Booking your next holiday? Consider these six trailblazing travel companies that are making a significant difference in the world. The winners of this year’s Global Responsible Tourism Awards show that tourism can be a force for good, fostering inclusivity, environmental sustainability, and economic growth for local communities.
Celebrating its 20th anniversary, the Responsible Tourism Awards are a prominent initiative spearheaded by the non-profit International Centre for Responsible Tourism Global. These awards recognize businesses that go beyond traditional tourism practices, highlighting those that embrace sustainability and contribute positively to the environments and communities they operate in. The awards serve as both an inspiration and a benchmark for other companies to follow in their footsteps.
The importance of such awards is heightened in the current climate. With global travel bouncing back to pre-pandemic levels, tourism continues to be a vital sector that supports millions of jobs worldwide. However, it also presents significant challenges, especially in terms of its environmental, cultural, and economic impacts. Supporting businesses that prioritize local communities and the planet not only benefits travelers but also helps ensure that tourism leaves a positive legacy. The 2024 winners exemplify how responsible travel can enhance cultural exchange, provide extraordinary nature experiences, and promote sustainability.
Tess Longfield, Head of Sustainability Communications at Sabre, a sponsor of the awards, emphasized that the winners are doing extraordinary work to foster a more equitable and sustainable world through tourism. “It’s a testament to the power of responsible travel to make a real difference,” Longfield said.
Here are six outstanding travel companies to consider for your next trip:
Grootbos Private Nature Reserve, South Africa
Winner of the “Employing and Upskilling Local Communities” category, Grootbos Private Nature Reserve offers an eco-conscious experience in 3,500 hectares of South African wilderness. The lodge not only provides unique ecotourism experiences, such as coastal safaris and guided walks through rich fynbos, but it also invests in the local community. Profits from the reserve fund the Grootbos Foundation, which provides vital training in hospitality, horticulture, entrepreneurship, and biodiversity to hundreds of locals. This initiative has a far-reaching impact, offering skills that help alleviate unemployment in the region while also promoting conservation.
Rajasthan Studio, India
This winner in the “Championing Cultural Diversity” category curates authentic art experiences in Rajasthan. Travelers can meet master artisans in their studios, learn about traditional handicrafts, and even create personalized souvenirs. Rajasthan Studio celebrates the region’s rich art heritage, offering rare experiences such as Jaipur’s blue pottery, Udaipur’s sea foam carving, and Jodhpur’s leather juttis. The company’s business model supports the local arts community while giving travelers an immersive cultural experience. This approach is expected to expand to other regions across India.
Sivatel Bangkok Hotel, Thailand
Winner in the “Increasing Local Sourcing and Creating Shared Value” category, Sivatel Bangkok has pioneered sustainable practices by sourcing 70% of its ingredients locally and partnering with over 50 local farmers. The hotel supports a sustainable ecosystem through initiatives like the “Sivatel Sustainable Market,” which allows local artisans and food producers to sell their goods to travelers. Additionally, the hotel runs a unique “From Kitchen to Chicken” program that recycles food scraps to nourish chickens raised for the hotel’s kitchen. These efforts demonstrate a robust model for integrating sustainability into hospitality.
TUI UK&I, United Kingdom
TUI won the “Making Tourism Inclusive” award for its comprehensive strategy to serve holidaymakers with access needs. With 90 specially trained agents, TUI has partnered with AccessAble to provide detailed accessibility guides for hotels. The company also offers sign language interpreting services through Sign Live. TUI’s inclusive approach ensures that travelers with disabilities or specific access needs can enjoy a seamless booking experience, setting a standard for others in the industry.
Jetwing Hotels, Sri Lanka
This year’s winner for “What Are You Doing About Climate Change?” Jetwing Hotels has made impressive strides in reducing its environmental footprint. Across its 19 hotels, the group utilizes renewable energy sources like biomass, solar, and biogas, making it a leader in sustainable tourism. By locally sourcing 40% of their supplies, the hotels reduce transport emissions while also supporting local businesses. Jetwing’s dedication to eco-friendly practices has led to energy savings and inspired other small-scale hotels to follow suit.
CREES, Peru
Winner of the “Nature Positive” award, CREES operates in the Manu Biosphere Reserve in Peru, offering eco-tourism experiences that directly contribute to biodiversity conservation. Visitors can participate in conservation projects, such as monitoring wildlife and restoring degraded forests. CREES is committed to promoting sustainable tourism that supports human rights and biodiversity, ensuring long-term environmental and economic benefits for local communities.
These companies represent the future of travel, showing that tourism can be both transformative and sustainable. Whether you are interested in cultural experiences, nature conservation, or supporting local communities, booking with these responsible businesses will ensure your holiday makes a positive impact on the world.
