Guest Post

Why Slow Travel Is Key to Meaningful Cultural Exchange

November 13, 2024 Selene Orellana Global Community Tourism Network, Guest Post, News + Blog
Written by Katie Brenneman
Funtasia Luxor, Egypt

If you work in the U.S., you probably only have a maximum of 10 paid vacation days every year to scratch your travel itch — so you travel fast. You rush to tick off as many destinations as possible, spending only a day or two in each place and hardly having enough time to take pictures of the important landmarks to post on social media.

Then, when you come back home, you barely feel any different.

If you dream of a different experience that allows you to engage with new places and people in meaningful ways, you might consider slowing down your travels with slow travel. Slow travel encourages spending extended time in one place, stepping away from tourism hotspots, and discovering the true essence of different destinations.

Here are a few reasons slow travel could cure your travel bug and lead to more profound experiences that shape your cultural understanding and identity.

Quality Over Quantity

When you spend more time in one place, you are no longer bound by the constraints of itineraries. You can explore off-the-beaten-path locations, learn local customs, and engage with residents beyond the transactional nature of tourism. Whether attending a traditional cooking class in Vietnam or learning about Maasai culture in Tanzania, slow travel facilitates authentic interactions, creating space for travelers to learn from their hosts and for locals to share their stories.

Slow travel encourages you to break bread with locals, explore their kitchens, and savor the stories accompanying each dish. By experiencing life as the locals do, you gain insights into the values, traditions, and history that shape the communities you visit. In contrast, rushed tourism often reduces culture to a mere spectacle, leaving little room for genuine understanding or connection.

Sustainable Tourism

With a steady influx of travelers engaging in these experiences, our efforts have significantly empowered local communities, providing financial autonomy to women and strengthening cultural ties between travelers and communities.

The benefits of slow travel extend beyond the traveler’s personal experience; it also plays a crucial role in promoting sustainable tourism. When tourists move quickly from one destination to the next, they often leave behind a trail of environmental degradation, overcrowded landmarks, and communities that have been commodified to cater to fleeting visitors. Slow travel, on the other hand, advocates for a lighter footprint.

One of the core principles of sustainable tourism is reducing the adverse environmental effects of travel. By staying in one place for an extended period, travelers significantly lower their carbon emissions, as they rely less on frequent flights or long drives between locations. Slow travelers are more likely to engage in eco-friendly activities like biking, walking, or using public transportation. This approach reduces pollution and helps protect natural resources. Additionally, slow travel often encourages participation in conservation efforts and educational experiences that foster a deeper appreciation for the environment.

Fostering Genuine Connections Through Ethical Spending

Learning to spend money according to one’s values is essential for making a meaningful impact, especially when traveling. When you take the time to align your purchasing decisions with your values, you contribute to the well-being of the communities you visit. Slow travelers often find that by supporting local artisans, dining at locally owned restaurants, and staying in eco-conscious accommodations, they can foster a deeper connection with the culture and people of the destination.

Ethical spending allows you to engage with a destination in a way that respects its cultural heritage and environment. Rather than fueling mass tourism’s fast-paced, exploitative nature, you can make choices that uplift local businesses and communities. By doing so, you not only leave a positive impact on the places you visit but also create lasting memories and relationships.

The Power of Slow Travel

Slow travel offers more than just a respite from the rush of modern life. It provides an avenue for meaningful cultural exchange, sustainable tourism, and ethical spending. By immersing yourself in the rhythms of local life, you can connect with people in ways that rushed tourism simply cannot achieve. Slow travel fosters a deeper understanding of the world, allowing you to appreciate the richness of diverse cultures, the beauty of different landscapes, and the resilience of local communities.

So, the next time you plan a trip, consider slowing down and truly engaging with the places and people you visit. Stay for longer than one day and night; make one destination your home for your entire trip. While you’re there, talk to members of the community around you, eat their food, learn their language, and see the place as the locals do. Then, when you go back home, you will feel something new.

About the author:

Katie Brenneman is a passionate writer specializing in lifestyle, mental health, education, and sustainability-related content. When she isn’t writing, you can find her with her nose buried in a book or hiking with her dog, Charlie. To connect with Katie, you can follow her on Twitter.

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Travelers exploring the endangered Newari script “Ranjana Lipi” while immersing in Kirtipur's rich traditions -Community Homestay Network

Shifting Narratives: The Transformative Power of Community Tourism

October 24, 2024 Selene Orellana Global Community Tourism Network, Guest Post, News + Blog
Written by Aayusha Prasain – CEO, Community Homestay Network

During the Fireside Chat at GX India 2024, Tony Wheeler, the visionary co-founder of Lonely Planet, made a powerful point: no country is inherently dangerous. It’s not about avoiding places but connecting with the destinations you visit. 

The event, brilliantly organized by G Adventures and powered by Planeterra, served as a testament to this idea. Wheeler shone a spotlight on lesser-known destinations like Chad and Sudan, recommending them for the remarkable, often untold experiences they offer. 

His insights reminded many of us present there that the stories we typically hear about these countries, especially in the Global South, framed by danger, poverty, or instability, only present part of the picture. Community tourism aims to change that narrative, revealing the true pulse of a destination through its culture and people. It emphasizes the richness, resilience, and humanity that define these regions. Wheeler’s reflections encouraged us all to rethink our perceptions of the world.

Travelers exploring the endangered Newari script “Ranjana Lipi” while immersing in Kirtipur's rich traditions -Community Homestay Network
Travelers exploring the endangered Newari script “Ranjana Lipi” while immersing in Kirtipur's rich traditions Community Homestay Network
My Journey Through Travel and Community

Reflecting on my own journey, I realize that my childhood travel experiences significantly shaped my perspective on culture and community. Growing up, we moved frequently across Asia, following my father’s work in community initiatives. Living in places like Mongolia and the rural Chin State in Myanmar, along with my travels across Nepal exposed me to the beauty of cultural diversity. 

