Why should I believe you? Where’s the proof?

 Award winning volunteer recruitment organisation, people and places, wants all potential volunteers to ask these questions.

 The people and places team are an odd lot. They actively encourage their volunteers to comment, question and criticise – and then share that criticism with future volunteers!

 They keep as little of the volunteers’ money as possible, also telling volunteers upfront how much that will be!

 And now they’ve done something else that’s pretty radical – they’ve invited an independent auditor to come and check out their claims.

 “The main reason we started people and places was that we knew volunteering should be a win-win situation, for communities and volunteers alike – and we wanted to prove that it could be. We’ve been surprised, and were somewhat naive perhaps, to see how some organisations have adopted the current  buzz words of ‘responsible’ ‘sustainable’ and ‘community-driven’ to create a smoke and mirrors effect, confusing potential volunteers.

 “And the sleight of hand used by many organisations when explaining where funds are used often takes our breath away.

“So now we want potential volunteers to say ‘PROVE IT’,” says Sallie Grayson, programme director.

 people and places has undergone an independent audit of the claims they make in their responsible travel policy – here are just a few examples:

• 80% or more of volunteers’ monies reaching host countries – confirmed
• volunteers know where and how their money is spent  – confirmed
• all volunteers are screened  – confirmed
• matching skills to need  – confirmed
• comprehensive preparation -  confirmed
• local projects run by local people – confirmed

Undertaken by The Responsible Tourism Partnership – http://www.theresponsibletourismpartnership.org/ – this audit is a good workable alternative to a code of practise. The biggest problem with a code of practice is policing – who polices it and how? And where’s the encouragement for organisations to continue to improve?

 Only claims the organisation makes for itself are audited – so:

You say you conserve thousands of litres of water a month – prove it.

You say you only employ local people – prove it.

You say 30% of monies are used on project development – prove it.

 people and places , the first organisation to undergo this audit, hopes there will be many other organisations following this example.

“We will most assuredly be using the audit to strengthen our work in the next twelve months. We know that other organisations are already undergoing the same process. The audit isn’t about proving you’re perfect – it’s about proving that you’re doing what you say you’ll do. These are your promises – no-one else’s,” says Grayson.

 The campaigning work of people and places was recently recognised by The Virgin Holidays Responsible Tourism Awards 2009, when they won the award for Best Volunteering Organisation.

 “people and places has exercised leadership in a sector bedevilled by poor practice and established a replicable business model. Committed to reporting transparently on the money that volunteers pay, they ensure that the volunteers meet their full costs and are not a burden on the community; and carefully match the skills of volunteers to the needs of that community without replacing local labour. They have taken the ground breaking step of having their work externally audited and publishing it online.  These four principles set not only a practicable standard for operators to aspire to, but offer valuable guidelines for tourists seeking legitimate and socially beneficial volunteering experiences.”The Judges Citation

For a full copy of the audit go to http://www.travel-peopleandplaces.co.uk/PressView.aspx?id=29

 To read the latest newsletter go to http://www.travel-peopleandplaces.co.uk/userfiles/NEWSLETTER%20MASTER%20WINTER%2009%20(2).pdf

people and places is an active member of Ethical Junction, learn more

Add your travel tip for the chance to win a signed print from award winning wildlife photographer Andy Rouse

Tourism Western Australia and responsibletravel.com are creating an insider’s guide to Western Australia (WA), including the best sustainable tours and places to stay and travel secrets from locals. As part of this we are searching for the best travel tips and photos from anyone who has travelled in Western Australia to be part of this online guide.

The best tip or photo will win a place in the guide and a signed print of their choice from world renowned wildlife photographer Andy Rouse, who had his first taste of Western Australia earlier this year. His tips on visiting Western Australia’s Ningaloo Reef will also be part of the guide. The runner up will win a signed copy of Andy’s Living Landscapes book.

Western Australia might be Australia’s largest state, taking up almost a third of the country, but in many ways it is also the most undiscovered. Geographers are still mapping islands off the northwest coast; scientists are still discovering new species of flora and fauna and traditionally tourists headed east. This means its 12,500km of pearly-white coastline, rugged outback and lush forests teaming with rare wildlife are unspoilt and travellers can often experience the extraordinary scenery all to themselves.

