Travel industry nonprofit Tourism Cares has refreshed its Meaningful Travel Map — a tool that helps users explore and book responsible, sustainable and community-minded travel experiences — making it easier for both travel advisors and consumers to use.
The new version of the map is more interactive, with improved listings that now highlight the people, communities and impact behind each business or organization; a more mobile-friendly design; and practical tools for the travel trade, such as filters, destination maps and itinerary tools.
Our Analysis: Easy Access to Clear Information Makes It Easier to Travel Responsibly
Making the choice to travel more responsibly often comes down to the availability — or lack — of easily accessible and understandable information. Sustainability is an increasingly complex issue that often confuses travelers, and even industry professionals. By providing clear, easy access to vetted travel providers and experiences that will help clients make a positive impact in the destinations and communities they visit, the Meaningful Travel Map cuts out the heavy lifting for advisors, and helps inspire travelers to make better choices about where their vacation dollars go.
Fast Facts:
- The Meaningful Travel Map functions as an itinerary builder for travel professionals, as well as an inspiration hub for travelers.
- The platform is designed to uplift smaller, community-led businesses rooted in impact, giving them greater visibility.
- Choosing operators from the map keeps more tourism dollars within local communities, among other benefits.
- Every organization and operator featured on the map is vetted against a clear set of criteria.
What They Are Saying: The Map Creates Connections Between Travelers and Communities
“The Meaningful Travel Map has always been about connecting the heart of travel with the heart of communities,” said Greg Takehara, CEO of Tourism Cares. “At a time when it can feel harder than ever to identify and support truly sustainable options, this new platform gives travel professionals and travelers a simple, hopeful way forward. Every time someone uses the Map, they are choosing experiences that protect our planet, honor local culture and sustain the people who welcome us. That is the kind of tourism our industry, and our world, needs more of right now.”
