World ExpeditionsBig Adventures. Small Footprint.https://assets.worldexpeditions.com/Blog#SaveTheAmazon: Amazon Forest Appealhttps://assets.worldexpeditions.com/Blog/PostId/3139/amazon-forest-fire-appealDestinations,South America,News,Thoughtful TravelFri, 30 Aug 2019 02:39:15 GMT<p><big><strong>We all need the Amazon. Now it needs you. Donate to this appeal to protect the forest, its wildlife and local communities affected.</strong></big></p> <p>Fires are raging through the Amazon rainforest, primarily in the Brazilian Amazon, gripped by its most vigorous fire season since 2010. The media images we are seeing are devastating, showing the extent of the fires and the subsequent smoke which is impacting Brazil and its neighbours.</p> <p style="margin-left: 40px;"><a href="https://amazonforestappeal.gofundraise.com.au" target="_blank"><button class="btn btn-borders world-ex mr-xs mb-sm" type="button">Donate now<em class="icon-arrow-right-thin"></em></button></a></p> <p>NASA reports that, “while drought has played a large role in exacerbating fires in the past, the timing and location of fire detections early in the 2019 dry season are more consistent with land clearing than with regional drought.” Studies show that the rainforest is at tipping point, with large fragmented sections at risk of transforming into a drier ecosystem which could result in the severe loss of species, the acceleration of climate change and spell disaster for the indigenous populations who call the forest home.</p> <blockquote> <p>Home to a million people and three times as many wildlife, the Amazon is also the largest piece of rainforest in the world.</p> </blockquote> <p>Often referred to as ‘the lungs of the earth’, scientists warn that the extent of this year’s Amazon forest fires will make the Paris climate target more difficult to achieve as tree cover loss from forests is estimated to account for nearly 10% of global carbon emissions, while trees are also said to provide more than 20% of climate solutions. Trees not only absorb carbon dioxide, they also then lock carbon away.</p> <h2>How you can help</h2> <p>Want to support those working to arrest the damage? Donate to the World Expeditions Foundation’s <a href="https://amazonforestappeal.gofundraise.com.au" target="_blank">Amazon Forest Appeal</a> and 100% of your donation will be directed to Earth Alliance to be distributed to local partners and indigenous communities working to protect the forest and its wildlife and to mitigate fire and its effects on local communities.</p> <p>Earth Alliance is an environmental foundation created by climate change crusader Leonardo DiCaprio and his philanthropic friends.</p> <p style="margin-left: 40px;"><a href="https://amazonforestappeal.gofundraise.com.au" target="_blank"><button class="btn btn-borders world-ex mr-xs mb-sm" type="button">Make a donation<em class="icon-arrow-right-thin"></em></button></a></p> <h2>Travel advisory information</h2> <p>The scale of the region is so large that the areas where we operate our jungle trips are not affected by the fires and there is no risk to our travellers or our traveller’s experience on any of our trips in <a href="https://worldexpeditions.com/Peru" target="_blank">Peru</a> or <a href="https://worldexpeditions.com/Ecuador" target="_blank">Ecuador</a>. We will continue to monitor the situation and contingency plans will be enacted if required.</p> <p>As always, the safety of our travellers is our foremost priority and one we will not compromise on. We will continue to support the preservation of this vital wilderness and those who live and work in it.</p> <p><em>Published 30 August 2019.</em></p> 3139What we're doing about the plastic problemhttps://assets.worldexpeditions.com/Blog/PostId/2477/fast-facts-how-big-is-our-plastic-problemNews,Thoughtful TravelFri, 23 Aug 2019 03:12:00 GMT<p>Have you heard the great news? Nepal has stepped up in banning single-use plastics in the Everest region, which will take effect in January 2020 in the Khumbu Pasang Lhamu province. All plastic drinking bottles and plastics of less than 30 microns in width will be banned in the area. </p> <p>With plastic packaging accounting for about half of the plastic waste in the world, here's how we are leading the way in eliminating its use on our treks.</p> <h2>Fast facts: How big is our plastic problem?</h2> <p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Roboto, RobotoDraft, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: pre-wrap; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; display: inline !important; float: none;">•</span>  Humans buy around 1 million plastic bottles per minute.<span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Roboto, RobotoDraft, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: pre-wrap; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; display: inline !important; float: none;"><br /> •</span>  Half a million straws are used in the world every day.<span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Roboto, RobotoDraft, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: pre-wrap; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; display: inline !important; float: none;"><br /> •</span>  It is estimated that almost 10 million plastic bags are consumed worldwide per minute.<span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Roboto, RobotoDraft, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: pre-wrap; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; display: inline !important; float: none;"><br /> •</span>  79% of all the plastics ever produced have now been discarded. Only 21% of plastics are still in active use.<span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Roboto, RobotoDraft, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: pre-wrap; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; display: inline !important; float: none;"><br /> •</span>  Each year, about 13 million tonnes of plastic leak into the ocean, with reports warning that there will be more plastic than marine life in the oceans by 2050.<span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Roboto, RobotoDraft, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: pre-wrap; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; display: inline !important; float: none;"><br /> •</span>  By 2050, an estimated 99% of seabirds will have ingested plastic.<span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Roboto, RobotoDraft, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: pre-wrap; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; display: inline !important; float: none;"><br /> •</span>  Because plastic is long lasting and durable, most do not biodegrade; only certain types of plastic waste can be recycled. Plastic waste is therefore either destroyed, converted to fuel or energy via incineration or pyrolysis, disposed of in waste management systems or discarded where it ends up in the natural environment.