ToursByLocals Blog list

With the rapid growth of tourism in recent years, many popular destinations around the world began to see tourism hurt rather than help the people who lived there. Popular areas were often over-crowded, housing in downtown cores became scarce, and in some places waste proliferated and sensitive monuments showed wear and tear. International travel slowed to a crawl in 2020, providing us all with the chance to reset and to start thinking how to adopt more sustainable, long-term travel habits. How can we commit, as travellers, to combat climate change, safeguard nature, empower local communities and tackle waste and pollution while travelling? As the travel industry recovers, ToursByLocals is dedicating more time to answering this big question, providing you with real, workable solutions to travel smarter. Let’s start with the basic question: what exactly does ‘sustainable travel’ mean? According to the World Tourism Organization (WTO), sustainable travel “takes full account of its current and future economic, social and environmental impacts, addressing the needs of visitors, the industry, the environment and host communities”. This means that when we travel, we can adopt environmentally friendly practices, protect natural and cultural heritage, and provide social and economic benefits to the communities we are visiting. At the most basic level, it’s the idea of always keeping in mind how our actions affect others. We need to ask ourselves questions like: how can we preserve the natural beauty of this destination? How can we conserve a healthy ecosystem? And how can we help to defend the diverse communities we visit? Luckily, travellers and tourism have the potential to contribute, directly or indirectly, to all of these goals. How do I start traveling more sustainably? Avoid air travel when possible Tourism is responsible for 8% of the world’s carbon emissions. As more people travel each year, this number grows. A way to minimize your carbon footprint is by reducing the amount of short haul air travel you do. There are many choices and not all of them will necessarily include a flight! Choose other options when possible. For example, travelling by train can save up to 90% of CO2 emissions in comparison - and it's often more comfortable and convenient than a trip to the airport. Choose sustainable accommodations Emissions from lodging are more likely higher in large resorts and hotels. You can choose accredited accommodation which ensures strong sustainability initiatives by third parties or hotels that use clean energy sources. Small scale accommodations are a good option too! Reduce plastic waste Make sure you take your own reusables with you before travelling to your destination. By doing this, you will buy less plastic. Wherever you go, separate your trash so it can be recycled afterwards. For instance, it's easy to pack a lightweight reusable bag - a great thing to have on hand at local markets. Engage with the locals Tourism has the power to preserve the rich traditions of the host communities and create greater cultural awareness about them. Take your time to engage with a local, learn from them, share different backgrounds and respect their culture. Spending time with a local guide is a fantastic way to make these cultural connections. Purchase items that were made locally Shopping is a travel experience itself. By buying local products, local food, souvenirs and handcrafted items we are contributing to the development of the local economy. We could be also creating more job opportunities in the area, for both merchants and tradespeople. Protect natural areas and wildlife One of the main reasons for choosing natural areas to go on holidays is the chance to experience rich biodiversity and unique landscapes. Travelling to these areas can contribute to the protection of these incredible natural ecosystems by financing conservation and reforestation projects, advancing green technologies, raising awareness about endangered species and increasing community support. Avoid visiting animals that are in captivity. Instead, choose to observe animals in their natural habitat at a respectful and safe distance. Choose less popular destinations or smart cities Overtourism can harm the natural and cultural heritage of very popular destinations. It can also have a negative impact on the quality of life of local residents. Consider lesser known places, where you will find fewer travellers around, and you can have a significant impact on the local economy. If you want to visit popular cities, consider doing so off-season; it’s a better experience for you and the people who live there. Another good option is to visit places that are being rebuilt after a natural disaster. You even help local residents by volunteering in social or environmental projects. Alternatively, there are many cities that have been working towards sustainability and have developed smart programs to protect natural resources, heritage and local communities, reduce energy consumption and develop cycling infrastructure, among others. Slow Down... It's time to stop chasing our next instagram photo and ticking off bucket lists. We need to literally slow down, cover less ground, and engage more mindfully with fewer destinations. There's great joy to be found in connecting to the soul of a place through its history, language, culture, food and people. Consider travelling with the intention to learn and experience deeply; you'll come home with a better understanding of and appreciation for where you've been. testSlow Down...