While my father’s commitment to development inspired me, it was my mother’s passion for local languages, food, and social fabrics that left a lasting impression. Her ability to turn every new place into a home; speaking local dialects with market vendors or blending local ingredients with our family recipes instilled in me the understanding that home is not tied to a single location. It’s a feeling you carry within you, found in shared smiles, warm conversations, and bonds that go beyond borders. 

As I grew older, my love for travel deepened into a calling. My academic background in Development Studies took me to various parts of Nepal, where I gained insights into the country’s rich cultural complexities and diverse geography. I learned that development isn’t just about top-down projects; it’s about building local ownership and fostering entrepreneurship. 

Given Nepal’s rich natural and cultural diversity, along with the vital role tourism plays in the economy, it is essential to discuss the kind of tourism we want to promote for a sustainable future. As the CEO of the Community Homestay Network (CHN), I believe we are well-positioned to leverage our partnerships with local communities, impact partners, and tourism stakeholders to advocate for community tourism as the norm in the travel industry, rather than merely a niche segment. 

Warm Welcome to Travelers at Narchyang Community Homestay on the way to Annapurna Community Trek Community Homestay Network

We are grateful for the opportunity to collaborate with communities and strategic partners like Planeterra to build, strengthen, and promote tourism products that benefit both travelers and locals. By developing locally owned tourism initiatives, providing training, and creating market linkages, we work closely with communities to establish resilient ecosystems.

The Impact of Community Tourism

At CHN, we firmly believe that community tourism can be a transformative tool for sustainable development, not just in niche markets but across the entire industry. Our partnership with Planeterra has been crucial in helping us move beyond viewing communities as mere beneficiaries. Instead, we examine the socio-economic and environmental costs they bear. 

Last year alone, Planeterra significantly contributed to co-organizing initiatives such as the Community Haat Bazaar and supported the creation of community-led experiences in Nepal, including a women-led Momo cooking class in Kirtipur and Breakfast at Sharing Seeds in Pokhara.

All the GCTN Nepal Partners came together to showcase their local products in Community Haat Bazaar Community Homestay Network

With a steady influx of travelers engaging in these experiences, our efforts have significantly empowered local communities, providing financial autonomy to women and strengthening cultural ties between travelers and communities.

Travelers engaging with our hosts at Kirtipur Community Homestay for Momo Making Experience Community Homestay Network

Similarly, during the Planeterra Marketplace at GX India, I was able to witness the power of community tourism beyond my direct experience of working with communities in Nepal. 

Nine communities from across India came together to offer immersive experiences, showcasing how travelers can engage in meaningful, hands-on activities that reveal deeper impacts on the communities involved. 

A standout experience was block printing with Anoothi India, an organization that trains women in traditional Indian textile skills.

Historically, block printing has been a male-dominated craft in India, but Anoothi is challenging this norm by empowering women to master the trade. The textiles they produce emphasize ethical practices and environmental consciousness.

Hearing the stories of these women, who defy societal expectations to excel in a craft traditionally reserved for men, was incredibly inspiring.

It highlighted how community tourism transcends financial benefits; it strengthens empowerment, challenges gender roles, and transforms lives in profound ways, creating intergenerational ripple effects.

Rethinking Tourism Narratives

It is crucial for us to rethink how tourism is presented and the narratives we promote. As Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie powerfully articulated, “Stories have been used to dispossess and malign, but they can also be used to empower and humanize.” Reflecting on Adichie’s TED Talk, “The Danger of a Single Story” I recognize how narratives shape perceptions. 

In the travel industry, we must be cautious about the stories we create about communities. Tourism often serves as one of the largest sources of information people have about a country, offering a unique window into its soul, which comes with great responsibility. 

Too often, Nepal is portrayed as a country in need of saving or a poor but kind nation where travelers arrive with a savior mentality. Many visitors participate in Tharu cultural experiences yet engage superficially, settling for just the performances that don’t convey the full story of this vibrant culture. These oversimplified versions of community life can do more harm than good. We must ensure that tourism reflects the full complexity of the places and people it engages with.

Community tourism can challenge the single story by going beyond traditional tourism models and deeply engaging travelers with local cultures. It requires a meaningful approach that emphasizes local participation in tourism development and management, ensuring that economic benefits directly support sustainable livelihoods and cultural preservation efforts. Community tourism is not confined to remote areas; it can thrive in urban settings like Kathmandu and Pokhara, where travelers can engage with diverse cultural experiences. Providers have the opportunity to share their heritage and cultural identity in ways that extend beyond mere entertainment or lodging.

Travelers enjoying the local breakfast: women led-experience  at Sharing Seeds Pokhara Community Homestay Network
Building community tourism requires patience, respect, coordination, and collaboration at all levels

The Role of Tourism in Fostering Understanding: As we recently celebrated World Tourism Day with the theme of “Tourism and Peace,” attending GX India on the same day highlighted the significant role tourism plays in fostering understanding, breaking down barriers, and building bridges between cultures.

My travels across Nepal and Asia have reinforced the idea that cultural contexts are nuanced, and no single story defines any place. 

While developed nations like the United States grapple with issues like gun violence, they also have the privilege of sharing multiple narratives. In contrast, countries like Nepal or India often find themselves limited by oversimplified or romanticized stories in global media. Yet community tourism provides an opportunity to reshape these narratives.

Moreover, community tourism is about more than just boosting numbers; it’s about building confidence and driving meaningful change. Some key takeaways from GX India that we, as travel industry professionals and travelers, must reflect on include the crucial role community tourism plays in empowering women, addressing climate biodiversity, and unlocking the tourism industry’s untapped potential. 

The discussions highlighted the importance of partnerships and resources in ensuring that communities remain at the heart of these destinations, where travelers may visit briefly but leave a lasting impact.

Working alongside remarkable communities and organizations has strengthened our belief that this community-centered narrative in tourism offers a path to break free from outdated perceptions, creating a richer, more diverse story. This is how we break the mold by shifting narratives and showcasing the strength, resilience, and beauty of communities, one story at a time.    

