In recent years, tourism has increased exponentially. As some experts say, it has been “democratized”. That is to say: until recently, travel was an activity reserved for the better-off sectors of society, but the emergence of low-cost companies and the so-called ‘collaborative economy’ has taken the world of travel to another level.
A level that, in certain destinations, is causing discomfort among the local population, due to increased costs, noise and other inconveniences that they attribute to tourism. And at Mandala Tours we have a set of values of respectful tourism that not only leads to the satisfaction of our clients, but also of the local environments where we work. In this post we tell you our recipe.
Tourism = Local benefit
Traveling, of course, enriches those who do it: discovering, learning, disconnecting… in short, living. But in Mandala Tours we are very aware that tourism must also bring an important benefit to the place where it is developed. Of course, it is of direct benefit to the professionals who make the trips, starting with travel agents and continuing with drivers, guides and, in general, hospitality staff. And for this reason, our staff is made up of local citizens, also seeking the best possible balance between men and women.
But we believe that this social and local benefit should also reach other even more needy people, especially those who almost heroically keep traditions afloat. That is why our tours include experiences such as folk music performances, living with nomadic families or visits to cooperatives where traditional products are produced.
In addition, Mandala Tours goes one step further and has developed a foundation that collaborates in social projects that take place in the countries where we operate. It implies an added commitment to respect and promote the welfare of those most in need, especially among the most vulnerable people.
Housing and accommodation, ‘sacred’.
One of the main causes of the so-called ‘tourismphobia’ is the shortage of affordable housing in historic centers. And the main culprits are illegal tourist apartments. In Mandala Tours, we take great care of this aspect: we do not resort to this type of lodging and we do resort to other charming lodgings , in perfect legality. Examples are riads in Morocco, troglodytic hotels in Cappadocia or jaimas and kasbahs in the desert, among others. And of course, resorts in sun and beach destinations. But never accommodations that can break the harmony and coexistence in neighborhoods and residential areas intended for the local population.
For an uncrowded tourism
Another nuisance of mass tourism is the noise and congestion it causes in certain areas, especially small streets in the old towns. And that is why Mandala Tours bets for the opposite: private and tailor-made trips, with groups that in most cases fit in a minivan or a minibus. These are expeditions in which human contact and adaptation to the needs of each person is a priority, so we shy away from mega-groups with a frenetic rhythm, with flags and loudspeakers.
Respect for the environment
Finally, let’s not forget another major victim of mass tourism: the environment. While this is, in many respects, beyond our ability to control, we do try to ensure that special care is taken. For example, we use vehicles in good condition and of recent manufacture so that they are less polluting. And we make sure that hotels and service providers, if possible, have an adequate waste treatment protocol, with the appropriate environmental certificates.
