In the realm of travel, a new ethos is taking root—one that emphasizes sustainability and responsibility towards the environments, cultures, and economies of host countries. Vietnamese tour companies are at the forefront of this movement, particularly in Vietnam and the broader Indochina region. These organizations are not only offering travelers immersive experiences but are also actively contributing to the welfare of local communities and the preservation of natural habitats.
Eco and responsible travel have become increasingly popular as travelers seek to minimize their environmental footprint and engage with local cultures in a meaningful way. This approach to tourism is multifaceted, focusing on:
A consortium of travel companies has established the Responsible Travel Club of Vietnam (RTC), which collaborates with non-governmental organizations (NGOs) like SNV (Netherlands Development Organization) and Caritas Switzerland. These partnerships have led to the creation of travel products that not only offer unique explorations of Vietnam, Cambodia, and Laos but also incorporate activities that directly benefit local communities and ecosystems.
One of the standout offerings from ACTIVETRAVEL ASIA (ATA) is the Ha Giang Tour, a 14-day journey through Northern Vietnam that combines sightseeing with community engagement. Travelers traverse the region on motorbikes, stopping in villages to learn about NGO-led initiatives that preserve Vietnamese culture and heritage. This tour exemplifies how tourism can be a force for good, educating visitors on responsible travel practices while supporting local development.
ACTIVETRAVEL ASIA and Caritas are also working to educate ethnic communities in Quang Ba and Ha Giang on how to host travelers responsibly and safeguard their natural and cultural resources. These efforts extend to supporting education for local children, providing them with resources to learn and grow, and offering travelers a chance to contribute positively to the lives of these young individuals.
The initiatives by ATA are just the beginning. More responsible travel products are set to launch in 2021, expanding the reach of sustainable tourism across Vietnam, Cambodia, and Laos. These upcoming tours promise to deliver experiences that are not only memorable for travelers but also beneficial for the host communities and environments.
While the concept of eco and responsible travel is gaining traction, there are some compelling statistics that highlight its importance:
These figures demonstrate the growing demand for travel options that prioritize sustainability and the potential economic benefits for communities that embrace responsible tourism practices.
In conclusion, Vietnamese tour companies are leading the charge in promoting eco and responsible travel in Indochina. Through their innovative tours and collaborations with NGOs, they are setting a new standard for tourism—one that respects and enriches both travelers and host communities alike.
ACTIVETRAVEL ASIA Unveils 2012 Vietnam Travel Photo Contest
ACTIVETRAVEL ASIA (ATA), a premier adventure travel company in Indochina, has initiated a captivating photo contest titled "Vietnam in your heart is…" for global travelers. This contest invites participants to submit their most memorable travel photos from Vietnam, offering a chance to win exceptional prizes including luxury cruises and exclusive tours. The contest, which runs from November 12, 2012, to January 31, 2013, aims to showcase the unique beauty and cultural richness of Vietnam through the eyes of its visitors.
Exploring the Thrills of Adventure Travel
Adventure travel is not just about scaling mountains or rafting through raging rivers; it encompasses a broad spectrum of activities that can range from the serene, such as wine tasting tours, to the extreme, like motorcycling across the Ho Chi Minh trail in Vietnam. This form of travel is about stepping out of the familiar and embracing the unknown, offering enriching experiences that differ markedly from typical vacation pursuits.
Vietnam in Top 10 Cycle Routes Recommended by National Geographic
Vietnam's scenic route from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City has been recognized as one of the top ten cycle routes globally by National Geographic. This prestigious acknowledgment highlights the route's stunning landscapes, cultural richness, and challenging terrain, making it a must-visit for cycling enthusiasts.