The insider’s guide, which will launch on 9th November, highlights the best natural and cultural experiences in Western Australia, from camping in national parks and swimming with turtles at Ningaloo Reef to learning more about the aboriginal heritage which surrounds the ochre and black stripped domes of the Bungle Bungles. It goes beyond a normal guide with video and podcasts featuring insider tips from locals on where to go and what to do.

All accommodation and tours featured are selected on the basis of a rigourous responsible travel policy and ability to offer a distinctive travel experience that benefits the local community, while sustaining the area’s natural and cultural heritage.

Christie Lord, Tourism Western Australia’s UK Marketing Manager added: “Tourists increasingly want more authentic and locally distinctive holiday experiences. We want to bring together insider knowledge from locals with advice from other travellers to help tourists to discover Western Australia’s best experiences. Whether it’s the best snorkeling spot on Ningaloo Reef or an amazing local restaurant, it’s about having an unforgettable experience which also benefits local communities and supports conservation.”

To enter, got to the competition page on IKnowAGreatPlace.com, add your tips and insider knowledge or upload your favourite snaps. When choosing tags, make sure you include Western Australia competition under ‘Select activities’. If you are not already a member, registering is free and easy. Closing date for competition is midnight on Friday 5th November 2009. Entries will be judged on originality and insight.

http://www.iknowagreatplace.com/ offers:

• Forums – find answers to your questions from travellers and locals


• Tips – swap ideas on great places to visit and great things to see and do


• Photos – upload albums and inspire others with great images of your travels


• Diaries – record your travel tales and stay connected with family and friends whilst on the road


• Travel companions – meet people to travel with on your next adventure

responsibletravel.com, the world’s leading travel agent for responsible holidays, has announced today that it plans to remove the facility for its customers to offset carbon emissions via its website. The company was among the first travel organisations to introduce carbon offsets in early 2002, and is now one of the first to remove them for environmental reasons.

Justin Francis, MD, responsibletravel.com said: “We have thought long and hard about how we can continue to offer our customers the leading advice they expect from a responsible tourism business when it comes to the fast growing impact of flying on the environment.

“We believe that the travel industry’s priority must be to reduce carbon emissions, rather than to offset. Too often offsets are being used by the tourism industry in developed countries to justify growth plans on the basis that money will be donated to projects in developing countries. Global reduction targets will not be met this way.”

Francis agrees with the recent report by Friends of the Earth which labelled offsets as a ‘dangerous distraction’(1):
“Carbon offsets distract tourists from the need to reduce their emissions. They create a ‘medieval pardon’ for us to carry on behaving in the same way (or worse).”

responsibletravel.com has sought advice from Friends of the Earth to put in place a clear, alternative ‘carbon caution’ for travellers offering advice and tips (see www.responsibletravel.com/carboncaution).

Tips for travellers

Francis summarises responsibletravel.com’s advice to travellers:
“Ultimately we need to reduce our carbon emissions. We can do this by flying less – travelling by train or taking holidays closer to home for example, and by making carbon reductions in other areas of our lifestyles too, alongside travel.

“There is no hiding the fact that tourists will continue to want to visit destinations requiring a flight, and that tourism contributes to livelihoods, local economic development and the conservation of the world’s cultural and natural heritage. We will continue to offer a more responsible choice of overseas holiday so that when tourists do fly they can ‘make their holiday count’ by choosing a more responsible holiday.”

Alongside the new advice page, responsibletravel.com aims to help responsible travellers by offering:

• Over 200 UK based holidays. The UK is now the best selling destination on the website as many of its UK-based customers chose to holiday closer to home.


• The functionality to book Europe and worldwide train tickets or UK train tickets to reach their holiday destination.


• A special section dedicated to holidays whose organisers have gone that extra mile in helping travellers choose more environmentally friendly methods of transport. See lower carbon travel holidays.


• Thousands of holidays around the world that work towards reducing their carbon footprint within destinations as much as possible.

responsibletravel.com offers over 3,500 holidays around the world, all of which can be booked as ‘land only’ holidays.

