Bohol and North Luzon holiday, Philippines

Planet

Environmental Consciousness
During this tour, our guides will inform travellers of how they can best help preserve the pristine landscape of the Philippines. We also encourage responsible waste management and disposing of litter. Travellers may also like to participate in beach clean-up initiatives. Additionally, tourists should remain environmentally conscious when visiting the various natural wonders during this tour. Protecting and preserving the country's natural resources is essential in being environmentally conscious.

By choosing this holiday, travellers are opting for the conscious choice, as we place great importance on securing eco-friendly accommodations like Banaue Grandview Hotel and the use of Hydropower in the area of Banaue, locally run excursions and encouraging environmentally conscious practices.

Sustainable Choices
Through travel documentation of this tour, we encourage our travellers make sustainable choices that help environmental conservation, for example, selecting souvenirs made from recycled or upcycled materials that are available in the Philippines and the items that they should avoid such as products from over-fishing and unethical products derived from wildlife. We also encourage looking for products that align with fair trade principles, promoting equitable compensation for the skilled hands behind the creations.

During this tour, travellers will visit the Tarsier Sanctuary. This sanctuary is dedicated to preserving and protecting the endangered Philippine tarsier, which is a small primate found only in the islands of the Philippines, positively contributing to the protection of our planet, cultures, and local economies.

By embracing responsible tourism practices, we seek to not only create positive experiences for our vendors and customers but also to contribute to the preservation of the Philippines unique culture and environment for future generations.

People

Cultural Appreciation
During this tour, travellers will visit some traditional local villages and towns including Batad known for its rice growing community, Corella, and Sagada. While there, our guides will inform travellers of local customs and traditions and how best to respect these, while engaging with local communities in a considerate manner, fostering a cultural exchange that benefits both visitors and locals. By visiting each area, through their purchases and appreciation, clients contribute to the sustainability of the location and help to enable these traditions to continue. During the city tour of Manila, tourists can also embrace the local culture through visiting the significant landmarks located here.

Support Local Economy
This tour prioritises local businesses and artisans to contribute to the economic growth of the Philippines. We actively choose accommodations like Banaue Grand View Hotel, which is a boutique run by locals and has beautiful views of rice terraces in the area. We use locally run excursions and encourage visits to local restaurants like in San Jose and include visits to shops that emphasise sustainable and ethical practices, supporting local communities. While on this tour, consider learning about and respecting the customs and traditions of the Philippines. This includes buying locally made products and choosing to dine at locally owned restaurants and eateries. During this tour, travellers will have an abundance of opportunities to interact with the locals.


Ethical Souvenir Shopping
While in the Philippines, there will be many opportunities to purchase ethical souvenirs. For example, in Manila instead of buying mass-produced items from big chain stores, consider seeking out handmade products from local craftsmen and women. These purchases not only provide direct support to the individual or family, but also contribute to the preservation of traditional crafts and techniques. For example, purchasing a hand-woven basket or a wooden carving from a local market not only ensures a unique and authentic souvenir, but also helps to sustain the livelihoods of the talented artisans who create them.

Another important factor to consider when shopping for souvenirs in Manila is the ethical sourcing of materials. Unfortunately, there are many instances of exploitation and environmental degradation in the production of souvenirs, particularly in the form of cheap trinkets made from unsustainable materials. By choosing to buy products made from sustainable, responsibly sourced materials, tourists can ensure that their souvenirs have a positive impact on both the local community and the environment. Look for products made from natural and renewable materials like bamboo, coconut shells, and abaca fibres, or opt for recycled and upcycled items.

During this tour, travellers can make ethical choices while buying souvenirs and other purchases. By opting for items that reflect local craftsmanship and culture, travellers will be supporting local artisans and ensuring their purchases contribute positively to the community. Avoid buying products made from endangered species or materials that may harm the environment.