Guest Post

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. 

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. 

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.

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. 

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Spending time in nature does wonders for your mental health. Today, 98% of studies confirm that nature boosts physical and cognitive health, and many suggest that time in the wilderness is particularly powerful.

However, left unchecked, our love of the great outdoors can inadvertently harm the natural world. This is a real issue if you run a tourism business but care about preserving local ecology while combating climate change.

You can continue to support environmental causes while running a tourism business embracing responsible travel. Responsible travel can even strengthen the environment by raising funds for conservation efforts and your local community.

If you run an eco-friendly tourism business, you probably appeal to folks who want to actively help the natural world. However, many well-intentioned tourists trample on green spaces when exploring a nature reserve or animal sanctuary.

You can help folks minimize their impact by hosting an eco-friendly outdoor event. When planning the event, focus on key details like:

• Replace single-use plastics with reusable cutlery and crockery.
• Avoid paper products and opt for digital tickets and programs instead.
• Provide local, responsibly sourced food.
• Encourage folks to ride-share or hire a minibus to reduce transport emissions.

Consider partnering with like-minded organizations when organizing your event. These organizations can provide educational materials for participants and assist you in refining your approach to hosting an eco-friendly event. An example of such an organization could be Soa Zara.

Theme your eco-adventures around an outdoor activity that excites your clientele. The outdoor activity industry is booming now, as many of us feel the urge to reconnect with nature while having fun. Your eco-friendly tourism business can take advantage of this surge in interest by providing accommodations for activities like:

• Hiking tours on pre-established trails.
• Equipment rental to reduce waste.
• Offer horse riding in place of car safari tours to minimize disruption.

These outdoor activities are designed to work with the natural world, rather than against it. If you do decide to take a group hiking, keep folks on predetermined trails. This mitigates potential disruption and teaches folks to care for the natural world.

Try to educate eco-tourists while they are on your outdoor eco-adventure. For example, if you’re hiking into the wilderness, use your pre-trip planning time to introduce folks to leave-no-trace principles. This will ensure that your guests respect the local wildlife and take steps to leave the area as they found it.

Low-impact, educational eco-adventures can make a world of difference. Even small changes to your operations — like offering free rental equipment to reduce the impact of consumerism — can reduce waste on your site and help folks understand the key principles behind eco-tourism.

However, if you want to maximize your impact, you should consider teaming up with charities to raise funds for sustainable causes. Many eco-friendly charities require a steady stream of donations to keep the lights on, meaning your donations will always be well received.

If you suspect that your guests can’t afford to donate, consider offering alternative ways to raise funds and help. Run fundraisers like sponsored marathons or ask your corporate partners to match your donations. Even small donations help in the fight against climate change, poverty, and ecological damage.

If you run a tourism business, you may be alarmed to find that your company causes a lot of ecological harm. You can take action to prevent harm and support eco-friendly causes by making strategic changes to your events and activities. Encourage folks to rideshare en route to your location and use your time together to educate your guests. Give people plenty of opportunities to donate to charitable causes and try to run as many fundraisers as possible during your busy season.

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.

Greetings from the heart of the Vjosa River! I’m Blerina Ago, a passionate advocate for sustainable tourism, and I am excited to share with you the remarkable story of the Vjosa Wild River National Park (WRNP) Community Tourism developments with the significant support of Planeterra.

As I stand here by the pristine riverbanks, surrounded by breathtaking landscapes, I can’t help but reflect on the transformative power of community-driven initiatives in the field of tourism.

A Historic Promise for the Vjosa River

For over a decade, a dedicated coalition of environmental experts, tourism activists, organizations like IUCN, Patagonia, Riverwatch, Euronatur, and EcoAlbania, together with local communities, artists, media, and adventure enthusiasts, have tirelessly worked to protect the Vjosa River for future generations.

On March 2023, history was made. The Albanian Government declared the Vjosa River a National Park, marking it as Europe’s first Wild River National Park. This decision is more than a legal designation; it’s a promise to keep the Vjosa flowing freely, benefiting both people and nature for generations to come. It’s a testament to the unity of people and government in protecting this natural wonder.

A Journey to Remember

I’ll never forget the first time I met Vjosa. It happened on a rafting adventure more than one decade ago. It’s challenging to put into words the sheer rush of adrenaline and emotions I experienced that day. All I can say is that this one adventure changed the course of my life forever.

I was captivated by the river’s charm and the hospitality of the communities that call this area their home. These communities have always had a strong connection to the river, relying on its resources for their livelihoods. This connection is what ultimately sparked my interest in getting involved in community tourism as a way to protect and preserve this pristine environment while benefiting the local people.

