Articles - A Wandering Web

A Case for Travel: Airplane Travel is Safer than Grocery Shopping

Dated: May 24, 2021 by Charlotte Tweed No Comments

airplane wing with clouds and the sun shining. — Airplane Travel is Safe: photo by Pixabay

According to a study released in October 2020, using layered safety measures could push the risk of catching coronavirus on an airplane below regular activities such as grocery shopping and eating at a restaurant. Researchers at the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health have written an in-depth report showing that airplane travel is safe.

One good thing has arisen from the ashes. Airplane cleaning has changed forever.

Travel is a personal decision. People need to travel. If they must go somewhere, they will find a way to get there. The public deserves the opportunity to reach informed decisions about air travel. As with any activity, such as driving, playing sports, or lifestyle choices, there are risks. How do we mitigate these risks and safely ensure the resumption of travel?

Harvard Study

The Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health Aviation Public Health Initiative (APHI) is led by National Preparedness Leadership Initiative, a joint program of Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health and Harvard Kennedy School of Government, Center for Public Leadership.

Say that all in one breath.

The APHI academic team’s expertise is industrial hygiene, infectious disease, engineering, environmental, medical, social sciences, and crisis leadership. On the aviation side, airline operators, aviation industry manufacturers, and airport operators sponsored the project. The academic team is an inclusive, multi-disciplinary, multi-sectoral, and multi-organizational unit intended to address the current SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) crisis in aviation. The project is a model for how industry and science can work together to overcome COVID-19 challenges. (Health, 2020)

The comprehensive strategy proposed incorporates layering NPI (non-pharmaceutical interventions) to create additive and/or synergistic benefits for reducing the risk of exposure to SARS-CoV-2 during air travel. This layered NPI approach, with ventilation gate-to-gate, reduces the risk of SARS-CoV-2 transmission onboard airplanes below that of other routine activities during the pandemic, such as grocery shopping or eating out. (Health, 2020)

*Note: Some of these links are affiliate links, meaning that if you book through my link, I will make a small commission (at no extra cost to you).

Key Findings

Key findings from the Harvard report highlight interactions from different NPI layers to risk mitigation include:

• Compliance with face mask-wearing and airplane’s environmental control systems diluting and removing pathogens reduce the risk of people acquiring COVID-19 during the cruise segment of their journey.

• Mask compliance reduces larger droplet dispersion that may deposit on surfaces. General airline cleaning practices and passengers sanitizing hard surfaces around their seats lowers the probability of contacting COVID-19.

• Combined, mask compliance, managed physical distancing, improved ventilation during boarding and disembarking, can reduce potential transmission to low levels.

• Requiring passengers to prove absence of COVID-19 symptoms, mandating they follow the airline’s COVID-related procedures provides protection. Gate and flight crewmembers assuming roles in assuring compliance will be essential to holding passengers accountable.

4 Key Factors in Risk Reduction to Make Airplane Travel Safe

man disinfecting seat pockets in an airplane — Airplane Travel is Safe: This Photo by Unknown Author is licensed under creativecommons.org

1. Emerging Science on COVID-19: Research to characterize COVID-19 viral production and transmission is still emerging. Scientific judgement combines with evidence-based research to monitor changes throughout the pandemic.

2. Layered Approach to Risk Reduction: The NPI proposed for risk mitigation of COVID-19 transmission includes consistently operated ventilation systems, disinfecting surfaces, wearing face masks, and social distancing procedures during boarding and deplaning.

3. Ventilation Systems on Airplanes: These sophisticated systems deliver clean cabin air in high amounts by rapidly dispersing exhaled air. Displacement of air in a downward direction reduces passenger-to-passenger respiratory pathogen spread. These systems can filter out 99.97% COVID-19 particles found on airplanes. (Health, 2020)

4. Crew and Passenger Behavior: Health screening for COVID-19 symptoms reduce the chance an infectious individual will board a plane until rapid, reliable, and inexpensive testing becomes available. (Health, 2020)

Healthy Air through Ventilation Systems

People have long expressed potential concerns about air quality inside commercial airplanes—a concern based on ignorance to airplane ventilation system operations.

Airplanes have a high air exchange rate of approximately every 2 to 3 minutes (20 to 30 ACH) while cruising—higher than recommended air exchange rates for an operating room in a hospital. (Health, 2020) While cruising, cabin air is recirculated about 40% to 50% and filtered through a high-efficiency particulate air filter, also known as a HEPA filter.

HEPA filters remove, at a minimum, 99.97% particulate matter from return air. High filtration levels ensure cabin air is particulate matter free, including bacteria and viruses. (Health, 2020)

We then began sampling onboard air at the various stages of flight from the boarding process to …, push back, taxi out, climb, cruise, descent, landing, ride, and deplaning… as a proxy for clean air we only measured particles, fine particles 0.3 to 25 microns in 48size. And we collected all that data with LTE equipment with personnel. And we also then sample various public spaces, grocery stores, big-box retailers, office environments, various places people encounter every day and what we conclusively found is that the onboard air systems, especially in the use of the HEPA filters have inherently and exponentially fewer particles of that size than the places we encounter every day. (Health, 2020)

Airplane Cleaning and Disinfection

man electrostatic spraying an airplane — Airplane Travel is Safe: This Photo by Unknown Author is licensed under creativecommons.org

Airlines’ disinfection processes have changed to reduce any contaminated surfaces or fomites inside the cabin. Fomites are objects or materials which are likely to carry infection, such as clothes, utensils, and furniture. All airlines have added extra cleaning. High touch areas receive additional attention. Disinfection overnight or when there is enough time between flights is also a priority. (Health, 2020)

Some airlines perform electrostatic spraying at least once per day or between flights when having at least two to six hours or more. Foggers emit a fine mist cleaning agent throughout the cabin. Those using electrostatic foggers go a step further. Aerosol passes around unreachable cabin elements such as overhead bins and tray tables. To carry out these extensive cleaning protocols, almost all airlines have included more training. (Health, 2020)

Inanimate Objects

Surfaces in airplane cabins are cleaned with effective disinfection agents approved by government agencies and reinforced by industry oversight bodies. Consistent with evidence from healthcare settings, infection with COVID-19 via fomites in airplane cabins is low. (Health, 2020)

Hand Sanitization

person sanitizing hands with gel — Air Travel is Safe: Image by Luisella Planeta Leoni from Pixabay

Hand sanitizers containing at least 60% alcohol can be used if hand-washing facilities are not readily available. Soap and active ingredients in disinfectants destroy the protein protective layer of COVID-19 virus with effectiveness of more than 99.9% in less than 1 minute. (Health, 2020)

Additional Measures to Ensure Airplane Travel is Safe

people boarding an airplane outdoors — Airplane Travel is Safe: Photo by Taha Sas on Unsplash

Airplane ventilation systems contribute to maintaining safe environments while operating during a flight, while at the gate, boarding, or deplaning passengers. Other specific steps for prevention include:

1) maintaining appropriate ventilation during all travel phases

2) Marking required physical distancing on the jetway bridge

3) Admitting limited passenger numbers at one time

4) Reducing carry-on to one item where possible

5) Having crewmembers manage disembarkation. These simple process management measures combined with face masks will cut COVID-19 transmission during these critical air travel segments.

What if I Must sit Beside Someone?

the back of airplane seats with seated passengers — Airplane Travel is Safe: Image by Stela Di from Pixabay

Several airlines do not block middle seats. No evidence can be found on how blocking seats might help to reduce COVID-19 infections. (Health, 2020)

Respiratory viruses are released into the environment in respiratory fluid droplets via breathing, vocalizing, sneezing and/or coughing. Respiratory particle physics released from coughing, sneezing, and breathing is beyond the scope of this article. For a full explanation on transmission routes, refer to Harvard report pages 56-60.

When the airplane ECS (environmental control system) operates, mask-wearing passenger in the nearest seat to a masked infectious person will have reduced exposure risk. The estimated dose inhaled by an adjacent passenger over a few hours is likely to be less than necessary to cause a secondary infection. (Health, 2020)

What if Someone Begins to Exhibit Symptoms Onboard?

Airline crews are now trained to handle incidents should a passenger start exhibiting COVID-19 symptoms onboard. All airplanes have medical kits onboard. Some have more specialized kits including N95 respirators, protective PPE (personal protective equipment), and oximeters in medical kits. More than half the airlines in the Harvard report have third-party medical help consultation. (Health, 2020)

Airplane Travel is Safer than Grocery Shopping

When meeting current ventilation standards with 50% recirculated HEPA-filtered air, airplanes exchange rate significantly exceeds all normally encountered environments. The Harvard report shows airplanes have fresh air, resulting in a short lifetime for particles. Exposure to infectious particles is lower than any other common encountered environment. Particles from a cough or a sneeze are flushed from the cabin in as little as two to five minutes, as opposed to some six hours in a commercial or retail space.

Airlines Step up to the Challenge to Make Airplane Travel Safe

APEX Health Safety powered by SimpliFlying

APEX (Airline Passenger Experience Association Health Safety) powered by SimpliFlying sets industry standard for customer-centric COVID-19 certification. APEX is a 43-year-old non-profit dedicated to advancing customer experience on airplanes.

While all global airlines remain safe based upon governmental review and COVID-19 requirements, SimpliFlying provides a scientific validation designed to encourage airlines to reach beyond government requirements to a higher standard to make airplane travel safe.

The Health Safety Standard purpose is to:

Give airlines a proactive role in global travel resumption.
Create a common standard of health safety for passengers.
Highlight successful industry practices.

There are three safety standard levels: Gold, Platinum, and Diamond. Diamond is the highest achievable level.

To see launched airlines joining APEX Health Safety Standard, click here.

To see CDC cleaning guidelines for airplanes after a flight, go here.

United Airlines Receives Hospital Grade Cleanliness

airplane taking off from the runway — Air Travel is Safe: Image by Nel Botha from Pixabay

United Airlines has exceptional cleaning standards. APEX and SimpliFlying have given United the highest possible certification in the new APEX Health Safety audit powered by SimpliFlying. United was the first carrier to achieve Diamond status. (Travel Pulse, 2021)

United submitted detailed responses for audit against a 58-point checklist covering 10 categories including contact tracing, on-the-ground procedures, in-flight measures, and strategic partnerships. United has worked with strategic partners such as Clorox to redefine disinfection procedures to create a healthier environment.

Air Canada Awarded for Health and Safety Programs

Air Canada has hospital-grade level biosecurity to make airplane travel safe. Their customers and employees’ safety is their top priority.

Air Canada is certified as a global champion for its commitment to health and safety of customers and employees as it received Diamond certification from APEX Health Safety powered by SimpliFlying. Air Canada’s initiative since onset of COVID-19 includes Air Canada’s CleanCare+ program. (Travel Pulse Canada, 2021)

personal protective equipment provided by Air Canada on flights, mask, hand sanitizer, water, wipes, pretzels, headphones — Air Travel is Safe: The CleanCare+ package is complimentary for every passenger onboard Air Canada flights. Photo by Charlotte Tweed.