<span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Roboto, RobotoDraft, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: pre-wrap; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; display: inline !important; float: none;"><br /> •</span>  Single-use-plastics frequently do not make it to a landfill.</p> <h2>Worst plastic offenders</h2> <p>1. Plastic bags</p> <p>2. Coffee cups and lids</p> <p>3. Straws</p> <p>4. Single-use bottles</p> <p>Other offenders: balloons and their sticks and ribbons, chip and snack packets, food containers, plastic cutlery and sanitary products.</p> <h2>What can we do about it?</h2> <p>Making the switch from plastic to sustainable alternatives, as well as making responsible travel choices – such as bringing along a refillable water bottle, can make a positive investment in the future of our environment. Read these <a href="http://blog.worldexpeditions.com/responsible-travel/how-to-avoid-plastic-waste-when-you-travel/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">eight ways to avoid plastic when you travel</a>.</p> <div class="embed-responsive embed-responsive-16by9"><iframe allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" class="embed-responsive-item" frameborder="0" height="420" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Di-59MQXfUw" width="560"></iframe></div> <h2>Travel sustainably: how World Expeditions is eliminating plastic</h2> <p>Leading the way in responsible travel, our latest green initiatives in Nepal allow travellers to avoid the use of disposable and single-use plastic throughout their <a href="https://worldexpeditions.com/Nepal?utm_source=Plastic%20article&utm_medium=Blog&utm_campaign=WE%20Blog&utm_content=Nepal" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Nepal trip</a>. The Kathmandu hotel we use has a water dispenser with potable water available to World Expeditions travellers to refill their reusable bottles, so that travellers aren't contributing to the plastic problem in the poor, landlocked country.</p> <blockquote> <p>“While water on the treks has been boiled and provided to trekkers for many years, we are delighted to totally eliminate the need for plastic bottles from the moment the client arrives at the hotel.”</p> </blockquote> <p>“Providing our clients with access to potable water throughout their Nepal experience is the final step in giving our clients the confidence to know that they are travelling green in Nepal,” says World Expeditions Responsible Travel Manager, Donna Lawrence.</p> <p>In addition to phasing out single-use plastic bottles, our Nepali kitchen crew are trained to minimise plastic waste in trek kitchens, which is especially important in remote regions, when responsible disposal becomes more difficult.  We minimize the use of plastic by buying fresh produce from local farmers whenever possible, which has the dual benefit of creating income for subsistence communities and reducing the need of packaging and excess plastic.</p> <p><img alt="" class="responsiveImage" dynamiccroppedimage="1" largestloadedsize="1100" src="/Portals/World Expeditions/LiveBlog/WP-Images/10_Pieces_Litter_Collection-medium-1024x683-200px.jpg" variablesrc="/Portals/World Expeditions/LiveBlog/WP-Images/10_Pieces_Litter_Collection-medium-1024x683-###width###px.jpg" width="1024" /></p> <p>Our credentials in eco tourism in Nepal are unrivalled:  We're proud to follow the seven principles of  <a href="https://worldexpeditions.com/Responsible-Travel/Leave-No-Trace?utm_source=Plastic%20article&utm_medium=Blog&utm_campaign=WE%20Blog&utm_content=Leave_no_trace" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Leave No Trace </a>on all our treks and we're the founding partner of the <a href="https://worldexpeditions.com/Responsible-Travel/10-Pieces?utm_source=Plastic%20article&utm_medium=Blog&utm_campaign=WE%20Blog&utm_content=10_pieces" rel="noopener" target="_blank">10 Pieces</a> environmental initiative, which encourages trekkers to pick up 10 pieces of plastic or paper (or more!) to help reduce the litter problem through their collective effort.</p> <h3>Looking for more inspiration?</h3> <p>Download <a href="https://worldexpeditions.com/Responsible-Travel?utm_source=Avoid%20plastic&utm_medium=Blog&utm_campaign=WE%20Blog&utm_content=Thoughtful_Traveller" rel="noopener" target="_blank">our free Thoughtful Traveller ebook</a> and learn how you can be a responsible traveller.  Read <a href="http://blog.worldexpeditions.com/responsible-travel/fast-facts-how-big-is-our-plastic-problem/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">our latest initiatives in Nepal</a> where we've gone plastic-free!</p> <p><em><strong>Do you choose a travel company based on their sustainable practices? Let us know in the comments below.</strong></em></p> <p><em><br /> Sources: <a href="http://cleanseas.org/get-informed" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Cleaseas.org</a>, <a href="https://www.earthday.org/2018/03/29/fact-sheet-single-use-plastics/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Earthday.org</a>, Report from<a href="http://advances.sciencemag.org/content/3/7/e1700782" rel="noopener" target="_blank"> Science Advances</a>, 2018 Outlook report from <a href="https://www.unenvironment.org/resources/report/state-plastics-world-environment-day-outlook-2018" rel="noopener" target="_blank">UN Environment</a>.</em></p> 2477Volunteer checklist: what to considerhttps://assets.worldexpeditions.com/Blog/PostId/2516/volunteer-checklist-what-to-considerCommunity,Thoughtful TravelThu, 29 Nov 2018 01:18:00 GMT<p><strong>People generally volunteer to do something meaningful and experience a new culture. However, some volunteer-sending companies may be more concerned with creating a ‘life-changing’ experience for the volunteer, with less focus on the purpose and the needs of local communities.</strong></p> <p>For instance, the <a href="http://blog.worldexpeditions.com/responsible-travel/fighting-against-orphanage-tourism/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">growth of orphanages</a>, in many cases, directly corresponds to the increase in tourism numbers that have been to driven by well meaning but uninformed tourists who volunteer and donate to the orphanages.</p> <p style="text-align: center;"> </p> <div class="embed-responsive embed-responsive-16by9"><iframe allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" class="embed-responsive-item" frameborder="0" height="420" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/0mBYD7YYkUU" width="560"></iframe></div> <p> </p> <p>World Expeditions is on the working party of the the Rethink Orphanages Network, an organization working to prevent the unnecessary institutionalisation of children in developing countries.