Thursday, April 26, 2007

Eco-logical Tourism

Exotissimo is committed to supporting environmentally and socially responsible tourism projects and we strive to incorporate our philosophies of sustainable travel into all our programmes wherever possible.

In line with this commitment, Exotissimo developed the Sustainable Tourism Department; a team entirely dedicated to pursuing environmental protection and economic and social justice through tourism. Two of the sustainable tourism projects in Laos which we are proud to be involved with are The Kamu Lodge and The Akha Experience.

A three hour upstream cruise from Luang Prabang, The Kamu Lodge offers ‘an exclusive and ecological experience with zero impact on the environment’ at its tranquil, rural centre. Built entirely from natural products and featuring thatched tents and solar-powered energy, guests at the lodge can learn about the traditional farming and fishing techniques of the Kamu villagers, as well as trek through some of the region’s dense jungles and forests.

In 2005, Exotissimo also began working closely with eight tribal villages around Muang Sing to create a sustainable way for visitors to experience tribal life. Muang Sing is a small town 10km from the Lao-Chinese border famed for its abundance of local ethnic minority groups. The Akha Experience is an authentic and responsible tour on which travellers can enjoy a fascinating insight into the village life of the Akha, while helping to fund important community development.

Supporting projects such as these is part of our attempt to encourage sustainable tourism that helps to fight poverty and support environmental and cultural preservation. For more information on these sustainable tours, check out this detailed itinerary of The Akha Experience and review of The Kamu Lodge Eco-Resort.