"Go explore ..."

So many travellers are forced to think about the ramifications of the most simplest of trips in a modern society that regularly uses such buzzwords as "sustainability" or "eco" as a method of questioning weather or not this trip is necessary in the first place...

So what to do? Fortunately a new report from Ethical Traveler helps to smooth the way by showing the 10 best developing places to go that are best protecting their natural environments, promoting responsible travel, and building a tourism industry which provides real benefits to local communities. ...

They say "Are you the kind of traveler who wants to have a great time AND feel good about where your travel budget is going?..."

"In drafting our report, we use scores of information sources - including publicly available data - to rate each country's genuine commitment to environmental protection, social welfare, and human rights," said Christy Hoover, co-author of the report. "Data sources include the United Nations Development Program, Human Rights Watch, Columbia University, Reporters Without Borders, the Millennium Challenge Corporation, and many others. Private interviews with NGO leaders are part of the process, as well."

So, to help you sleep at night instead of worrying too much, visit http://www.eturbonews.com/13108/new-report-helps-travelers-plan-ethical-vacations for more information.

Barticus.

"It's good to be green..."

With people now starting to run scared from the ecological results of their family vacations, it is good to see guidance as to the options available within the "Green" marketplace...

In this article, Richard Hammond, travel editor of National Geographic's new "Green" supplement, recommends five eco-friendly trips for the new year...

From city breaks with rail and ride holidays in Amsterdam, to the idyllic countryside setting of tree houses in Italy, this article shows how it is possible for even the most green conscious of us to have a good holiday...

Read more at http://www.guardian.co.uk/travel/2009/nov/27/green-short-breaks-2010

Barticus.

'Never Give Up!'...

I have found this interesting article in the guardian on Montserrat that I would like to share with you all...

Between the years 1995 and 1997 tradgedy strikes. Volcano erruptions have devastated the island and its wonders. One of many who were affected by this disaster was David Payne, a man who built an eco-camp and was due to open it to the world in 1995. But he did not give up and over the past 12 months has recreated his vision and now welcomes tourists for the ultimate experience. Although Montserrat has not got the highest visitor numbers when compared to other Caribbean Islands, it is slowly and successfully making a positive name for itself due to the gems it has to offer, such as pearly beaches, clear waters, astounding wildlife and good food made from fresh local produce.

It looks like tourism is on the increase for Montserrat! So to follow this remarkable story click below...
http://www.guardian.co.uk/travel/2009/nov/14/montserrat-island-tourism-volcano?page=all

G.T.I.

"Australians sing when they are winning...."

Eco Tourism in Australia got a nice boost when Daintree Eco Lodge & Spa was judged the ‘World’s Leading Eco Lodge’ at the World Travel Awards in London earlier this month....

Minister for Tourism, Martin Ferguson said: “The World Travel Awards acknowledge excellence across the global tourism industry and it is wonderful to see Australian businesses recognised...

“The future success of Australia’s travel and tourism sectors depends upon the development of high quality and innovative product and services and pioneering companies such as the Daintree Eco Lodge & Spa are to be commended...

Tourism Australia and 94 partner organisations have also invested almost $4 million to separate hard-working Australians their 123 million days of accrued leave, worth around $33 billion....

Well done to them. Follow this story at http://minister.ret.gov.au/TheHonMartinFergusonMP/Pages/MINISTERWELCOMESINTERNATIONALACHIEVEMENT.aspx

Barticus.