</p> <p><strong>Here are 10 things to look for to make sure your time overseas is spent making a genuine difference:</strong></p> <h3>1. Track record</h3> <p>Look for evidence of past achievements and how programs are monitored and evaluated.</p> <h3>2. Integrity</h3> <p>A growing number of companies have ceased orphanage volunteering. Find out who.</p> <p>Since 2013, we've removed all instances of orphanage tourism from our trips when research first revealed a direct relationship between the increase in the number of orphanages in developing nations and the increase in tourism numbers. We hope that our involvement will encourage other companies, and travellers, to avoid orphanage tourism.</p> <h3>3. Accountability</h3> <p>Some organisations recruit volunteers for their own programs; others act as ‘volunteer brokers’ and may not have end-to-end accountability for the project or your safety.</p> <h3>4. Selectivity</h3> <p>Expect to apply to volunteer and be vetted as if you were applying for a job or university. You should also receive pre-departure support.</p> <h3>5. Credibility</h3> <p>Emotive language like ‘saving the world’ or ‘giving children the love they need’ may be used to recruit volunteers, but it’s not an indicator of quality.</p> <h3>6. The ‘need’</h3> <p>Make sure your role will enhance local capacity – e.g. by providing training to, or working with, local people to meet a short-term skills gap.</p> <h3>7. Sustainability</h3> <p>Check there’s a project end date, not a long-term dependency on volunteers.</p> <h3>8. Skills match</h3> <p>What do you have to offer? Skills in high demand include digital, monitoring and evaluation, fundraising, language and computer skills. However, some <a href="https://worldexpeditions.com/Thoughtful-Travel/Community-Project-Travel?utm_source=Blog&utm_campaign=WE%20Blog&utm_content=VolunteerChecklist" rel="noopener" target="_blank">community projects</a> may not require specific skill sets.</p> <h3>9. Suitably qualified</h3> <p>Avoid placements for which you are not skilled or qualified – e.g. teaching or caring for children or providing medical care.</p> <h3>10. Learning opportunity</h3> <p>How will you apply what you've learnt back home? Employers will be interested in evidence of impact, not just the fact that you have volunteered overseas.</p> <p><span style="color: #949e17;">Did you know, globally, an estimated 80% of children in orphanages have a living parent? <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="http://blog.worldexpeditions.com/responsible-travel/orphanage-tourism-the-untold-story/" rel="noopener" style="color: #949e17; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">Watch this short documentary</a></span> revealing the untold story of orphanage tourism.</span></p> <p><strong>Want to make a difference? <a href="https://worldexpeditions.com/Thoughtful-Travel/Community-Project-Travel?utm_source=Blog&utm_campaign=WE%20Blog&utm_content=VolunteerChecklist" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Join onto one of our community travel projects ></a></strong></p> <p><span style="color: #000000;"><a href="https://worldexpeditions.com/Thoughtful-Travel?utm_source=Blog&utm_campaign=WE%20Blog&utm_content=LoveYouGiveDoco" rel="noopener" style="color: #000000;" target="_blank">#ThoughtfulTravel</a> <a href="http://www.loveyougive.org/#involved" style="color: #000000;">#ChangeVolunteering</a></span></p> 2516Most children in orphanages aren’t orphans, this is their untold storyhttps://assets.worldexpeditions.com/Blog/PostId/2515/orphanage-tourism-the-untold-storyNews,Thoughtful TravelThu, 29 Nov 2018 00:51:00 GMT<p><strong>Did you know, globally, an estimated 80% of children in orphanages have a living parent?</strong></p> <p>One of the main reasons families send a child to live in residential care institutions is often because it's the only way to access basic services, such as education and health care.</p> <p>However, decades of research show that living in institutions is harmful to children where they can experience attachment disorders, developmental delays and lack the life skills and stability that come from growing up in a family. These problems can continue into adulthood, where young adults leaving institutional care are more likely to become victims of trafficking, exploitation, unemployment and homelessness and are at increased risk of suicide.</p> <p>World Expeditions Travel Group has long advocated to put an <a href="https://worldexpeditions.com/Thoughtful-Travel/Child-Safe-Tourism?utm_source=Blog&utm_campaign=WE%20Blog&utm_content=LoveYouGiveDoco" rel="noopener" target="_blank">end to orphanage tourism</a>. Rather than volunteering in orphanages, we believe in empowering family-based care. Here are <a href="http://blog.worldexpeditions.com/responsible-travel/volunteer-checklist-what-to-consider/" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><span style="text-decoration: underline;">10 things to look for to make sure your time overseas is spent making a genuine difference</span></a>.</p> <p>This short documentary, titled <em>The Love You Give</em>, reveals the untold stories of orphanages, a system that's harming the very children we believe it protects, and how you can choose to be part of the solution. It presents the negative impact of orphanages but doesn’t seek to criticise the motivations behind volunteering, instead it showcases how people can be part of the solution, not the problem.</p> <p> </p> <div class="embed-responsive embed-responsive-16by9"><iframe allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" class="embed-responsive-item" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/xDOzyoQHQOs?rel=0&controls=1"></iframe></div>   <p>Take the pledge to #ChangeVolunteering at <a href="http://www.loveyougive.org/#involved" rel="noopener" target="_blank">loveyougive.org</a> and make the commitment not to volunteer in an orphanage as you could unknowingly be breaking up families.</p> <p><a href="https://worldexpeditions.com/Thoughtful-Travel?utm_source=Blog&utm_campaign=WE%20Blog&utm_content=LoveYouGiveDoco" rel="noopener" target="_blank">#ThoughtfulTravel</a></p> 25157 best wildlife spotting tripshttps://assets.worldexpeditions.com/Blog/PostId/2503/7-best-wildlife-spotting-tripsActivities,Photography,Wildlife,Thoughtful TravelThu, 04 Oct 2018 07:41:00 GMT<p><strong>From giant turtles to polar bears and exotic orangutans, the spectacle of seeing elusive animals in their natural habitat is always an overwhelming experience. To mark World Animal Day (October 4), we've chosen seven of the best trips for responsible wildlife viewing – perfect for animal lovers who rejoice in the great outdoors!