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How it all began The idea was born on the Great Wall of China in 2006, where our founders met two local women who offered to help them explore the wall and learn about its history. After an unexpectedly enlightening tour, Paul Melhus and Dave Vincent (ToursByLocals Co-Founders) felt lucky to have met their impromptu guides, but uncertain about how to compensate them. The women were selling souvenirs, which didn’t feel like fair payment for their time and expertise. Paul and Dave wanted to make sure these guides, and others like them, were able to earn a fair wage as full participants in the tourism industry. They wondered how they could replicate the fantastic guiding experience they’d just had, but take away the luck of meeting the right person, and the uncertainty of arriving at a fee. On the flight home, Paul and Dave began to imagine ToursByLocals: a platform that empowers tour guides all over the world to reach an audience of travellers looking for local insight, and gives travellers a reliable way to book a reputable local guide, anywhere they travel. Where we are now Nearly two decades later, ToursByLocals has sent over 2.5 million travellers on tours. We're a thriving online marketplace where you can find one-of-a-kind, curated local experiences everywhere you travel. And when we say "everywhere", we really mean it! Here you can find thoughtful, charming, bright and creative local tour guides offering private tours in over 170 different countries. Our customer support team spans 4 continents, and are always ready to help, any time of day or night. Why we do it We stand up for human connection, once-in-a-lifetime experiences, memorable moments, and meaningful connections. We’re here to take you to the places we love. To meet the people who bring those places to life. To share stories that connect us all, no matter who we are, where we’re from, or how far we’ve travelled. We’re here to inspire the curiosity that moves us into new experiences, changes our perspective completely and becomes a part of us forever. We’re here to keep travel human.

With the rapid growth of tourism in recent years, many popular destinations around the world began to see tourism hurt rather than help the people who lived there. Popular areas were often over-crowded, housing in downtown cores became scarce, and in some places waste proliferated and sensitive monuments showed wear and tear. International travel slowed to a crawl in 2020, providing us all with the chance to reset and to start thinking how to adopt more sustainable, long-term travel habits. How can we commit, as travellers, to combat climate change, safeguard nature, empower local communities and tackle waste and pollution while travelling? As the travel industry recovers, ToursByLocals is dedicating more time to answering this big question, providing you with real, workable solutions to travel smarter. Let’s start with the basic question: what exactly does ‘sustainable travel’ mean? According to the World Tourism Organization (WTO), sustainable travel “takes full account of its current and future economic, social and environmental impacts, addressing the needs of visitors, the industry, the environment and host communities”. This means that when we travel, we can adopt environmentally friendly practices, protect natural and cultural heritage, and provide social and economic benefits to the communities we are visiting. At the most basic level, it’s the idea of always keeping in mind how our actions affect others. We need to ask ourselves questions like: how can we preserve the natural beauty of this destination? How can we conserve a healthy ecosystem? And how can we help to defend the diverse communities we visit? Luckily, travellers and tourism have the potential to contribute, directly or indirectly, to all of these goals. How do I start traveling more sustainably? Avoid air travel when possible Tourism is responsible for 8% of the world’s carbon emissions. As more people travel each year, this number grows. A way to minimize your carbon footprint is by reducing the amount of short haul air travel you do. There are many choices and not all of them will necessarily include a flight! Choose other options when possible. For example, travelling by train can save up to 90% of CO2 emissions in comparison - and it's often more comfortable and convenient than a trip to the airport. Choose sustainable accommodations Emissions from lodging are more likely higher in large resorts and hotels. You can choose accredited accommodation which ensures strong sustainability initiatives by third parties or hotels that use clean energy sources. Small scale accommodations are a good option too! Reduce plastic waste Make sure you take your own reusables with you before travelling to your destination. By doing this, you will buy less plastic. Wherever you go, separate your trash so it can be recycled afterwards. For instance, it's easy to pack a lightweight reusable bag - a great thing to have on hand at local markets. Engage with the locals Tourism