Aayusha Prasain, CEO- Community Homestay Network

About the author:

As the CEO of Community Homestay Network (CHN), Aayusha Prasain is working towards strengthening the organization while streamlining and scaling the impact of tourism across communities. Along with her team at CHN, she also works towards bringing local actors into the tourism value chain and promoting responsible and inclusive tourism. 

Visit www.communityhomestay.com to learn more about CHN’s work.

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Restoring the Sacred Forests of Umswai Valley

October 15, 2024 Selene Orellana Climate and Biodiversity, Guest Post, News + Blog
Written by Madhurjya Sarma, Senior Manager at GHE

As part of our tree-growing initiative, Planeterra has teamed up with GHE, an Indian social enterprise focused on delivering clean energy and promoting sustainable tourism in remote, off-grid communities. Together, we are collaborating on a project to restore the Sacred Forests of Umswai Valley. In this article, Madhurjya Sarma, Senior Manager at GHE, provides insights into the Umswai Valley and the inspiring reforestation efforts taking place there.

Umswai Valley, surrounded by its serene hills and landscape, is a place of many ancient traditions and stories of human cohesion to preserve their natural habitat in the advent of modernism. 

The valley residents, the Tiwa Community, follow a set of their ancient animistic beliefs and traditions which pays respect respects the elements of nature and natural beings while following an age-old cultural system of worshipping. At the core of their belief system, is the sacred forest, a few thousand-year-old sanctuaries on the edge of their valley, where their deities reside protecting the many beings of the forest.

The Sacred Forest: A Sanctuary of Tradition

The Tiwa community of Umswai Valley holds a profound reverence for Balakhongor, the supreme deity of the forest and the creator and preserver of all beings. According to their ancient animistic beliefs, Balakhongor and the forest deities reside in the Sacred Forest, manifesting as hillocks that oversee and protect the surroundings.

To honour these deities and commemorate significant events, the Tiwa people perform various rituals and sacrifices within the forest throughout the year. A notable tradition is the annual erection of monoliths to pay homage to their ancestors, with an impressive 1,030 pairs of monoliths standing tall, symbolizing over a millennium of history. This unwavering dedication to their spiritual heritage underscores the community’s deep-seated reverence for the Sacred Forest, which serves as the cornerstone of their animistic religious practices.

The Sacred Forest is also a sanctuary for endangered flora and fauna. Within this vast forest, no hunting, killing, or harm to any living beings whether animals, birds, insects, plants, or trees is permitted. The Tiwas’ reverence for life extends beyond the Sacred Forest, as they also focus on revitalizing degraded lands in the surrounding areas. Their efforts aim to restore biodiversity and reestablish ecological balance, ensuring the health of the environment for future generations.

However, challenges loom over this revered forest. Encroaching human activities, the impacts of climate change, and traditional slash-and-burn agriculture have led to its gradual degradation.

Tiwa Community: Culture and Livelihoods

The Tiwa people maintain a unique cultural identity characterized by a mix of traditional animistic beliefs and modern influences. They practice bilineal descent and matrilocality, with a chief priest (Loro) overseeing religious and judicial matters. Though many continue to follow animistic traditions, some have embraced Christianity, while still respecting the community’s cultural heritage.

Farming remains the backbone of their economy, with rice, ginger, and vegetables being staple crops. Additionally, handloom weaving, bamboo crafts, and broom-making are important livelihoods, reflecting the community’s skill in creating sustainable, handmade products. Despite economic challenges, the Tiwa people prioritize cultural preservation over material wealth, placing a strong emphasis on rituals and traditions.

The Umswai Valley Reforestation Initiative

In response to the environmental threats facing Umswai Valley, GHE in collaboration with the community and local stakeholders, has launched the Umswai Valley Reforestation Initiative. This ambitious project aims to restore the valley’s ecological balance through community-driven afforestation and sustainable land management. By leveraging the Tiwa community’s deep respect for nature, the initiative seeks to revive sacred forests and establish community food forests, creating individual fruit-bearing plots.

The initiative also addresses the impact of slash-and-burn agriculture and monocropping practices by introducing multi-cropping systems to improve soil quality and water retention. 

In its first phase, the project will plant 30,000 trees of native species across the valley. This initiative holds immense potential for climate mitigation by enhancing carbon sequestration and promoting biodiversity. It also sets the stage for eco-tourism, as restored forest landscapes can attract visitors, generating income for the community.

Empowering the Next Generation

The Umswai Valley Reforestation Initiative goes beyond environmental restoration; it aims to instil a sense of responsibility in the younger generation. Educational programs will teach local youth about the cultural and ecological importance of forests, engaging them in nursery management and tree propagation. This not only fosters a sense of ownership over their natural resources but also provides sustainable livelihood opportunities.

The Initiative is a beacon of hope, blending traditional wisdom with modern conservation practices. By honouring their heritage while embracing sustainable development, the Tiwa community is leading the way towards a more resilient and harmonious future.

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Safi Kitchen_Jordan_Planeterra_P100

Culinary Tourism for Sustainability: Exploring Local Food Cultures and Farm-to-Table Experiences

August 10, 2024 Selene Orellana Guest Post, News + Blog
Written by Ainsley Lawrence

Culinary tourism offers an authentic glimpse into the culture and customs of communities around the world. You’re almost certain to experience new flavours when dining at a farm-to-table restaurant and should expect to have your expectations tested when breaking bread with folks from a different culinary tradition. 

AFER Women’s Association HomLunch M’Haya, Morocco

Engaging in authentic culinary tourism is particularly important today, as the globalization of the food industry has made it harder for small restaurants and traditional dishes to survive. There are now over 40,000 McDonald’s and nearly 45,000 Starbucks worldwide, as many folks now automatically opt for the familiarity of burgers and mass-produced coffee when travelling abroad. 

