Rethinking Travel Chapter 2: Choosing the Right Travel Agent

Author : Unwild Planet

Forget ticking items off a generic itinerary. Today's discerning traveller seeks bespoke experiences that forge profound connections with our planet and its people. Gone are the days of simply sightseeing; we yearn for journeys that transform us, leaving positive footprints behind. As fragile ecosystems and cultures bear the brunt of mass tourism, responsible travel is no longer just a suggestion.It's an imperative.

This is where the role of the travel agent transcends mere booking logistics.

Why is choosing the right travel agent important?

Travellers journeying to new destinations have a responsibility to ensure that they positively impact the places they visit, the people that inhabit those places, and the planet as a whole. Most sustainable travel partners offer some version of “cultural exchanges with locals, sustainable accommodation and last-mile local guide connectivity.”

But you need travel agents who go deeper. Choose agents who “show and not just tell.”

15 Questions to ask your travel agent while choosing them

Choosing a travel agent can also seem more difficult than it actually is. However, there are a few key questions that you can ask to ensure that your travelling experience is ethical and sustainable. These questions can include:

"Do you partner with local, environmentally-conscious lodges and tour operators?"
"Do you follow any carbon offsetting programs?"
"Can you suggest itineraries with activities that minimize environmental impact and support conservation efforts?"
"How do your tours promote responsible waste management on travel?"
"Do you prioritise eco-friendly transportation options like low-emission vehicles, public transport, or walking tours when possible?"
"Do you or your partners hold any recognized sustainable travel certifications?"
"How do your trips ensure positive social and economic impacts on the communities we visit?"
"Can you explain your approach to ensuring wildlife viewing is ethical and respectful of animal welfare?"
"Do you offer guidance on responsible water usage during the trip, especially in water-scarce regions?"
"Can you provide detailed information on the sustainability practices of your lodging and tour partners?"
"Do you offer consultations to understand my travel preferences and tailor a sustainable itinerary accordingly?"
"How comfortable are you discussing the environmental and social impact of different travel options?"
"How are carbon offsetting costs typically incorporated into your trip packages?"
"Do you provide resources or follow-up information on sustainable practices after the trip?"
"Can you provide references from past clients who have chosen sustainable travel options with you?"

Benefits you get by choosing the right travel agent:

Unique Experiences:
Sustainable travel partners curate unique, off-the-beaten-path experiences that minimise environmental impact. Imagine visiting a wildlife sanctuary that protects endangered species instead of a crowded watering hole.
Local Connections:
They leverage strong local partnerships, offering authentic cultural interactions and supporting local businesses. Picture enjoying a traditional meal prepared by a village cooperative instead of a generic hotel buffet.
Positive Impact:
You'll become advocate/ambassadors of the destination - by creating more awareness about the ecosystem, indirectly contributing to conservation efforts.
Safety & Security:
Their local expertise ensures your group has a safe and secure experience, especially in remote areas. You have a knowledgeable guide who understands local customs and can navigate potential risks.
Tailor-Made Itineraries:
They customise itineraries to your group's interests and sustainability preferences.
Quality & Comfort:
Sustainable lodges often prioritize high-quality, locally-sourced food and comfortable accommodations using eco-friendly practices. Relax in beautiful lodges built with recycled materials and enjoy delicious meals prepared with.

How UnWild Planet is your go-to travel agent?

UnWild Planet goes beyond sightseeing. We are constantly Rethinking Travel

We partner with local agents, conservation organisations, and knowledgeable guides.
You travel with local experts who have spent years learning about every inch of the region they live in, and have created experiences that you don’t want to miss. You'll gain invaluable insights into the delicate ecosystems you explore, learning how to travel responsibly and leave a positive footprint.
UnWild Planet takes effort to sponsor local projects which helps in reducing the carbon footprints.

When you travel to Svalbard, you travel with guides to watch polar bears migrating without affecting them in any way. When you travel to Antarctica, you have to scrub your shoes clean so that you don’t carry any new wildlife (even microorganisms) to this fragile ecosystem.

Small actions, big impact!

Objective of Rethinking Travel chapters

Travelling is a popular activity for people from all over the world. As the number of travellers increases, it is important to spread awareness of how travel can affect nature and local communities.

UnWild Planet’s founder Rohan Prakash launched the “Rethinking Travel Chapters” to enlighten travellers about responsible and eco-friendly tourism. The chapters discuss how responsible travelling can be adopted in simple steps for new and experienced travellers.

The chapters empower travellers to have positive impacts while travelling by providing clear actions and roadmaps that can lead to meaningful change with every journey travellers take. The main objective of these chapters is to provide travellers with the ability to become a force of change with every new adventure they embark on.

Travelling is always full of adventure. Now, it is time to have a more thoughtful approach towards travelling and journeying to places across the world to ensure that the nature and culture of the destinations you visit are preserved while also having one of the most memorable explorations of your life. Let your journeys be purposefully crafted to leave a positive impact on the environment and on the communities that you encounter. As a traveller you can have rich and cultivating experiences, act as a guardian of cultural heritage, and wisely explore tourist spots through your travels.