has the power to preserve the rich traditions of the host communities and create greater cultural awareness about them. Take your time to engage with a local, learn from them, share different backgrounds and respect their culture. Spending time with a local guide is a fantastic way to make these cultural connections. Purchase items that were made locally Shopping is a travel experience itself. By buying local products, local food, souvenirs and handcrafted items we are contributing to the development of the local economy. We could be also creating more job opportunities in the area, for both merchants and tradespeople. Protect natural areas and wildlife One of the main reasons for choosing natural areas to go on holidays is the chance to experience rich biodiversity and unique landscapes. Travelling to these areas can contribute to the protection of these incredible natural ecosystems by financing conservation and reforestation projects, advancing green technologies, raising awareness about endangered species and increasing community support. Avoid visiting animals that are in captivity. Instead, choose to observe animals in their natural habitat at a respectful and safe distance. Choose less popular destinations or smart cities Overtourism can harm the natural and cultural heritage of very popular destinations. It can also have a negative impact on the quality of life of local residents. Consider lesser known places, where you will find fewer travellers around, and you can have a significant impact on the local economy. If you want to visit popular cities, consider doing so off-season; it’s a better experience for you and the people who live there. Another good option is to visit places that are being rebuilt after a natural disaster. You even help local residents by volunteering in social or environmental projects. Alternatively, there are many cities that have been working towards sustainability and have developed smart programs to protect natural resources, heritage and local communities, reduce energy consumption and develop cycling infrastructure, among others. Slow Down... It's time to stop chasing our next instagram photo and ticking off bucket lists. We need to literally slow down, cover less ground, and engage more mindfully with fewer destinations. There's great joy to be found in connecting to the soul of a place through its history, language, culture, food and people. Consider travelling with the intention to learn and experience deeply; you'll come home with a better understanding of and appreciation for where you've been.

A solar eclipse is one of those rare and remarkable celestial events that have the power to seemingly pause time and focus our attention like nothing else. As the moon’s shadow passes over the sun, todays’ total eclipse will cast a shadow 180km wide that races up the southern and eastern parts of the US and Canada. Over 31.6 million people live in the path of totality, and countless others have travelled into the path in order to witness what for many is a once in a lifetime event. People across North America will have different experiences today: you may be in a place blessed with clear skies, and witness the eclipse in all its glory; you may be somewhere that’s clouded over, and see darkening skies, but miss out on the full deal. Or you may just live too far away to witness the spectacle, but have some serious eclipse FOMO and are now determined to see it for yourself. For some, today’s celestial event could just turn you into an eclipse tourist! If you’re wanting to add “eclipse chaser” to your travel plans, here are some incredible destinations where you can witness the next three total solar eclipses throughout the rest of the decade. Where to travel for solar eclipses in this decade August 12, 2026: Iceland Duration of Eclipse: 2 minutes 18 seconds Location: The Faroe Islands and Iceland, including Reykjavik The Experience: Picture yourself standing amidst Iceland's otherworldly landscapes, surrounded by glaciers, waterfalls, and volcanic terrain, as the moon blocks out the sun. The Faroe Islands, with their dramatic cliffs and coastal vistas, offer a similarly stunning backdrop for this cosmic event. Immerse yourself in Icelandic culture, explore geothermal hot springs, and perhaps even witness a late summer aurora borealis while awaiting the eclipse. Just be sure to pack warm clothing and prepare for the unpredictable weather typical of this Nordic island nation. August 2, 2027: Morocco and Egypt Location: The path of totality will cross both Morocco and Egypt, providing a unique opportunity to witness the eclipse against the backdrop of North Africa. Duration of total eclipse: 6 minutes, 18 seconds The Experience: Combine the allure of an exotic destination with the celestial wonder of an unusually long total solar eclipse in Morocco. From the bustling streets of Marrakech to the tranquil beauty of the Sahara Desert, Morocco offers a diverse range of experiences for eclipse chasers. Head to the desert dunes with a guide for an unobstructed view of the eclipse, or explore the country's rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning landscapes on a multi-day tour. Don't forget to sample Moroccan cuisine, shop in colorful souks, and immerse yourself in the enchanting atmosphere of this North African gem. ...Or head to Egypt! Imagine witnessing the celestial dance of the sun and moon against the backdrop of iconic pyramids, temples, and monuments. From the bustling streets of Cairo to the tranquil banks of the Nile River, Egypt offers a mesmerizing setting for eclipse chasers. Consider a Luxor tour that combines eclipse viewing with visits to historical sites such as the Great Sphinx, Luxor Temple, and Abu Simbel. Experience the vibrant culture, sample traditional cuisine, and immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Egyptian history while awaiting this cosmic spectacle. Just remember to plan ahead and secure your viewing spot, as Egypt is sure to be a popular destination for eclipse enthusiasts from around the world. July 22, 2028: Australia and New Zealand Duration of total eclipse: 5 minutes 10 seconds Location: The eclipse will pass over the major cities of Sydney, Australia and Dunedin, New Zealand The Experience: Witnessing the final total solar eclipse of the 2020s involves taking a trip to the southern hemisphere. The eclipse begins in the Indian Ocean, and doesn’t touch land until it reaches the sparsely populated northwest side of Australia. While much of the eclipse crosses remote parts of the continent, it will eventually reach Sydney, which sits smack dab in the middle of the eclipse’s path. If you’re a bigger fan of New Zealand, the shadow moves across to the south island, where the charming city of Dunedin is perfectly positioned to witness the event. Total solar eclipses are rare and magical events that captivate people around the world. Over the next decade, these four destinations offer prime opportunities to witness this celestial spectacle while immersing yourself in diverse cultures and stunning landscapes. Whether you choose to chase the eclipse across North America, Europe, Africa, or Australia, each location promises an unforgettable experience that will leave you in awe of the wonders of the universe. So pack your bags, prepare your viewing equipment, and get ready to embark on an unforgettable journey to witness the magic of a total solar eclipse.

As the world opens up and you finally step on to that long-awaited flight, it’s more important than ever to consider how to use travel as a force for good. Travel and tourism is a lifeline for many communities around the world, and it goes without saying that the events of the past two years have pushed many of them to the brink. As philosopher Edmund Burke once said, “nobody made a greater mistake than he who did nothing because he could only do a little.” We can’t change the world alone, but if we each make our travels that bit more ethical and sustainable, the benefits to nature, animals and some of the most vulnerable communities will abound. With this in mind, some of the guides on ToursByLocals offer tours that mindfully and actively support their local communities. Even a small investment in terms of booking this sort of tour with a local guide can reap great rewards for the community they come from, and the causes closest to their hearts. Small actions from individuals really can make a difference to others’ lives. Seven Tours That Give Back From Bean to Cup: A Local Coffee Experience in Ethiopia This tour in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia is a must-do for coffee aficionados. Explore the market stalls with local guide Feven, as she introduces you to the farmers and vendors who sell some of the world's finest coffee beans. You'll learn hands on how to wash the green coffee beans, how to roast them on charcoal, grind it in a mortar and pestle, then make coffee in a clay pot made locally by women in Addis. You'll also have the chance to learn about pottery and weaving techniques from the local artisans. This tour directly benefits local farmers, weavers and potters, sustaining their livelihoods and combating poverty in the area. Stay with an Indigenous Family in Peru Visiting and learning from local indigenous people is a high point on any tour, though at times you can feel obligated to purchase trinkets or other items if there is no other viable means of supporting the community. In steps guide Sandra, who has forged a great relationship with Aymara families of Lake Titicaca, Peru. On this tour you can support the community directly through a homestay and sharing the farming work with your host family. Plus, how often can you say that you have woken up in the birthplace of the Incas? Take Part in Reforestation and Orangutan Protection in Borneo With deforestation and habitat loss becoming increasingly urgent problems, it can sometimes feel as if we are powerless against the might of large corporations and their thirst for natural resources. One of the most at-risk species are the orangutans of Borneo, who’s population has declined more than 50 per cent during the last 60 years. You can