Long-distance flights, especially for holidays, has become a target for constant criticism within the last months as well as other negative trends like over-tourism and the bad impact of cruises. On our Green Travel Blog we have stressed the topic sustainability and flying as well as overtourism. 

Besides all doubts and negative examples, tourism also has a positive impact. The projects we introduce today support both the destination and local people.

Preserving the long-forgotten traditions: Bangkok´s Nang Loeng community

The touching story of Grandma Kanya: She lives in the Nang Loeng community in Bangkok and loves to dance, even at her high age. The community belongs to the ‚disappearing communities´. Grandma Kanya is one of the last people, who is still capable of the traditional Thai Lakhon Chatri – a combination of chant and dance, which is transmitted over several generations since the Kingdom of Ayutthaya. But for the young generation the old traditions are becoming less important and Hip Hop and Pop music play a far more important role than Lakhon Chatri. Grandma Kanya loves to get regular visits from tourists being interested in her culture and whom she can teach the traditional dance. Through the integration of the community in trips of the tour operator HiveSters the disappearing communities stay alive.

Community-based tourism with HiveSters

Besides getting insights into the little community you have the chance to also learn how to cook typical Thai dishes and how to produce the traditional powder garlands Pang Puang, also a threatened tradition. HiveSters aims at showing tourists a different way of traveling with authentic insights. Thus, locals can achieve income and preserve their traditions. Culture is back in the spotlight and possibly will get more attractive for the younger local generation. A win-win situation for all 🙂

Visiting the host family Tung Dap

Thailand puts a special and strong focus on community-based tourism and you can find various tour operators offering this kind of travel. The village Tung Dap near the Andaman coast has also been honored for its unique approach where soft tourism, the protection of local traditions and culture play a major role here. Tung Dap is a rural host family initiative – you can come to the village as guests and stay with families. From fishing to vegetable cultivation, from culture to arts and crafts – there is a lot to do and you participate in the lives of the inhabitants JIt is important that the income generated through tourism stays with the local community. As a guest, you are making extraordinary experiences and get insights into the culture. The stay is organized by Andaman Discoveries supporting many communities with its community-based tourism concepts since the devastating tsunami 2004.

What is important?

These two examples show alternatives to mass tourism. Yes, long-distance flights can´t be sustainable. But it should never be forgotten that many countries and regions depend on tourism, as this is a significant economic factor. What is important, is that the money remains with the local people and they are supported.

As always: Choose to fly less often and take more time on-site to make truly special experiences, get insights in the country and the people and widen your horizon. Booking locally is also important – whether it is accommodation or excursion. Especially community-based activities are perfect because you support the locals and have a memorable stay!

You can find some more tips on sustainable and responsible tourism here: 

Responsible traveling: 10 eco-friendly tips – part 1

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