Customized | Travel Elevates Volume 1

VOL.1

T R AV E L C E N T R A L

TRAVEL ELEVATES

GLOBAL EMPOWERMENT VIA TRAVEL

a warm welcome.

Travel can create indelible moments, which is why you are most likely reading this magazine. As a global society, we are hardwired to roam. To discover. To learn. And while all are important, connection is the driver behind this debut publication. We are dedicated to giving back to the communities we visit.

As your trusted travel advisor, we are passionate about introducing Travel Elevates to you and supporting this growing and powerful initiative. As the philanthropic arm of Signature Travel Network, Travel Elevates was born when a donation-based project in Kenya, initiated by a powerful and eye-opening visit, continued until it was self-sustained. Today, Travel Elevates’ mission is to foster global empowerment via travel. How so? By leveraging global partnerships and connecting travelers just like you to international projects poised to positively impact global communities via education and economic growth.

Within these new pages, inspired storytelling has a two-fold mission: to showcase the aforementioned projects supported via Travel Elevates, and to share information on how you can identify communities to support as you experience the world.

While we all continually celebrate the privilege of travel, there is also ample opportunity to further elevate travel’s transformative nature. Let’s together support journeys both near and far that truly make a difference.

Happy Exploring!

AmaWaterways is the proud sponsor of the ODA Free Village English School in Siem Reap, Cambodia, established in 2011 in association with Opportunities of Development thru Art. Our support to the school brings critical English-language skills to local children of grammar-school age to help improve their lives and assist with subsequent employment opportunities.

We are extremely honored to participate in such a constructive and lasting partnership at this life-changing school and encourage all of our guests to visit this remarkable part of the world along the Mekong River, known for its stunning temple complexes and the friendly people who live there.

TRAVEL ELEVATES 3

LENS

© Ami Vitale/Ripple Effect Images

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TRAVEL ELEVATES

FORWARD MOMENTUM

"Boujbeja" means the luck of the desert, but for local villagers of this remote desert town captured here in Mali, West Africa, by famous photographer Ami Vitale, battling the constant push of the sands after the 1966 drought often means digging nearly 70 meters underground for water.

Fortunately, both awareness and change are being brought to the forefront in remote corners of the world via such organizations as Ripple Effect Images (see page 42).

As a traveler, you too can make a difference. Call, email, or visit the website found on the back cover to learn how.

TRAVEL ELEVATES 3

contents TRAVEL ELEVATES VOLUME 1

features.

30 TRAVEL CONSCIOUSLY

Discover the impetus and mission behind Travel Elevates.

36 THE HAWAIIAN ISLANDS

If there was ever a time to visit these sacred islands, it is now.

42 THE RIPPLE EFFECT

Explore a visual entrée to photography on a mission.

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TRAVEL ELEVATES

36

empower.

10 GAME CHANGERS

FEED Bags, Paravel Luggage, and the power of Patagonia.

12 TRANSFORM

Meet the 2023 Travel Elevates grant recipients.

16 UPLEVEL

A healthcare boost in Uganda with Abercrombie & Kent Philanthropy.

12

elevate.

20 PAY IT FORWARD

An Ireland immersion with Brendan Vacations.

22 GIVE & GET

Small steps, big impact via Pack for a Purpose.

24 STAY IT FORWARD

Make your room key count with The Royal Portfolio.

26 HORIZON

Discover Jordan's Meaningful Travel Map.

From top: ©Francois d'Elbee; ©Bashar Alaeddin; © Marisi Lopez- Rewilding Argentina

26 2

LENS

7

CONTRIBUTORS

6 48

FROM THE FIELD LAST LOOK

INTERESTED IN THE ORIGIN STORY OF TRAVEL ELEVATES?

SCAN THE QR CODE FOR MORE.

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TRAVEL ELEVATES 5

from the field.

