The global pandemic of 2020 brought global tourism to a halt – and we saw just how important travel really is.
For families and local economies. For ecosystems whose conservation is funded by small community based ecotourism businesses. For our minds and our hearts.
Locked down and isolated, we missed the face-to-face connections we make when exploring our own towns or faraway places. We missed the human relationships we build when we learn about lives and livelihoods different from our own, up close and in person. We realized that, when we are free to move, that’s what we’ll be seeking.
What does ‘human encounters’ really mean?
It’s the magic that happens when travelers connect deeply and meaningfully with local people to listen and learn, share stories, and support their work to build more sustainable communities – in ways that are beneficial to all.