Travel companies around the world are doing what they can to help Ukrainian refugees. We can support the millions affected by this humanitarian crisis by choosing to travel with these compassionate companies and contributing much-needed funding for important initiatives.
18 March 2022
The travel industry is working diligently to find ways to support Ukraine in every capacity. With millions seeking refuge, hotels are providing necessary shelter, transport companies are assisting evacuees to safety at no charge, and tour operators are fundraising for vital supplies and medical needs on the ground. As travelers, we are reminded that the right holiday choices can also help. Here’s a selection of businesses contributing to those most in need, whom you can support with your travel decisions.
Initiatives for Support
One notable initiative is Hospitality for Ukraine, a global directory for accommodation providers matching thousands of refugees fleeing Ukraine to various hosts. They are currently placing individuals through 220 accommodation providers across 19 countries. Volunteers are working tirelessly to connect with officials on the ground to facilitate these matches.
New charities and initiatives are continuously emerging—as the United Nations estimates that the war in Ukraine is creating a child refugee every second. The Ukrainian Relief Foundation, established by hoteliers in Budapest, is specifically designed to host refugees at their boutique hotel. Their café has transformed into a sanctuary for those escaping the war, providing food and drink certainly needed in these dire times.
Travel Solutions and Contributions
Airbnb has provided an innovative solution for supporting Ukrainians by inviting users to engage directly with hosts in situ, thus waiving commission fees. Across Europe, Airbnb hosts are encouraged to offer temporary homes for refugees.
Contributions have also come from organizations like Intrepid with a significant AUD$50,000 donation towards humanitarian efforts and their fundraising for the Red Cross has further pumped up this support. Sawday’s and its associated collections are committing a portion of their revenue to the Choose Love Ukraine Crisis Fundraiser.
Cross-Channel operators, such as Eurostar, are facilitating free travel for Ukrainian nationals from the continent to the UK, giving those fleeing the war a viable means of escape to safety.
Taking Meaningful Travel Choices
Additionally, Design Hotels is actively fundraising for on-ground organizations like World Central Kitchen to provide essential meals, healthcare, and safe water. They encourage other hotels in their network to offer rooms for refugees through the #HospitalityHelps platform.
Businesses like G Adventures are taking definitive action by cancelling all trips to Russia until the end of 2023, calling for the travel industry to confront the situation head-on.
Moreover, the adverse impact of the conflict on tourism in northern and eastern Europe is evident, with travellers opting to cancel their trips in light of the situation. However, visiting neighboring countries that are receiving refugees—such as Poland, Romania, and Hungary—can help provide businesses there with essential economic support.
In summary, as Bruce Poon-Tip from G Adventures explains, “Travel is the most powerful way we can open our hearts, minds, and eyes to the beauty of the world, especially in the darkest of times.” Therefore, by making conscientious travel choices, we can contribute to a greater good while exploring the world.