ISLAND PERSPECTIVE WHEN I deplaned my United flight to Maui in September with an extra suitcase of baby and hygienic supplies, I was unsure of what to expect, and frankly, of my decision to visit. Yet within the hour, any vacillating thoughts quickly dissipated. Whether delivered by the United Airlines captain, my taxi driver, or local staff at Maui’s Grand Wailea, A Waldorf Astoria Resort, the message was clear: mahalo. While emotions were understandably high, most every local I encountered during a weeklong stay on Maui and the island of Hawaiʻi was genuinely grateful to have travelers on-island, and the message is just as pertinent today: Maui and Hawaiʻi depend on our visits. The ongoing recovery efforts are a stark reminder of one of the many reasons for this debut issue of Travel Elevates magazine: The power of positive impact travel is truly transformative, especially when it’s thoughtful, targeted, and supporting those most in need.

Mindful travel may hold different meaning to various types of travelers, yet the connective tissue is journeys that foster impact.

Fortunately, there are many to choose from. Within these pages we aim to celebrate the people, places, and travel companies striving to truly move the needle on a global scale. Your contribution, however, can start with the simplest of steps (reading this publication is already one), evidenced by Pack for a Purpose (page 22). Or it can involve a deep immersion into various far-flung cultures, exemplified by the famous photographers of Ripple Effect Images (page 42).

My hope is that somewhere within these pages you are inspired to make just one change in how you travel. While in Hawaiʻi, during a sunrise canoe paddle excursion, leader “Uncle George” said it best: Every day, we greet the sun, and every day, we begin anew, together.

Enjoy the read!

ERIN LENTZ, EDITOR IN CHIEF

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TRAVEL ELEVATES

From top: Hues of blue from the Grand Wailea, A Waldorf Astoria Resort; a day of Travel Elevates service on Maui.

contributors.

EDITORIAL

EDITOR IN CHIEF Erin Lentz

CREATIVE DIRECTOR Taylor Chamberlain MANAGING EDITOR Amanda Merz

PHOTO DIRECTOR Lisa Rosenthal Bader

2023 TAG Media. Travel Elevates Magazine is

published on behalf of Signature Travel Network. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part of any material in this publication without publisher’s permission is strictly prohibited. For copies, customer service, or to exhibit or distribute at a business, please inquire at hello@tagmediaaspen.com.

TAG MEDIA 0133 Prospector Road, Suite 4012R Aspen, CO 81611

The non-profit charitable arm of Signature Travel Network, Travel Elevates was born when a donation-based project in Kenya continued until it was self-sustained. Today, Travel Elevates’ mission is to connect travelers to various projects poised to empower global communities via education and economic growth.

Signature Travel Network is comprised of top-tier travel agencies that share one common objective: serve the personal needs of the discerning traveler.

The network’s buying power translates into the ability to leverage worldwide partnerships to provide you the best value and ensure the best service before and during your travels.

Amy Roberts

Jen Murphy

Amy Roberts lives in Park City, Utah, with her two rescued Dalmatians, Stanley and Willis.

Her wanderlust has taken her to over 100 countries and all seven continents.

Jen Murphy writes the “What’s Your Workout” column for the Wall Street Journal and contributes to publications including Town & Country, Conde Nast Traveler, Men’s Journal, Outside and Food & Wine. She is the author of the Yoga (Man)ual.

WRITER

How I Like to Give Back: Wherever I’m going, I look at what the local needs are and pack accordingly. Medical supplies, educational materials, milk bones for a local animal shelter. Common staples in the U.S. can be nearly impossible to find — or impossible to afford — in many parts of the world.

Wish-list interview: Greta Thunberg. I wish I had a fraction of her gumption, intelligence, and integrity.

WRITER

How I Like to Give Back: Volunteering with programs that empower young girls when I am traveling abroad.

Wish-list trip: Sri Lanka.

Never thought I’d: Get to watch a sumo wrestling tournament in Tokyo.

This magazine has been produced for the exclusive use of Signature Travel Network member agencies only. All efforts have been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained herein. Should an error occur, we reserve the right to correct it.

Print Date: November 2023.