We reimagined everything from the check-in process, baggage handling, in-flight services, mandatory face-coverings, pre-flight temperature, and expanded grooming procedures. – Lucie Guillemette, Executive Vice-President and Chief Commercial Officer at Air Canada.

Air Canada also partnered with MHL (McMaster Health Lab) and Greater Toronto Airports Authority for a study demonstrating feasibility of airport-based testing to help reduce required quarantine periods. Preliminary results based on 20,000 tests conducted on more than 8,600 study participants between September 3-October 2, 2020, found 99% tested negative for COVID-19. (Travel Pulse Canada, 2021)

Travel and Hospitality Industry Taking the Blame

Travel is responsible for only 2% of cases yet, the travel industry shoulders the blame and shame. There have been misleading stories written about COVID-19 cases coming into Canada by airplane. If you check the flights mentioned, many are cargo flights, not passenger planes. Cargo planes will be coming into Canada as essential traffic no matter what rules the government places on passenger traffic. (Mowers, 2021)

Public health data shows approximately 99% of positive COVID cases are not travel-related. (Travel Pulse Canada, 2021)

100% of passengers tested negative in WestJet YVR Test Project. (PAX Global Media, 2021)

The CDC has stated “the risk of getting a contagious disease on an airplane is low” (Health, 2020)

Yet, we are still blaming and shaming travel.

Be a Responsible Traveller and Know Airplane Travel is Safe

Promote solidarity. Support recovery. Follow guidelines. Together we can stay steady during unsteady times. Let’s get this world turning again and realize it is safe to fly again and start planning your travel destination dream. #best #travel — Air Travel is Safe: Photo by Lucia Otero on Unsplash

Assess personal risks before flying. Make informed decisions. During a pandemic, transmission possibility will always exist in public environments. Life is risky business. Individuals with higher risk should consult health care providers for specific personalized information.

Global governments and institutions need to work together to develop common standards to make cross-border travel easier. Harnessing collaborative mindset can enhance travel for all. We can open freedoms and quality of life responsibly.

Rapid testing implementation at airports across Canada would be an added protection for travellers and communities. What do we hear on the news from some politicians? “Close the airports!” This is the wrong approach when there are feasible alternatives that can, and should, be implemented. Enough of the fear-mongering.

Promote solidarity. Support recovery. Follow guidelines. Together we can stay steady during unsteady times. Let’s get this world turning again.

a man sitting in a chair in an airport lounge

Though a formidable adversary, SARS-CoV-2 need not overwhelm society’s capacity to adapt and progress. Developing strategies mitigating the spread of the disease while allowing a careful reopening of sectors of society is possible. There is much to gain by simply following the science. It offers a bounty of information about how people can achieve both public health safety and opportunity. (Health, 2020)

To Read the Full Harvard Report, click here.

The project may also issue bulletins and updates, which can be found at the APHI website.

Phase 2 of the report covering the airport experience from gate-to-gate can be found here.

References

APEX. (2021). APEX Health Safety. Retrieved from APEX.aero: https://apex.aero/awards/apex-health-safety/

Health, F. a. (2020). Assessment of Risks of SARS-CoV-2 Transmission During Air Travel and Non-Pharmaceutical Interventions to Reduce Risk Phase One Report: Gate-to-Gate Travel Onboard Aircraft. The National Preparedness Leadership Initiative is a joint program of the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health and the Harvard Kennedy School of Government, Center for Public Leadership.

Miller, S. (2020, November 20). Disinfectant Damage: Are Cleaning Products Harming Aircraft Interiors? Retrieved from APEX.Aero: https://apex.aero/articles/disinfectant-damage-are-cleaning-products-damaging-aircraft-interiors/

Mowers, M. (2021, January 25). canadiantravelnews.ca. Retrieved from Canadian Travel News: https://canadiantravelnews.ca/2021/01/25/when-covid-is-about-more-than-travel-why-we-should-all-be-mad/

PAX Global Media. (2021, January 21). news.paxeditions.com. Retrieved from PAX News: https://news.paxeditions.com/news/airline/100-passengers-have-so-far-tested-negative-covid-19-westjet-yvr-study

Travel Pulse. (2021, January 12). United Airlines Receives Hospital-Grade Cleanliness Certification. Retrieved from travelpulse.com: https://www.travelpulse.com/news/airlines/united-airlines-receives-hospital-grade-cleanliness-certification.html

Travel Pulse Canada. (2021, January 26). Retrieved from ca.travelpulse.com: https://ca.travelpulse.com/news/airlines/national-airlines-council-supports-mandatory-tests-but-not-tougher-quarantines.html

Travel Pulse Canada. (2021, January 12). ca.travelpulse.com. Retrieved from ca.travelpulse.com: https://ca.travelpulse.com/news/airlines/air-canada-awarded-for-health-and-safety-programs.html

Pick up my Published Travel Memoir for Inspiration:

Roam Free is a deeply personal and often hilarious travel memoir that pulls you in to the wild and woolly ride of my epic travel adventures. If you loved Peter Mayle’s A Year in Provence, you’ll delight in Roam Free’s sweetly innocent deep dive into a life of untethered long-term travel. Get your copy on Amazon and become inspired today.

“I just finished your book and I wrote a great review on Amazon. Congratulations on your book, your blogging career, and mostly on your courage to step out of the box then burn the damn box!! Your book is inspiring. Bravo.” – Irene Cabay

Get Your Custom-Built Itinerary:

Want to make your own adventure travel memories but don’t know where to start? A Wandering Web Travels can help you plan and book your bucket list travel today.

Enter for your chance to win a FREE trip! *Terms and conditions apply.*

Book Your Flight and Car Rental:

Find cheap transportation by using Kiwi.com. This search engine combs websites and airlines around the globe to become the ultimate travel hack.

Book Your Accommodation:

You can book hotels, apartments, resorts, villas, B&Bs and guest houses at Booking.com! They consistently return the most economical rates for guesthouses and cheap hotels.

Like surprises? Try Hotwire.com and Save up to 60% off 4+ Star Hot Rate Hotels!

Always been curious about Airbnb but afraid to try? Now you can check them out and earn up to $95 CAD off your first trip!

Check out our world recommendations page on Where to Stay!

Book Your Small-Group Tour, Activities and Attractions:

For the best small-group tours check out G Adventures’ Insanely affordable tours!

Viator is another great option so don’t miss out! Guaranteed lowest prices on tours and activities.

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance:

Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. We like World Nomads because they have great rates and cover a range of adventurous activities.

P.S. – If you’ve found our website helpful and like to book travel yourself, please consider booking your next trip through the links on our Resources Page. We have personally used the companies listed there in our own travels. By booking through these links, the small commission we earn helps us keep the content up to date, expand our resources, and keep the website community supported.

Don’t just visit. Live it.

Pin it!

Pin it!

A Case for Travel: Where Fun, Photography & Philanthropy Meet in Uganda

Dated: April 9, 2021 by Charlotte Tweed No Comments

Photography Philanthropy: Amina learning how to drum in Bombo Town, Uganda.

Guest article submitted by Amina Mohamed of Triple F Photo Tours and Cameras For Girls:

In this difficult time under the pandemic, many of us are dreaming of going on vacation to somewhere exotic that does not resemble our shrinking world view and what we see on TV or through our daily zoom meetings. As a travel and tourism operator, worried about tourism recovery, I can only hope that what I have to offer in photography philanthropy, will be enticing to others, when we can freely travel once again.

*Note: Some of these links are affiliate links, meaning that if you book through my link, A Wandering Web will make a small commission (at no extra cost to you).

Triple F Photo Tours

Photography Philanthropy: Amina on safari photographing a lion at Queen Elizabeth National Park Uganda Triple F Photo Tours. Photo by @aminamohamedphotography.

I operate a photo-tour company, called Triple F Photo Tours, that caters to amateur and enthusiast photographers, wishing to improve their photography skills, while on an excursion. On our 18-day tour of Uganda, we engage in many unique sites and experiences that no other tour company can offer.

Photography Philanthropy: Beautiful Greenery of Uganda, the Pearl of Africa.

For instance, you will meet the mighty gorillas, while trekking them in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. Depending on our itinerary, which changes annually, you will also get to hike in the Rwenzori mountains to the snow-capped Margherita Peak, while keeping your eyes out for the three-horned chameleon; you will see wildlife, such as the African Elephants, Water Buffalos and Hippos, grazing on the shores of the Kazinga Channel and Murchison Falls; you will climb down into open caves and cool your feet in the cooling waterfalls after hiking through the forest, while monkeys swing and call out to you in the forest canopy. You will also get to meet the locals, and experience the culture while walking in the markets, getting a drum and dance lesson, or meeting the various artists that call Uganda home.

Photography Philanthropy: Chimp two feet away from me in Kibale National Park.

Unlike other tours to Uganda, you will experience two safaris, which include Lake Mburo National Park, the only walkable safari park in all of Africa. You will revel in seeing lions, leopards, elephants, giraffe, zebra, the Ugandan Kob, over 1,000 bird species, various monkeys, and lots more. Uganda is truly the Pearl of Africa when it comes to wildlife viewing.

Photography Philanthropy: Elephant family walking in Queen Elizabeth National Park, Uganda.

Photography Tours

Photography Philanthropy: Street food hustling their wares to travellers in Uganda.

Photography Philanthropy: Street food hustlers in Uganda.

On my first safari to Lake Mburo National Park, I was thrilled to get out of the car and stretch my legs, while walking among the Grevy Zebra and slowly walking through the tall grasses towards the Rothschild Giraffe, grazing on the Acacia leaves on the tall trees. As the sun was starting to go down, the sunsets along the savannah were mind-blowing and we got a view of a zebra and her foal feeding, as the sun glistened on their hair. It’s everything my photography heart wanted and more.

Photography Philanthropy: Grevy Zebra in Lake Mburo National Park.

Photography Philanthropy: Grevy Zebra grazing as the sun goes down in Lake Mburo National Park.

On our last photography tour, one of our visitors Kim, from British Columbia, had dreamt of going to Africa since she was five years old. As a gift to herself for her 60^th birthday, she decided to come with us, not only to experience everything Uganda has to offer, but to also be amongst other photography enthusiasts, hoping to improve their photography while on an excursion. Kim knew how to take photos, but she struggled with the manual settings of her camera. She not only learned how to compose her photos in a better light, but she can now comfortably move from auto to manual exposure without thinking about it.

Photography Philanthropy: Albertine Rift in The Western Rift Valley of Uganda.

Cameras For Girls

Photography Philanthropy: 2018 Cameras For Girls workshop participants, Kampala, Uganda. Photo by @aminamohamedphotography.

Other than helping other photography enthusiasts improve their photography what sets us apart from other tours, is our philanthropic side, Cameras For Girls. Triple F Photo Tours was started as a venture to give back to my home country of Uganda. Our family came to Canada in 1972, after being thrown out with thousands of other Asians by then-president Idi Amin. Settling in Canada, I realized early on how fortunate we were, compared to the people we left behind.

Photography Philanthropy: A child in the slums where the Cameras For Girls photography workshop was held. Photo by @aminamohamedphotography.