For further information and advice see: www.responsibletravel.com/carboncaution

responsibletravel.com has also teamed up with leading responsible tourism academic Professor Harold Goodwin, Director International Centre for Responsible Tourism on his FlySmart Campaign for Responsible Aviation: http://www.flysmart.org/ . The campaign supports a Carbon Friendly Flight Search functionality, enabling travellers to search and compare the cheapest and most environmentally friendly fares available around the world.

For further information on Harold Goodwin’s FlySmart campaign visit: http://www.flysmart.org/

For interviews with Justin Francis or Harold Goodwin, please contact Krissy Roe: press@responsibletravel.com or 01273 648 519.

1. http://www.foe.co.uk/campaigns/climate/news/dangerous_distraction_20319.html

15%
off Peak District self catering accommodation for two people -
from £237 per cottage for two nights short break before 27 August

Set
in a peaceful location close to Buxton, Derbyshire this farm occupies
a stunning position in one of the Peak District’s most breathtaking
valleys. It is equipped with the latest in green building technology
including ground source heat pumps which collect solar energy stored
in the ground and provide hot water and heat. Excellent walks, pubs
and cycle network plus organised activities (indoor and outdoor rock
climbing, caving, trekking, canoeing, kayaking, archery) arranged in
conjunction with local licensed activity centre.

Plus:
Guests who arrive using lower carbon transport options, are offered
free collection from Buxton bus or train station and a complimentary
breakfast box containing locally produced bread, butter, milk, honey,
jam and yoghurt.

More
info:
http://www.responsibletravel.com/PDdeal  

For more offers and travel discounts see the rest of the newsletter here

If
you fancy treating yourself to some organic goodies, now is definitely the time
to buy as for 1 week only, So Organic are offering you FREE
DELIVERY when you spend over £30*. Just choose your
products, then enter code ENAB69 in the coupon code box at
checkout and the delivery charge will be deducted. *excluding p&p to qualify.   

Offer
ends 30th
June 2009

Click here to order.

According to online travel agent responsibletravel.com, holidaymakers’ confidence has improved over the last three months as almost a fifth
(19%) of its total customers have gone ‘late’ and spontaneously
enquired and departed within a four week period. Furthermore, over a third (37%) of customers have travelled within eight weeks of first enquiring about their holiday.

These four week late booking figures reflect a rise of almost a third (31%) compared to the same period last year and almost a fifth (20%) for eight week late bookings.

The increase comes at a time when tour operators and airlines have
already reduced capacity for the upcoming season and across the year in
general. The late availability holiday deals that are on offer are
being snapped up fast and according to Justin Francis, managing
director of responsibletravel.com, it marks a pronounced increase in consumer confidence:

“There is no doubt that times were tough over the winter and
consumer confidence was severely affected as a result. However, these
figures are a sign that holidaymakers’ confidence is definitely
improving. While it’s far too early to call an end to what might be a
long recession it’s clear that in recent weeks more people are coming
into the summer market looking to book and depart at short notice. Some
will be disappointed that they cannot get their first or even second
choice holidays as airline capacity has been reduced.”

 Those countries topping the list for late bookings are: England; Italy; Morocco; Spain; France; Turkey; Wales and Greece.

responsibletravel.com
work with over 300 tour operators across the globe, from small
specialist operators to some of the larger, more mainstream travel
providers.

See

www.responsibletravel.com/latedeals 

Here at Fairwind we continue to show that fair trade gifts and
accessories can be beautiful, of exceptional quality and highly
desirable – but not expensive!

Here are some of our new fashion accessories for 2009:

Mara linen scarves £15
These simple, stylish scarves come in a collection of natural, earthy
colours. Handmade from pure linen, they keep you warm in winter and
cool in summer. They are woven on handlooms, a traditional skill that
has remained relatively unchanged for generations. Available in green,
black, red and blue. Size: 70cm x 80cm.

 Recycled coin jewellery £29, £44
Inspired by an African tribe, the Dinka, the links on this jewellery
have been handmade by melting down coins no longer in circulation.
Semi-precious turquoise stones and glass beads have then been combined
to make this uniquely contemporary jewellery. Both the necklace and the
bracelet have extra links so that the length can be adjusted slightly.
Bracelet £29, necklace £44. Necklace 42cm long, bracelet 16cm long.
Also available with coral or lapiz lazuli beads. Single strand versions
also available.