TRAVEL ELEVATES 7

How can a safari Kenya-bound Micato travellers have the exclusive opportunity to visit the Harambee Community Centre and meet some of the many thousands of students Micato has sent to school through its non-profit arm, AmericaShare. Micato South Africa guests can visit the Red Hill Library and Community Centre and read with the youngsters there. Another Micato exclusive: Meeting the young adults helped by Micato affiliate Huru, which keeps girls in school during their periods by supplying them with reusable sanitary pads.

With Micato, lives are forever changed, and not just the children’s….

TEN-TIME #1 WINNER: World’s Best Safari Outfitter Travel+Leisure 8

TRAVEL ELEVATES

10-TI M E WINNER

empower.

10

GAME CHANGERS

Discover three visionaries with maverick style.

12

IN MOTION

Meet Travel Elevates' 2023 grant recipients.

16

RISE UP!

Abercrombie & Kent Philanthropy aids in healthcare & education.

TRAVEL ELEVATES VOLUME 1

A mother and daughter cross the sand dunes with water in the Thar Desert in Rajasthan, India.

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GAME CHANGERS EMPOWER

Planet-Friendly Packing Contributing to the world can start before your flight check-in.

BY JEN MURPHY

WHEN it comes to traveling more mindfully, we often focus on the big stuff, like giving back to the destinations we visit and choosing environmentally minded hotels. But small decisions, like the type of bag you pack, can be just as impactful. The following companies make it easy to give your luggage an eco-update. All three are devoted to producing sustainable, stylish products, and each purchase contributes to the greater good of the planet.

CARBON-NEUTRAL CARRY ON In 2016, Andy Krantz and Indré Rockefeller debuted Paravel, a line of high-quality, timeless luggage durable enough to be passed down. Their original mission of ameliorating the consumption crisis evolved after Rockefeller visited Antarctica. The trip reframed the urgency of the climate crisis and spurred her and Krantz to only work with sustainable materials. At the end of 2019, Paravel debuted the Aviator, the world’s first carbon-neutral suitcase. In addition to using recycled and upcycled materials, the company offsets all the emissions from sourcing, assembly, shipping, and delivery and includes the estimated carbon emissions of your first plane trip with the Aviator. And for every order, the brand plants a tree through Eden Reforestation Projects.

A constant pursuit of more planet-friendly materials has led them to expand their collection to include backpacks crafted from negative nylon, a water-resistant fabric made from 100-percent post-consumer plastic bottles, and duffels made from EcoCraft canvas, a natural cotton fiber.

Sales have helped offset 24,000 tonnes of CO2, upcycle 6.25 million plastic bottles, and plant over 440,000 trees.

10 TRAVEL ELEVATES

GAME CHANGERS

BAGS THAT GIVE BACK When Lauren Bush launched FEED in 2007, she had a lofty goal of fighting world hunger one bag at a time. Her mission started with a burlap tote stamped with “help feed the children of the world.” Almost overnight, the simple, reusable bag seemed to be slung over the shoulder of every model and celebrity. Bush has since expanded the B Corp-certified company’s offerings to include a travel collection of duffels, overnight bags, and dopp kits all made from recycled plastic and organic cotton. A portion of every purchase supports FEED’s on-the-ground partners working to alleviate hunger. To date, bag sales have helped provide over 126 million school meals in over 20 countries.

OUTDOOR APPAREL FOR PURPOSE NOT PROFIT Since founding Patagonia in 1973, Yvon Chouinard has been paving the way for a greener future. The B Corp-certified company leads the way when it comes to doing smart, sustainable business. In addition to crafting duffels, daypacks, and apparel from recycled materials, the company also keeps clothing out of landfills through its Warn Wear program, which allows consumers to trade in and buy used Patagonia gear. And through its platform Patagonia Action Works, the brand connects people to like-minded organizations working on environmental issues. In 2022, Chouinard took a maverick approach to business and announced that he was transferring ownership of the company to two entities that will help fight the climate crisis. Earth is now Patagonia’s sole shareholder and the brand’s profits help protect the planet.

TRAVEL ELEVATES 11

TRANSFORM EMPOWER

IN MOTION Meet four global change makers redefining the power of progress.

