Of the ones that give back

The new breed of tourists in 2025 do not just visit places, request what they want, and leave. Many aim to create a fulfilling experience for both the hosts and the guests. This is where the concept of responsible travel comes into play. In Vietnam, however, many businesses are still trying to recover from the challenges of recent years, and the relative scarcity of companies offering responsible travel services can leave many feeling unsettled.

When evaluating a community-benefitting and eco-friendly tour company, two critical factors emerge. Firstly, genuinely responsible companies often promote both community involvement and environmental conservation. This means incorporating local input into their practices, showing respect for indigenous cultures, and helping to preserve those traditions without imposing changes. Cultural disparities between tourists and local communities can be significant, and actions that seem acceptable to outsiders can be inappropriate for locals.

The impact of tourism can sometimes disrupt traditional ways of life permanently. Take Vietnam, which boasts thousands of years of history; a sudden influx of profit from tourism can divert communities away from their historical sources of income, altering their lifestyles irrevocably. Traditional practices might be abandoned as they become less relevant, creativity that once flourished in agriculture shifts to commercial activities, and historical homes are replaced to accommodate tourism demands. For example, in Sapa, the once-vibrant love market has been replaced with staged performances that lack authenticity. The local charm that inspired countless poems now gives way to commercialism, and many fear the damages may be irreversible.

The second aspect of responsible travel aligns closely with increasing awareness of climate change and environmental degradation. As global media continue to highlight these issues, travelers are increasingly seeking eco-friendly tour options. Tour companies are now providing detailed information on the environmental impact of their itineraries. Many have adopted practices such as using organic food, offering low-emission transportation, and ensuring accommodations are environmentally friendly.

One world-renowned company in this arena, Intrepid Travel, features a variety of Vietnam tours and even discloses the carbon emissions per passenger for each journey. They maintain their commitment to responsible tourism by also providing details on the physical demands of the trips and potential cultural shocks. However, many local operators have yet to adopt such rigorous transparency.

Among local companies, some have recently embraced responsible travel principles. Notable players include Footprint, Paradissa, and Viet Adventure. Each company has a unique approach but shares a common goal: to protect the environment and support local communities. This commitment is evident in the ethos of the "Responsible Travel Club" (www.rtcvietnam.org) members. With the renewed interest from government and non-governmental organizations in promoting sustainable practices, these companies encourage tourists to engage in trekking, biking tours, and to stay in eco-friendly accommodations during their travels.

A portion of the profits from responsible travel initiatives often goes back into community development. Paradissa, for instance, emphasizes the significance of community involvement in its sustainable business model. In their single-page "About Us," manager Anh Do notably mentions the term "local" 21 times, emphasizing his dedication to supporting the society around him.

However, there are challenges associated with responsible travel. Firstly, organic foods can come at a premium, which may deter budget-conscious tourists from opting for more sustainable options. Additionally, some travelers may be unprepared for the need to adapt to new experiences rather than following their typical routines. Physical endurance can also be a concern; tourists who are not accustomed to physical activities may struggle with the demands of certain eco-friendly tours. Therefore, responsible travel often remains a niche market rather than mainstream.

Yet, as more high-profile figures like Gates and Buffett champion social responsibility and sustainable practices, there is hope that responsible travel will gain traction in the years to come, potentially reshaping the landscape of tourism for the better.