</strong></p> <h2>Galapagos Islands – snorkel near sea lions on San Cristobal</h2> <p>Few places in the world can rival the Galapagos as a prime wildlife destination. Well over 500 miles west of continental Ecuador, the isolated islands represent a spectacular and striking world of volcanic landscapes and fearless animals. No wonder Charles Darwin developed his ‘Theory of Evolution’ on this wildlife sanctuary – more than 875 species of plants and 289 types of fish can be found at this Pacific Ocean archipelago of untamed beauty. Accompanied by a specialist naturalist guide, snorkel with sea lions, search for giant tortoises and see iguanas basking in the sun on our <a href="https://worldexpeditions.com/Ecuador/Adventure-Touring/Galapagos-Bike-Hike-and-Kayak?utm_source=Blog&utm_campaign=WE%20Blog&utm_content=WildlifeSpotting" rel="noopener" target="_blank">8-day active adventure where you bike, hike and kayak your way around the Galapagos Islands.</a></p> <p><img alt="" class="responsiveImage" dynamiccroppedimage="1" largestloadedsize="1100" src="/Portals/World Expeditions/LiveBlog/WP-Images/Galapagos_Islands_Ecuador-medium-1024x683-200px.jpg" variablesrc="/Portals/World Expeditions/LiveBlog/WP-Images/Galapagos_Islands_Ecuador-medium-1024x683-###width###px.jpg" width="1024" /></p> <h2>Sumatra Jungle – get up close with orangutans</h2> <p>Hike deep into one of the few surviving habitats of the indigenous orangutan, the Gunung Leuser National Park between North Sumatra and Aceh – Sumatra is the only place to see in the world (besides Borneo) where you can see in the wild the endangered species! Its tropical climate and diverse rainforests ‘explain’ its rich biodiversity, which also includes species of elephants, tigers and rhinos. Expect incredible scenery as you cross through thick tropical forest on our <a href="https://worldexpeditions.com/Indonesia/Trekking-Hiking/Sumatra-Jungle-Trek?utm_source=Blog&utm_campaign=WE%20Blog&utm_content=WildlifeSpotting" rel="noopener" target="_blank">13-day Sumatra Jungle Trek</a> to reach the summit of Sibayak Volcano and visit Lake Toba, the highest and deepest volcanic lake in the world.</p> <h2>Kenya and Tanzania – 'Big Five' African safari with a twist</h2> <p>An active safari that starts with white water rafting on the River Tana in Kenya, ascending to the crater rim of Mount Longonot for panoramic views of the Great Rift Valley, and spending a day cycling alongside zebras and giraffes around Hell’s Gate, known for its giant rocky limestone outcrops. Our <a href="https://worldexpeditions.com/Kenya/Wildlife-Safari/Kenya-and-Tanzania-Raft-Bike-and-Hike?utm_source=Blog&utm_campaign=WE%20Blog&utm_content=WildlifeSpotting" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Kenya and Tanzania: Raft, Bike and Hike</a> adventure is jam-packed full of highlights in the spectacular east of Africa. After searching for ‘the big five’ in the Maasai Mara and visiting a traditional village, you will make your way to Tanzania for a night on the shores of Lake Victoria, Africa’s largest lake, followed by incredible game drives in the spectacular locations of the Serengeti, Lake Manyara and Ngorongoro Crater.</p> <p><img alt="" class="responsiveImage" dynamiccroppedimage="1" largestloadedsize="1100" src="/Portals/World Expeditions/LiveBlog/WP-Images/Tanzania_-_Playtime-medium-200px.jpg" variablesrc="/Portals/World Expeditions/LiveBlog/WP-Images/Tanzania_-_Playtime-medium-###width###px.jpg" width="875" /><span class="blogImageCaption">Image: David Lazar</span></p> <h2>Alaska – furry encounters in Denali National Park</h2> <p>Explore Alaska’s breathtaking landscapes and come face to face with its indigenous wildlife on a trip that brings together the very best experiences of the 49th state. Enjoy the hospitality and character of rustic-yet-comfortable lodging while you keep an eye out for Alaska’s incredible marine and mountain wildlife, from caribou, moose, wolves, foxes to bald eagles, grizzly bears, Arctic ground squirrels and beavers. Our <a href="https://worldexpeditions.com/United-States/Multi-Activity/Great-Alaska-Adventure?utm_source=Blog&utm_campaign=WE%20Blog&utm_content=WildlifeSpotting" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Great Alaska Adventure</a> finishes with a memorable crossing of Prince William Sound on the Alaska state ferry, where you will be on the lookout for whales.</p> <h2>North Spitsbergen – go in search of polar bears</h2> <p>A land of massive ice sheet, glaciers and fjords high in the Arctic archipelago, Spitsbergen (meaning ‘pointed mountains’) has about 2,500 inhabitants – this is roughly the same as the number of polar bears, which during the summer months you can observe in their natural habitat under the midnight sun as they roam the ice in search of food. Administratively part of Norway, the remote island is known for its frozen tundra and unique wildlife, with six national parks protecting the largely untouched yet fragile environment. Our <a href="https://worldexpeditions.com/Svalbard-and-Jan-Mayen-Islands/Expedition-Cruising-Sailing/North-Spitsbergen-Polar-Bears-Pack-Ice?utm_source=Blog&utm_campaign=WE%20Blog&utm_content=WildlifeSpotting" rel="noopener" target="_blank">North Spitsbergen – Polar Bears & Park Ice</a> expedition cruise takes you to the most wildlife-rich part of the Arctic where you get the chance to walk amongst the tundra up to high points where there are sweeping views across the vast glaciated inland.</p> <p><img alt="" class="responsiveImage" dynamiccroppedimage="1" largestloadedsize="1100" src="/Portals/World Expeditions/LiveBlog/WP-Images/Svalbard-_European_Arctic-medium-1024x683-200px.jpg" variablesrc="/Portals/World Expeditions/LiveBlog/WP-Images/Svalbard-_European_Arctic-medium-1024x683-###width###px.jpg" width="1024" /></p> <h2>Botswana – see herds of elephants</h2> <p>Botswana’s first national park, Chobe National Park, is also the country’s most biologically diverse, however it is its elephant population that it is most famous for. Its estimated 50,000 animals (mostly Kalahari elephants, the largest in size of the species) are considered the highest elephant concentration of elephants anywhere in Africa. Our <a href="https://worldexpeditions.com/Botswana/Adventure-Touring/Botswana-Elephant-Trail?utm_source=Blog&utm_campaign=WE%20Blog&utm_content=WildlifeSpotting" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Botswana Elephant Trail</a> tour is designed to showcase the country's diverse and beautiful wilderness. Highlights include big game haunts such as Moremi and the Okavango Delta, UNESCO’s 1000th World Heritage site and one of the few inland deltas that floods in the dry season.