Responsible Travel

This page sets out what I ask of tour operators when I plan a holiday, what I ask of the clients who travel with me, and the payment included in holidays that include flights.

Holidays with flights

Holidays that include flights include a £15 payment to Sustainable Travel International, a non-profit working to protect vulnerable destinations and the communities who live there. It is part of the holiday price, there is no opt-out, and I keep a record of each payment.

Wildlife first

If you believe animals deserve freedom and dignity, you will feel at home with my approach. My Animal Welfare Policy rules out wild animal shows, swimming with dolphins, washing elephants and holding wild animals for photographs. I look for experiences where wildlife is watched in its natural habitat without being disturbed.

For more on why this matters, read my blog on rethinking wildlife tourism.

Watching wildlife from a respectful distance, with a guide.

What I ask tour operators for

When I request a quote from a tour operator, I ask for locally owned accommodation and local guides where the trip allows. The operators choose their own, so what is included varies by itinerary.

For practical ideas you can use on any trip, see my responsible travel tips.

The Traveller’s Pledge

I invite every client to take the Traveller’s Pledge. It is a promise to see the world with open eyes, care for the places we love and inspire others to do the same. By travelling this way, you join the people who believe holidays can have purpose as well as pleasure.

• Embrace community: support and respect local traditions and customs.
• Care for places: take your rubbish with you, stay on marked paths and follow your guide’s instructions around wildlife.
• Spend locally: choose local guides, restaurants and shops where you can.
• Respect heritage: follow the rules at cultural and heritage sites, and ask before photographing people.
• Consume responsibly: be mindful of water, energy and single-use plastic while you travel.
• Share experiences: inspire others to travel with awareness by telling your own stories.

For reassurance on service and expertise, see Why Book With Me or read real stories on Client Testimonials. Explore more ideas in my blogs on rethinking wildlife tourism and responsible travel tips.

Ready to plan responsibly?

If you want a holiday that reflects your values as well as your dreams, let’s design it together.