Community Tourism:  A Real Game-Changer

Community tourism is more than just a buzzword; it’s a transformative approach that empowers local communities to take charge of their own destinies.

In the Vjosa WRNP, this concept has become a guiding light for sustainable development. It encourages the active participation of local residents in tourism activities, promoting the preservation of their cultural heritage and natural resources.

One of the most significant impacts of community tourism is the diversification of income sources for local communities.

Traditionally reliant on agriculture, forestry and fishing, the people of the Vjosa region are now finding new opportunities in tourism-related businesses. This not only improves their economic well-being but also allows them to stay connected to their land and traditions.

Now, let’s dive into why the Vjosa WRNP Community Tourism developments matter so much:

-Conservation and Awareness: This initiative brings visitors into close contact with the beauty and significance of the Vjosa River. It’s like turning them into eco-warriors who want to protect this natural gem. They become passionate advocates for conservation.

-Preserving Culture: The project places a strong emphasis on preserving the rich cultural heritage of the local communities. Tourists are encouraged to immerse themselves in local traditions, from traditional music and cuisine to handicrafts. This not only keeps these traditions alive but also helps local residents earn a living.

-Economic Diversification: Community tourism will open new doors for the locals, who traditionally depended on farming. Now, they’re finding new livelihoods in tourism-related businesses. This not only boosts their income but also lets them stay connected to their land and traditions.

-Empowerment and Ownership: The Vjosa WRNP community tourism initiatives empower local residents by giving them a say in their region’s development. They’re not just passive observers but active decision-makers, ensuring that tourism activities are sustainable and in harmony with their values.

-Preserving Natural Beauty: Sustainable tourism practices, like responsible rafting, biking, hiking and wildlife observation, ensure that the Vjosa River’s natural beauty stays unspoiled. This isn’t just great for the environment; it’s also crucial for the long-term success of tourism here.

-Education and Learning: Visitors don’t just come for the scenery; they come to learn about the Vjosa River’s unique ecological importance. This educational aspect makes them feel responsible for the environment, strengthening the river’s protection.

The Distinct Character of Albanians

But the Vjosa River isn’t the only gem in this region. Albania itself is a land of fascinating diversity and a unique character. The people, known for their warm hospitality, have a deep-rooted sense of identity and culture.

Albania’s cultural traditions are deeply rooted in its history and its people’s enduring spirit. From its distinctive polyphonic music, where multiple voices blend harmoniously, to its unique dances that reflect the country’s diverse regions, Albanian traditions are a testament to the resilience of its people.

The age-old Albanian adage, “Buke e kripe e zemer,” meaning “Bread, salt, and a kind heart,” embodies the very essence of Albanian hospitality.

It speaks to the values of the nation’s spirit, which is rooted in the idea that all that one possesses, no matter how little, should be shared with guests who have honored their home with their presence.

Let me share with you the authentic cultural heritage of remarkable places,  where Vjosa WRNP flows as a living river:

Gjirokastra, often called the “City of Stone,” is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Its well-preserved architecture is a testament to the rich history of this region. Strolling through its cobbled streets feels like stepping back in time. The locals are proud of their traditions, which include unique  “saze” music, dance, and culinary delights like gliko.

Here, you’ll find talented craftsmen creating exquisite hand-carved wooden and stone items, including furniture and decorative pieces, which often incorporate traditional motifs. In the nearly four-century-old reconstructed Characteristic Bazaar, traces of a tradition of working with wool, tapestries “sixhade”, embroidery, but also iron and wooden rosettes can be found. In this Bazaar, one of the city’s earliest crafts is also being cultivated, stone coffee.

The road by car from Tepelena towards Vlora, through the deep canyons of Bënça, stops in authentic villages like Gusmar, Lekdush dhe Progonat, meeting with the local shepherds of the area, or visiting the impressive waterfall of Peshtura and encountering the crystal-clear waters of the Vjosa River tributary, the Shushica river, offers one of the most dramatic views of the valley. Vlora, a coastal gem, owns beautiful beaches, a rich maritime history, and a unique connection to the sea reflected in local life and cuisine.

It’s also historically significant as the birthplace of Albania’s independence in 1912. When you venture into this region of the Vjosa River, you’ll have the chance to explore the Zvërnec and Sazan islands, home to ancient monasteries, unwind on Orikum Beach, uncover the wild allure of Karaburun Island, and appreciate the rich biodiversity of the Narta Lagoon.

Fier, on the other hand, is a city with a fascinating history dating back to ancient times. It’s home to some of the most impressive ancient ruins in Albania like Apollonia, which reveals its rich heritage through well-preserved archaeological ruins and captivating stories of the past.