</p> <h2>Zambia Liuwa Plains – witness the wildebeest migration</h2> <p>The stunning North Western part of Zambia is ideal for the wildlife enthusiast after a more intimate ‘migration’ experience. Our <a href="https://worldexpeditions.com/Botswana/Adventure-Touring/Zambia-Liuwa-Plains-Migration-Safari?utm_source=Blog&utm_campaign=WE%20Blog&utm_content=WildlifeSpotting" rel="noopener" target="_blank">14-day adventure tour</a> takes in the second biggest wildebeest migration in Africa, at the remote Liuwa Plains National Park in Zambia. Every year, from late October and for the next few weeks, thousands of blue wildebeest can be seen travelling from the Cameia National Park in Angola to western Zambia in search of palatable grass. As the dry season comes to an end and the rain brings the Liuwa Plains back to life, more than 40,000 animals make this journey, many along with their new-born calves.</p> <p><img alt="" class="responsiveImage" dynamiccroppedimage="1" largestloadedsize="1100" src="/Portals/World Expeditions/LiveBlog/WP-Images/Etosha_National_Park_Africa-medium-1024x640-200px.jpg" variablesrc="/Portals/World Expeditions/LiveBlog/WP-Images/Etosha_National_Park_Africa-medium-1024x640-###width###px.jpg" width="1024" /></p> <h2>Feeling inspired?</h2> <p>Travel deep into the heart of the animal world and have the best experience viewing animals in their wild habitat, in a 100% animal-friendly way! <a href="https://worldexpeditions.com/Wildlife-Safari?utm_source=Blog&utm_campaign=WE%20Blog&utm_content=WildlifeSpotting" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><span style="color: #949e17;"><span style="text-decoration: underline;">View our range of wildlife safari experiences</span> ></span></a></p> <p>Want to know more about being an animal-friendly traveller? <a href="https://worldexpeditions.com/Thoughtful-Travel/Animal-Welfare?utm_source=Blog&utm_campaign=WE%20Blog&utm_content=WildlifeSpotting" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Read this informative 10-step guide</a>.</p> <p><em><strong>What animal would you love to spot in the wild? Let us know in the comments below.</strong></em></p> 2503Sustainable 'glamping' in Patagonia's Torres Del Painehttps://assets.worldexpeditions.com/Blog/PostId/2466/patagonia-ecocampActivities,Adventure Travel,Trekking/Walking,Patagonia,Thoughtful TravelMon, 16 Jul 2018 03:19:00 GMT<p>At the southernmost end of the Americas lies wild <a href="https://worldexpeditions.com/Argentinian-Regions/Patagonia?utm_source=Blog&utm_medium=link&utm_campaign=WE%20Blog&utm_content=Patagonia" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Patagonia</a>; a vast beautiful landscape that stretches out across southern Chile and Argentina.</p> <p>Dotted with awe-inspiring glaciers and mountains, the region offers trekkers spectacular wilderness that is home to flamingos, condors, guanacos, puma and nandus. However, the region is threatened as less than five per cent of its wild areas have any conservation status.</p> <div class="dynamicImageWrapper" switchsource="image1"><img alt="Accommodation at Patagonia Eco Camps | <i>Kyle Super</i>" class="responsiveImage" cropdataid="2231092" dynamiccroppedimage="1" largestloadedsize="1100" src="/croppedImages/South-America/Patagonia/Patagonia_-Chile-2231092-1100px.jpg" variablesrc="/croppedImages/South-America/Patagonia/Patagonia_-Chile-2231092-###width###px.jpg" /></div>   <p>Visitors to this region are encouraged to travel responsibly to preserve its unique ecosystem. One option is to stay in an eco camp, which we offer on our <a href="https://worldexpeditions.com/advanced-search?pageSize=6&categories=ARG%2CBOL%2CBRA%2CCHL%2CCOL%2CECU%2Cgalapagos%2CargregionPatagonia%2CPER%2CMachuPicchuIncaTrail&searchKeywords=ecocamp" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Torres Del Paine trips</a>.</p> <p>Located in the very heart of the <a href="https://worldexpeditions.com/advanced-search?searchKeywords=Torres%20Del%20Paine" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Torres Del Paine National Park</a>, our sustainable camps provide a back to nature experience, yet spare nothing when it comes to comfort. This is a memorable way to experience the wilds of Patagonia with the smallest ecological footprint possible.</p> <p>The <a href="https://worldexpeditions.com/advanced-search?pageSize=6&categories=ARG%2CBOL%2CBRA%2CCHL%2CCOL%2CECU%2Cgalapagos%2CargregionPatagonia%2CPER%2CMachuPicchuIncaTrail&searchKeywords=ecocamp" target="_blank">eco camp</a> is a fully sustainable tribute to the Kawésqar people (who were ancient nomadic inhabitants in Patagonia) with comfortable domes modelled on their traditional design.</p> <p>The geodesic structures are perfectly suited to the Patagonian climate, withstanding wind, rain and snow whilst featuring organic elements, wooden floors and windows in the ceiling to stargaze at night.</p> <h2>Take a look inside:</h2> <div class="lightbox mb-lg" data-plugin-options="{ 'delegate': 'a', 'type': 'image', 'gallery': { 'enabled': true} }"><a class="lightboxThumbnail img-thumbnail d-inline-block mb-xs mr-xs" href="/Portals/World Expeditions/LiveBlog/WP-Images/Patagonia-_Chile-medium-e1531721759549-1920px.jpg"> <img class="img-fluid" height="110" src="/Portals/World Expeditions/LiveBlog/WP-Images/Patagonia-_Chile-medium-e1531721759549-350px.jpg" width="110" /></a><a class="lightboxThumbnail img-thumbnail d-inline-block mb-xs mr-xs" href="/Portals/World Expeditions/LiveBlog/WP-Images/Patagonia_EcoCamp-original-1920px.jpg"> <img class="img-fluid" height="110" src="/Portals/World Expeditions/LiveBlog/WP-Images/Patagonia_EcoCamp-original-350px.jpg" width="110" /></a><a class="lightboxThumbnail img-thumbnail d-inline-block mb-xs mr-xs" href="/Portals/World Expeditions/LiveBlog/WP-Images/Patagonia-_Chile-medium-1-e1531721772956-1920px.jpg"> <img class="img-fluid" height="110" src="/Portals/World Expeditions/LiveBlog/WP-Images/Patagonia-_Chile-medium-1-e1531721772956-350px.jpg" width="110" /></a><a class="lightboxThumbnail img-thumbnail d-inline-block mb-xs mr-xs" href="/Portals/World Expeditions/LiveBlog/WP-Images/Patagonia-Eco-Camp-Living-Area-1920px.jpg"> <img class="img-fluid" height="110" src="/Portals/World Expeditions/LiveBlog/WP-Images/Patagonia-Eco-Camp-Living-Area-350px.jpg" width="110" /></a><a class="lightboxThumbnail img-thumbnail d-inline-block mb-xs mr-xs" href=""> </a><a class="lightboxThumbnail img-thumbnail d-inline-block mb-xs mr-xs" href="/Portals/World Expeditions/LiveBlog/WP-Images/Patagonia-Eco-Camp-Local-Design-1920px.jpg"> <img class="img-fluid" height="110" src="/Portals/World Expeditions/LiveBlog/WP-Images/Patagonia-Eco-Camp-Local-Design-350px.jpg" width="110" /></a></div> <h2>Feeling inspired?</h2> <p>Choose between nature walks, treks and bike excursions – <a href="https://worldexpeditions.com/Argentinian-Regions/Patagonia" rel="noopener" target="_blank">view our range of Patagonia trips.