Organised Visits

If you are planning a school visit, looking for voluntourism holidays, organising a team building or other professional group activity, or simply looking for ideas to fill in a spare day or so then we can help.

Organised Visits

At ConCERT we are committed to raising the standards of responsible tourism and ecotourism activities.  This effort encompasses all aspects of the subject, from contributions into leading edge research, to advice for individuals who are looking for more meaningful ways to spend an afternoon.

In recent years increasing numbers of people want to “do something useful”, or “get involved”, or “give something back”, or “see the real country away from the tourist hot spots”, or “support a good cause”, or “be environmentally responsible”, as part of their travel experience.  Many companies responded with “responsible tourism” services and activities. 

As the sector began to develop, the idea that someone was going to volunteer and do something for nothing was deemed enough in itself and in many instances activities were designed primarily to meet the needs of the customer rather than the needs of the communities where the “good deeds” take place.  In the past the labels “Responsible Tourism” and “Ecotourism” have often been used as marketing terms and the services provided have fallen short of true responsible tourism goals and ideals.  

The 2002 Cape Town declaration agreed that responsible tourism:

Organised Visits
  • minimises negative economic, environmental and social impacts
  • generates greater economic benefits for local people and enhances the well being of host communities; improves working conditions and access to the industry
  • involves local people in decision making and life chances
  • makes positive contributions to the conservation of natural and cultural heritage embracing diversity
  • provides more enjoyable experiences for tourists through more meaningful connections with local people, and a greater understanding of local cultural, social and environmental issues
  • provides access for physically challenged people
  • is culturally sensitive, encourages respect between tourists and hosts, and builds local pride and confidence

The issues are complex and difficult and we are working with tour operators, our project members, and others in the industry to help design better activities. The goal is activities that provide truly memorable experiences for the participants, that are driven by and meet the needs of the local communities, and that embody the true spirit of responsible tourism.

Follow the links to our member tour operators and projects, or contact us directly; info@concertcambodia.org

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ConCERT member projects
ConCERT member tour operators