On the two-decade anniversary of his travel company, Responsible Travel, Justin Francis reflects on just how far the industry has come and where it’s going next. He suggests nothing is possible unless we first reduce carbon emissions and restore nature and that the only way forward is to consult more closely with local people.
In this interview for Skift, Florian Sengstschmid, CEO of Azerbaijan Tourism Board, talks about how the DMO used the pandemic to develop a solid, sustainable tourism strategy and emerge as a safe destination, ready to back welcome travellers. Since Azerbaijan is not a mass tourism destination, he hopes it will be easier and safer for travellers to enjoy the country’s immersive experiences when the time is right.
In the interview by Ann Abel for Forbes, Portuguese hotelier Pedro Franca Pinto talks about how the past year has changed him and his business. He explains the relation of the hotel to sustainability and the rethink tourism campaigns. This is the first of four interviews looking at what’s going to be different as the travel and hospitality world gets back on its feet.
More than 100 countries, international organisations and leading business groups have agreed to adopt harmonised standards for assisting tourists caught up in emergency situations. This also includes a set of recommendations relating to providing tourists with information, assistance and, if necessary, repatriation. The aim is to help to restore confidence in international travel after the pandemic.
As part of Skift’s Viewpoint series, Asia travel and consumer trends analyst Gary Bowerman, shares his 10 top lessons from the pandemic so far - “people have had a year to consider the perilous state of the planet, and they’re unimpressed. As borders reopen, sustainable, responsible, and regenerative travel will need to be reimagined, because the tourism sector is about to be in the eco-cross hairs”.
In a concerted effort to promote sustainability and innovation, the Municipality of Syros-Hermoupolis is taking steps to drive positive change and position itself as an eco-conscious destination, aiming to enhance the quality of life for both residents and visitors whilst preserving its natural ecosystem and cultural heritage.