Savannah leather shopper £69
This gorgeous leather shopper is stylish and practical. It is handmade from leather (a byproduct) and dyed using extracts of tree barks and plants by a co-operative of 40 families in Rajasthan. The bag is lined with a pretty floral fabric and contains a large side pocket with zip to secure any valuables. Size: 28cm x 14cm x 34cm. A Savannah leather satchel/case will also be available from May. 

ENDS

Notes for editors:
Fairwind is owned and run by Teresa Owen and Martin Abel who are passionate about fair trade and providing affordable, quality fair trade products from around the world.  In addition to their thriving online business they have a shop in Crouch End, London.  In 2007, Fairwind was shorlisted for an Observer Ethical Award and is a member of the British Association for Fair Trade Shops (BAFTS) visit www.bafts.org.uk for more information.

In addition to this great range of fair trade gifts Fairwind also supplies; home products, jewellery, wooden children’s toys & clothing, bags, cushions, candles and garden accessories.  To see Fairwind’s full range, obtain a catalogue or further information, visit www.fairwindonline.com or telephone 020 8374 6254.

Hi res images are available of all products and in many cases cut out images are also available.

The Virgin Holidays Responsible Tourism Awards 2009 launches with support from Paul Theroux

Nominations are now open for the Responsible Tourism Awards 2009
organised by responsibletravel.com and sponsored by Virgin Holidays.
The Awards celebrate tourism ventures around the world that make
positive contributions to conservation and the economies of local
communities.

Prolific travel writer Paul Theroux is supporting this year’s Awards:
“In the past, awards were given for Best Meal, Best View, Most
Grovelling Staff, Biggest Ballroom, or whatever. It’s encouraging that
tourism organisations and individuals are being rewarded for doing
something that is ethically right or supporting a position that will
help the planet. That’s the greatest lesson of travel: it is a very
small and easily bruised planet.”

The Awards are now in their sixth year and are the most prestigious of their kind in the world, with 13 categories receiving a total of over 1,900 nominations in 2008. Partners include The Telegraph Media Group, Geographical Magazine (the magazine of The Royal Geographical Society), BBC World News and World Travel Market.

This year sees the introduction of an annual theme for the Tour Operator category which focuses on ‘cultural engagement’ of local cultures and communities for 2009.

Justin Francis, founders of the Awards and MD of responsibletravel.com said:
“This year will be one of great change for the travel and tourism industry as the global economic situation alters the way we think about our holidays. It is therefore more crucial than ever before that responsible tourism remains high on the agenda and that tourism ventures, destinations and travellers around the world continue to ensure that local communities and environments do not become the forgotten voices. We urge the travelling public to join us in uncovering and nominating those passionate innovators who are leading the way in responsible tourism.”

How to nominate
Nominations should be made online at www.responsibletourismawards.com or by post to responsibletravel.com, Pavilion House, 6 Old Steine, Brighton, East Sussex, BN1 1EJ, and include the name and contact details of the nomination, plus up to 200 words on why they should win a Responsible Tourism Award. The category of entry should also be specified (see notes to editors).
Nominations close on: Monday 15th June 2009

Win a safari holiday!
Those individuals who nominate a category winner will be entered into a draw to win a once in a lifetime eight day safari holiday for two to Kenya (including flights) courtesy of Gamewatchers Safaris and Porini Camps – a 2008 Award winner. Full details can be found on www.responsibletourismawards.com

- ENDS –

Notes to editors
For more information on the Responsible Tourism Awards visit www.responsibletourismawards.com

For stories and quotes from last year’s winners click here or email krissy@responsibletravel.com.

Images of last year’s winners and the presentation ceremony are also available upon request.