</a></p> 2466How to avoid plastic waste when you travelhttps://assets.worldexpeditions.com/Blog/PostId/2476/how-to-avoid-plastic-waste-when-you-travelGear and Training Tips,Thoughtful TravelWed, 27 Jun 2018 23:33:00 GMT<p><strong>With supermarket chains phasing out plastic bags and campaigns such as Plastic Free July, the issue of reducing plastic waste in our everyday lives has become much more mainstream.  We're encouraged by efforts to minimize our throwaway mentality but what about reducing plastic use when we travel?</strong></p> <p>Reducing or eliminating plastics is not straightforward, when so many products are packaged in plastic, including a basic necessity such as water.  While it can prove to be a challenge, especially when travelling to regions where plastic can be ever-present, there are simple steps you can take to limit your use.</p> <p>Here are some ways you can be kinder to the planet by reducing your single-use plastic when travelling.</p> <h2>8 ways to reduce your plastic use overseas</h2> <h3>1. Don’t buy bottled water.</h3> <p>Instead, bring a reusable drink bottle. You can upgrade your reusable bottle to one with an integrated filtration system or carry purification tablets, which can be handy when travelling to countries with low drinking water standards or when heading on a backcountry or remote expedition. A good purification system is a great investment in helping the planet in the long run, and also for your future travel.  Fortunately, on many of our treks, <a href="http://blog.worldexpeditions.com/community/reviews-community/food-costs-on-a-nepal-trek-are-meal-inclusions-worth-it/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">we provide boiled water</a>, so you can fill up on the go and avoid having to purchase plastic bottles of water on a hike, which can add up in cost.</p> <p><img alt="" class="responsiveImage" dynamiccroppedimage="1" largestloadedsize="1100" src="/Portals/World Expeditions/LiveBlog/WP-Images/Drink_Bottle-medium-1024x683-200px.jpg" variablesrc="/Portals/World Expeditions/LiveBlog/WP-Images/Drink_Bottle-medium-1024x683-###width###px.jpg" width="1024" /><span class="blogImageCaption">Did you know around 1 million plastic bottles are bought per minute? Photo: Alan Carrillo</span></p> <h3>2. Avoid using plastic bags by packing light reusable bags.</h3> <p>Do you tend to throw your wet or dirty clothes in a plastic bag when you travel? Why not opt for a dry bag instead, which is durable and waterproof. You can also bring along a textile bag for the occasional shopping splurge.</p> <p><img alt="" class="responsiveImage" dynamiccroppedimage="1" largestloadedsize="1100" src="/Portals/World Expeditions/LiveBlog/WP-Images/Annapurna_region-_Himalaya-_Nepal-medium-1024x683-200px.jpg" variablesrc="/Portals/World Expeditions/LiveBlog/WP-Images/Annapurna_region-_Himalaya-_Nepal-medium-1024x683-###width###px.jpg" width="1024" /><span class="blogImageCaption">Bring along your own bag when you hit the shops. Photo: Joe Kennedy.</span></p> <h3>3. Switch your travel toothbrush for a biodegradable bamboo one.</h3> <p>In Australia, more than 30 million toothbrushes are used and disposed of each year, contributing to almost 1000 tonnes of landfill each year, so imagine that on a global scale! A biodegradable toothbrush handle made from sustainably harvested wood makes for an eco-friendlier alternative to plastic toothbrushes.</p> <h3>4. Don’t use a disposable razor.</h3> <p>Instead, switch to a safety razor with a replaceable blade. Just remember to pack this in your check-in not carry-on! When you think about it, disposable razors are packed in a layer of plastic, coupled with a plastic handle and guard, and are only designed for a couple of uses.</p> <h3>5. Bring your own thermos cup for your coffee order.</h3> <p>Using a reusable coffee cup avoids disposable cups ending up in landfills. Better yet, dine in when you stop by a café and enjoy your coffee in a mug.</p> <h3>6. Don’t buy travel size toiletries every time you travel.</h3> <p>Steer clear from purchasing small sized liquid soaps, shampoos and conditioners whenever you take a trip. Instead, reuse and refill the small bottles you already have with the products you have at home and simply label the contents. Otherwise, get a set of reusable containers to refill forever – you can find glass and metal alternatives to plastic travel containers as well.</p> <h3>7. Help clean wilderness trails of plastic.</h3> <p>Join our <a href="https://worldexpeditions.com/Responsible-Travel/10-Pieces?utm_source=Avoid%20plastic&utm_medium=Blog&utm_campaign=WE%20Blog&utm_content=10_Pieces" rel="noopener" target="_blank">10 Pieces initiative</a> on our treks in Nepal, Bhutan, Peru, as well as our Mount Rinjani and Mount Kilimanjaro summit treks to help beat plastic pollution. By collecting rubbish on trails and bringing it back to camp for proper disposal, you are helping take the issue of global litter in your own hands. The initiative also helps highlight the consequences of litter on wildlife and tourism to mountain communities.</p> <p style="text-align: center;"> </p> <div class="embed-responsive embed-responsive-16by9"><iframe allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" class="embed-responsive-item" frameborder="0" height="420" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/u0QD8ALQNtk" width="560"></iframe></div> <p> </p> <h3>8. Skip carrying chewing gum.</h3> <p>Did you know that chewing on gum is essentially chewing plastic? Gum is made from a synthetic rubber which contain polyethylene polymers – listed as ‘gum base’ – and it contributes to 100,000 tonnes of plastic pollution every year. Avoid it altogether – and its disposable packaging – and opt for a toothpick or mints that are packed in a paper box or metal tin.</p> <p>Along with our responsible travel practices, you can make <a href="https://worldexpeditions.com/Responsible-Travel/Leave-No-Trace?utm_source=Avoid%20plastic&utm_medium=Blog&utm_campaign=WE%20Blog&utm_content=Leave_no_trace" rel="noopener" target="_blank">sustainable choices that leave a smaller footprint</a> in the places you visit. Read <a href="http://blog.worldexpeditions.com/responsible-travel/fast-facts-how-big-is-our-plastic-problem/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">our latest initiatives in Nepal</a> where we've gone plastic-free!</p> <h3>Looking for more inspiration?</h3> <p>Download <a href="https://worldexpeditions.com/Responsible-Travel?utm_source=Avoid%20plastic&utm_medium=Blog&utm_campaign=WE%20Blog&utm_content=Thoughtful_Traveller" rel="noopener" target="_blank">our free Thoughtful Traveller ebook</a> and learn how you can be a responsible traveller.</p> <p><em><strong>What are some ways you reduce your plastic use? Let us know in the comments below.