Return to Uganda

Photography Philanthropy: Day in the life in Kampala. Photo by @aminamohamedphotography.

Going on my first trip back to Uganda in 2007, was an eye-opening experience. Growing up in wealthy Canada, I was not prepared for the level of poverty I experienced in Uganda. It hurt me to the deepest level of my being, and I vowed I would do something to help these people – my people!

Photography Philanthropy: Joanita setting up her camera at the Cameras For Girls workshop, Kampala, Uganda. Photo by @aminamohamedphotography.

Photography Philanthropy

Photography Philanthropy: Amina and Elizabeth discussing her photos at Camera For Girls workshop in Kampala, Uganda. Photo by @aminamohamedphotography.

Knowing I wanted to do something and doing it are two different things and it took me ten years before I was able to start Triple F Photo Tours and a subsequent year before starting Cameras For Girls.

See our CTV National News feature to learn more about our journey.

Photography Philanthropy: Amina with the second cohort of girls with Cameras For Girls. Photo by @aminamohamedphotography.

In a very short amount of time, we have had some great successes. For instance, we helped Joanita secure a paid position. When she took the training, she had a job, however, she was not getting paid, because she did not own a camera, nor had she ever used one. Unlike North America, you are not provided with the tools to do your job in Uganda. Coming out of university does not guarantee you a paid position. Not only must you have journalism prowess, but you must own a camera, know how to use and be able to take your photos to accompany your articles. Two months after taking the training and with lots of practice, Joanita was finally put on payroll and now gets published and paid a minimum of four times a week. Not only does she support herself, but she supports her family and community as well.

Photography Philanthropy: Amina demonstrating editing to the students in Kampala, Uganda. Photo by @aminamohamedphotography.

Sharon was in our first training and has not only secured herself a paid job in journalism but is working hard to start an organization to help other girls get their stories published.

Stories like this make our work worthwhile and keep us pushing forward.

The Impact of COVID on Photography Philanthropy

Photography Philanthropy: Children always smiling no matter where you go.

Under normal times, we would bring seven travellers with us on our photo tour, however, COVID impacted not only our tourism side but also our Cameras For Girls program. We had to cancel our tours and moved our training program completely online, which is difficult under normal circumstances but when you combine time differences, lack of available internet connection and challenges of many of the girls returning to their villages for safety, it became a proverbial nightmare. However, we persevered.

Photography Philanthropy: Elizabeth learning at the Cameras For Girls workshop in Kampala, Uganda. Photo by @aminamohamedphotography.

To date, we have taught 32 girls and 11 now have full-time jobs. We invested not only in the girls learning photography but also in teaching them viable job skills, such as resume and cover letter writing and the building of a professional profile on LinkedIn. Furthermore, I started and am building a video library of various aspects of photography, so the girls can learn at their own pace, amidst their responsibilities at home and work.

Photography Philanthropy: Hafitha setting up her camera at the Cameras For Girls workshop in Kampala, Uganda. Photo by @aminamohamedphotography.

Our normal programming for Cameras For Girls would include a 3-day intensive in-country, followed by 2-days working in the field with a local Ugandan-based NGO (non-governmental organization). The fieldwork provides the NGO with much-needed imagery and the girls the opportunity to build a portfolio of images with written articles, they can show at job interviews. Further to this, I continue to teach online for an entire year through video tutorials, bi-weekly zoom training, and monthly assignments, coupled with discussions through our private Facebook and WhatsApp groups.

Photography Philanthropy: Kids being kids in the slums of Kampala. Photo by @aminamohamedphotography.

Following the intensive year-long training, I then work with the girls to help them get jobs, with the aforementioned job-skills training.

Photography Philanthropy: Students out practicing their photography. Photo by @aminamohamedphotography.

The Next Steps for Photography Philanthropy

At the time of writing this article, there is no news about when we might get the COVID vaccine. I am busy behind the scenes planning our next tour and training, which can hopefully happen in August 2021.

For now, like you, I will keep dreaming and planning my next photo-tour to Uganda and invite you to come along and meet the beautiful people I always fall in love with, again and again, every time I visit home.

unakaribishwa kutembelea Uganda (You are welcome to visit Uganda)

Photography Philanthropy: Ruboni Tribe of Rwenzori region, Uganda.

Learn more about Amina Mohamed and Photography Philanthropy

Photography Philanthropy: Hand of an Olive Baboon in Uganda.

Amina is currently planning for their next photo-tour to Uganda later this year. If you are interested in her free zoom information sessions, contact her at booking@triplefphototours.ca. Bookings for her tour, can be reserved with no deposit right now so get your name on the list if you want to experience a bucket-list tour of Uganda.

Photography Philanthropy: Handmade sandals by the Masai from Tanzania.

Amina is a one-person led Non-Profit, and is always seeking donations to her Go Fund Me Campaign or new and used cameras. You can donate here or contact Amina at amina@camerasforgirls.org.

To learn more, visit Triple F Photo Tours and Cameras For Girls

Watch Charlotte and Amina’s interview on A Case for Travel Tuesdays.

Photography Philanthropy: Amina with students Elizabeth and Lynn in Kampala, Uganda. Photo by @aminamohamedphotography.

Photography Philanthropy: Hippo in Kazinga Channel.

Amina Mohamed Bio

Amina Mohamed has always had a passion for photography. In 2018 Amina returned to photography full-time combining her two greatest passions – photography and philanthropy. Through Triple F Photo Tours, Amina takes travellers from Canada and the U.S. on a photo-tour to Uganda. Each traveller is paired with a local girl for three days to train and teach them the basics of photography. Each young girl is a journalist in training, and the help they receive gives them the opportunity to not only explore photography, but also get paid as a journalist. After getting this business off the ground, she created her second business Amina Mohamed Photography to service clients with headshots, branding, and family photography sessions.

Photography Philanthropy: The Open Caves and Waterfalls of Amabere Gyanimweru

Pick up my Published Travel Memoir for Inspiration:

Roam Free is a deeply personal and often hilarious travel memoir that pulls you in to the wild and woolly ride of my epic travel adventures. If you loved Peter Mayle’s A Year in Provence, you’ll delight in Roam Free’s sweetly innocent deep dive into a life of untethered long-term travel. Get your copy on Amazon and become inspired today.

“I just finished your book and I wrote a great review on Amazon. Congratulations on your book, your blogging career, and mostly on your courage to step out of the box then burn the damn box!! Your book is inspiring. Bravo.” – Irene Cabay

Get Your Custom-Built Itinerary:

Want to make your own adventure travel memories but don’t know where to start? A Wandering Web Travels can help you plan and book your bucket list travel today.

Enter for your chance to win a FREE trip! *Terms and conditions apply.*

Book Your Flight and Car Rental:

Find cheap transportation by using Kiwi.com. This search engine combs websites and airlines around the globe to become the ultimate travel hack.

Book Your Accommodation:

You can book hotels, apartments, resorts, villas, B&Bs and guest houses at Booking.com! They consistently return the most economical rates for guesthouses and cheap hotels.

Like surprises? Try Hotwire.com and Save up to 60% off 4+ Star Hot Rate Hotels!

Always been curious about Airbnb but afraid to try? Now you can check them out and earn up to $95 CAD off your first trip!

Check out our world recommendations page on Where to Stay!

Book Your Small-Group Tour, Activities and Attractions:

For the best small-group tours check out G Adventures’ Insanely affordable tours!

Viator is another great option so don’t miss out! Guaranteed lowest prices on tours and activities.

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance:

Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. We like World Nomads because they have great rates and cover a range of adventurous activities.

P.S. – If you’ve found our website helpful and like to book travel yourself, please consider booking your next trip through the links on our Resources Page. We have personally used the companies listed there in our own travels. By booking through these links, the small commission we earn helps us keep the content up to date, expand our resources, and keep the website community supported.

Mission statement: Transform your life with travel—one destination, one adventure, one story at a time.

Pin it!

Pin it!

A Case for Travel: The Power of Community Tourism

Dated: March 12, 2021 by Charlotte Tweed No Comments

Sri Lanka Digana Taramind Garden Planeterra Travellers © G Adventures

What if we took a holistic approach to see how our decision to travel or not to travel affects others in communities less fortunate than our own? Have you stopped to think if communities are stagnating or regressing because of the current lack of tourism to their region? Travel restrictions are having a massive effect on the global economy and it is time we take a look at these issues. The next time you think all travel is selfish, read about these global projects supported by the Planeterra Foundation and the power of community tourism to impact people.

*Note: Some of these links are affiliate links, meaning that if you book through my link, I will make a small commission (at no extra cost to you).

Planeterra Projects Around the World and the Power of Community Tourism

Africa

13 Projects Ongoing

Power of Community Tourism on Women

Feature Project: Nyamirambo Women’s Center, Kigali, Rwanda

Power of Community Tourism: Nyamirambo Women’s Center © Planeterra

53 women employed, 228 community members benefitting.

Gender-based violence, inequality, and discrimination are realities for Rwandan women. The Nyamirambo Women’s Center (NWC) opened in 2007 to provide education and training to disadvantaged women to improve employment opportunities. NWC offers different activities such as free classes in literacy, English, general computer skills, handicrafts, and sewing.

The NWC began taking advantage of the tourism industry in Kigali to support their community by offering community tours, cooking classes, and craft workshops to the delight of the conscious traveller.

Planeterra connected G Adventures’ group tours with NWC to their newly developed tourism program. The partnership offering includes a Nyamirambo community walking tour of the businesses around Kigali showing travellers what it is like to live in this vivacious community. There is an opportunity to purchase handicrafts from the women and a cooking class with lunch is also available. The walking tour employs six local guides.

Power of Community Tourism: Nyamirambo Women’s Center © Planeterra

How has Nyamirambo Women’s Center Been Affected by the Reduction in Tourism?

As tourism has come to a halt, the staff have earned no income and have found it difficult to meet basic needs. Planeterra has issued a grant to purchase food parcels containing basic food and household needs for 18 members of the women’s center and their families.

North Africa and the Middle East

4 Projects Ongoing

Power of Community Tourism on Employment Opportunities

Feature Project: Beit Khayrat Souf, Souf, Jordan

Power of Community Tourism: Beit Khayrat Souf © Planeterra

25 women employed, 60 community members benefitting.

Jordan ranks 16^th in the world for women’s unemployment. Beit Khayrat Souf is a women-owned and managed café employing women in daily management, service, and cooking. This café was the brainchild of a Jordanian woman named Sumia. She took out a personal loan with the hope of inspiring women for the future.

Power of Community Tourism: Jordan National Geographic Journeys Exclusives Women’s Cooking Class © Planeterra

Women involved in the project also work from home to make preserves to sell to Beit Khayrat Souf for consumption and sales to travellers. As the business grows, more women can gain employment opportunities to break the rampant cycle of unemployment for women in the region.

Planeterra, along with G Adventures, has connected Beit Khayrat Souf to a larger customer base through tours including a traditional Jordanian food cooking class.

Power of Community Tourism: Jordan National Geographic Journeys Exclusives Women’s Lunch Table Food Spread © Planeterra

How has Beit Khayrat Souf Been Affected by the Reduction in Tourism?

