Responsible travel

At GEC, we’re passionate about creating transformative travel experiences that are not only enriching for you, but also sustainable, respectful, and leave a positive impact on the communities and environments we visit. This commitment is reflected in our comprehensive Responsible Travel Policy, which guides all our programs.

Respecting Local Cultures & Customs:

We believe in fostering intercultural understanding. We encourage you to learn about the local customs and traditions of your project destination before departure. By understanding local practices and dressing modestly when necessary, you can avoid any actions that might be considered disrespectful or offensive.

Prioritizing Sustainability:

We encourage responsible travel practices that minimize our environmental footprint. This includes:

• Reducing Waste: We promote reusable water bottles and discourage single-use plastics.
• Conserving Energy: We advocate for energy-saving measures in our accommodations and activities.
• Supporting Sustainable Businesses: We prioritize local operators who share our commitment to environmental responsibility.

Supporting Local Communities:

We believe in fostering positive connections with the communities we visit. Here’s how you can get involved:

• Volunteering: Many projects offer opportunities to volunteer with local organizations, contributing directly to community development.
• Supporting Local Businesses: Choose locally-owned shops, restaurants, and accommodations whenever possible. This directly benefits the local economy.
• Avoiding Exploitation: We steer clear of activities that exploit or harm local people. We promote fair trade and ethical practices.

Promoting Responsible Wildlife Tourism:

We believe in ethical wildlife interactions. We avoid activities that involve harming or exploiting animals, such as elephant rides or exploitative wildlife shows. Instead, we promote responsible wildlife tourism that supports conservation efforts, such as visiting reputable sanctuaries or parks.

Educating Participants on Responsible Travel:

We equip you with the knowledge to become a responsible traveler. Resources include:

• Pre-Departure Briefings: We provide information about local cultures, sustainability practices, and responsible travel expectations.
• In-Country Workshops: On-site workshops may delve deeper into local customs and responsible travel practices.
• Online Resources: We offer a library of online resources to support your responsible travel journey.

Encouraging Responsible Consumption:

We advocate for making conscious choices throughout your project:

• Reusable Water Bottles: Opt for reusable bottles to minimize plastic waste.
• Avoiding Single-Use Plastics: Say no to single-use plastics like straws and bags whenever possible.
• Locally Sourced Food: Choose meals featuring locally sourced and sustainable ingredients.

Respecting the Environment:

We strive to leave a positive environmental impact. Your participation might include:

• Beach Cleanups: Join fellow volunteers in cleaning up local beaches and waterways.
• Minimizing Littering: Always dispose of waste properly, respecting the natural beauty of your surroundings.
• Reduced Chemical Use: We encourage minimizing the use of harmful chemicals like sunscreens that damage coral reefs.

By embracing responsible travel practices, we can collectively create a positive impact and ensure that future generations can enjoy these incredible destinations.

Join us in making a difference!