyanka Singh, Community Tourism Project Manager for Asia-Pacific at Planeterra. These discussions explored crucial considerations such as the nature of the event — whether it should be exclusive to GCTN Nepal partners or include other entities engaging in community tourism, budgeting considerations with potential assistance from Planeterra, and meticulous planning regarding when and where the event could take place.  The collaboration between CHN and Planeterra emerged as a powerful synergy, with CHN as the organizing force and Planeterra contributing essential knowledge and resources to ensure the success of this community-building initiative. Together, we envisioned an event and a catalyst for sustainable growth and meaningful connections within the global community. From Vision to Reality: CHN and Planeterra's Collaborative Journey in Creating a Dynamic and Inclusive Community Event - Community Haat BazaarThe Importance of Fostering Community Growth for a Sustainable Collaboration Long-term partnerships are the cornerstone of the sustainability of any event or project. By providing a stable foundation, these collaborations ensure consistency, effective resource utilization, and shared commitment to common goals. The gradual development of trust and rapport facilitates open communication and problem-solving, essential for overcoming challenges. Long-term partnerships also promote a continuous learning mindset, allowing collaborators to adapt and improve together over time. The sense of community fostered by long-term collaborations extends to stakeholders, creating a supportive ecosystem. Members of GCTN Nepal partners [...]

Yimsoo Farm, Mae Rim Chiang Mai, Northern Thailand Impact The Universal Foundation for Persons with Disabilities is a non-profit organization committed to assisting individuals with disabilities. One of its remarkable initiatives is the operation of "Yimsoo Farm, Mae Rim," primarily staffed by individuals with disabilities. Visitors to the farm can participate in a tour, gaining insights into vocational training activities conducted by the Foundation. The experience includes a traditional North Thailand meal prepared by the team, providing hands-on exploration of activities that showcase the rich Lanna culture and tradition. This project aims to spotlight the importance and value of the work done by persons with disabilities, empowering them to become exemplary citizens who positively influence society. The initiative has successfully fostered a better understanding of disabilities, transforming perceptions and recognizing them as valuable contributors to society. 23 differently-abled people benefitting 60 people indirectly benefitting . Critical Need The Universal Foundation for Persons with Disabilities is dedicated to establishing vocational training centers in central and northern Thailand, along with providing occupational support for individuals with disabilities. In the past, the community did not benefit from tourism due to a lack of technical support and confidence to host international travelers. The primary focus was on their disability, rather than their strengths and resilient attitude. Consequently, they were unable to participate in tourism activities in Thailand. Additionally, Yimsoo Farms, Mae Rim, lacked market connectivity and the training needed to host travelers in the past. Our Involvement Planeterra has played a crucial role in introducing the Universal Foundation for Persons with Disabilities to the international community, enriching the understanding of persons with disabilities in Thailand through visits and showcasing their work and achievements. Those benefiting from Yimsoo Farm have gained a renewed sense of confidence and are earning income, serving as beacons of hope for communities globally. Moving forward, the goal is to raise awareness of this project, encouraging more individuals to visit and witness the impactful work carried out by persons with disabilities within their organization. Through these efforts, the organization aspires to create more jobs and opportunities for persons with disabilities. . Related projects View all projects > D’danau HomestayYimsoo Cafe Bangkok View all projects >