The restaurant has struggled to make ends meet during the COVID-19 pandemic. The women had previously diversified their income by selling homemade jams and sauces to travellers; however, the items are not as popular for the local market because many community members make their own. Planeterra was able to send a grant to support the women of Beit Khayrat Souf so they could access food through this grim time.

Central and East Asia

3 Projects Ongoing

Power of Community Tourism on Preserving Tradition

Feature Project: Ak Orgo, Barskoon, Kyrgyzstan

Power of Community Tourism: Ak Orgo © Planeterra

10 people earning an income, 1,000 community members benefitting.

Kyrgyzstan is the second poorest economy in Central Asia. However, there is growing tourism interest in the area, bringing benefit to the economy. Ak Orgo is a social enterprise that has recently commenced working in tourism. Planeterra has teamed up with Ak Orgo to provide the opportunity for much-needed livelihoods in the craft and tourism sector through a craft workshop. Young artists are now trained in handicrafts to sell to the tourism sector while preserving traditional Kyrgyz craft techniques.

Through the partnership with Planeterra, Ak Orgo can supply regular wages to employees that previously worked for passion. Now, these artists can support their families. Planeterra provided a grant to build a kitchen and a washroom to improve the traveller’s experience. Training was also conducted with a local organization in marketing and business skills to further Ak Orgo’s reach in the tourism sector.

How has Ak Orgo Been Affected by the Reduction in Tourism?

Before COVID-19, Barskoon was experiencing 80% unemployment. The pandemic has severely impacted the area, causing many employees of Ak Orgo to work from home resulting in little income. Planeterra provided a grant to ensure the 12 staff members of Ak Orgo can access necessities, including medicine.

South Asia

10 Projects Ongoing

Power of Community Tourism on the Economy

Feature Project: Barauli Community Homestay, Chitwan, Nepal

Power of Community Tourism: Barauli Community Homestay © Planeterra

24 people earning an income, 1,000 community members benefitting.

Barauli is home to the Tharu people, a small Indigenous community near the Chitwan National Park in Nepal. The park is a popular tourist attraction well known for its wildlife but less known for the cultural value it offers travellers.

The distance from the typical tourism hotspots in the Chitwan National Park has been a barrier to the Tharu residents. Limited work opportunities have resulted in illegal activities like poaching and deforestation in the park.

The community homestay program was developed by Royal Mountain Travel, Planeterra’s ground partner. The purpose is to connect travellers with the deep culture of the Tharu people. The village started with 14 individual cottages as part of the homestay program. The community also has a dining hall.

The homestay project is completely run by Tharu women. Different activities and livelihoods such as waitresses, cooks, cooking class hosts, and local guides have emerged because of the homestay program. A portion of all tourism profits are saved and reinvested into community development. Environmental projects, scholarships for students, and improving the tourism experience are all positive impacts of the reinvestment.

Power of Community Tourism: Barauli Community Homestay © Planeterra

How has Barauli Community Homestay Been Affected by the Reduction in Tourism?

The pandemic left 33 host families in Barauli and Panauti without tourism income. Planeterra supports the community by delivering health and sanitation items so the families will be ready to welcome travellers back to their homestays.

Southeast Asia

13 Projects Ongoing

Power of Community Tourism on Culture

Feature Project: Senang Hati, Ubud, Indonesia

Power of Community Tourism: Senang Hati © Planeterra

30 students enrolled every year, 90 community members benefitting.

In Bali, differently-abled people are often branded as having bad karma. So strong is this cultural barrier that sometimes differently-abled children are hidden from society. The result is no access to education and medical care and further marginalization in society. Senang Hati’s goal is to change these negative mindsets and create an inclusive community for all.

The Senang Hati Foundation provides programs to develop self-confidence, physical, and economic independence. The program also creates awareness for the rights of differently-abled people. The training enables members to become self-supporting through jobs related to hospitality, painting, sewing, and woodworking. Every year, 30 students benefit from the program, who move on to start businesses and families.

Planeterra supported Senang Hati in renovating their dream kitchen making it fully accessible for those using mobility devices. Planeterra also linked Senang Hati with over 2,000 travellers annually through their travel industry partners. Travellers can enjoy a traditional Balinese lunch that is prepped, cooked, and served by the members at Senang Hati.

Power of Community Tourism: Senang Hati © Planeterra

How has Senang Hati Been Affected by the Reduction in Tourism?

A small grant provided by Planeterra helps to support eight people who stay at the centre for whom they maintain food and shelter on an ongoing basis.

Europe

11 Projects Ongoing

Power of Community Tourism on Employment

Feature Project: çöp(m)adam, Ayvalik, Turkey

Power of Community Travel: çöp(m)adam © Planeterra

30 women employed, 120 community members benefitting.

çöp(m)adam started as an experiment in Western Turkey addressing the issues of women’s unemployment and the importance of recycling/re-using. A group of Turkish women have created one-of-a-kind accessories using waste materials to glamourize recycled goods.

“çöp” means “garbage” in Turkish.

“madam”, the same as the French word for “female”.

“çöp(m)adam” (Literally “garbage ladies”).

çöp(m)adam offers regular work to 30 women in Ayvalik. All workers are in a healthy and hygienic environment in the shop or at home, plus they are earning a fair wage. Regular employment empowers members of this social enterprise by making significant contributions to provide sustainability for their families and communities.

Planeterra helped ensure revenue streams by having G Adventures purchase a tote bag for every traveller that visits. When travellers visit the workshop during a trip to Turkey, they can also buy products directly supporting the women who made them.

Power of Community Tourism: çöp(m)adam © Planeterra

How has çöp(m)adam Been Affected by the Reduction in Tourism?

Income relied on by tourism to support the project has been lost. Planeterra donations helped the women provide for their families and access necessities.

North America

3 Projects Ongoing

Power of Community Tourism and Sustainable Development

Feature Project: Native Grill, Navajo Nation, Cameron, Arizona

Power of Community Tourism: Native Grill © Planeterra

50 community members benefitting.

Navajo Nation faces an alarming 45% unemployment rate under normal circumstances. Many non-profit organizations, tribal programs, and government entities have been working diligently to change the dire unemployment statistic. There is a real need for the development of small business networks. The power of the tourism industry is a catalyst in the development of small businesses.

The need for investment in the tourism industry of the Navajo Nation caused Planeterra to reach out to DinéHózhó, a community-based low-profit limited liability company working with Indigenous-owned businesses to assist in their development and connect them to the tourism industry.

Planeterra partnered with DinéHózhó to promote travellers visiting their first Diné/Navajo experience on popular routes through the western US region. Diné, the name the Navajo use to refer to themselves in their language, means “the people”. A grant enabled upgrades to the Native Grill Food Truck resulting in extra solar panels, hospitality training, and seating and shade for additional travellers.

Planeterra has partnered with the Native Grill, a DinéHózhó-supported food truck owned and run by the Littleboy family, just outside of Cameron, Arizona. Planeterra has successfully integrated meals at Native Grill for tourism brands like G Adventures, Travelsphere, and Just You. The Littleboy family and the surrounding community benefit from travellers stopping for a meal and purchasing handicrafts from local artisans.

Power of Community Tourism: Native Grill © Planeterra

How has Native Grill Been Affected by the Reduction in Tourism?

Native Grill has been significantly impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. The closest grocery stores are often 30 km away. Many people have no electricity for refrigeration. Access to food and stocking up on groceries has been problematic. Donations to Planeterra provided food and locally sourced hand sanitizer to those who need it most.

Central America and the Caribbean

10 Projects Ongoing

Power of Community Tourism on Society

Feature Project: San Antonio Women’s Co-op, San Ignacio, Belize

Power of Community Tourism: San Antonio Women’s Pottery Co-op Kiln © Planeterra

25 women directly impacted, 2,000 community members benefitting.

The village of San Antonio in western Belize is a community of 3,500 people with deep Mayan roots. The average household has seven children. Resources are scarce and education is not a priority for women. Girls often go without attending school beyond primary levels. Government support is not easily accessible. Mothers rely on other forms of income to support their children’s education and send their daughters to high school. The uneducated girls and boys find themselves unemployed at an early age, continuing the cycle of poverty.

The San Antonio Women’s Co-op (SAWC) was created by a local San Antonio Women’s Group made up of nine Mayan women. Their mission: “empower women and inspire the children.” The women founded the cooperative to find a way to earn an income, learn new skills, and share their traditional knowledge with visitors and their younger generation.

The successful tourism business has resulted in the employment of nine more women and supporting 11 local artisans. The cooperative also created a community fund to sponsor girl’s education resulting in the education of two girls who have recently graduated from high school.

Planeterra provided a grant to the SAWC to build an indoor workshop. The new space has increased the centre’s capacity to host more travellers and provide added space to store their products. This additional space also resulted in the cooperative being able to add a training program for unemployed youth in the community, providing them with the tools to learn how to benefit from tourism.

Travellers visiting SAWC can try their hand at ancient pottery-making techniques with a group of Mayan artisans, enjoy a delicious home-made lunch, and have a chance to purchase pottery and other crafts made by the women in the community.

Power of Community Tourism: San Antonio Women’s Co-op © Planeterra

How has San Antonio Women’s Co-op Been Affected by the Reduction in Tourism?

When travel halted due to COVID-19, SAWC had to close their shop. Income was lost for the members and individuals in the community that relied on the cooperative for support. Donations to Planeterra provided an emergency grant for SAWC so the people could receive life-saving medication they would otherwise have gone without.

South America

12 Projects Ongoing

Power of Community Tourism to Fight Poverty

Feature Project: Favela Experience, Vidigal, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Power of Community Tourism: Favela Experience © Planeterra

161 community members benefitting, 5 micro-enterprises benefitting.

In Rio de Janeiro, close to 3 million people live in favelas (shanty-towns). Imagine nearly 30% of the population living in poverty. There are over 1,000 favelas ranging from newer, highly functioning, vibrant neighbourhoods to more challenged communities with slum-like conditions. 95% of favela homes are brick and concrete construction. 30% of the homes do not have a formal sanitation system.

The past several decades have presented challenges to the favelas due to severe government corruption, inter-gang warfare, drug-trafficking, and militias. Residents of favelas face discrimination for living in these communities and often experience inequality and exploitation. The result is difficulty finding jobs and increased criminal activities for the youth.

In recent years, favela culture has gained popularity in the tourism industry. To some, touring the favelas may seem odd. However, responsible tours result in a positive experience for both the locals and the travellers. Tourism is offering a major source of socioeconomic opportunities for local people. In some cases, nearly 60-80% of the budget of the local micro-enterprises are composed of tourism earnings. Professional reception of visitors generates additional jobs and positive visibility for the communities.

Do note that not all favela tours are created equal. Many large organizations, hotel chains, and agencies use guides from outside the communities. When local services are used from these organizations, they are paid poorly to guarantee large profit margins, resulting in further exploitation of the poor. Local favela guides, businesses, and social projects struggle to compete with large non-favela organizations and lack the knowledge and budgets to create effective marketing strategies.