Fighting back against globalized dining can support local food cultures and increase economic independence for at-risk communities. This is crucial, as smaller farm-to-table restaurants are innately sustainable and have a dramatically lower carbon footprint than global brands. 

Combatting Globalization

Globalization is a multi-faceted issue that divides opinions. On the one hand, globalization can usher in a new era of equity and end global hunger. This sentiment is echoed by the World Economic Forum, which posits that global trade can improve resilience and make trade more secure. The WEF points towards a reduction in poverty rates following periods of globalized growth and maintains that the rate of “undernourished” people fell by nearly 170 million from 2009 to 2017 thanks to global trade networks. 

However, globalization shouldn’t be seen as an innately fair or sustainable system. While globalized food markets may protect nations against invasion or famine, an overreliance on globalization may result in the end of authentic world cuisines, as globalization has a homogenizing impact on all aspects of the cultures it affects. 

Similarly, globalization isn’t necessarily sustainable. Foods sourced from overseas typically have a higher carbon cost and may dilute the authenticity of the dishes you experience during your travels. Overfarming in search of higher profits may reduce biodiversity and lead to the loss of natural resources. This is a serious issue in areas with low economic agency, where entire communities are at risk of being dominated by a few major corporations. This creates a mechanism of debt and exploitation that is explored succinctly in documentaries like Life and Debt. 

Ultimately, self-supporting communities are becoming increasingly important because they are more sustainable and environmentally friendly. They allow individuals to be economically independent, meaning they won’t fall prey to the exploitation that plagues large-scale agriculture. 

Supporting Local Cuisines

Supporting local cuisines can bolster the resilience of the community and increase food sovereignty.

As a tourist, you can do your part to combat globalization and support community groups by exploring local food cultures in the area.

As well as being more sustainable, any of these community-led organizations also serve an important social purpose, as farm-to-table restaurants like Beit Khayrat Souf are run entirely by women and aim to combat gender discrimination in the area.

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Visiting areas like the Huchuy Qosco community and the Parwa Community Restaurant can support sustainable development and provide young people in the area with a pathway to success.

Community-oriented restaurants like Parwa reinvest their profits, too, meaning local people benefit from every dish served and sale made. 

 

Similarly, Safi Kitchen in Jordan provides an authentic dining experience for travellers while relying on community agriculture to create an experience that is profitable, environmentally sustainable, and helps rebuild economic independence in the area.

Safi Kitchen_Jordan_Planeterra_P100
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Conclusion

Culinary tourism is crucial for the future of sustainable dining and farm-to-table experiences. As a tourist, you can support efforts to preserve traditional dishes and increase food sovereignty by switching Big Macs for local cuisines that use produce from nearby farms and fields. This rebuffs the advance of globalization and ensures that everyone has equitable access to great food and gainful employment. 

About the author:

Ainsley Lawrence is a freelance writer who lives in the Northwest region of the United States. She has a particular interest in covering topics related to travel, sustainability, tech, and accessibility. When not writing, her free time is spent reading and researching to learn more about her cultural and environmental surroundings.

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Panuati-CH

Empowering Nepal: Meet the woman behind the Panauti Community Homestay

July 25, 2024 Selene Orellana Communities, Global Community Tourism Network, Guest Post, News + Blog
Written by Nicole Melancon

In the hills of Kathmandu Valley lies the ancient village of Panauti, renowned for its culture, traditions, and well-preserved Newari architecture. At the heart of the community is the Panauti Community Homestay, a women-led initiative that started in 2012 and today has spread to 36 communities throughout Nepal, creating hope, inspiration, and opportunity for rural communities worldwide. Meet the women behind the movement.

Panuati-CH
Panauti Community Homestay Nepal

This past May, as part of the Community Homestay Network’s #CommunityConnect, I traveled to Nepal to experience community tourism firsthand. As part of the Community Homestay Network program in Panauti, I stayed with Shila Amatya and her family in her home where I learned the inspiring story of how Shila became the first woman to open her home to travelers in 2012 sparking a movement that has empowered women and changed lives across Nepal. Today, she is the President of Panauti Community Homestay, one of the most successful homestays in Nepal. 

The Pioneer

Shila was born in the Terai Lowlands of south-central Nepal near Chitwan National Park where she met her husband Ashok Amatya, who was working as a tour guide. Over a home-cooked dinner of Dal bhat (Nepalese lentil curry and rice), Shila sat down with us at her kitchen table to tell us the story.  

“It was a love marriage,” confided Shila with a smile, “which was unusual at the time, and a little difficult because we are from different castes. I am Chhetri and Ashok is Newar. However, we made it work and after our marriage, we moved 200 km away to Panauti as it is the tradition in Nepal for the bride to move to her husband’s hometown”. 

Ashok began working as a guide in 2002 with Royal Mountain Travel taking him frequently to the Himalayas for long trekking trips. Like most Nepalese women, Shila spent her days rising before dawn to clean the home, prepare meals, and care for her young daughter while her husband was away. 

It was through his work as a guide at Royal Mountain Travel that Ashok met Shiva Dhakal (the founder), and they quickly became friends. During a visit to Panauti to attend a family festival with Ashok, Shiva experienced Panauti differently by being part of the community’s celebration.

While he had visited Panauti several times before, this time he realized what a beautiful, meaningful experience it was and how much Panauti has to offer travelers. Panauti is close to the capital city, filled with history, beauty, and culture. Yet few tourists have experienced Panauti or more so, real Nepali life. 

Shiva had come from a large, close-knit family in rural Nepal and understood the power of family, tradition and community empowerment. He also believed strongly in the socio-economic importance of community tourism as a way to showcase the culture and beauty of lesser-known rural destinations in Nepal and use travel as a force for good. 

