Upgrade To Fair Trade

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Posted on August 3, 2012 by Fair Trade Town: Chicago

As summer comes to a close, it is a great time to get away and try something new for this years family getaway!  Instead of dragging your family to the usual end of summer spot, consider upgrading your vacation to a fair trade friendly one.  By exploring alternative travel choices, you can have a unique trip and avoid leaving negative marks on cultures, economies, and the environment, while making a positive impact on the people and places you visit!  We all love to travel to remote, tropical, or exotic destinations. Unfortunately, these are exactly the places we do the most damage as tourists. Dollars of third world nations are devalued. Many of these nations have been plagued with well-intentioned, but largely unfulfilled promises for aid. Alas, in nearly each country there has been more ruin than help. As tourists, we are typically sheltered from these harsh realities. We are oblivious to abysmal living conditions, poverty, poor waste disposal and many other tragic situations. Check out this great video to learn in under a minute about how you can make a difference by choosing a fair trade vacation.  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZXqowBA1VZA   Many people become wary of these fair trade vacations because of common myths that just aren't true! Fair Trade tourism Myths If you think ecotourism is not for you because you don't have enough money or because it's too difficult for you, think again! Myth: I have to sacrifice quality and luxury of accommodations.Reality: Many lodges, hotels, and B&Bs have very high standards for quality and luxury. They bring nature and culture within your reach, while still assuring your level of comfort. Myth: It's expensive!Reality: Responsible tours and accommodations come in a range of prices, depending on the level of comfort and convenience you desire. Myth: It's too complicated!Reality: The internet makes it easy to plan and book responsible travel. When you arrive at your destination, there are simple steps you can take to make your trip environmentally and socially responsible, and reduce your footprint by saving energy while traveling Myth: It means traveling to tropical jungles.Reality: Ecotourism often brings to mind images of exotic tropical locations, but the reality is that ecotourism opportunities can be found in a wide range of destinations, and ecotourism accommodations and tour packages exist on every continent. Myth: It's for backpackers.Reality: People of all interests, ages, incomes, and backgrounds can become eco-tourists, and there are plenty of family-friendly options.   This information and more about fair trade vacations can be found at the following websites: https://www.ecotourism.org/,  http://www.fairtradevacations.com/, http://www.responsiblevacation.com/vacation/3551/bangladesh-vacation-fair-trade-tour,  http://www.sustainabletourism.travel/fairtradeintravel.html