The islands of the Pacific are a popular destination for many travelers looking to trade in city life for secluded beaches, cultural authenticity and stunning natural environments. While the small size and remoteness of these destinations makes for ideal getaways, these characteristics also bring along many challenges. Visitors often put...
The Mesoamerican Reef Tourism Initiative (MARTI) worked in destinations bordering the world’s second-largest reef system to maintain a vibrant tourism industry that supports local communities and contributes to a healthy ecosystem. Stretching for 600 miles (965 kilometers) along the coast of Mexico, Belize, Guatemala, and Honduras, the Mesoamerican Reef is...
The most popular of Torres del Paine’s trekking routes is the Base Torres trail. And for good reason. After traversing through plunging valleys and rocky slopes, adventurers are rewarded with a breathtaking view of the park’s centerpiece – the “Towers of Paine. These three iconic granite spires tower high above...
Indonesia and Malaysia are becoming increasingly popular with visitors who wish to see orangutans in their natural habitat. Many travelers also seek experiences at rescue centers or sanctuaries that allow them to visit or participate in longer-term volunteer programs. To ensure that you make informed and ethical travel decisions in...
With its white sandy shores and expansive coral reefs, it’s no surprise that the Mexican Caribbean is a popular tourist destination. However, tourists aren’t the only visitors that frequent the region. The Mexican Caribbean is home to several important sea turtle nesting beaches. Every year, from May to October, thousands...
Tourism in protected areas is a growing economic activity in many countries. By drawing visitors out of tourism hotspots to more remote regions, protected area tourism can bring new benefits to rural communities and indigenous populations. While protected areas provide significant economic value, there tends to be little data to...