With support from Planeterra, Favela Experience has developed a new social enterprise tour in Vidigal. Five micro-enterprise and community organizations benefit from the partnership. Planeterra funded the construction and development of facilities and purchased equipment for the micro-enterprises.

One of Planeterra’s tourism industry partners, G Adventures, brings travellers to experience the community by meeting local people and participating in different activities such as capoeira (Brazilian martial art) sessions, visiting an old dump turned innovative community agro-forest, tasting the local Vidigal artisanal beer, and purchasing unique handicrafts. This experience is created by and led by the local people of Vidigal. The guides earn an income from the tours empowering them to become positive role models for their community.

Power of Community Tourism: Favela Artist © Planeterra

How has the Favella Experience Been Affected by the Reduction in Tourism?

The pandemic has resulted in the loss of income for these micro-enterprises. Since March 2020, Planeterra’s partners have laboured to support over 4,000 families with food and hygiene kits. An expensive home farming project is under way to grow organic vegetables for over 100 families.

Become a Travel Champion for Community Tourism

Together, let us harness tourism to change lives and connect us all. We must focus on solutions rather than the problem. Ask yourself what you can do rather than focusing on what you cannot do. Travel is not just about going on a vacation. Travel and tourism have a global impact. We need to get back to travel as soon as it is safely possible and support the communities that rely on responsible tourism for survival.

Power of Community Tourism: Nepal Panauti Community Homestay Planeterra G for Good Experience © G Adventures

“I have always said tourism can be the biggest form of wealth distribution the world has ever seen…”
Bruce Poon Tip, Founder, G Adventures

Follow Planeterra on social media:

Facebook: Planeterra Foundation

Instagram: @PlaneterraCares

Twitter: @PlaneterraCares

References

Planeterra. (2020). Planeterra Home. Retrieved from Planeterra.org: https://planeterra.org/

Planeterra Foundation. (2019). 2019 Impact Report. Planeterra Foundation.

Tip, B. P. (2013). Looptail. Toronto: HarperCollins Publishers Ltd.

Pick up my Published Travel Memoir for Inspiration:

Roam Free is a deeply personal and often hilarious travel memoir that pulls you in to the wild and woolly ride of my epic travel adventures. If you loved Peter Mayle’s A Year in Provence, you’ll delight in Roam Free’s sweetly innocent deep dive into a life of untethered long-term travel. Get your copy on Amazon and become inspired today.

“I just finished your book and I wrote a great review on Amazon. Congratulations on your book, your blogging career, and mostly on your courage to step out of the box then burn the damn box!! Your book is inspiring. Bravo.” – Irene Cabay

Get Your Custom-Built Itinerary:

Want to make your own adventure travel memories but don’t know where to start? A Wandering Web Travels can help you plan and book your bucket list travel today.

Book Your Flight and Car Rental:

Find cheap transportation by using Kiwi.com. This search engine combs websites and airlines around the globe to become the ultimate travel hack.

Book Your Accommodation:

You can book hotels, apartments, resorts, villas, B&Bs and guest houses at Booking.com! They consistently return the most economical rates for guesthouses and cheap hotels.

Like surprises? Try Hotwire.com and Save up to 60% off 4+ Star Hot Rate Hotels!

Always been curious about Airbnb but afraid to try? Now you can check them out and earn up to $95 CAD off your first trip!

Check out our world recommendations page on Where to Stay!

Book Your Small-Group Tour, Activities and Attractions:

For the best small-group tours check out G Adventures’ Insanely affordable tours!

Viator is another great option so don’t miss out! Guaranteed lowest prices on tours and activities.

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance:

Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. We like World Nomads because they have great rates and cover a range of adventurous activities.

P.S. – If you’ve found our website helpful and like to book travel yourself, please consider booking your next trip through the links on our Resources Page. We have personally used the companies listed there in our own travels. By booking through these links, the small commission we earn helps us keep the content up to date, expand our resources, and keep the website community supported.

Mission statement: Transform your life with travel—one destination, one adventure, one story at a time.

Pin it!

Pin it!

A Case for Travel: 5 Planeterra Projects with Socioeconomic Impact

Dated: February 23, 2021 by Charlotte Tweed No Comments

Costa Rica La Fortuna Planeterra Coffee Cooperative © G Adventures

Planeterra has a vision and mission united with responsible tourism to create jobs and opportunities to empower people, build community, celebrate culture, and promote environmental sustainability. Consequently, travel creates a connection between travellers and the cultures they would otherwise not experience. Responsible travel is our chance to make someone else’s life better on this planet. Can you think of a better use of your time than to serve other people?

“Travel and tourism are one of the most diverse sectors, employing people from all socioeconomic backgrounds regardless of age, gender or ethnicity, with almost 54 percent of whom are women and up to 30 percent youths.” Gloria Guevara, WTTC President and CEO (World Travel and Tourism Council) (Clarke, 2021)

For this article, Planeterra will be featured as an example of how tourism can impact the world and be a force for good.

Listen. Learn. Think. Your view of tourism might change.

*Note: Some of these links are affiliate links, meaning that if you book through my link, I will make a small commission (at no extra cost to you).

Who is Planeterra?

Planeterra is a global leading non-profit harnessing community tourism for poverty alleviation. Established in 2003 by entrepreneur, author, and philanthropist Bruce Poon Tip, Planeterra is a non-profit organization that has contributed millions of dollars towards projects in areas of social enterprise, healthcare, conservation, and emergency response.

Planeterra works with local organizations to use tourism to improve people’s lives, protect their natural environments, and celebrate their culture. Through travel, Poon Tip realized he could change people’s lives by helping local communities earn an income from tourism. (Tip, 2013)

Spices you can buy from the Bedouin while visiting Petra, Jordan. © Charlotte Tweed

Planeterra’s Vision Statement:

A world where people create their economic opportunities, places are protected, and cultures are celebrated through travel. (Planeterra, 2020)

Planeterra’s Mission Statement:

To connect our partners and local communities to the benefits of tourism by developing and supporting community-owned enterprises while promoting more responsible travel. (Planeterra, 2020)

How Does Planeterra Support Community Initiatives Around the World?

› Providing start-up grants for infrastructure and equipment.

› Training communities with the skills they need to manage a successful business.

› Integrating new community experiences into tour itineraries of travel company partners to provide those communities with a sustainable income. (Planeterra, 2020)

The goal is to set people up for long-term success by lifting them out of poverty while focusing on the immediate profitability of the business. As the old saying goes, “Give a man a fish, and you feed him for a day. Teach a man to fish, and you feed him for a lifetime.”

Who is G Adventures?

G Adventures is a Canadian travel company built on the belief that every single one of their tours should support the communities they encounter. When you travel with G Adventures, you can feel good knowing they create tours by building meaningful relationships with local communities, directly benefiting the people and places you visit, all the while gaining an authentic experience.

Woman making mosaics at Mosaic House in Madaba, Jordan. G Adventures brought us here on our tour where we could purchase local handcrafts to benefit the community. © Charlotte Tweed

Social Enterprise in Tourism

Tourism is an $8 trillion global industry, but many local businesses and communities do not benefit from it. There are some forms of tourism where $0 reaches the hands of local people. (Planeterra, 2020) The strengthening of global community tourism creates economic opportunities, protects places, and celebrates cultures. It is possible to reduce poverty through community tourism.

Japan Hagi Community Homestay Cycling Tour © G Adventures

Working with partners in over 40 countries, Planeterra’s community partners are local non-profits, grassroots community organizations, and existing social enterprises. Through these connections, Planeterra and their partners are working directly to give women worth, enable youth to be proud of themselves and their communities, and sustain the environment through travel.

Effectively using tourism to improve the lives of ostracized women, underprivileged youth, and rural communities suffering from dwindling populations is proof your decision and privilege to travel will change the world.

Women Entrepreneurs

Walking tour of Communa 13, Medellin, Colombia. © Planeterra

Over half the tourism workforce are women; the majority are underpaid with limited opportunities for advancement.

Women in many countries do not receive education and economic opportunities. Planeterra’s projects inspire women to start their first jobs outside their homes. By building up their confidence through projects, they are encouraged to take on leadership roles in their communities.

Planeterra works with restaurants and cafés to provide jobs, training, and skills for marginalized women. The initiatives empowering women to take on roles traditionally reserved for men result in a breakdown of gender inequality. An example would be employment in transportation, accommodation, handicrafts, tours, and experiences.

Currently, Planeterra has 20 women’s global projects directly impacting 1,691 people and indirectly impacting 16,742 people. (Planeterra, 2020)

Berracas de la 13 – Medellin, Colombia

18 Women Employed, 284 community members benefitting.

Menu of the Day at Berracas de la 13 © Planeterra

Comuna 13 is an area within Medellin previously known as one of the most dangerous communities in Colombia and in the world under the Pablo Escobar regime. Times have changed, though. Today, Medellin has become a popular tourist destination and has had a significant crime reduction.

Berracas de la 13 was the brainchild of a small network of women in Comuna 13 to empower women and youth in their community who have experienced violence and various injustices. The women’s small businesses selling handicrafts and souvenirs generating income to support their community.

In 2016, the women opened an establishment called Berracas Restaurant to produce even more revenue and opportunities. Despite their progress, Berracas de la 13 had been unable to access the international tourism market. They were also unable to secure funding to get the equipment necessary to comply with government regulations for a restaurant.

Planeterra teamed up with Berracas de la 13 by providing the women with a grant to redevelop their restaurant. The grant enabled them to replace equipment in disrepair, upgrade their kitchen facilities, and obtain a tourism licence. Planeterra’s partnership has allowed them to improve their business, increase revenue, and invest back into their community.

Connecting Berracas de la 13 to the tourism market also resulted in a new walking tour and meal service in Comuna 13.

Travellers can connect to the power and pride of the local community. Learning from local guides, visiting shops, buying food, and unique handicrafts add to the authentic experience.

How has Berracas de la 13 Been Affected by the Reduction in Tourism?

The new restaurant relaunch was off to a great start in January 2020 when the pandemic hit. Being in an urban location, the families are at risk of food insecurity. A grant from Planeterra delivered food parcels to over 130 families under the regular support of the organization.

Youth Opportunities

Bike with Purpose in Caye Caulker, Belize © G Adventures

In many parts of the world, youth have limited access to formal education and meaningful employment opportunities. Children have access to better education through Planeterra and G Adventures tourism projects. The result builds skills to find long-term employment as the children progress in age.

Planeterra has 10 youth projects worldwide, with 516 youth directly impacted and 3,181 people indirectly impacted. One such project is Bike with Purpose in Belize. (Planeterra, 2020)

Bike with Purpose – Caye Caulker, Belize

125 students directly impacted, 1,000 community members benefitting.

Caye Caulker is a remote island in Belize. The local economy on the island is fishing and boat building. Travel to the mainland is necessary for students to receive a quality education. As a result of this barrier, many students quit school and join the workforce by age 12. Nationwide, only 50% of secondary-aged youth are in school. Only 35% of students continued past primary school before the opening of Ocean Academy in Caye Caulker. (Planeterra, 2020)

The Ocean Academy school opened in 2008. It was the first and only community high school on the island of Caye Caulker. As a result, more than 90% of students attend school. Many of the students are the first in their families to go to high school. Today, 125 students enrolled in Ocean Academy, and 25 of those students are directly involved in the Bike with Purpose project. The local economy of the island has shifted to aquatic sports, tourism, and hospitality services. Youth in Bike with Purpose develop skills and training necessary for future employment opportunities. The project has also reduced the school dropout rate.