Responsible Tourism Award categories
For full details of the criteria for each category visit www.responsibletourismawards.com/categories.html:

Best tour operator for cultural engagement – sponsored by Tourism Western Australia *New title and criteria*
Best large hotel / accommodation – sponsored by Fairmont Hotels & Resorts
Best small hotel / accommodation – sponsored by Discover Dominica Tourism Authority
Best in a mountain environment – sponsored by World Expeditions
Best in a marine environment – sponsored by Tourism Fiji
Best cruise or ferry operator
Best low carbon transport & technology  
Best for conservation of wildlife & habitats – sponsored by South Australian Tourism Commission – *New title and criteria*
Best for conservation of cultural heritage – sponsored by Jamaica Tourist Board
Best for poverty reduction – sponsored by PromPeru
Best volunteering organisation – sponsored by Kenya Tourist Board
Best destination – sponsored by Conservation International
Best personal contribution – sponsored by Tourism Ireland

For details of this year’s sponsors visit
http://www.responsibletourismawards.com/aboutsponsors.html  

The judging panel
The judging panel for the Responsible Tourism Awards 2009 is chaired by Harold Goodwin, Professor of Responsible Tourism Management at Leeds Metropolitan University & Director of the International Centre for Responsible Tourism, and includes:

Justin Francis, Managing Director, responsibletravel.com
Graham Boynton, Group Travel Editor, The Daily Telegraph
Fiona Jeffery, Chairman, World Travel Market
Graeme Gourlay, Publisher, Geographical Magazine
Tricia Barnett, Director, Tourism Concern
Andrew Cooper, Director General, Federation of Tour Operators (FTO)
Debbie Hindle, Managing Director, bgb communications
Sue Hurdle, Chief Executive, The Travel Foundation
Neel Inamdar, Conservation International
Ian Reynolds, former Chief Executive of ABTA & Trustee of The Travel Foundation
Keith Richards, Head of Business Development and Consumer Affairs at ABTA
Dr Rebecca Hawkins, Considerate Hoteliers Association

About responsibletravel.com:
responsibletravel.com is the world’s leading online ethical travel company, selling over 3,000 holidays from over 270 specialist operators and 550 accommodations. All the holidays meet specific responsible tourism guidelines and aim to create better places for people to live and to visit. Launched in 2001 with backing from Dame Anita Roddick, the website is for travellers who want more real and authentic holidays that also benefit the environment and local people. The organisation – based in Brighton, England – also campaigns for positive change in the travel and tourism industry.

Contact:
Krissy Roe
krissy@responsibletravel.com  
07717 348 368

Southampton based social enterprise, Jamie’s Computers was one of 14 organisations in the region to receive a ministerial visit, when Prime Minister Gordon Brown and his Cabinet descended on Southampton on Monday 23rd February.  

The computer re-use and recycling project, Jamie’s Computers is a project of Southampton’s largest homelessness charity, The Society of St James.  Jamie’s welcomed Liam Byrne, Minister for the Cabinet Office to its operation in Northam as part of the ministerial visits which took place in the region.

Minister Liam Byrne said, “Jamie’s Computers is a great example of how social enterprises can
benefit the local community and the country as a whole.  It’s clear to
me that they give vulnerable people real opportunities to realise their
potential and get on in life, regardless of their circumstances.

“In this tough economic climate we need businesses like this that put
ethics first.  This way we can all build a fairer society and a
stronger country.”

The visit followed this month’s announcement of the Government’s Third
Sector Action Plan, which has been designed together with third sector
leaders over the last three months and builds on the wide range of
measures the Government has put in place to support people through the
economic downturn, and on the Government’s long term commitment to
voluntary organisations and social enterprises.

Della Cunio, Operations Director for Jamie’s said of the visit:

 “We were delighted to learn that the Minister would visit the project –
it was a great compliment to the work that we do and a proud moment for
all the staff and service users involved.  

“The importance of social enterprise in the provision of public service
and contribution to the economy is recognised by government and keenly
promoted.  We were pleased to be able to provide a positive case study
for the Minister.”  

For more information about Jamie’s Computers call 023 8063 2198 or visit www.jamies.org.uk.

“UK to Australia without flying is no mean feat – Barbara Haddrill’s determination to cut her carbon footprint leads to a once-in-a-lifetime experience across two hemispheres, simply and vividly told.  An example to us all!” Mark Smith, The Man in Seat 61

“A story filled with joy, intrigue, courage and adventure. A profound experience and a gripping read. Barbara shows the way of low carbon travel and the experience of a true journey.” Satish Kumar

Babs2Brisbane is Barbara Haddrill’s account of her incredible overland journey from Wales to Australia to be bridesmaid at her best friend’s wedding.

Published by the Centre for Alternative Technology. Click here to buy a copy > > >