Responsible Tourism Awards 2008

The Responsible Tourism Awards are now into their fifth year.

The idea behind the Awards is that all types of tourism – from niche to mainstream – can and should be operated in a way that respects and benefits destinations and local people. The Awards recognize individuals, companies and organizations in travel that are making a big commitment to the culture and economies of local communities and helping to conserve biodiversity.

They’re a little different from other awards schemes in that winners are nominated by travelers. The deadline for receiving nominations this year is Monday 16 June so you better get a move on! Nominations can be made there before that date, and I encourage you to do so if you’ve perhaps stayed in a great little lodge or perhaps traveled with a tour operator who you were impressed with their responsible attitude towards the environment.

Last year there were over 1,700 nominations, the video below shows you last year’s overall winner.