Partnering with Ocean Academy, Planeterra sought to create a student-led bicycle tour of the island called Bike with Purpose. Planeterra raised donations to fund needed bicycles and other materials to make the project possible. Planeterra also connected Bike with Purpose to tourism partners, creating a constant stream of travellers. Bike with Purpose funds nearly 15% of the educational programs for the students at Ocean Academy.

Communities Protecting the Environment

Get hands on in this project by planting your own tree in Ronahira, Madagascar. © Planeterra

Rural and Indigenous communities experience significant barriers to accessing the formal economy. When the chance does arise, they risk losing unique traditions and cultures.

Communities promoting a sustainable environment for generations to come are the epitome of responsible tourism. Garbage clean-up, planting trees, community gardens, energy conservation, water and sanitation, and upcycling plastics are key Planeterra projects. Therefore, these projects allow locals to earn income through cultural celebration while impacting thousands of lives.

Soa Zara – Ronahira, Madagascar

12 people employed, 100,000 trees planted.

The tree planting experience with L’Association Soa Zara. © Planeterra

Madagascar is home to unique plants and animals found nowhere else on the planet. However, deforestation is a concern in Madagascar. The island has lost 90% of its original forests cleared by humans for agriculture and fuel use. The vulnerability of many unique animal species is drastically affected by deforestation.

L’Association Soa Zara (founded in 2016) pledges to protect the environment and empower their community through a tree planting project that travellers can also experience. Planeterra partnered with Soa Zara in this project. Travellers stay at a nearby lodge while getting hands-on by planting their trees in the “green corridor” next to the Isalo National Park. The inception of the project has seen more than 100,000 trees planted.

The tree planting experience has provided a steady stream of income for the area. Planeterra supports Soa Zara’s current washbasin project that seeks to protect the nearby river from pollution. The project empowers women as they work with local women’s groups to install washing stations in Ranohira. (Planeterra Foundation, 2019)

How has Soa Zara Been Affected by the Reduction in Tourism?

Through donations, Planeterra sent a grant to Soa Zara of food parcels to their members and employees; however, the area is also in an ongoing drought. Planeterra will be expanding Soa Zara’s food garden to provide for their staff long-term.

Conserving Cultures

A Dom welcomes travellers who enjoy unique Domari food in Jerusalem, Israel. © Planeterra

Creating meaningful connections between travellers and indigenous people through social enterprise is the key to responsible tourism. Planeterra supports programs that recognize the unique offerings indigenous and rural communities have for the conscious traveller searching for a powerful human connection and cultural immersion.

Globally, Planeterra has 55 ongoing community culture projects directly impacting 4,029 communities and indirectly impacting 34,168 communities. (Planeterra, 2020)

Domari Culture and Craft Experience – Jerusalem, Israel

10 Women Employed.

Educating travellers on Domari culture. © Planeterra

The Dom (Gypsy) community in Jerusalem faces regular discrimination for not being fully integrated into the Israeli or Palestinian societies. Dom children often have lower education levels than other children in Jerusalem. The women are often underemployed.

The Domari Society of Gypsies has been working to create employment opportunities for Dom women and educational support to children to raise their status in society. This partnership provided much-needed training opportunities in hospitality for women, funding to support their children’s programs, and a platform to share details about a culture and language. (Planeterra Foundation, 2019)

The Dom language is spoken, not written. Many of the Dom youths have not learned the language. The result? There is a risk of losing the Dom language due to the weakening of the Domari culture.

Planeterra developed and launched the Domari Society of Gypsies’ first tourism partnership in Jerusalem, providing the equipment and training necessary to create a successful tourism experience. A dining area welcomes travellers who enjoy unique Domari food and culture. Women are trained in hospitality and storytelling, preparing them with basic English skills to better communicate with travellers. A handicraft shop at the community centre provides a positive shopping experience for travellers while also supporting Dom artisans across Jerusalem.

How has Domari Culture and Craft Experience Been Affected by the Reduction in Tourism?

COVID-19 has stopped tourism income. Planeterra has sent a grant to provide food packages to the women and their families to meet basic needs. Funding the purchase of a new bread oven has enabled them to make and sell fresh bread to the community to earn a long-term income.

Ocean Health Fund

8 partners across the globe, $400,000 invested.

The ocean is the lifeblood of this planet. Let’s do our best to conserve its beauty for generations to come. © Charlotte Tweed

G Adventures and Planeterra have partnered together to support initiatives by directly investing in ocean conservation. Thousands of travellers who have travelled on the G Expedition ship support the efforts. The Ocean Health Fund has contributed over $450,000 to date to programs supporting:

Conservation of marine species.
The battle to remove plastic ocean waste.
Climate and science research.
Communities that rely on the oceans to be stewards of their environment. (Planeterra Foundation, 2020)

Galápagos Whale Shark Project

Galápagos Whale Shark Project. © Planeterra

Planeterra’s Ocean Health Fund has partnered with Marine Megafauna Foundation to support the Galapagos Whale Shark Project. Founded by Dr. Jonathan Green, the project continues to make historic firsts for Whale Sharks research.

In 2019, a grant of $20,000 contributed to new devices used to track whale sharks for longer periods. The tracking tags stay on at depths previously never measured, resulting in more accurate behaviour observation. The goal is to determine possible pupping areas as well as migration patterns related to habitat. The long-term effect will help define important Marine Protected Areas for safeguarding the exquisite behemoths. (Planeterra Foundation, 2019)

Companies Integrating Planeterra Projects into their Itineraries

Australia Tully Cafe Chloe Planeterra Project Travellers Painting. © G Adventures

G Adventures, Just You, and Travelsphere (UK Brands) are travel companies integrating Planeterra projects into their worldwide itineraries. For instance, travellers can have an authentic and unique experience while giving back to the places they visit while on holiday—the pinnacle of responsible tourism.

G Adventures has integrated 85 of Planeterra’s projects into their tours, sending over 119,000 travellers to visit project partners in 2019. This revenue keeps projects sustainable and investments can continue to address issues affecting communities.

How Can you Help Planeterra from Home?

We may be grounded right now but that does not mean we cannot make an impact. There are ways we can help from home as we wait for international travel to resume.

Planeterra’s Project Shop and More Resources

Check out Planeterra’s online shop to help support communities around the world that have been devastated economically and socially by the pandemic here.

Planeterra gave out emergency grants that were made possible by donations. You can also donate to Planeterra here.

The Power of Human Connection

A Bedouin making soap from a plant in Wadi Rum, Jordan while our G Adventures guide watches. © Charlotte Tweed

What is your true motivation for travel? Is it to gain new perspectives? Is it to experience the culture and beauty of the world? Or perhaps you want to see the world from someone else’s eyes. There are so many reasons to travel. Travel is not only about what is good for us. The power and privilege you exercise when you travel is incredible. Next time you book that ticket, ask how you can travel better and connect with the people you will encounter on your next adventure. Be the agent of change.

References

Clarke, P. (2021). The Importance of Travel & Tourism in Driving Global Economy. Travel Pulse.

Planeterra. (2020). Planeterra Home. Retrieved from Planeterra.org: https://planeterra.org/

Planeterra Foundation. (2019). 2019 Impact Report. Planeterra Foundation.

Planeterra Foundation. (2020). Ocean Health Fund. Retrieved from Planeterra Foundation: https://planeterra.org/ocean-health-fund/

Planeterra Foundation. (2020). Turn Travel Into Impact from Home. Retrieved from Planeterra: https://planeterra.org/turn-travel-into-impact-from-home/

Tip, B. P. (2013). Looptail. Toronto: HarperCollins Publishers Ltd.

Pick up my Published Travel Memoir for Inspiration:

Roam Free is a deeply personal and often hilarious travel memoir that pulls you in to the wild and woolly ride of my epic travel adventures. If you loved Peter Mayle’s A Year in Provence, you’ll delight in Roam Free’s sweetly innocent deep dive into a life of untethered long-term travel. Get your copy on Amazon and become inspired today.

“I just finished your book and I wrote a great review on Amazon. Congratulations on your book, your blogging career, and mostly on your courage to step out of the box then burn the damn box!! Your book is inspiring. Bravo.” – Irene Cabay

Get Your Custom-Built Itinerary:

Want to make your own adventure travel memories but don’t know where to start? A Wandering Web Travels can help you plan and book your bucket list travel today.

Book Your Flight and Car Rental:

Find cheap transportation by using Kiwi.com. This search engine combs websites and airlines around the globe to become the ultimate travel hack.

Book Your Accommodation:

You can book hotels, apartments, resorts, villas, B&Bs and guest houses at Booking.com! They consistently return the most economical rates for guesthouses and cheap hotels.

Like surprises? Try Hotwire.com and Save up to 60% off 4+ Star Hot Rate Hotels!

Always been curious about Airbnb but afraid to try? Now you can check them out and earn up to $62 CAD off your first trip!

Check out our world recommendations page on Where to Stay!

Book Your Small-Group Tour, Activities and Attractions:

For the best small-group tours check out G Adventures’ Insanely affordable tours!

Viator is another great option so don’t miss out! Guaranteed lowest prices on tours and activities.

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance:

Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. We like World Nomads because they have great rates and cover a range of adventurous activities.

P.S. – If you’ve found our website helpful and like to book travel yourself, please consider booking your next trip through the links on our Resources Page. We have personally used the companies listed there in our own travels. By booking through these links, the small commission we earn helps us keep the content up to date, expand our resources, and keep the website community supported.

Mission statement: Transform your life with travel—one destination, one adventure, one story at a time.

Pin it!

Pin it!

A Case for Travel: The Beginning

Dated: January 22, 2021 by Charlotte Tweed 4 Comments

“All travel is selfish right now.” I respectfully disagree. The definition of selfish is (of a person, action, or motive) lacking consideration for others; concerned chiefly with one’s own personal profit or pleasure. “All travel is selfish” is a dogmatic assertion. Arguments will be presented to address this statement in A Wandering Web’s upcoming blog series, A Case for Travel.

A Case for Travel photo by Shutterstock

Open Dialogues

First of all, our society has become one for shaming people who do not hold to popular political beliefs, and this is not right. We should be able to have open dialogues to make decisions for ourselves. As a nation, we need to re-establish the differences between science and politics. Our vision is clouded and too many people are now making decisions based on either or.

Travel used to bring feelings of joy and excitement. Now? Mention travel and some people become rabid. Travel is possible when it is done safely, responsibly, and respectfully. Airlines and destinations have gone above and beyond to ensure the safety of their guests. I will showcase safety and hygiene protocols that have been put in place by airlines and destinations that are open and welcoming visitors in future posts in this series.

