Tourism is one of the fastest growing industries in the world. It has become a major force for economic and social development. However, only one nickel out of every dollar spent by tourists in developing countries remains in the host region. Conventional tourism has many serious negative effects on local communities as well, such as disruption of local culture and pollution. Fortunately, opportunities are on the rise for travelers to make a positive difference. Check out these platforms that connect you with vetted local organizations to help you maximize your social impact with immersive experiences.
GOOD Travel
Set off with GOOD Travel to visit a trailblazing eco-village in Iceland or work on a solar energy project in Fifi. GOOD Travel hosts trips that make positive impacts in local economies, environments, and communities across the globe. You can join one of their existing trips or ask about building your custom itinerary.
Journey
Journey, offers six- to nine-day social impact excursions to domestic and international destinations. Journeys are comprised of two parts — impact work and cultural immersion — with projects such as school renovations, home construction and coral reef restoration. Each opportunity is a unique adventure into community, service, and self-discovery.
Operation Groundswell
Operation Groundswell is building a movement of “backpacktivists”, backpackers who have a passion for getting involved and giving. This organizations offers programs in 18 countries that are brimming with adventure, cultural education, and opportunities to volunteer. Choose a theme — education, environment, health, or human rights — or create your own topic to explore first-hand.
El Camino Travel
El Camino connects you with true Latin American culture throughout South America, the Caribbean, and Europe. You will interact with local businesses and artisans and let the natives show your their country as only they can. Many of El Camino’s “highly curated” recommendations are so new that they cannot be found on most popular trip planning websites.
For the Love of Travel
For the Love of Travel (FTLO), a boutique travel platform, promotes “slow” sustainable travel for Millennials. FTLO takes young globe trotters away from the hustle and bustle to connect deeply with local cultures around the US and abroad. To offset carbon footprints, FTLO plants 10 trees for each person who joins a trip.
Visit.org
Visit.org is a leading platform for socially responsible travelers. Visit.org offers activities and tours that directly benefit causes such as agriculture, human rights, and education. Choose a destination on any continent to support conservation, attend artisan workshops, or experience daily life in a village.