Africa Travel WeekAs 2021 heads towards a close and the tourism industry reflects on the year that was, many can be proud of their responsible tourism achievements and it’s time to recognise those that have been an example to others.
Being a responsible tourism rock star can take many forms, including a commitment to being environmentally friendly, generating future employment, going green, conserving the land and communities around you as well as travelling with a purpose.
WTM Responsible Tourism Awards aim to “discover, recognise and promote good practice”. These prestigious awards recognise businesses and destinations that make responsible tourism their focus to ensure they are discovered and celebrated, showing how they are cultivating change and pioneering creative projects that revolve around the wellbeing and sustainability of tourism and looking after the people and the landscapes that allow the industry to thrive.
Why is it important to be recognised for responsible tourism achievements?
An award shines a spotlight on what can be done! It’s a great opportunity to showcase your strategies and achievements and encourage others to do the same.
Iain Harris at Coffeebeans Routes in Cape Town, South Africa says,
“We enter because entering these awards compels us as a business to set up and function in a responsible manner. The Awards platform allows us to connect with other like-minded businesses who are attempting to operate in more responsible ways, and this strengthens relationships in the sector. It also helps collect a more critical consciousness around a need for sustainable practice and assists in creating the necessary momentum towards responsible practices in tourism.”
Glynn O’Leary of Transfrontier Parks Destinations says that the recognition of receiving an award helps in marketing efforts and demonstrates what they have achieved compared to what they set out to achieve.
“It’s an important part of our company and plays a vital role in charting the future and it makes business sense to do it.”
By being acknowledged for the hard work you are doing in responsible tourism here in Africa, it puts us on the map as a desirable travel destination. Younger generations are becoming more aware of their choices on earth, and want to travel responsibly. Awards such as the WTM Global Responsible Tourism Awards sets the compass and encourages our industry to take responsibility in creating sustainable travel and holiday experiences.
“Every year remarkable new responsible businesses and destinations are ‘discovered’ and recognised through the awards. Entering is an opportunity to showcase the impact you are having and what you have achieved. Being recognised will bring you a business advantage,” concludes Harold Goodwin, WTM Responsible Tourism Advisor.
This is your opportunity to shine, assist Africa in remaining a desirable travel destination and being recognised for the responsible tourism efforts that are changing the very earth we live on and the many lives around us.
To enter
Please click HERE and enter your email address.
Once the contact details are completed you will be emailed a direct personal link which you can always use to access your login.
https://www.wtm.com/responsible-tourism/en-gb/forms/entry-registration.html
Harold Goodwin