A One-Sided Issue

The other concern is that COVID media coverage has become a one-sided issue. “Stop the spread” and “stay at home” to save lives and to not “overburden our healthcare system” is mainstream. I agree that we must take necessary precautions to protect and keep people safe. This is not a “go rogue” article. Businesses in hospitality and travel have complied with public health regulations to keep people safe. Yet, they are still ordered to close their doors.

All deaths are tragic. I have high regard for the sanctity of life. Of course, I do not want anyone to die from COVID. My heart goes out to those who are ill and to the families who have lost loved ones to this tragedy. There is more than one side to the story. There are others who are also dying and suffering that seem to have been forgotten about.

Mental Health and a Case for Travel

The virus is affecting those who have contracted it along with those who have not. We need to take a holistic view of what is going on. What about mental health? What about suicides? Domestic abuse? Personally, mental health is a huge issue. I come from a family with a history of mental illness so I understand how travel is healing for the heart, mind, and soul. Are we not overburdening our mental health care system as well by refusing people the freedom they need and crave?

The toll on people’s mental health along with the lockdowns is exceptional—particularly on those who are separated from loved ones. I now face being cut off from my family members if interprovincial barriers are put in place. Never in my life did I think I would not be allowed to visit my family members that live in the same country.

A Case for Travel: Spending time with family is essential travel.

Economics and a Case for Travel

And yes, economics does come into play in the current situation. All the fear, all the devastation business owners are suffering is tragic. Livelihoods are being destroyed. We cannot forget these people when decisions are being made about lockdowns. There are communities in this world where their only source of income is tourism and their governments are in no position to give handouts. We are going to enter the greatest time of worldwide starvation and poverty caused by blanket lockdowns. It breaks my heart.

Freedom

Are our Charter of Rights and Freedoms in Canada being violated? Some say during a public health crisis that we have no rights. Statements like this concern me deeply. People fought and died for the freedoms we have today, or should I say “used to have”. We are trampling on the memories and blood spilled from those who gave the ultimate sacrifice for our freedoms. When we say, “We will remember you” or “lest we forget” we not only mean that we remember who the soldiers were but that we will protect and uphold the freedoms they died for.

A Case for Travel: The Brooding Soldier World War I memorial in Flanders, Belgium. This is the location where 2,000 Canadian soldiers died in the first German gas attack.

Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms

Provision 6 of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms states:

“6. (1) Every citizen of Canada has the right to enter, remain in and leave Canada.
(2) Every citizen of Canada and every person who has the status of a permanent resident of Canada has the right:
to move to and take up residence in any province; and
to pursue the gaining of a livelihood in any province.”
Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms, Provision 6

Lockdowns and recent restrictions are against our mobility rights. Canadians should not be denied the right to enter their own country. Ignoring our rights and freedoms puts us on a slippery slope indeed.

Ask yourself, is it right to tell Canadians they cannot enter their country if they do not have a PCR test? When we lose our freedoms, it will be difficult to get them back. Could an option be to allow testing in Canadian airports upon arrival instead? Rapid testing should be implemented at airports to have the testing done on Canadian soil. This is for quality control reasons and economic reasons. Other options will be explored in future posts.

We are treating honest, good citizens like criminals. I heard on the radio today that a church in 100 Mile House, British Columbia is being monitored by police because people left the building after Sunday service without face coverings. The police took down license plate numbers in the parking lot. Seriously? Look what we have turned into as a nation. I would argue our freedom of religion is also being violated.

The definition of totalitarianism is this: a form of government that attempts to assert total control over the lives of its citizens. It is characterized by strong central rule that attempts to control and direct all aspects of individual life through coercion and repression. It does not permit individual freedom.

Sound familiar?

Young Canadian soldiers prepare for war to fight tyranny. My Grandfather is in the middle.

Do Not be Fooled

“But rights and freedoms don’t mean anything to me if I’m dead.” This is dodgy logic. Before the “new normal” we engaged in risky activities every day. Each time you leave your home, you put your life at risk. Every time you get behind the steering wheel of a car, you put your life and the lives of others at risk. Every time you walk down the sidewalk, you put your life at risk.

Bam!

You get hit by a car crossing the street. Lights out. Yet, before the “new normal” we all did these things, didn’t we?

As always, take precautions for safety when you leave your home. Be aware of surroundings and act accordingly.

You can stay at home in hopes that you don’t get sick or get somebody else sick for the rest of your natural life. What kind of life is that? Remember, you have to have COVID in order to pass COVID. We are not all carrying the virus.

Living a life of fear is not in my DNA. Aiming for a zero-COVID world is an impossible task that comes with severe consequences. If COVID is annihilated, another germ or virus or disease will come along. It always has and always will until the end of the world.

Humanity and a Case for Travel

The virus is here, and we need to learn to live with it, not hide from it. Precautions are necessary to protect the elderly and those who are immunocompromised other than locking down all healthy people in society. The lockdowns are symptomatically making all of us sick.

We are losing our sight of humanity. Where is the care, the compassion, the connection between people? Physical touch is healing and therapeutic. Treating each other as diseases is damaging psychologically. People are walking on icy streets and risking getting hit by a car rather than pass me on the sidewalk. Where is the logic? I am tired of being treated like walking death.

A Case for Travel

It is time to speak from the heart and the head. The industry of travel and hospitality is under attack. The people in these industries need a voice. I hope my words will encourage them and also reach those who are only looking at one side of the issue.

Travel is a Force for Good

A Case for Travel photo by Shutterstock

All travel is not a selfish act. We can travel safely and responsibly. I look forward to presenting the effect travel has on socioeconomics, mental health, education, cultural aspects, transformational experiences, and the overall good of travel. This is about standing up for freedom and building awareness for an industry that has a profound impact by saving and changing lives.

God is calling me to stand up for my convictions and what I need to accomplish in my life. Sitting in my home doing nothing is helping no one. I have a voice and I have a keyboard. I assure you, life involves exploring this planet as far and as much as possible. We have not been called to have a spirit of timidity, but one of courage. Join me in the coming weeks as I present A Case for Travel. Let’s get travel going again so we can use our freedoms properly by being servants to all people.

“…we need to get back to good, we need to travel again, travel is our vehicle to change the world and transform lives.”
– Bruce Poon Tip, Founder G Adventures and Planeterra Foundation, Unlearn The Year the Earth Stood Still, An Instabook About Travel After the Pandemic

All pictures in this post are taken by Charlotte, yours truly, as always, unless otherwise stated.

*Note: Some of these links are affiliate links, meaning that if you book through my link, I will make a small commission (at no extra cost to you).

Pick up my Published Travel Memoir for Inspiration:

Roam Free is a deeply personal and often hilarious travel memoir that pulls you in to the wild and woolly ride of my epic travel adventures. If you loved Peter Mayle’s A Year in Provence, you’ll delight in Roam Free’s sweetly innocent deep dive into a life of untethered long-term travel. Get your copy on Amazon and become inspired today.

“I just finished your book and I wrote a great review on Amazon. Congratulations on your book, your blogging career, and mostly on your courage to step out of the box then burn the damn box!! Your book is inspiring. Bravo.” – Irene Cabay

Get Your Custom-Built Itinerary:

Want to make your own adventure travel memories but don’t know where to start? A Wandering Web Travels can help you plan and book your bucket list travel today.

Enter for your chance to win a FREE trip! *Terms and conditions apply.*

Book Your Flight and Car Rental:

Find cheap transportation by using Kiwi.com. This search engine combs websites and airlines around the globe to become the ultimate travel hack.

Book Your Accommodation:

You can book hotels, apartments, resorts, villas, B&Bs and guest houses at Booking.com! They consistently return the most economical rates for guesthouses and cheap hotels.

Like surprises? Try Hotwire.com and Save up to 60% off 4+ Star Hot Rate Hotels!

Always been curious about Airbnb but afraid to try? Now you can check them out and earn up to $62 CAD off your first trip!

Check out our world recommendations page on Where to Stay!

Book Your Small-Group Tour, Activities and Attractions: For the best small-group tours check out G Adventures’ Insanely affordable tours!

Viator is another great option so don’t miss out! Guaranteed lowest prices on tours and activities.

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance: Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. We like World Nomads because they have great rates and cover a range of adventurous activities.

P.S. – If you’ve found our website helpful and like to book travel yourself, please consider booking your next trip through the links on our Resources Page. We have personally used the companies listed there in our own travels. By booking through these links, the small commission we earn helps us keep the content up to date, expand our resources, and keep the website community supported.

Mission statement: Transform your life with travel—one destination, one adventure, one story at a time.

Pin it!

Pin it!

Filed Under: Travel Tagged With: a case for travel, travel blog series, travel blogger famous

Is Yosemite National Park Worth the Visit?

Dated: December 17, 2020 by Charlotte Tweed 10 Comments

Yosemite National Park: These mountains reminded me of the Three Sisters in Canmore, Alberta.

Yodel-Ay-Hee-Hoo! You have finally made it to Yosemite National Park in California. But is Yosemite National Park worth the visit? Parking woes. Confusing signage. Tons of people. It’s like when you hear hype about a movie and become so excited to see it you can hardly wait. Then, the day arrives when you finally get to watch it only to go, “meh.”

Granted, the above sentiment has to do with our mindset and the experiences we had (or did not have) in Yosemite and the surrounding area. But I’ll get to that part of the story shortly.

We recommend staying as close to Yosemite as possible, yes, the closer you are, the more expensive the accommodations. However, the money you spend will be worth it for the amount of time it will take you to drive to Yosemite Valley. We stayed in Merced and would not do so again. It took over two hours to arrive at Yosemite Valley from Merced.

*Note: Some of these links are affiliate links, meaning that if you book through my link, I will make a small commission (at no extra cost to you).

Yosemite National Park: Cathedral Spires

Where Not to Stay

Repeat. Merced.

Let’s just say our prayers were answered that we still had a car in the morning with four wheels still attached. The Gateway to Yosemite? Debatable. This town is way too far out to spend the night and then visit the park, unless you get up before the world awakes.

Where to Stay

Mariposa on Highway 140 looks like a nice, typical mountain town and it is where we would stay if we were to visit Yosemite again. The historic downtown has a feeling of the Old West and California Gold Rush days. There are no strip malls, chain stores, or traffic lights.

Originally, we were going to stay in Mariposa but opted for Merced due to hotel prices. Don’t make the same mistake we did.
rel=”nofollow” Booking.com

Two other places on El Portal Road that looked good to stay at were Yosemite View Lodge, right outside the park gates and Cedar Lodge.

Traffic Woes

Our visit to Yosemite was on a Saturday in September. Traffic was bumper-to-bumper entering the park. Go to the park as soon as the gates open. Another big mistake—we did not arrive in the park until early afternoon. We spent an hour driving around in circles like a giant caterpillar of automobiles trying to find a place to park.

Traffic is only one way in Yosemite Valley so if you miss a turn, be prepared to go the full circle all over again. Literally, all the parking lots were blocked off. Finally, we just parked in the lot of Yosemite Valley Lodge where we found a space. The concern of a parking ticket didn’t even phase us at this point.

