Sustainable Tourism

A survey of US travelers conducted by the Travel Industry Association and National Geographic Traveller found:

• More than 47 million travelers believe that it is important that the travel companies that they use employ local residents and support local communities;
• More than 55 million travelers exhibit a high degree of commitment to travel that protects the local environment, engages visitors in the local culture, and returns benefits to the community;
• 61% of travelers agree that their travel experience is better when the destination preserves its natural, historic and cultural sites and attractions;
• 71% indicate that it is important to them that their visit to destinations does not damage local environments

This survey proves that the educational campaign regarding the importance of environmental protection and cultural and social responsibility has indeed reached the traveling public. The tourism industry has now made significant changes in its business management in order to respond to this change. Tourism professionals and local people are starting to understand the importance of preserving their culture, natural features and attractions that travels come to experience.