As you stand amidst other well-preserved ruins of this historic city of Bylis, you’ll not only immerse yourself in Albania’s rich history but also be treated to an awe-inspiring vista of the Vjosa below.

Skilled artisans here craft pottery and ceramics using age-old techniques, often featuring intricate patterns and designs. These pieces serve as a beautiful testament to the city’s historical roots.

Korca, nestled in the southeastern part of Albania, intricately threads together a vibrant cultural mosaic. Known for its historic architecture and vibrant arts scene, Korca has managed to safeguard its traditions through the ages.

The city’s women, in particular, champion traditional craftsmanship, with a focus on weaving and embroidery. Their dedication underscores the vital role women play in preserving cultural heritage and traditions.

In Korca, community tourism serves as a conduit for the endurance and celebration of these traditions, connecting travelers to the city’s living cultural legacy.

The Vjosa WRNP Community Tourism developments represent a model of sustainable tourism that balances economic growth with environmental and cultural preservation.

This project is not just about attracting tourists; it’s about empowering local communities, preserving nature, and fostering a sense of responsibility for our planet.

As I stand here, watching the sun dip below the horizon, I am filled with hope for the future of the Vjosa River and its surrounding communities.

The journey from an unknown gem to a thriving community tourism destination is inspiring. It serves as a model of what is possible when local people, passionate environmental advocates, and responsible travelers come together for the greater good.

So, I invite you to experience the magic of the Vjosa WRNP and witness firsthand the incredible transformations happening here. Come and be a part of this inspiring journey towards a more sustainable and harmonious future for Vjosa and its people.

Remember, every visit, every story shared, and every choice you make as a traveler can make a difference.

Together, we can protect and empower the places we love, and the Vjosa WRNP is a shining example of what can be achieved when communities and tourists work hand in hand for a brighter, more sustainable future.

About the author:

My name is  Chloe Friedland, I’m a fourth-year student at McGill University, studying International Development and Social Entrepreneurship. I have a passion for travel because I love the way it can foster new perspectives. I am very interested in the Responsible Tourism Industry as I am committed to creating a positive impact for both communities around the world and the environment.

Myth 1: Sustainable tourism is ONLY about protecting the environment

Fact: Needless to say, environmental conservation is a significant aspect of sustainable tourism, however, it’s not the only one that should be prioritized. It is also about supporting local communities, preserving cultural heritage, and ensuring that economic benefits reach the local communities such that they get a fair share of their contributions.

Myth 2: One person can never make any difference in sustainable tourism

This is one of the biggest myths of all time. Every traveler can make a positive impact by making small yet responsible choices. These include – supporting small-scale local businesses, reducing plastic and other waste, mindfully spending on tourism activities, conserving natural resources, and respecting local cultures. Even a small action can create a global impact. When more people act as responsible travelers, the collective impact is significant.

Myth 3: Sustainable tourism is for the rich and wealthy

Fact: Sustainable tourism caters to all pockets. It can be affordable and accessible to travelers with diverse budgets. You can immerse yourself in eco-friendly accommodations or luxury hotels that prioritize sustainability. You can choose to travel by public transport or private transport with lower emissions. Sustainable tourism is for everyone.

Myth 4: Sustainable tourism only caters to the nature lovers

Fact: Sustainable tourism is for everyone, and you don’t need to be in a forest or a beach to enjoy it. You can immerse in sustainable tourism experiences even in cities, museums, luxury resorts, or remote villages.

Myth 5: Sustainable traveling restricts your experiences

Fact:  Sustainable travelling never restricts anyone’s experiences. Interestingly, it can surely enhance your travel journeys by connecting you with local cultures, traditions, and authentic experiences. Sustainable tourism offers what mass tourism often overlooks.

Sustainable tourism is about making conscious choices that prioritize the well-being of all – environment, people and communities. Banishing the myths can help promote a greater and much better understanding of the significance of sustainable tourism. It’s time that we take only memories and leave only footprints. When our planet does so much for us, what are you doing to keep this planet sustainable?

About the author:

Deeksha (she/her) is an international development sector professional with a keen focus on sustainable travelling and storytelling. She is passionate about finding creative ways to lead social change and making a positive contribution to both global and local communities. In her award-winning blog, YouInVerse, she creatively covers stories of travel, culture, sustainability and well-being from India and around the world. She strongly believes that there are stories everywhere and we should keep discovering the ones that inspire us to be better humans. Deeksha is a travel enthusiast and a passionate writer who believes in the power of storytelling for a peaceful and more compassionate world. She enjoys long walks, stargazing, reading and writing poetry, and will be delighted to have you visit her blog and read some stories.

Follow Deeksha on LinkedIn!