Shila Amatya President of Panauti Community Homestay

After decades of working in the tourism industry with Royal Mountain Travel, he witnessed the profound ability of community tourism to uplift lives. Shiva vividly recalls a moment that deeply influenced his journey—listening to Bruce Poon Tip, founder of G Adventures and the Planeterra Foundation, passionately speak about the power of community tourism. Bruce’s vision of how tourism can directly benefit local communities and genuinely transform lives resonated with Shiva in a profound way. It sparked a realization of how he could bring this vision to life in Nepal. With that inspiration, Shiva came up with an idea that would empower communities in a meaningful way.

Shiva recommended to Ashok that he and Shila receive some of their Royal Mountain Travel trekking guests at their home, in one of their spare rooms to share their culture and experience life with a local Nepali family. They began taking in guests and it was a win-win situation. Travelers loved the meaningful, authentic experience and Shila earned additional income to support the home. 

“Tourists loved Panauti. They would come for a visit but after sightseeing they went somewhere else for food and lodging. We understood that we had a lot to offer them so decided to open up our homes” Shila told me. 

Slowly, Shila and Ashok convinced other women to open their homes to travelers. It wasn’t easy in the beginning as the concept of homestays was new. Furthermore, there was a lot of doubt in the community that a women-led business could succeed. However, women began to see the positive impact it was making on Shila’s life, and they were more willing to give it a try. “At the time there was no opportunity for many women in our village except working inside the home, cooking, cleaning and taking care of children. Women like me, wanted to earn money, improve our lives and status in society. So we began forming our grassroots homestay initiative”. 

Over time, the concept stuck and the movement grew. Travelers loved the experience of seeing the untapped beauty and diversity of Nepal, and the women involved in the homestay earned additional income and were empowered.

In 2012, ten women from the community joined forces to run the Panauti Community Homestay, and in 2017 after positive feedback from both the community homestay women and the guests, Shiva launched Community Homestay Network (CHN).

CHN is a social enterprise that supports a network of community homestays throughout Nepal. CHN connects travelers with communities across Nepal, providing a unique opportunity to stay with Nepali families and immerse in real Nepali life. At the same time, local host families get the opportunity to share their culture and landscapes with travelers while gaining access to a sustainable source of income through tourism. 

The authentic experiences CHN offers travelers are created to have a positive impact on Nepali communities, women, and families, as well as on the travelers themselves. Best of all, all the homestays and experiences are created by the community. They are community-driven and community-led, by women.

With a shared vision and dedication to empowering local communities, Planeterra and CHN have forged a powerful partnership over the years. Together, they’ve worked to link CHN’s homestays with travel companies like G Adventures, ensuring a steady stream of travelers and boosting income for community members. Through this collaboration, CHN and Planeterra are fostering and promoting the growth of community tourism in Nepal.

According to Shiva Dhakal, what began as a small experiment quickly grew into something much larger. G Adventures and Planeterra became crucial partners, offering guidance and support as they expanded from that single home to connecting multiple communities across Nepal. Their belief in the potential of community tourism further fueled Shiva’s drive to create meaningful change through their work. 

Shiva reflects on one of the most inspiring moments in this journey: “Discovering Bruce Poon Tip’s book Looptail was transformative. It became an invaluable guide that shaped not only my vision for Community Homestay but also changed my understanding of tourism as a force for good. The lessons from Looptail continue to inspire me daily, reminding me that tourism, when done right, holds the power to uplift communities, preserve cultures, and change the way we see the world.

Today, there are 362 households in 36 communities impacting the lives of over 1748 people, and it all started with Shila’s home. 

“All over Nepal there are 36 homestays and I started this” Shila told us proudly during the second night at her home. “Slowly it expanded all over Nepal. I’m so happy, I thank God I have this opportunity, for me and my family.”

Community Connect Participants Visiting Panauti
Community Connect Participants Visiting Panauti

After tea, we moved into the family room, and Shila’s 20-year-old daughter, Amy, joined the conversation. As Amy artfully applied earth-toned henna on me and Sara’s arms, Shila continued her story. “Slowly over time, the movement grew. My friends wanted to join because they saw what I was doing and were inspired. In 2015 we developed other community offerings for our guests such as a community hike and then the Panauti Bike station for our cycling tours. We employ almost 50 people in the community and the network has grown to 15 houses.”

Even Shila’s daughter Amy is involved and has worked with the tightly-knit group of homestay mamas for the past four years. While she just received her degree in Information Technology, Amy supports the Panauti CHN as often as she can by giving community tours.  Shila is now the President of Panauti Community Homestay, and as the pioneer of one of the most successful, women-led community homestays in Nepal, she and her team have trained other women in and outside of her community sharing entrepreneurial skills and how to run a successful homestay.

“There have been many ups and downs along the way,” Shila says. “The pandemic and the earthquake were difficult times when we had to close our homestay program. We also had to build trust within our community that a women-led business would succeed. That was hard too but we never gave up and always persevered. Today we have a voice in our community, respect and also support from our local government. I feel so proud”. 

During our stay in Panauti, we did many activities designed by the Panauti Community Homestay mamas with preserving their unique culture and heritage in mind. We had a traditional purse-making class where we learned the techniques used by the women’s grandmothers. We also participated in a cooking class hosted by our CHN mamas in their kitchen where we prepared momos (a traditional Nepali steam-filled dumpling).

We ended our visit with a large Newari feast featuring over 15 traditional Newari foods accompanied by dancing performed by two young girls in the community.  “By doing these programs, we ensure our culture and traditions are not lost,” Shila told us. “The two young girls dancing during the feast learned this style of dance thanks to our scholarship funds from the CHN program.

Of the 80% of the income received through our homestay program (20% goes to CHN to cover training and other administrative fees), 20% of that pool goes into a fund that is reinvested back into community initiatives.

The fund is used for English and cooking lessons for the mamas, and for other training to help preserve culture and teach women how to run a hospitality business. 

Cooking Class: Making Momos

The impact

The Community Homestay program has been life-changing for Shila and the other Community Homestay mamas. The socio-economic empowerment of the program has been incredible for everyone involved. 