BY ERIN LENTZ

12 TRAVEL ELEVATES

TRANSFORM

EVERY year, as part of Travel Elevates’ overarching mission to foster projects empowering global communities, it identifies and awards funding and support to multiple non-profit organizations. In 2023, the exciting grant recipients positively impacted local communities via education and economic impact. A snapshot of progress in motion, these four organizations define the rippleeffect: an inspired vision can lead to significant change.

Here’s to further momentum!

CONSERVATION LOWER ZAMBEZI Who: Conservation Lower Zambezi is a non-profit organization committed to the protection of wildlife and the sustainable use of natural resources in Zambia’s Lower Zambezi. Founded in 1994, its four pillars include: wildlife protection, environmental education, community empowerment, and wildlife reintroduction and research.

Why: With the mantra “Working Today to Protect Tomorrow,” it supports environmental education and human-wildlife co-existence — a symbiotic relationship critical to vibrant communities in the Lower Zambezi.

2023 PROJECT: The Travel Elevates grant supports scholars and teachers from 60-plus schools reaching over 2,000 scholars annually.

Opposite, clockwise from top left: African elephants in Moremi Game Reserve, Botswana; accessible learning through Project Luangwa; discovering archeology at Conservation Lower Zambezi; making waves with Conservation Lower Zambezi.

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TRANSFORM EMPOWER

PROJECT LUANGWA Who: Established in 2010, Project Luangwa has constructed and built infrastructure for 12 schools, impacting 4,500-plus children in education each year. The backstory: Several of the valley’s tour operators realized the need to empower communities and show the incredible benefits that wildlife and an unspoiled habitat bring to the region.

Why: With a mantra of “community empowerment through tourism,” by using a portion of the proceeds from each visitor, Project Luangwa seeks to reaffirm the importance of tourism in action.

2023 PROJECT: The Travel Elevates grant supports a project titled DigiLearn, which makes learning more accessible. The grant enables Project Luangwa to purchase equipment, including tablets, projector screens, solar panels, and batteries. Once the program is fully up and running across multiple sites, it will directly impact nearly 2,000 children every year and have life-long positive results for their families and communities.

EDUCATION AFRICA Who: Established in 1992, Education Africa delivers quality education to underserved communities. It’s mission? With 30-plus years fostering real change, it provides poverty alleviation via education. With a culture of learning and teaching, it strives to reach and uplift the most vulnerable with opportunities to improve access to relevant education, in turn enabling students to eventually participate in the global economy.

Why: Educating, equipping, and empowering communities through early education is imperative to the wellbeing of not only young students, but in turn, the vibrancy of the community at large.

2023 PROJECT: The Travel Elevates grant helps address the lack of high-quality early learning opportunities available for South African children. Direct beneficiaries include 113 female educators and 70-percent of youth (ages 18-35) from low socioeconomic status. Indirect beneficiaries include up to 250,000 vulnerable children (ages 3-5) over an average 30-year career span per educator.

14 TRAVEL ELEVATES

From top: Music practice with Education Africa; teaching local healh care workers with PINCC.

PINCC Who: PINCC’s mission prevents cervical cancer in lowand middle-income countries by employing low-cost, yet effective technology. It creates sustainable programs in patient education, medical personnel training, and facility outfitting.

Why: Put simply: The disease is preventable. Most cervical cancer deaths occur in women who live in low-and-middle income countries (LMICs) where adequate screening and treatment is unavailable. PINCC works to make cervical dysplasia treatment available to every woman.

2023 PROJECT: The Travel Elevates grant supports HPV self-testing to conquer cervical cancer. The initiative aims to increase health access and education among reproductive-aged women via the provision of the lifesaving thermoablation device, training in technology use, training in screening, and continued long-term support for education and equipment. te

TRAVEL POWERFULLY

These past Travel Elevates grant recipients are further proof that small steps lead to significant improvement.

HUMAN CONNECTIONS Human Connections was able to serve both artisans and travelers via virtual learning and partnership development. While this involved new programming, it also directly furthered Human Connections’ mission to increase empathy and strengthen local communities during the pandemic and beyond.