help by visiting and supporting the work of Indonesian orangutan sanctuaries such as the one in this tour. The tour also takes in the Pesalat Reforestation Project which is vital to inject life into the orangutans’ habitat once more. Plant a Tree in Madeira, Portugal Many destinations are starting to think more creatively about how tourism can contribute to more than just the economy. Can visitors benefit a place economically AND socially and environmentally? On this tour with Tiago in Madeira, Portugal, you will quite literally give back to the earth by planting a tree. Visit Funchal Ecologic Park with your local guide, plant a native species of tree, and leave the island a better place. On World Elephant Day, Name an Elephant! A trip to Kenya will present you with a unique opportunity. Perhaps you have a dog or a cat at home that you’ve picked out a name for in the past. But have you ever had the chance to name an elephant? On this tour you’ll be able to go on safari in Amboseli National Park and enter into the annual elephant naming ceremony, with all proceeds going to support the fantastic work the park is doing to protect this most majestic of species. Please note this tour abides by ToursByLocals Animal Welfare policy; the elephants are observed from a distance, and not touched or interacted with in any way that interferes with their natural state. Stay in Community-Run Lodges on a Trek in Nepal The sky’s the limit when it comes to how high a sustainable project can reach. Mountain lodges are an integral part of any Himalayan trek, but these ones are undoubtedly special. Nepalese guide Vimal has been involved in establishing this Annapurna trek tour in partnership with the local community of Nangi, and since 2010 they have trained local people to work in the lodge, with the benefits being fed back into the local schools in particular. Learn how cacoa becomes chocolate in Ecuador, while giving back to local projects If you are both a nature and a chocolate lover, this tour was created with you in mind. With Ecuadorian guide Allyson, you'll tread lightly through Churute Mangrove Reserve, one of the few surviving coastal rainforests and mangroves in the world. Then head to a local cacao plantation, and learn from the farmers how cacao blossoms become truffles. Allyson works closely with local environmental charities in Guayaquil, and donates a percentage of every tour's proceeds to their projects.

Are you a fan of TV shows that transport you to other countries, rich with history, drama, and stunning landscapes? Many of us are inspired to visit new destinations after seeing them on screen - so much so that the term “set-jetting” was coined! Set jetting involves visiting filming locations from your favorite TV shows, allowing you to step into the scenes you've only witnessed on screen. And what better place to start your set jetting journey than the UK? From the regal settings of "The Crown" to the gritty streets of "Peaky Blinders", the UK offers a diverse range of filming locations for avid fans to explore. Whether you're a history buff, a fan of gripping drama, or simply seeking beautiful landscapes, set jetting in the UK offers something for everyone. And local guides are picking up on your cravings! Discover some of the most exciting set jetting destinations for recent hit TV shows filmed in the UK, in the company of a local guide who can get you to the heart of the set jetting action, with the inside scoop on each location. So pack your bags, grab your camera, and get ready to embark on an unforgettable adventure through the iconic filming locations of your favorite TV shows. Top Ten Set Jetting Tours in the UK 1. The Crown Delve into the world of British royalty with a visit to the London filming locations of "The Crown." This acclaimed Netflix series offers a glimpse into the lives of the British monarchy, and many of its scenes were shot in breathtaking historical locations across the UK. OUtside of the capital, you can head to places like Windsor Castle, Ely Cathedral, and Hatfield House to immerse yourself in the grandeur of royal settings featured in the show, and take in all the scenes filmed in London, on a specially-designed "Crown" tour! 2. Slow Horses For those craving a dose of espionage and intrigue, "Slow Horses" provides the perfect escape. Based on Mick Herron's novels, this thrilling series is set in the world of British intelligence. With your local guide, you’ll walk in the footsteps of Jackson Lamb and his dysfunctional band of washed-up MI5 agents, and find some unexpected connections to real and fictional spies in the City of London along the way. Ready to book a Slow Horses tour? Local guide Bea, who watched much of the filming take place across the road from her home, is all set to guide you. 3. Ted Lasso Embrace Ted’s spirit of unflinching optimism and humour with a tour of the key filming locations of "Ted Lasso," a feel-good comedy set in the world of English football. Take a stroll through bustling Richmond, soaking in the atmosphere that inspired Ted's lovable character. You’ll immediately