“In Nepal women are always on the backside, meaning working inside the house and taking care of children, cleaning and cooking, and only the husband makes money,” Shila told us. “With the Community Homestay Network, women can earn income for the first time. We can spend money on our children’s health and education. We no longer have to ask our husband’s permission to buy something. We even have our own bank accounts. It has been incredibly empowering.” 

The program has also given women a voice in their community along with leadership and entrepreneurial skills. Moreover, it has lifted women’s status and respect in a patriarchal society. 

“In our society, women are not always respected but now I am, ” Shila confided to Sara and I. “People in the community now know who I am. While the project is small, I am very proud. I have big things in my life now, the local government is supporting me too”. 

Another benefit of the program is it promotes sustainable tourism by bringing travelers to lesser-known destinations, easing the tourism strain on the environment and showcasing cultures and traditions that are unique to each community. As more and more youth leave the villages for work and education in Kathmandu or abroad, traditional life, culture, and heritage are being lost. “Nepal has over 142 ethnic groups and castes all with their own culture, language, dress, food, and traditions” Shila informed us. “Each one is different and must be preserved, which we are trying to do”. Community Homestay Network mamas design programs to promote and safeguard these traditional arts, cooking, dance, music, and more.   

The impact for the guests

As Shila intricately wrapped me inside a stunning, elaborate saree, preparing me for our last night, the grand finale, an impressive hour-long Newari feast, and dance, my eyes began to fill with tears. The past two days with Shila, her family, and the warm, welcoming mamas of the Panauti Community Homestay were magnificent. Any doubts I had about returning to Nepal and wondering if I could ever be as special to me as it was before, dissipated into the back of my mind. 

As Shila braided my hair into a lachha (a Newari hairpiece decoration) all I could do was smile at her with a deep, loving sense of gratitude. The past two days were such a beautiful, unforgettable experience where I truly was able to connect with Nepali culture and life. But what I enjoyed the most, was the connection that me and Shila had made. In only two short days, I no longer felt like a guest but like part of her family, living side by side in her home. What an incredible gift.

If you go:

Check out all the amazing experiences and available homestays at www.CommunityHomestayNetwork.com. CHN runs homestays in 36 different communities throughout Nepal, with several that are conveniently located in Kathmandu Valley and easily accessible from Kathmandu. Trips can be booked directly or as part of a G Adventures Nepal trip. 

 

Nicole Melancon

About the author:

Nicole is a freelance travel writer, content creator, and digital strategist with a passion for sustainable travel and storytelling that began after a life-changing trip to Nepal in 2010. The plight of the people she met compelled her to join a growing movement of dedicated journalists, content creators, and humanitarians striving to raise awareness, funds, and impact change fueled by the collective power of our online presence and voice. For the past 14 years, Nicole has worked with various nonprofits and social impact organizations sharing their stories on her blog which focuses on sustainable, adventure travel and social good. She recently dove into freelance journalism and has been published in National Geographic, BBC, Toronto Star, and more. She also works as the Content Editor for GLP Films, an award-winning full-service content marketing agency dedicated to sustainable tourism.

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Pack Light, Travel Far: Sustainable Packing Solutions for Eco-Conscious Travellers

May 17, 2024 Selene Orellana Guest Post, News + Blog
Written by Ainsley Lawrence
Wise Greece Athens, Greece

The thought of arriving at a final destination without your bags sends most travellers into a cold sweat. It’s simply undeniable that the stuff we travel with plays a critical role in shaping trip experiences. 

For this reason, intentionality is key when it comes to packing and storing your travel gear—regardless of whether you’re travelling across the globe or around the block. But what if this natural packing intentionality could go beyond having a smooth trip and serve to promote and preserve the world’s resources as well? 

Many travellers are looking for ways to do just that by supporting sustainable tourism initiatives such as: 

  • Reducing environmental waste and damage 
  • Promoting local economies 
  • Preserving global cultures 

Let’s examine several practical ways eco-conscious travellers can prioritize responsible tourism by adopting sustainable habits while planning and packing for trips. (Looking for ideas on a sustainable family adventure? Click here)

Leave Responsibly

Sustainable travel habits start long before you walk out the door on your journey. Consider what resources you use in your daily life and how they will be attended to while you’re away. For most, the focal point of our natural resource consumption revolves around our housing. Everything from water or electricity usage to food waste and transportation is linked to your place of residence, which is why it’s important to establish a plan for these things while you are away. 

For frequent travellers, consider selecting a home or residence tailored to your travel needs that keeps sustainability at the forefront. For instance, if you are choosing a place to live for remote work and travel, you should take into account the local transportation and entertainment options as well as your proximity to family and friends. Selecting a home near the things you prioritize will greatly reduce your environmental impact in fuel and transportation while also saving you time and money. 

If you are planning to travel less frequently, create a plan for repurposing your current home and resources while you are away. Consider having a friend or professional house sit or try renting out your space to a tenant. There are many simple home storage ideas, such as decluttering and utilizing vertical space, that can create more space in your home for a guest or renter. Repurposing your residence and its resources in this way will ensure they won’t be wasted or unused for long periods and can save you on maintenance costs. 

Pack Sustainably

Packing for a trip is a largely personal undertaking. A great deal of personality and security is attached to the things we own and use—especially in a foreign environment—which makes packing for a trip a fairly intentional process. Luckily, this intentionality can be easily linked with several, simple sustainable habits that allow eco-conscious travellers to make a big difference in small ways while packing. 

For example, one practical habit is to resist the urge to purchase lots of new things for a trip. The reality is you will probably feel more comfortable and confident wearing and using items that you are familiar with than purchasing all new things, and reusing and repurposing goods is more sustainable for the environment. If there are items you need for an upcoming trip, consider purchasing durable, fair-trade goods from conscientious business brands. The Planeterra Partner Shop and others like it are great options for using your purchasing power to promote sustainability. 

