Tracey Poggio, Antor chair, launched the association’s new ‘Pathway to Responsible Tourism’ at WTM 2024, encouraging members "to find a new way of collectively working together to start changing the narrative around how people travel abroad and how they behave"
Levelling the responsible tourism playing field
Noting that Antor member destinations, a roster which is now nearing 60 worldwide, may be at different stages of their sustainable and responsible journeys, Tracey hopes that the Pathway will inspire actionable and measurable points regardless of existing progress.
"Every destination is different, and every destination's government will have different policies in the areas that the Pathway covers. We have to find a way of collectively working together and to start changing the narrative around how people travel abroad and how they behave in our jurisdictions, but make sure those discussions are happening in a way that is inclusive for all of our members."
Members will be invited to showcase clear examples of how their destination fosters each of the 10 steps along the Pathway, which include 'Travel with a Positive Attitude' and 'Actively Support the Local Community' among others.
Returning to the roots of tourism
"In 10 years' time, you never know whether circumstances are going to allow us to travel to certain destinations for any number of reasons. It could be political, the climate or economy."
Tracey's words ring even truer given Valencia's absence at this year's World Travel Market; the Spanish stand opened the show's first day with a minute's silence to the over 200 people killed by the climate disaster last month.
"We talk a lot in this industry about purpose, but we also need to bring mindfulness and respect into the conversation. Respect for the people that live there, respect for cultures and other ways that communities exist. Mindfulness and gratitude for our ability to travel."
Steps including 'Be Mindful of How You Travel' and 'Respect the Local Culture and Customs' notably apply in these areas.Case studies of how members are making progress in these areas and others will be spotlighted via Antor's social media platforms and website.
Given Antor's 73-year history in uniting tourist offices, the association is keen to ground efforts in the true power and role of tourism.
"The conversation must be rooted in the fact that tourism is there to benefit destinations. That's what the industry is all about."
WTM London 2024 took place at ExCel London from November 5th to 7th, 2024.