recognize the colourful bunting flags hanging from Ted’s narrow street, the bench he drinks his morning coffee at with Coach, and the local pub full of football hooligans. Even for those who aren’t fans of the show, a half-day trip to Richmond is a beautiful way to experience village life by the Thames, without ever leaving London. Book a Ted Lasso tour and get there in style, in a classic black cab. 4. Peaky Blinders Enter the gritty underworld of post-World War I Birmingham with "Peaky Blinders." This stylish and atmospheric series has garnered a cult following for its compelling characters and iconic fashion. During this Birmingham tour, you’ll learn about the rise and fall of the REAL Peaky Blinders and hear stories of the life and times of hardworking 'Brummies' who were terrorized by these and other 'slogging gangs'. You’ll head to the Black Country Living Museum, nicknamed the 'Official Home of Peaky Blinders,' where you’ll explore where many of the iconic scenes were filmed, including where we first meet Tommy Shelby arriving on horseback wearing his sharp three-piece suit, Crombie coat and 'Peaky' Cap. You'll want to take this tour, by order of the Peaky Blinders! 5. Outlander Journey through time with "Outlander," a sweeping saga of romance, time travel and adventure set in Scotland. Fan or no, the places you’ll visit on an Outlander tour are breathtaking for their historic value and dramatic settings. You’ll get to visit the Famous Lallybroch (Midhope Castle), the home of Jamie Fraser, and explore the historic Blackness Castle where Jamie receives the famous lashes from Jack Randall. See the birthplace of Mary Queen of Scots - which doubles as “Wentworth Prison” in the series. You’ll need a full day to see it all, and local guide with deep knowledge of the series and local history to oblige. 6. All Creatures Great and Small Alf Wight, better known by his pen name James Herriot, wrote stories of his life as a young veterinarian in 1940s Yorkshire. The funny and heartwarming “All Creatures Great and Small” had been translated into 36 different languages and sold over 80 million copies, before becoming a TV series enjoyed on both sides of the pond. Experience the charm of the Yorkshire Dales as you explore the beauty and tranquility of what’s now known by many as “Herriot country.” 7. Downton Abbey Step into the elegant world of "Downton Abbey," a beloved period drama that captivated audiences worldwide. Set in the early 20th century, this series offers a glimpse into the lives of the aristocratic Crawley family and their loyal servants. You can go inside the fictional estate of Downton Abbey itself, which exists as real life Highclere Castle in Hampshire, and also visit nearby Bampton in Oxfordshire, where the picturesque village doubles as the fictional village of Downton. Wander through the quaint streets and admire the charming architecture that served as the backdrop for many memorable scenes in the series, an easy day trip from London or the port at Southampton. 8. Doctor Who Travel through time and space with "Doctor Who," the long-running science fiction series beloved by decades for fans of all ages. While the Doctor's adventures take them to distant planets and galaxies, most iconic scenes are filmed right here on Earth, particularly in Cardiff, Wales, home to the series since its latest reboot in 2005. Visit locations like the Wales Millennium Centre, Cardiff Bay, and Caerphilly Castle, where the Doctor battles aliens and saves the universe. Bonus: many big name movie productions have also filmed in the area in recent years, including Harry Potter, 28 Days Later, and The Dark Knight Rises. See them all on a a Doctor Who tour. 9. Sherlock Embark on a thrilling adventure through the streets of London with "Sherlock." This modern retelling of Arthur Conan Doyle's classic detective stories features iconic landmarks like 221B Baker Street, St. Bartholomew's Hospital, and Speedy's Café. Explore the bustling metropolis of London as you follow in the footsteps of the brilliant detective Sherlock Holmes and his loyal friend Dr. John Watson, visiting sights from the books, films and TV adaptations past and present. You’ll be amazed at to learn how much real London history blends in with the fiction, on this Sherlock Holmes tour! 10. Derry Girls Have you immersed yourself in the hilarious and heartwarming world of "Derry Girls"? This coming-of-age comedy is set in the 1990s during the Troubles in Northern Ireland, and follows the misadventures of Erin, Orla, Clare, Michelle, and James as they navigate the challenges of adolescence against the backdrop of political and social turmoil. Much of the filming takes place in and around nearby Belfast, where you can visit locations like St. Columb's College and Bishop Street Without, but the series also captures the essence of Derry/Londonderry itself. With your local Derry guide, you’ll get the chance to explore this historic city, stroll along the City Walls, and soak in the unique culture and spirit of Derry as seen through the eyes of its irreverent and endearing characters.