The excessive time driving around in circles caused our visit to Yosemite to be disappointing as much time was wasted inside the car. The visitor center is not at the entrance of the park—as with many other parks we visited—and it is not accessible by car. The park trails are poorly signed and laid out.

If you stay in the park, there are free shuttles so you will not have to fight the traffic.

Yes, the views of the towering granite cliffs are a rock-climbers dream with their 90-degree gripping angles. Admittedly, our less than life-changing experience would be due to poor research on our part. Nothing I read about the park provided any information on the difficulties of parking or how long the drive into the park took or the horrors of parking.

Yosemite National Park: Smile! You are finally here.

Where to Park

Maybe I am not the best person to answer this question, but here goes…

There are three major parking lots in Yosemite (of which there was no availability on our visit):

Yosemite Falls Parking Lot,
Yosemite Village Parking Lot
Curry Village Parking.

Free shuttle service to destinations throughout Yosemite Valley is available at each of the above parking lots. If you have a lodging or campground reservation, park at your lodge or campsite. Once you find a place to park, do not move your car. Stay there and take the shuttles.

The Most Distinctive Monuments in Yosemite National Park

Half Dome is Yosemite’s most distinctive monument. Cook’s Meadow, Sentinel Bridge, Tunnel View, and Glacier Point are a few of the best places for a view of Half Dome.

Yosemite National Park: Half Dome

Glacier Point is located 30 miles (a one-hour drive) from Yosemite Valley or Wawona. To get there from either of these places, take the Wawona Road (Highway 41) to Chinquapin, then turn onto Glacier Point Road. At Glacier Point, a short, paved, and wheel-chair accessible trail takes you to an exhilarating view 3,214 feet down to Yosemite Valley below. (Source: Yosemite Guide August 28, 2019-October 1, 2019).

We never found the turn off for that picture-perfect view from outside the Wawona Tunnel on State Hwy 41. You know, the picture you see and go, “That’s Yosemite!”? Maybe we were just dizzy from driving in continuous circles.

El Capitan is a massive granite monolith standing 3,593 feet from base to summit. Climbers from all over the world come to scale the incredible cliffs.

Yosemite National Park: El Capitan

Where Not to Eat

There are places to eat in the park; however, beware of the food quality. We ate at Degnan’s Kitchen—a cafeteria-style eatery with an outdoor patio. The French fries and onion rings were lukewarm. They tasted dry and stale like they had been sitting on a countertop for some time waiting to be devoured by some poor, hungry tourist like us.

A Tale of Two Children

Even though the food was not good, we were entertained with people watching. Whilst enjoying our mediocre dinner, two young boys about the age of 10 were entertaining themselves in the dining area.

“What’s that?” Said curious boy #1, pointing to a small, skittish, furry creature.

“I think it’s a squirrel.” Curious boy #2 exclaiming with glee.

“Holy shit!” Obviously, curious boy #1 has not been in the wild much. The mother of the boys quickly chided them for swearing and the boys went back to munching on their food.

Although we did not see much other wildlife besides children and squirrels, bears and mountain lions reside in Yosemite. Do not let children run ahead and do not keep food in your car. A travel blogger friend told us a story of their visit to Yosemite and having the back end of their car peeled back like a can of sardines from a bear foraging for food in their vehicle.

When is the best time to visit Yosemite National Park?

Yosemite National Park: There are beautiful views everywhere.

Fall

See more of the park and fewer people in the fall. October to November is the wonderful season of autumn in Yosemite National Park.

All areas of the park usually remain open through October, and sometimes into November; however, short-term closures may occur due to snow. Services are not available along Tioga Road after September. Overnight parking is not permitted after October 14th. Yosemite Valley and Wawona remain accessible by car all year, however tire chains may be required, depending on conditions. Check the National Park Service website for updates.

Weather is quite variable in the fall ranging from hot to cold to dry to rainy or snow. Temperatures in Yosemite Valley & Wawona average 54°F (12°C) / 35°F (2°C).

If you are going to see waterfalls, fall is not the time to visit Yosemite National Park. Water levels are generally low and waterfalls can dry up. Some waterfalls, including Vernal, Nevada, and Bridalveil, run all year; however, their flow slows to a trickle by fall.

Yosemite National Park: Bridalveil Falls in September

Fall colours are also not prominent as most Yosemite trees are evergreen so do not expect dazzling colours that you might see elsewhere.

Winter

December through March is the season of solitude in Yosemite National Park. Many roads close during the winter so it is best to check the park’s website for details.

Do note, the park can be remarkably busy during the winter holidays, especially in late December and early January. Traffic will be congested and parking limited. Imagine that.

Winter in Yosemite is snowy and cold, though sunny days are common. Cold also depends on what part of the planet you live in and the weather you are accustomed to. Yosemite Valley and Wawona averages 53°F (12°C) / 28°F (-2°C)

Water levels still tend to be low in winter but once the snow falls, Yosemite Falls begins to flow again, though not at springtime levels.

Spring

Tis the season of waterfalls. If you are a waterfall hunter, Yosemite National Park in spring is the place for you. Runoff causes peak flows to reach between May and June.

Avoid delays and arrive at Yosemite before mid-morning. Entrance stations and popular areas like Yosemite Valley and Glacier Point fill up quickly.

Weather in spring is highly variable with sunshine and relatively warm days, with chances of an occasional snowstorm.

Temperatures in Yosemite Valley & Wawona average 69°F (21°C) / 39°F (4°C).

While most of Yosemite remains snowy through May and into June, some hikes from Yosemite Valley, Wawona, and Hetch Hetchy are often snow-free by April, and most are usually snow-free by sometime in May. Backpacking options remain limited.

Summer

June through September are where you can expect to see a lot of the park and a lot of people.

Weather is warm to hot with occasional rain. The rain usually falls as afternoon thundershowers in higher elevations. Yosemite Valley & Wawona average 87°F (31°C) / 51°F (10°C).

Rivers and waterfalls slow down in the summer. Some waterfalls, including Yosemite Falls, can reduce to a trickle in the dry season of the summer and can be completely dry by August. Other waterfalls, including Vernal, Nevada, and Bridalveil flow all year; however, flows can be exceptionally low by late summer.

June is the time for wildflowers in Yosemite National Park so if you are looking for a blast of colour, early summer is the time to visit.

Hiking Trails in Yosemite National Park

Yosemite National Park: I wonder if the trees in Yosemite inspired The Thing, even though he is a rock-like superhero?

With over 800 miles (1287 kilometres) of hiking trails to explore all with varying degrees of intensity, there is no better way to enjoy Yosemite than on foot. Speak with a ranger at the visitor centre to help you plan your day as you know your limits and timeframe. A few trails that we either did or saw other people doing while we visited the park are listed below.

What should you do if you have 1-2 hours?

Godspeed if you only have 1-2 hours in Yosemite.
Stop at Bridalveil Falls for a photo opportunity. The flow of the water is heavier and lighter depending on the season. From the Bridalveil Fall parking area, there is an easy hiking trail of 0.5-mile (0.8 kilometre) roundtrip, 20 minutes.
Walk Lower Yosemite Fall trail. The trail is flat and an easy walk with lovely views of the falls. 1.0-mile (1.6 kilometres) roundtrip, 20 minutes. You can access the trail from shuttle stop 6.
Get the famous picture of El Capitan and Half Dome from Tunnel View. This is the view we never found. Both El Capitan and Half Dome are easily recognizable and visible from the Southside and Northside drive.

Yosemite National Park: Lower Yosemite Fall photo by Darryl Tweed

What should you do if you have a half-day?

Explore Upper Yosemite Fall Trail to Columbia Rock. This is a strenuous, 2-mile (3.2 kilometre) roundtrip hike with a 1,000-foot gain. Access the trail by camp 4 near shuttle stop 7. Expect a time frame of 2-3 hours to complete this hike.
Mirror Lake Loop hike allows for exhilarating views of Half Dome and Mt. Watkins. Note: swimming is not permitted in the lake. The trail begins at shuttle stop 17. The first mile of the trail is paved and leads directly to Mirror Lake. The trail is 5 miles (8 kilometres) and is a moderate hike. Expect 2-3 hours for this hike. Also, pets are not allowed on this trail. Source: Yosemite Guide August 28, 2019 – October 1, 2019.

What should you do if you have a full day?

Hike the Valley Floor Loop, a 13-mile (21 kilometres) full loop that will take approximately 5-7 hours to complete. This moderate trail is accessible by lower Yosemite Fall shuttle stop 6. Source: Yosemite Guide August 28, 2019 – October 1, 2019.

Is a Visit to Yosemite National Park Worth It?

Not every visit and experience while travelling is top-notch, nevertheless, with more time and better planning, I’m sure Yosemite is a must-experience National Park. Our lack of foresight for the time it would take to get to Yosemite Valley and to park were keys in our unsatisfying experience. Please, learn from our key takeaways:

Stay as close to the park as physically possible.
Arrive at the park as soon as the gates open.
Don’t drive in the park. Take the shuttle where you need to go.
Take your time. This is not a National Park to rush into and rush back out again.
Plan. Know exactly what you want to see and where you want to go so that you don’t miss out.

All pictures in this post are taken by Charlotte, yours truly, as always, unless otherwise stated.

Pick up my Published Travel Memoir for Inspiration:

Roam Free is a deeply personal and often hilarious travel memoir that pulls you in to the wild and woolly ride of my epic travel adventures. If you loved Peter Mayle’s A Year in Provence, you’ll delight in Roam Free’s sweetly innocent deep dive into a life of untethered long-term travel. Get your copy on Amazon and become inspired today.

“I just finished your book and I wrote a great review on Amazon. Congratulations on your book, your blogging career, and mostly on your courage to step out of the box then burn the damn box!! Your book is inspiring. Bravo.” – Irene Cabay

Get Your Custom-Built Itinerary:

Want to make your own adventure travel memories but don’t know where to start? A Wandering Web Travels can help you plan and book your bucket list travel today.

Book Your Flight and Car Rental:

Find cheap transportation by using Kiwi.com. This search engine combs websites and airlines around the globe to become the ultimate travel hack.

Book Your Accommodation:

You can book hotels, apartments, resorts, villas, B&Bs and guest houses at Booking.com! They consistently return the most economical rates for guesthouses and cheap hotels.

Like surprises? Try Hotwire.com and Save up to 60% off 4+ Star Hot Rate Hotels!

Always been curious about Airbnb but afraid to try? Now you can check them out and earn up to $62 CAD off your first trip!

Check out our world recommendations page on Where to Stay!

Book Your Small-Group Tour, Activities and Attractions: For the best small-group tours check out G Adventures’ Insanely affordable tours!

Viator is another great option so don’t miss out! Guaranteed lowest prices on tours and activities.

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance: Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. We like World Nomads because they have great rates and cover a range of adventurous activities.

P.S. – If you’ve found our website helpful and like to book travel yourself, please consider booking your next trip through the links on our Resources Page. We have personally used the companies listed there in our own travels. By booking through these links, the small commission we earn helps us keep the content up to date, expand our resources, and keep the website community supported.

Mission statement: Transform your life with travel—one destination, one adventure, one story at a time.

Pin it!

Pin it!