Philosophy - Mission Statement "Fair Trek"

 

As a "Fair Trek" tour operator in Laos
we see ourselves with special responsibilities in sustainable tourism and so called ecotourism in Laos! We want to promote good practises of private companies supporting local communities through tourism activities in Laos. Fair Trek is more than tourism, it is meant to be a new generation of responsible tourism for Laos and beyond...

 

"FAIR TREK" in LAOS - what is "Fair Trek" about?

 

• is committed to sustainable, socially-responsible, outdoor adventures
• creates new job opportunities for villagers through tourism
• over 25% of your fee paid is direct income to villages and the community in the "Fair Trek" areas.
  (food, guides, guest houses, etc.)
  A 2 day trip with a minimum of 2 travelers even gives about 36% to the villages and communities.
• integrates visitors into every day life with meaningful experiences
• regulates number of guests daily to ensure preservation of traditional lives and culture
• works in partnership with government tourism agencies and villages

 

 

Community based tourism?

What is a community?

 

A community by definition implies individuals with some kind of collective responsibility, and the ability to make decisions by representative bodies.

Community based tourism is tourism in which local residents (often rural, poor and economically marginalised) invite tourists to visit their communities with the provision of overnight accommodation.

The residents earn income as land managers, entrepreneurs, service and produce providers, and employees. At least part of the tourist income is set aside for projects which provide benefits to the community as a whole.

Community based tourism enables the tourist to discover local habitats and wildlife, and celebrates and respects traditional cultures, rituals and wisdom. The community will be aware of the commercial and social value placed on their natural and cultural heritage through tourism, and this will foster community based conservation of these resources.

The tourist accommodation and facilities will be of sufficient standard for Western visitors, albeit those expecting simple rural accommodation. The community will be required to have continuous access to a phone (which might be required for medical assistance) and daily access to email (which will be required by operators to confirm bookings).

The community may choose to partner with a private sector partner to provide capital, clients, marketing, tourist accommodation or other expertise. Subject to agreement to the ideals of supporting community development and conservation, and to planning the tourism development in partnership with the community, this partner may or may not own part of the tourism enterprise.

 

by http://www.responsibletravel.com/copy/copy901197.htm