Another eco-friendly packing habit is to avoid purchasing and using single-use items while travelling. Single-use goods like disposable razors, water bottles, utensils, wipes, and more result in unnecessary waste. Instead, consider packing zero-waste travel essentials such as reusable water bottles, soap bars, and snack bags. Though it may seem insignificant, these small choices can add to a tremendous reduction in global landfill waste.

Consider the Weather

Packing sustainably can be tricky when you’re trying to prepare for a variety of weather conditions. The more types of weather you’re prepping for, the more clothes and other items you’re going to be packing, which obliterates attempts at packing light. Additionally, if you want to support a cause such as Pack for a Purpose, you want to save space in your luggage for supplies that will benefit those in need. Weather worries and the resulting excess of caution don’t exactly leave extra philanthropic space.

Therefore, keep a careful eye on your destination’s forecast. Try to pack items suited to the predictions from sources such as The Weather Channel and Weather Underground. One great option is to pack a light windbreaker and wear your heavier coat with you on the plane. That way, you’ll be prepared for colder temperatures and rain without using a ton of luggage space. Or, you could pack a backpacking rain poncho, which hardly takes up any space. Additionally, wear a pair of waterproof, comfortable boots. Sandals will take up minimal space in your bag. 

For sunny weather, it’s best to buy sunscreen at your destination. Overall, remember that you can buy weather-specific supplies in most cities, and you could donate things like umbrellas and clothing instead of trying to tote them back home.  

Stay Intentionally

Being mindful of your final destination and where you will stay is another valuable habit for sustainable travel. Planning and packing for a trip isn’t a one-size-fits-all process. Having a full picture of what you will be doing and where you will be staying, whether it’s with a host family, at a hotel, or a rental property, will help you prepare to use your travel resources to their fullest potential. 

Start by creating an accurate picture of the residence that best suits your needs and objectives while travelling. For example, if you are choosing a place to live for remote work, consider what you need to do your job, such as the internet or private workspace, and what timezone your working hours will be in. Or if you are choosing a place to stay to recreate and sight-see consider selecting a residence that is centrally located with good transportation to the places and things you wish to see. These types of lodging plans naturally support sustainability by eliminating unnecessary transport or purchases that would otherwise be needed to meet your trip objectives. 

Finally, and perhaps most importantly, be mindful of how where you will stay will impact those around you. Believing that sustainable tourism is only about protecting the environment is one myth of sustainable travel. While the environment should always be prioritized, sustainability in travel goes beyond this and also focuses on celebrating and supporting local cultures. In this way, whether you are working or playing, be intentional to spend your travel dollars and time within a community that is genuinely empowered and enriched by your visit. 

To conclude, the stuff that we pack and travel with matters when it comes to shaping overall trip experiences. For this reason, travellers tend to prioritize intentionality in their packing. This is why eco-conscious travellers who want to support sustainable tourism have a great opportunity to adopt more sustainable habits in their trip planning and packing processes. 

Simple sustainable travel habits like being mindful to repurpose current resources, reduce waste in packing, and accurately plan to meet your trip needs and objectives will help save the world’s resources and better support local communities. So next time, you’re ready to see a new piece of the world, remember to plan and pack with sustainability in mind. 

About the author:

Ainsley Lawrence is a freelance writer who lives in the Northwest region of the United States. She has a particular interest in covering topics related to travel, sustainability, tech, and accessibility. When not writing, her free time is spent reading and researching to learn more about her cultural and environmental surroundings.

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Staying at Jukil Community Lodge

April 5, 2024 Selene Orellana Guest Post, News + Blog
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.

Serena Hejazi

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. 

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Nurturing Tourism Sustainability in India path to a Greener Future

March 25, 2024 Selene Orellana Guest Post, News + Blog
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 and logistics. With over 1,193 women trained as professional drivers and initiatives like “Swayam Sakha” catering to the differently-abled, Sakha is making strides in promoting gender equality and safe transportation across India.

  • 2.4 million Safe Rides Provided to Date by Sakha Drivers!
  • 85 Women Employed
  • 425 Community Members Indirectly Benefitting
.

Tourism continues to thrive in India, so it is imperative to prioritize sustainability and ensure the long-term well-being of the environment, communities, and cultural heritage. 

Embracing sustainable tourism practices, India can lead the way in creating a greener and more responsible tourism sector. It requires a collective effort from government bodies, tourism industry stakeholders, local communities, and tourists themselves.

The path ahead for tourism sustainability in India lies in continued collaboration among various stakeholders. Governments need to provide policy and regulatory support that incentivizes sustainable practices and sets clear guidelines. 

The tourism industry must take responsibility by adopting sustainable practices and offering eco-friendly options. Local communities need to actively participate in decision-making and receive the benefits of tourism development. Lastly, tourists themselves should embrace responsible behaviour and support sustainable initiatives.

By nurturing tourism sustainability, India can showcase its natural and cultural treasures while ensuring their preservation for future generations. A greener and more responsible tourism sector will not only benefit the environment and local communities but also enhance the overall tourism experience. 

Let’s all work together to make India the capital of Sustainable Tourism for travellers worldwide.

Dr. Niraalee Shah

About the author:

Dr. Niraalee Shah is the founder of Image Building and Etiquette Mapping, aimed at assisting entrepreneurs in establishing profitable businesses and brands that attract their target clientele. Her expertise lies in enabling brands to showcase their expertise, command premium pricing, and enhance customer experience through brand and customer experience strategies. As a Corporate Trainer, Author, and Consultant in various fields including Tourism, Sustainability, Hospitality, Digital Marketing, and Branding, she collaborates with entrepreneurs, professionals, and corporate entities to drive innovation and development. Dr. Shah’s work emphasizes embracing change to achieve breakthrough performance, demonstrating the significant impact even minor changes can have.

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Cultural Immersion and Self-Care: Finding Balance in Sustainable Travel Experiences

February 7, 2024 Selene Orellana Guest Post, News + Blog
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 new cultures. And you don’t have to leave the country to find unique heritages — simply visiting a subculture within your state, such as visiting the Amish in Pennsylvania or the Cajuns in Louisiana, can open your eyes to an entirely different way of life.