</strong></em></p> 2476On The Couch: 10 Pieces Litter Collection Initiative Founder Lisa Vitarishttps://assets.worldexpeditions.com/Blog/PostId/2323/on-the-couch-10-pieces-litter-collection-initiative-founder-lisa-vitarisThoughtful TravelThu, 02 Jun 2016 02:59:00 GMT<p><strong>With the multitude of environmental issues we are faced with around the globe, we can often feel like a small part of a massive problem. Yet, this didn't deter 10 Pieces litter collection initiative founder Lisa Vitaris.</strong></p> <p>A love for travel and adventure from a young age combined with a passion for the environment drove Lisa to create an innovative and powerful litter collection initiative called "10 Pieces" that World Expeditions has proudly taken on board.</p> <p>Read on to find out how it was Lisa's determination, coupled with a strong background in marketing, that resulted in Lisa creating this visionary program. Her initiative encourages travellers to "take only photographs and some litter, leave only footprints" - so that collectively we can make a difference, and is available for our travellers who embark on selected treks in Nepal and Bhutan.</p> <h4><strong>1. With a life-long background in marketing, what was it that inspired you to start the clean-up initiative 10 Pieces? Have you always had a strong passion for the environment and sustainability?</strong></h4> <p>Travelling, which I’ve been fortunate enough to do fairly extensively from a young age (thanks Mum and Dad!), has definitely been a driving force in inspiring me to help both people and the environment. Clean Up Australia has been a strong influence for me and I’ve volunteered for them for many years. I’ve also volunteered for a variety of different causes close to my heart from wildlife conservation to supporting torture and trauma victims to suicide prevention to helping the homeless. Marketing is another passion of mine and I’ve been able to leverage this to help create 10 Pieces.</p> <p>The idea for 10 Pieces came to me on a hike in Ala Archa National Park in Kyrgyzstan. Litter was strewn around the picnic areas and mountain trails and I couldn’t help but pick it up. Knowing that this would only assist in the short term, this time I started thinking about what would help in the long term and thought about the collective power of individuals. If we all pick up litter – even a nominal amount – we can make a difference.</p> <p> </p> <p><div class="lightbox mb-lg" data-plugin-options="{ 'delegate': 'a', 'type': 'image', 'gallery': { 'enabled': true} }"><a class="lightboxThumbnail img-thumbnail d-inline-block mb-xs mr-xs" href="/Portals/World Expeditions/LiveBlog/WP-Images/Mauritania-1920px.jpg" > <img class="img-fluid" src="/Portals/World Expeditions/LiveBlog/WP-Images/Mauritania-350px.jpg" width="110" height="110" /></a><a class="lightboxThumbnail img-thumbnail d-inline-block mb-xs mr-xs" href="/Portals/World Expeditions/LiveBlog/WP-Images/Morocco-1920px.jpg" > <img class="img-fluid" src="/Portals/World Expeditions/LiveBlog/WP-Images/Morocco-350px.jpg" width="110" height="110" /></a><a class="lightboxThumbnail img-thumbnail d-inline-block mb-xs mr-xs" href="/Portals/World Expeditions/LiveBlog/WP-Images/Watching-out-for-the-komodo-dragon-Indonesia-1920px.jpg" > <img class="img-fluid" src="/Portals/World Expeditions/LiveBlog/WP-Images/Watching-out-for-the-komodo-dragon-Indonesia-350px.jpg" width="110" height="110" /></a><a class="lightboxThumbnail img-thumbnail d-inline-block mb-xs mr-xs" href="/Portals/World Expeditions/LiveBlog/WP-Images/Mud-volcanoes-in-Azerbaijan-1920px.jpg" > <img class="img-fluid" src="/Portals/World Expeditions/LiveBlog/WP-Images/Mud-volcanoes-in-Azerbaijan-350px.jpg" width="110" height="110" /></a></div></p> <h4><strong>2. Why do you think that an initiative like 10 Pieces is important, especially in developing countries like Nepal and Bhutan?</strong></h4> <p>In Nepal and Bhutan, litter never really used to be a problem as traditionally products were biodegradable. With the increasing uptake of modern packaging and the onset of tourism came non-biodegradable litter. Couple this with limited litter disposal options and it can start to cause damage to the local environment, wildlife and even people.</p> <p>When travellers pick up litter, not only does it help reduce this damage, it also sets a good example to others and can inspire them to do the same. When World Expeditions travellers were picking up their 10 pieces at Tiger’s Nest Monastery in Bhutan, they had people clapping them, monks blessing them and other people grabbing a bag and joining in.</p> <p> </p> <p><a href="http://blog.worldexpeditions.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/World-Ex-Chomolhari-Trek.jpg"><img class="responsiveImage" src="/Portals/World Expeditions/LiveBlog/WP-Images/World-Ex-Chomolhari-Trek-200px.jpg" alt="World Ex Chomolhari Trek" width="4608" dynamiccroppedimage="1" variablesrc="/Portals/World Expeditions/LiveBlog/WP-Images/World-Ex-Chomolhari-Trek-###width###px.jpg" largestloadedsize="200"></a></p> <h4><strong>3. Often it’s overwhelming for people to think about the enormity of the issue of litter and waste in the environment, yet 10 Pieces breaks the problem into doable ‘bite size’ chunks  - with the core message that collectively we can make a difference. What was your reasoning behind calling your clean-up initiative “10 Pieces” and how did you come up with the idea?</strong></h4> <p>Litter can be very overwhelming and there are many fantastic initiatives like Clean Up Australia and dedicated overseas tours that clean up large amounts of litter all at once. With the often-limited time people have on their holidays, it can be hard to justify spending the time picking up litter. However, 10 Pieces is incorporated into daily activities and can be done in under 60 seconds.</p> <p>10 Pieces seemed incredibly simple to me, and hard to decline! Whilst we say 10 Pieces, 10 is really a nominal number and travellers can choose to pick up as little or as much litter as they wish.</p> <p>10 pieces can also make a difference. If it’s just you, you pick up 10 pieces. But if you’re in a group of 10 travellers that 10 pieces quickly turns into 100. And if there’s a new group of 10 travellers at the same place the next day that’s another 100. So over time, a huge difference can be made just by getting each traveller to pick up 10 pieces of litter. And for travellers, it’s really empowering that they can actually make a difference.</p> <h4><strong>4. How can a movement like 10 Pieces make a positive impact on the environment, particularly in developing countries that don’t have good waste disposal systems in place?</strong></h4> <p>10 Pieces’ mantra is all about taking out more litter than what you take in and therefore leaving the environment in a better state.