Travel Responsibly with Social Enterprises
You want a fun and local experience while you travel, and you also wish to give back, to do something beneficial for the communities you visit. Is it possible to achieve both? Yes, indeed!
One easy way to connect these two goals is through social enterprise in travel.
What are Social Enterprises?
Social enterprises resemble NGOs (non-governmental organizations) in having a social or environmental mission, but they differ in their market-driven approach as they aim to earn revenue. However, they reinvest the majority, if not all, of their profits back into the community. Many social enterprises also train and employ disadvantaged or marginalized populations, thereby integrating their mission into their operations.
From tours and experiences to restaurants and shops, social enterprises provide a deeper travel experience and a connection to the places you visit. Plus, you can feel good knowing your money contributes to local communities. Here are some examples and tips for finding social enterprises in your next travel destination.
Join Cultural Experiences and Tours
Choosing a tour or experience with a social enterprise often leads to unique experiences you won’t find elsewhere. Many social enterprise-driven experiences focus on fostering connections with and preserving local culture and community.
For instance, at Parque de la Papa in Peru, visitors encounter 500 species of potatoes during a guided tour led by local farmer-advocates. Tour fees help fund local farmers and their efforts, such as preserving indigenous potato varieties. It’s an eye-opening experience that showcases how even the humble potato can enhance your travel adventure.
Engage with Local Music and Art
The Blue Yonder in southern India has developed a Musical Trail that connects travelers with local musicians and artisans along the River Nila in Kerala. Participants not only observe traditional performances but also have the opportunity to create music and art collaboratively. Such experiences rejuvenate local traditions and provide economic benefits, showcasing how cultural exchange can uplift communities.
Shop for Handicrafts and Souvenirs
The rise of social enterprise in shopping enables travelers to purchase quality local crafts while learning memorable stories behind the items. In Bokonbaevo, Kyrgyzstan, at Altyn Oimok (Golden Thimble), founder Janyl Bayisheva teaches traditional Kyrgyz handicrafts, providing economic opportunities for rural women. The high-quality handmade crafts not only retain cultural significance but also empower disadvantaged women and promote social support.
Experience Community Restaurants and Cafes
Food is a wonderful way to connect with a destination. Social enterprise restaurants and cafes add a meaningful layer of impact in their local communities. For example, Parwa Community Restaurant in Peru’s Sacred Valley contributes profits towards educational grants, clean water initiatives, and sanitation improvements that benefit the entire community.
In addition, Friends-International Restaurants and Cafes in Cambodia, Laos, Thailand, and Ethiopia employ disadvantaged youth, providing them with skills in hospitality while facilitating their professional development and offering a delectable dining experience.
How to Incorporate Social Enterprises on Your Next Trip
Social enterprises are gaining traction globally, yet they can be hard to locate. Here are some handy tips for finding and integrating them into your travel plans.
Research Online
In your preferred search engine, integrate the term ‘social enterprise’ with the service type you are seeking (e.g., walking tour, guest house, restaurant) and your destination. Grassroots Volunteering offers a database featuring over 150 social enterprises worldwide. Additionally, leverage your social media networks to gather recommendations, which can yield surprising insights.
Select a Tour Operator with a Social Focus
Choose a tour operator that incorporates social enterprises into their itineraries. For example, G Adventures features over 240 tours highlighting social enterprise experiences. Furthermore, Visit.org vets local tour providers to ensure profits are reinvested into the community. Always inquire about how the operators engage with local communities in delivering their tours.