Many of us travel lovers are also concerned with how to minimize the impact our travels may have on the planet. We’ve shared before our tips on how to travel more sustainably; today we’d like to introduce several countries that are making a concerted effort to adopt green practices and make tourism a force for good within their borders. If you're concerned about the impact of your travel on the environment and want your travels to make a positive difference, consider visiting one of these amazing forward thinking green destinations on your next trip. Costa Rica Costa Rica, rich in natural beauty, has made a major commitment to sustainable tourism. The country is home to a wide variety of ecosystems, from lush rainforests to pristine beaches, and has implemented innovative conservation and sustainability practices to preserve its natural resources. Visitors can explore protected areas like Corcovado National Park, which is home to hundreds of rare and endangered species, or take a guided tour of a sustainable coffee farm to learn about the importance of ethical and eco-friendly agricultural practices. Spain Spain, a global tourist hotspot, stands poised to make serious inroads into green travel with its innovative plans for a more sustainable circular tourism model. What is "circular tourism"? It's the idea that an economy can generate economic wealth through tourism at the same time as improving social inclusion and reducing environmental impact: it doesn't have to be a one-way street, where resources are depleted in the name of economic growth. By putting in place practices like a sustainable tourism tax, over-tourism laws, thoughtful (and limited) tourism accommodation, environmental protection strategies, Spain is starting to model what the future of tourism could look like. Norway Norway has made significant strides in renewable energy and sustainability. This Scandinavian country is known for its dramatic landscapes, including fjords, glaciers, and mountains. Visitors can join the locals and take part in outdoor activities such as hiking, skiing, and whale watching while also learning about the country's innovative sustainability practices. New Zealand New Zealand is a leader in sustainable tourism. The country has implemented a range of environmentally friendly policies, such as protecting wildlife habitats, promoting sustainable farming practices, and encouraging eco-friendly transportation. New Zealand is also home to absolutely stunning and diverse landscapes, including beaches, mountains, hot springs and forests, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers. Denmark Denmark, which is a leader in sustainable urban design, is another great option. The country has implemented policies that encourage cycling, walking, and public transportation, while also promoting green spaces and renewable energy. Denmark is also home to Copenhagen, recently lauded as the most sustainable travel destination in the world. It has a vibrant food and culture scene, making it an ideal destination for those who want to travel sustainably and soak up the good life while they're at it. Do as the Danes do and hop on a city bike to get around! Iceland Iceland is well known for beckoning travellers with its stunning volcanic landscapes. The Nordic country is also a world leader in geothermal energy, using the power of the earth to heat homes and businesses while minimizing the use of fossil fuels. Visitors can witness this in action at the iconic Blue Lagoon, a geothermal spa that uses naturally heated water from the earth's crust. Bhutan Bhutan has embraced a unique approach to measuring progress based on "Gross National Happiness" rather than GDP. Imagine a country that prioritizes its citizens’ happiness over economic growth! Their focus on wellness over profits also helped shape policies that have kept almost 70% of the land forested, making it one of only three carbon negative countries in the world. Bhutan's commitment to sustainable development includes policies that prioritize the conservation of natural resources and the preservation of traditional cultural practices. Visitors can explore ancient monasteries and temples, hike in the Himalayan foothills, and immerse themselves in a culture that places a high value on sustainability and well-being. Wherever you go in 2024, remember that by hiring a local guide, you can travel in a way that is respectful to the local community, reduces your impact on the environment, and enhances your overall travel experience.