</p> <p>In Nepal and Bhutan, waste disposal facilities are extremely limited, particularly in the remote areas visited on trips. World Expeditions have facilitated litter disposal by developing portable incinerators that burn the paper and plastic waste collected without leaving any fire scars.</p> <h4><strong>5. The 10 Pieces initiative is closely aligned to World Expeditions responsible travel policies to “leave no trace”. How did the partnership with World Expeditions come about?</strong></h4> <p>As part of my Masters in International Marketing, I conducted detailed research on whether 10 Pieces would be supported by the travel industry and travellers alike. Fortunately the response was overwhelmingly positive, particularly thanks to Donna Lawrence, Responsible Travel Manager at World Expeditions. Donna has been a big believer in 10 Pieces right from the start and gave me the confidence I needed to launch it.</p> <p>World Expeditions are leaders in responsible travel and constantly seeking ways to improve the environment and 10 Pieces provides a new and simple way of achieving this.</p> <p><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/dvn_xTIKl6A?rel=0&showinfo=0" width="640" height="360" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe></p> <h4><strong>6. Could you tell us about how 10 Pieces is incorporated into World Expeditions trips so travellers are able to make a difference to the local environment?</strong></h4> <p>10 Pieces is fully integrated in the day-to-day activities of selected World Expeditions trips. Travellers bring their own gloves and hand sanitiser and World Expeditions provides litter collection bags that clip easily onto a belt or backpack. In certain, typically remote, locations travellers are encouraged to pick up their 10 pieces, which are then carried to, and incinerated at, the next campsite. The positive impact is multiplied by the regular flow of travellers.</p> <h4><strong>7. What difference has World Expeditions travellers implementing the 10 Pieces initiative made to the environment and to the local communities (for example in Nepal)?</strong></h4> <p>World Expeditions travellers have cleaned up a range of trails in Bhutan and Nepal. By taking out more than what they took in, they’ve not only had a positive impact on the local environment but also set a good example to others who have joined in. One particular benefit is that there are far less Mars Bar wrappers littering Nepal! (unfortunately a common sight along trails).</p> <h4><strong>8. What are your top 3 tips for people to becoming more responsible travellers? In what ways can we further reduce our footprint?</strong></h4> <ol> <li>Take only photographs <em>and 10 pieces of litter</em>, leave only footprints (and dispose of all litter thoughtfully in the best way possible for the area you are in)</li> <li>Try to buy products that can be used multiple times and that come with minimal packaging (travelling with a water bottle for example can save so much waste)</li> <li>Just because you can, doesn’t mean you should (exploitation is sadly often a reality; think twice about where you stay, what you buy, what you eat, your interactions with animals, even where you volunteer)</li> </ol> <p><a href="http://blog.worldexpeditions.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/Georgia-with-tour-guides.jpg"><img class="responsiveImage" src="/Portals/World Expeditions/LiveBlog/WP-Images/Georgia-with-tour-guides-1024x683-200px.jpg" alt="Georgia with tour guides" width="1024" dynamiccroppedimage="1" variablesrc="/Portals/World Expeditions/LiveBlog/WP-Images/Georgia-with-tour-guides-1024x683-###width###px.jpg" largestloadedsize="200"></a></p> <h4><strong>9. What is your vision for the future of 10 Pieces? Where do you want to see it in 5-10 years time?</strong></h4> <p>Recently 10 Pieces expanded to include Indonesia and soon will include Peru. I’d like to see it expand to cover all 7 continents and become a natural part of travellers’ trips. It would be great if we can collectively change the behaviour of littering in the countries we’re operating in and improve the litter disposal options. Sue Badyari, World Expeditions CEO, has been instrumental in this, lobbying overseas governments to improve their environmental policies.</p> <h4><strong>10. How can we inspire and encourage other travellers and locals to make small changes, join the movement and do their bit for the environment? What steps can we take to do this?</strong></h4> <p>I believe 10 Pieces and World Expeditions should show the difference that 10 Pieces can make over time when harnessing the collective power of individuals. Perhaps it’s time for a before and after series?</p> <p>And for those of you who want to help make a difference:</p> <ol> <li>Set a good example by picking up 10 pieces and others will often follow.</li> <li>Join a World Expeditions trip and participate in 10 Pieces.</li> <li>Spread the word via family, friends and colleagues.</li> <li>Share your experience on social media.</li> <li>Remember that together, we can make a difference.</li> </ol> <h3>How to Join the 10 Pieces Initiative with World Expeditions</h3> <p>Since World Expeditions was founded in 1975, we have been committed to sustainable travel, and today with the magnitude of threats to the environment and society, our commitment is stronger than ever. World Expeditions has stuck to the responsible travel principals of Leave No Trace and aims to have as little impact on the environments we travel to as possible. Now, we've gone one step further, and introduced the 1o Pieces litter collection program to a selection of our trips, which aims to not only Leave No Trace, but also improve the environments we travel to through encouraging travellers to collect 10 pieces of litter everyday.</p> <p>World Expeditions has partnered with 10 Pieces and travellers who embark on treks in the Annapurna and Everest regions as well as a selection of treks in Bhutan can now volunteer to participate in 10 Pieces. We’ll alert you to the opportunity before departure, when you can volunteer to participate.</p> <h4><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>>>><a href="http://www.worldexpeditions.com/au/index.php?section=responsible_travel&id=2208044" target="_blank">Find out more about World Expeditions and 10 Pieces</a></strong></span></h4> <p><a href="http://blog.worldexpeditions.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/World-Ex-Chomolhari-Trek-2.jpg"><img class="responsiveImage" src="/Portals/World Expeditions/LiveBlog/WP-Images/World-Ex-Chomolhari-Trek-2-1024x768-200px.jpg" alt="World Ex Chomolhari Trek 2" width="1024" dynamiccroppedimage="1" variablesrc="/Portals/World Expeditions/LiveBlog/WP-Images/World-Ex-Chomolhari-Trek-2-1024x768-###width###px.jpg" largestloadedsize="200"></a></p> 2323