As you make plans to enjoy the local communities you visit, focus on mindfulness to boost your resilience to unexpected challenges.

Remember that vacation isn’t automatically stress-free, but having an adaptable attitude and sense of exploration can help you adjust to changes more easily.

Sustainable travel, where you immerse yourself in a local culture, can help you break free of the treadmill that is leading you toward burnout. 

About the author:

Ainsley Lawrence is a freelance writer who lives in the Northwest region of the United States. She has a particular interest in covering topics related to travel, sustainability, tech, and accessibility. When not writing, her free time is spent reading and researching to learn more about her cultural and environmental surroundings.

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Crafting Connections and Building Opportunities through the Community Haat Bazaar

January 10, 2024 Selene Orellana Global Community Tourism Network, Guest Post, News + Blog
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.

All the GCTN Nepal Partners came together to showcase their local products in Community Haat Bazaar Community Homestay Network

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 Bazaar

The 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 share common goals that revolve around promoting sustainable development, preserving cultural heritage, and fostering positive socio-economic impacts. These shared goals reflect the commitment of community tourism enterprises to creating positive, sustainable, and culturally enriching tourism experiences for both visitors and local communities. Keeping these things in mind, the collaboration between CHN and Planeterra was initiated to foster the relationship between the GCTN Nepal partners; building a sense of community among collaborators. This not only includes the immediate partners but also extends to stakeholders and the broader community.

Before the conceptualization of the Community Haat Bazaar, we have also been organizing routine meet-ups (virtually) between our network partners to discuss how we can move forward with this collaboration. The Community Haat Bazaar was one such conception initiated to support our partner network members.

What is the Community Haat Bazaar?

The Community Haat Bazaar is a traditional open-air market aimed to bring the GCTN Nepal partners together and allow them to showcase their art and cultural commodities. This event serves as a multifaceted platform, bringing together community members, promoting local artisans and businesses, and creating a dynamic social and economic hub. 

The primary objective of the Community Haat Bazaar is to cultivate a sense of community among our community homestay members and visitors while providing economic growth opportunities to our network partners. The event was strategically designed to showcase and support local businesses. The market stalls featured an array of products, including handmade crafts, clothing, jewelry, and fresh produce, inviting local artisans, craftsmen, farmers, and entrepreneurs to display and sell their offerings.

In addition to the market aspect, the Community Haat Bazaar offers enriching experiences through workshops and interactive sessions. These sessions aim to educate participants on various cultural topics, such as the unique Ranjana Lipi script and the intricate Mithila Art. Beyond the economic boost, the event emphasizes community engagement and the creation of a vibrant social space.

Unveiling the Success of the Community Haat Bazaar

Following the conceptualization phase, we initiated collaborative efforts with our event partner, Planeterra. While CHN took the initiative to organize and manage the event, Planeterra provided funding and guidance for setting up the event. Furthermore, AVATA Wellness Centre provided the event venue in Baluwatar, Kathmandu. 

The Haat Bazaar was primarily marketed to the expat community, along with some of the key stakeholders of the travel industry. We wanted to expose our GCTN Nepal partners’ products and services to potential travellers and travel agents while creating a platform for the participants and an opportunity to network and connect with the visitors.

Collaborative promotional efforts besides promoting the event on digital platforms were also undertaken to amplify the reach of the event. With a common goal to promote tourism as a force of good, our sister entities from Royal Mountain Group of Companies played a crucial part in promoting the event. The same thing goes for the supporters of our co-organizing entity – Planeterra.

It was amazing to witness the synergy demonstrated by all these stakeholders involved in the promotion of the event, which shows that a well-planned communication strategy can work wonders when executed properly. A total of 8 organizations, including AVATA – our venue partner, participated in setting up a kiosk for the Community Haat Bazaar.

The fruition of all these efforts was reflected during the day of the event. All stakeholders involved were fully engaged throughout the entirety of the event. The venue; AVATA, witnessed a notable turnout of visitors that met our expectations, leading to an engaging event where people were busy exploring and involving themselves in the various local products and experiences provided by our enthusiastic partners. New connections were made along with the rejuvenation of existing partnerships. 

Notably, international travellers and expats came to the event, a testament to the success of our marketing efforts. In addition to that, other communities were invited to observe the Community Haat Bazaar, contributing to the event’s inclusive atmosphere. The day concluded with a feedback and reflection session, providing participants with an opportunity to share insights and experiences from this vibrant community-driven gathering.

After the success of the first edition, we are hopeful that this would be a good and replicable model to show what goes behind planning an event and how one can truly support community-based events to garner a wide audience resulting in success.

Lessons from the First Edition of the Community Haat Bazaar

In reflection, the Community Haat Bazaar not only served as a vibrant marketplace but also offered invaluable insights and learnings. The event highlighted a strategic shift in our approach, emphasizing the importance of expanding our reach to customer-centric audiences rather than exclusively focusing on business partners. The sense of belonging experienced by GCTN Nepal Partners’ community members showed the significance of such gatherings, providing not just economic opportunities but also fostering a deeper connection within the community.

Some pictures of the event, courtesy of Community Homestay Network:

The seamless orchestration by the CHN team, coupled with the active involvement of Planeterra partners and GCTN members, emerged as pivotal factors in the event’s success.

Looking forward, the importance of pre-scheduled communication with supporting partners and clear expectation management for participants became evident, emphasizing the need for meticulous planning in future endeavours.

The event not only marked a celebration of culture but also laid the foundation for continued community empowerment and sustainable growth.

About the authors:

Sazza K.C. and Rubik Joshi are two dedicated team members of the Community Homestay Network (CHN), a social enterprise that supports a network of community homestays in Nepal. Sazza works as a Product Development Expert, while Rubik is their Social Media Manager.

CHN is one of our Strategic Partners in Nepal with whom Planeterra has joined forces to support the members of our Global Community Tourism Network.

 

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