Now featuring over 550 vetted partners, Tourism Cares, a global non-profit dedicated to advancing sustainability for the travel and tourism industry, is celebrating the rapid expansion of its Meaningful Travel Map. A place for travel professionals and forward-thinking vacationers to explore purpose-driven, responsible travel experiences, every stop featured on the organization’s Meaningful Travel Map is designed to benefit communities, protect cultural and environmental assets and foster deeper connections between travelers and the destinations they visit around the world. For travel advisors, the map is an innovative digital tool that can aid in curating sustainably-minded itineraries for their clients, and now, with more partners than ever — including the recent addition of South African Tourism — there’s no shortage of feel-good options to choose from.
With more than 21 national parks, 12 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, just under 2,000 miles of coastline and a deep commitment to warm hospitality, Tourism Cares says South Africa acts as a remarkable backdrop for responsible tourism. Upon browsing the new Meaningful Travel Map of South Africa, advisors and potential travelers can expect to find a curated selection of community-based tourism initiatives, social enterprises, conservation programs, cultural heritage experiences and sustainable accommodations, all of which are featured for their positive impact in the local community. But the fun doesn’t stop at South Africa, as Tourism Cares shared that Tourism Ireland, Greater Miami & Miami Beach, Visit Pittsburgh, Visit Houston, The Palm Beaches, Visit Joplin and Discover Newport all recently joined the Meaningful Travel Map program as Destination Members, meaning U.S. travelers don’t need to go across the pond to do good.
“The rapid growth of the Meaningful Travel Map is a reflection of our industry’s shared vision for a more equitable, sustainable, and impactful future,” said Greg Takehara, CEO of Tourism Cares. “Each new destination and partner strengthens our collective ability to drive positive change, empower local communities, and offer travelers experiences that truly matter. We are proud to welcome these new members, including our first in Africa, and look forward to seeing the ripple effects of their work across the globe.”
“South Africa’s landscapes, wildlife, and cultures are among the richest and most diverse in the world, and we recognize the importance of safeguarding them for generations to come,” said Darryl Erasmus, COO of South African Tourism. “The launch of the Meaningful Travel Map of South Africa allows us to spotlight the remarkable efforts of local tourism changemakers and invite the world to experience South Africa in a more conscious and meaningful way.”
According to Tourism Cares, the speedy expansion of its Meaningful Travel Program over the last two years underscores the travel industry’s increasing commitment to sustainable, meaningful travel. Similarly, as vacationers yearn for more authentic experiences while on the road, the map acts as a unique guide for building community connections and enhancing traveler experiences around the world. Tourism Cares says its Meaningful Travel Map is one of the largest global networks of its kind, and as the tool continues to grow, the organization hopes it will “help to redefine the future of travel, one meaningful connection at a time.”
To learn more about Tourism Cares’ Meaningful Travel Map click here.
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