Travel enthusiasts now have the opportunity to embark on journeys that not only offer breathtaking landscapes but also contribute positively to local communities and environments. In Vietnam, families can immerse themselves in a unique art class where creativity meets social responsibility. Participants will engage with Vun Art, an organization dedicated to empowering individuals with disabilities through handicrafts. Through this hands-on activity, travelers will learn about the triple mission of supporting disadvantaged groups, preserving traditional skills, and promoting environmental sustainability by repurposing silk scraps.
In Canada, adventurers can explore the majestic Rockies with a specialist conservation guide. This new outdoor experience introduces visitors to the Yellowstone to Yukon (Y2Y) initiative, which focuses on creating safe wildlife corridors. As you trek through Banff's stunning scenery, you'll gain insights into how Y2Y is working tirelessly to ensure animals can roam freely, feed, and reproduce without human interference. Meanwhile, in Mexico, food-focused initiatives are changing lives. A visit to Gastromotiva provides travelers with a firsthand look at how this organization addresses food scarcity and homelessness while fostering a sustainable food movement in Mexico City. Engage with trainee chefs who prepare special snacks, and hear their stories of transformation and empowerment.
The power of travel lies in its ability to inspire change and foster understanding. From meeting rescued wildlife in Cuc Phuong National Park, Vietnam, to championing women's rights in The Gambia, these trips offer meaningful encounters. In Borneo, families can participate in efforts to protect pygmy elephants by planting grass and learning about conservation strategies. In Spain, young travelers can explore hidden neighborhoods through street art tours, discovering the vibrant local culture and supporting sustainable tourism. Each of these experiences highlights the importance of responsible travel and encourages travelers to be agents of positive change wherever they go.
As the world continues to open up new avenues for exploration, travelers are increasingly seeking unique and offbeat experiences. This article highlights a selection of extraordinary journeys planned for 2025, each offering an immersive cultural or natural encounter that goes beyond the conventional tourist trail. From swimming in Senegal's pink lake to learning about yurt construction in Kyrgyzstan, these trips promise unforgettable memories. Other adventures include delving into Greenland’s myths under the midnight sun, gaining insights into Ghana's afterlife traditions through elaborate coffins, and experiencing the untouched landscapes of Alaska.
In West Africa, Senegal beckons with its vibrant culture and natural wonders. Over twelve days, adventurers can explore the Pink Lake, known for its distinctive hue, and later unwind in Saint Louis, a World Heritage site pulsating with jazz music. Meanwhile, Japan offers a fresh perspective through a northern expedition to Hokkaido. Here, visitors can delve into Ainu culture, witnessing cooking demonstrations and tasting traditional dumplings.
Greenland provides another remarkable journey where participants meet local storytellers and monster hunters, unraveling ancient myths against breathtaking landscapes. In contrast, Ghana presents a profound understanding of life and death through fantasy coffin makers in Accra, who craft coffins reflecting the deceased's professions or dreams.
Kyrgyzstan invites travelers to learn age-old techniques of yurt-making from artisans in Kyzyk Tuu village, followed by an overnight stay in these portable homes. For those intrigued by Georgia and Armenia, there is an opportunity to hike through protected landscapes rich in biodiversity while engaging with friendly locals.
Further north, Alaska entices with its rugged beauty. During an eight-day hiking trip, participants kayak along Homer’s coast, camp amidst diverse terrains, and ascend towards the Harding Icefield. Saudi Arabia introduces a women-only expedition uncovering personal narratives from local females alongside historical sites like Hegra.
Turkmenistan shares culinary secrets with baursaki demonstrations at horse farms specializing in Akhal-Teke breeds renowned for their speed and endurance. Vietnam adds depth to its charm via homestays in Lam Thuong, allowing guests to participate in daily activities such as bamboo weaving and rice field tours.
In Central America, El Salvador recounts its turbulent past through visits to Cinquera Forest, meeting ex-guerrilla fighters, and participating in traditional pupusa-making sessions.
These journeys redefine travel, blending education with adventure and fostering deeper connections between cultures worldwide. Each destination not only showcases stunning scenery but also imparts invaluable knowledge about local traditions and histories, ensuring every traveler returns home enriched and inspired.
In the ever-evolving landscape of global tourism, Intrepid Travel has reaffirmed its dedication to being a responsible travel company by successfully recertifying as a B Corp. This certification underscores the company’s commitment to balancing profit with purpose. Over the past few years, Intrepid has not only focused on improving its direct operations but has also expanded its efforts to address the broader impact of its supply chain. The company has made significant strides in increasing supplier diversity and ensuring fair wages for all staff. With a renewed focus on sustainability and ethical practices, Intrepid aims to lead the travel industry towards a more responsible future.
Intrepid's Journey to Recertification: A Comprehensive Overview
In the vibrant and dynamic world of international travel, one company stands out for its unwavering commitment to ethical and sustainable practices: Intrepid Travel. After an extensive evaluation process, Intrepid has once again achieved B Corp certification, reinforcing its pledge to be a force for good in the travel industry. This certification is no small feat; it involves a rigorous assessment of the company’s governance, customer relations, workforce policies, community engagement, and environmental impact across its global network of offices and partners.
The journey to recertification began with an exhaustive review of every aspect of Intrepid's operations. From the boardroom to the frontlines, every employee and office was scrutinized to ensure alignment with B Corp standards. Key areas of focus included enhancing supplier diversity, ensuring fair wages for all staff, and reducing the environmental footprint of both trips and office operations. Since the last certification in 2021, Intrepid has seen remarkable growth, both in terms of business expansion and cultural development. Despite the challenges posed by the post-pandemic travel surge, the company has managed to maintain its commitment to purpose-driven practices, resulting in a significant increase in its B Corp score from 91.2 to 102.5 in 2024.
One of the most impactful changes has been in the supply chain. Intrepid has introduced new processes for measurement, training, and reporting, which, while unseen by travelers, have a profound effect on the overall experience. These behind-the-scenes efforts ensure that every trip is as responsible and sustainable as possible. Moving forward, Intrepid plans to align its reporting with new global frameworks, continue decarbonization efforts, and embed purpose into every facet of its operations. By setting an example, Intrepid hopes to inspire others in the industry to follow suit, creating a ripple effect that benefits everyone involved—from employees and suppliers to travelers and local communities.
Ultimately, this certification means that travelers can embark on Intrepid journeys with confidence, knowing that their adventures are built on a foundation of transparency, fairness, and sustainability. As Meegan Marshall, Chief People and Purpose Officer at Intrepid, emphasizes, the goal is to create a better way to travel—one that respects both people and the planet.
A Call to Action: The Future of Responsible Tourism
Intrepid’s successful recertification as a B Corp serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of responsible tourism. In an industry often criticized for its environmental and social impacts, Intrepid’s approach offers a beacon of hope. By prioritizing sustainability and ethical practices, the company sets a high standard for others to follow. For travelers, this means choosing Intrepid means supporting a company that genuinely cares about making a positive difference. For the industry, it signals a shift towards more collaborative and progressive practices that benefit all stakeholders. As we move forward, the lessons learned from Intrepid’s journey can inspire a new era of travel—one where every adventure leaves a lasting positive impact.