As tourism begins to recover, data suggests that travelers will take a more active approach in seeking properties and destinations that have a positive impact on the environment and communities. Kind Traveler is a veteran- and woman-owned company and the first socially conscious Give + Get hotel booking and media platform that empowers travelers to positively impact the communities they visit. Impact travel, defined by the Center for Responsible Travel (CREST) as tourism that makes strategic contributions of time, talent, and treasure to social and environmental projects in destinations, can be a meaningful pathway to regenerate and heal communities that have been economically devastated from Covid-19. Data from Booking's 2021 Global Research Study, shows that nearly 70 percent of travelers want to see how their travel dollars are going back into the community as demonstrated by the ‘Impact Awakening’ trend.
14 Impact Travel Opportunities to Regenerate Communities
All of Kind Traveler’s impact goals are aligned with the United Nations’ Global Goals for Sustainable Development, which largely center around fighting poverty, advancing environmental sustainability, and reducing inequality in local communities.
“Kind Traveler is positioned to be a catalyst that can help the tourism industry recover in a responsible and sustainable way -- while fulfilling the traveler’s need to have a purpose-driven trip that helps regenerate communities,” said Jessica Blotter, CEO & Co-Founder of Kind Traveler.
With Kind Traveler’s Give + Get booking model, travelers receive exclusive rates and perks from curated Kind Hotels when they give a $10 nightly donation to vetted charities in the communities they visit. Travelers will learn the exact impact their donation will make.
“With more than 70 charities to support, impact opportunities will range from helping to provide nutritious meals to families in need, rehabilitate wildlife, clean up local waterways and beaches, plant trees, and more,” she added.
Looking to travel kindly this summer? Here are some destinations and hotels that will help travelers make a positive impact and regenerate local communities.
1. Ka’ana Luxury Resort
Ka’ana Luxury Resort is located deep within the tropical jungle of Western Belize. Your donations will go to the Cayo Animal Welfare Society which supports stray cats and dogs in the Cayo district of Belize.
2. 907 Main
907 Main is a newly restored chic boutique hotel located in the heart of Central Square in Cambridge. Guests have the opportunity to contribute to Margaret Fuller Neighborhood House which provides integrated services to individuals and families to empower them to overcome challenges and achieve their goals. 907 Main honors the nineteenth-century architecture while seamlessly combining a sleek, contemporary style to create an atmosphere that is chic and vibrant.
3. La Lancha Hotel
La Lancha Hotel is tucked into the natural jungle splendor and perched above the rejuvenating waters of Lago Peten Itza. Guests can impact the community by giving back to ARCAS Guatemala, an organization that has been combating animal trafficking and rehabilitating wildlife in the Maya Biosphere Reserve since 1989.
4. Salishan Coastal Lodge
Salishan Coastal Lodge guest rooms and suites connect Kind Travelers to the outdoors, boasting rustic luxury with abundant natural light. Travelers can donate to One Tree Planted, a charity that makes it easier for individuals and businesses to give back to the environment by planting trees.
