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As technology increases and the world shrinks, we
truly are becoming more and more of a global village. With our ability to reach
previously inaccessible destinations, that village is not only virtual but
physical, as well. Like good stewards, the challenge we face as developed
nations is to assist and empower our less fortunate neighbors, without
destroying their unique natural and cultural heritage.
It seems fitting that over the last three decades
as mass tourism has become commonplace, we’ve realized the need for ecologically
sensitive travel and have as a global culture embraced the need to accept social
responsibility for the land as well as its people.
The tour hosts highlighted this month have all
made eco-tourism an active part of their operations, not simply as a marketing
term, and we salute them. Many others have written articles for this issue. With
all the problems our world faces today, the tourism industry has a prominent
role in preserving and protecting our cultural and natural resources. I am
honored that Cultural Travels can play its small part.
This
month's tour hosts review:
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Ker and Downey
Pick of
the Month |
|
Location: East Africa |
| Specialty:
Lodge and luxury tented safaris |
| Why
We Like Them: Over 40 years
dedicated to introducing travelers to the diversity of
Africa and to preserving the natural wonders of the region.
Through environmentally conscious land use and programs
committed to maintaining
cultural and natural integrity, involvement of the local peoples in the uses and
conservation of their resources, and a commitment to providing their guests with
a great experience, Ker and Downey stand out for their years of dedication to
eco-tourism long before it was a popular marketing phrase. A company committed
to the health and wealth of its destinations, it is my choice for this month’s
Tour Host Pick. |
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Dreamweaver Travel Company |
|
Location: West Africa |
| Specialty: Ecologically and culturally sensitive travel |
| Why
We Like Them: After 12 years living and working in West Africa
with the Peace Corps, company founder Dudley Parkinson
decided to share his love of the region with fellow
travelers. By creating experiences that are beneficial for
both the local communities and the traveler, Dreamweaver Travel fosters an
understanding of Western African culture while insuring that the negative impact
on the land and its people is minimal. |
|
Article:
High Adventure in the Heart of
Africa
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Great Canadian EcoVentures |
|
Location: Canada’s Northwest Territories and Artic Circle |
| Specialty: Wilderness and wildlife experiences |
| Why
We Like Them: A fantastic web site filled with information and
incredible photographs of the region and 30+ years of
experience are good indications that “Tundra Tom” and his
crew can lead you on a journey to be remembered. Trips
include special wildlife photography expeditions, Dreamcatcher
natural history journeys, and Artic outpost expeditions to view the incredible
wildlife and Northern Lights. |
|
Article:
Tales of the Tundra
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Andean Trails |
|
Location: South America |
| Specialty:
Active adventures trekking, hiking and biking through the Andes |
| Why
We Like Them: A dedication to the
people and environments they serve. Their article is an
eye-opener as to the exploitation of local people some
companies engage in and a great insight into why the
seemingly same trip costs more from different operators. If
a company cares about the local families and people working
for them, you can bet they do a great job for their clients
as well. |
|
Article:
Don't walk all over them |
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Discover Ltd & the Kasbah du
Toubkal |
|
Location: Morocco |
| Specialty: Berber hospitality center and hotel near
Marrakech |
| Why
We Like Them: Taking the ruins of a 1940’s Kasbah and renovating it
into a local center for travelers to Jbel Toubkal (a major trekking spot and highest
mountain in the High Atlas range) and those seeking to understand the Berber
culture, this property can be visited for a day or extended stays can be
arranged. The property helps regenerate the local area with employment, not only
during restoration, but by generating business that have sprung up to service
the needs of visitors. Had I known about the Kasbah during my trip to Morocco a
few years ago, I would have been sure to stay and experience Berber life
up-close. |
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Maine Audubon |
|
Location: United States |
| Specialty: Nature tours and camps
|
| Why
We Like Them: Dedicated to protecting the birds and natural
environment of Maine, the organization offers a series of
classes and fieldtrips to introduce people to the natural
treasures in their own backyards. One such educational
experience is Audubon’s camp on Hog Island. The core program
of the island for over 60 years has been the Natural History
of the Maine Coast. For the more active, Audubon has a
couple of kayaking programs and for those just looking to
get away and enjoy a retreat from everyday life, the island
can serve as a retreat center for independent discovery and
relaxation.
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Proyecto Campanario |
|
Location: Costa Rica |
| Specialty:
Rainforest Biological Reserve |
| Why
We Like Them: A remote reserve accessible only by boat and
traversed by foot. As close to nature as you can get with jungle accommodations;
tent cabins with “garden” bathrooms and fast food – plucking a fruit as you pass
by! Programs include, rainforest conservation, a tropical ecology course,
internships and a volunteer program. The reserve returns to its local community
with education gifts from its visitors and special educational experiences for
the local children.
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