Tourism Cares

#FeaturedFriday: 🌟 Impact Partner Spotlight: Kichwa Pathfinder Tours Ecuador Tourism Cares is proud to highlight Kichwa Pathfinder Tours, a beacon of sustainable tourism and cultural preservation in the Amazon. Nestled in the heart of the rainforest, Kichwa Pathfinder Tours bridges worlds through cultural immersion and ecological enlightenment. They curate travel experiences that honor Indigenous Kichwa culture, inviting adventurers to explore the Amazon's beauty and biodiversity while fostering sustainable tourism that benefits both guests and the indigenous communities they serve. 🌳 Through respectful engagement and authentic storytelling, Kichwa Pathfinder Tours preserves heritage and promotes environmental stewardship. Their unique offerings, such as the Paddle Tour in the Cuyabeno Wildlife Reserve and the Community Stay Package, allow guests to navigate the rainforest's waterways, encounter diverse wildlife, and live among the Kichwa people to learn about their culture and traditions firsthand. These initiatives reflect their dedication to creating memorable journeys that positively impact the Kichwa people and preserve the Amazon's natural and cultural richness. Join us in celebrating Kichwa Pathfinder Tours' commitment to sustainability and cultural preservation, ensuring the Amazon and its guardians flourish for generations to come. 🌿 Learn more about them here: https://hubs.ly/Q02GXZG50 #TourismCares #MeaningfulWillamette #SustainableTourism #CulturalPreservation #ImpactPartner

We are excited to see Tourism Cares' Impact Partner, T̓iick̓in (T-Bird) E-Bikes, featured in a recent article from Tin Wis Resort: https://hubs.ly/Q02GXlK30. T̓iick̓in (Thunderbird) E-Bike Rentals is one of the first Indigenous-owned e-bike businesses in Canada. They promote eco-friendly travel by encouraging e-bike use over cars, significantly reducing environmental impact. This exciting partnership with Tin Wis Resort not only supports sustainable travel but also fosters deeper connections with the Yuułuʔiłʔatḥ First Nation. As Gordon Taylor from T̓iick̓in E-Bikes states, this collaboration will help them "grow that extra step in developing our E-transportation system, because it’s not just Ebikes. We want to help heal our land as well, so trying to be environmentally conscious." Learn more about their incredible work here: https://hubs.ly/Q02GXX500

🌱 Willamette Wednesday Spotlight: Adventures Without Limits 🌱 Tourism Cares is proud to highlight Adventures Without Limits (AWL), a nonprofit organization dedicated to serving people with disabilities through inclusive programming. Located in the Portland metro area, AWL is the only organization in the region committed to this mission. Their Commitment to Inclusivity Includes: 🔹 Adaptive Gear and Equipment: AWL boasts a fleet of specialized equipment and extensive outfitting gear, enabling them to serve populations that may need adaptive gear or lack proper attire. This allows AWL to offer unique opportunities to those who might otherwise miss out. 🔹 Inclusive Programs: Their programs ensure that every guest enjoys a memorable and meaningful experience beyond just a day outside, fostering a sense of belonging and adventure for all. 🔹 Impact on the Community: AWL's mission is to provide opportunities and adventures for all people, regardless of their ability levels, socio-economic status, gender, ethnicity, or age. Join us in celebrating Adventures Without Limits' dedication to inclusivity and their efforts in creating a meaningful and accessible outdoor experience for everyone. 🌿✨ Learn more here: https://hubs.ly/Q02GXrMh0 #TourismCares #MeaningfulWillamette #InclusiveAdventure #ImpactPartner

Join us July 31st!

🌍 As travel professionals, we know the growing demand for sustainable travel experiences is shaping our industry. Yet, the 'intention gap'—the difference between travelers wanting eco-friendly trips and actually booking them—remains a challenge. This is where B Corp certifications can come in. These badges help identify companies committed to making a positive social and environmental impact. A recent National Geographic article delves into the rigorous process of becoming a B Corp, highlighting the impact these certifications have on promoting responsible travel and bridging the intention gap. B Corps are reshaping the travel industry by holding companies accountable for their environmental and social practices. From reducing carbon footprints to supporting local communities, B Corps set new standards for sustainability. However, the article notes that the standards and metrics used for certification may not always align perfectly with the unique aspects of the travel and tourism sector, making it challenging for companies to meet all requirements. Are you considering B Corp certification for your business? How do you communicate your sustainability efforts to clients and partners? Read the article below, and let's discuss in the comments! 💬 https://hubs.ly/Q02GKv0x0

Be sure to catch up with our incredible team members this week at Destinations International's Annual Convention in Visit Tampa Bay: ✨ John Sutherland, Senior Director of Community Impact ✨ Carrie Hodgen, Director of Community Development ✨ Greg Takehara, CEO We look forward to engaging with fellow industry professionals and exploring the latest trends and innovations shaping our industry. Will we see you in Tampa? 🌞🌴 #TourismCares #DestinationsInternational

👀 ICYMI: Check out the recording of yesterday's exciting webinar, "Meaningful Travel Spotlight: Inspiration and Insight from Communities Generating Positive Impact in Panama." Hosted by Tourism Cares and Visit Panama, this webinar dives into Panama's sustainable tourism offerings and highlights the Impact Partners featured on the Meaningful Travel Map of Panama. Panama is the latest host of the Tourism Cares Global Meaningful Travel Summit, and this webinar features Panamanian changemakers and destination experts who provide insights on how to create more enriching and responsible travel experiences in Panama. Watch it here: https://hubs.ly/Q02GqnKg0

At the heart of all unforgettable travel experiences are the stories of the people and communities we visit. In an age where travelers seek more meaningful and enriching experiences, community-based tourism can be a powerful tool, immersing travelers in local cultures while empowering communities to manage and benefit from their own tourism offerings. Our recent blog post, "How Community-Based Tourism Empowers Locals and Enhances Travel," delves into the transformative potential of community-based tourism. Discover inspiring initiatives from around the world, and see how you can help create a meaningful future for local communities and travelers alike. Read the full blog here: https://hubs.ly/Q02G2WkX0

🌱 Willamette Wednesday Spotlight: The Museum of Natural and Cultural History Tourism Cares is excited to spotlight our new Impact Partner, the Museum of Natural and Cultural History (MNCH) in Eugene, Oregon. This institution is a beacon of interdisciplinary research and education, enriching the community with its deep-rooted connections to Oregon's diverse environments and cultures. ✨ Impact: From the dynamic "Underwater Forests—Oregon’s Kelp Ecosystems" exhibit to the impactful "Outliers and Outlaws—Stories from the Eugene Lesbian History Project," MNCH showcases a blend of cultural and natural history that inspires profound connections between people and the natural world. The museum's commitment to decolonization through projects like the Diversity Action Plan ensures inclusivity and honors cultural heritage within its collections. 📣 We are thrilled that MNCH will be featured in our program at the Meaningful Travel Summit with the Willamette Valley, from Sept 30 - Oct 2 in Eugene, OR! Register here: https://hubs.ly/Q02G0Gl80 #MeaningfulWillamette #WhenTourismCares

🌳 Amidst a wave of tourist restrictions and fees in crowded European destinations, Copenhagen is taking a different path: rewarding responsible tourists. Starting July 15, visitors who engage in climate-friendly activities will receive free access to museum tours, kayak rentals, meals, and more. This initiative aims to transform tourism into a force for positive change by incentivizing climate-friendly behaviors. 🤔 What do you think? Will rewarding eco-friendly tourists be more effective than the restrictions and fees other European countries are imposing? Check out the article and share your thoughts with us below 👇 https://lnkd.in/e_uKPvMp