MARALLIANCE MarAlliance was able to build on its considerable educational work with an innovative and scalable educational strategy to improve education access and equity across key sites in Panama, Honduras, and Belize.

S CA N TO L E A R N H OW YO U CA N B E C O M E A C H A N G E AG E N T. TRAVEL ELEVATES 15

UPLEVEL EMPOWER

rise of the

REMEDY

16 TRAVEL ELEVATES

Bwindi Community Hospital and Nursing School provides healthcare, education, and hope to Rural Uganda with Abercrombie & Kent Philanthropy.

BY AMY ROBERTS

UPLEVEL

WHILE the worldwide nursing shortage has been in the news for decades, the COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated the issue, pushing it to crisis levels. In rural areas, the situation is even more dire, and patient lives are at risk.

That’s why Abercrombie & Kent Philanthropy (AKP), the philanthropic arm of Abercrombie & Kent, supports the Bwindi Community Hospital and Nursing School. Located in the Southwestern corner of Uganda, the hospital provides healthcare to some of the poorest people in the world, while also educating the next generation of healthcare workers at its nursing school.

HUMBLE ROOTS Most nonprofit efforts start small, but in the case of the Bwindi Community Hospital and Nursing School, the project truly comes from humble roots. After all, it began under a tree as an outreach clinic.

Originally founded to help Batwa pygmies displaced from their homes when the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest was made a national park, with the help of AKP and the Sanctuary Gorilla Forest Camp, the hospital has grown to a 112-bed facility that provides healthcare services and education to over 100,000 people in Uganda. Today, it serves the population in three sub-counties of Kayonza, Mpungu, and Kanyantorogo in the Kanungu District. The dedicated staff also sends outreach teams to surrounding villages to ensure all people have access to healthcare and health education.

NURSING NUMBERS A perpetual shortage of nurses has had a detrimental impact on the patients served at Bwindi Community Hospital. Nurses are scarce in the region, largely because many come from the capital city of Kampala, where they attended nursing school, and their families live. After a few years of living and practicing in a rural community, many nurses return to the city to be closer to their families and the resources available in a more populated area.

To help overcome this revolving door challenge, the Bwindi Community Hospital has partnered with the Uganda Nursing School Bwindi to invest in local students who are committed to the community. Since most of them can’t afford to pay the $750 annual tuition, AKP provides scholarships, which helps ensure the people served by the hospital have access to certified nursing school graduates who are from the region, speak the local language, and understand local customs.

HOW TO HELP Many travelers extend their African safari to explore one of Africa’s most ancient habitats, a primeval jungle nestled among verdant mountains, terraced hills, and rolling volcanic slopes. The biodiverse canopy of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park is home to almost half the world's mountain gorilla population, the L'Hoest monkey, and the chimpanzee.

Those lucky enough to spend time in this magical, misty land are welcomed to visit the Bwindi Community Hospital and Nursing School for a tour of the children’s ward and maternity wing. While there, visitors can meet local nursing school students, explore their learning lab, gain insights into their training and inspiring personal goals, and support the program with monetary or in-kind donations. te

Add an impactful experience to your next A&K journey.

Enter OFFER M26313 on the website found on the back cover and learn how your next journey can make a difference.

Opposite: Local Uganda students are all smiles. From top: A nurse in training at the Bwindi Hospital and Nursing School; providing critical care to the community in rural Uganda; the children's hospital wing at Bwindi.

TRAVEL ELEVATES 17

TOURS FOR ANY AND EVERYONE | WE MAKE TRAVEL MATTER®

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elevate.

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HELLO, IRELAND

Discover MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experiences.

22

BIG IMPACT

Pack for a Purpose simplifies giving back.

24

ROOM READY

Stay it forward with The Royal Portfolio.

26

INTO JORDAN

Plan your journey with the help of a Meaningful Travel Map.

TRAVEL ELEVATES VOLUME 1

Hand-in-hand with the Samburu Tribe in Kenya.

TRAVEL ELEVATES 19

PAY I T F O R WA R D E L E VAT E

MakeTravel Matter Brendan Vacations showcases Ireland’s finest, including dedicated locals and artisans perpetuating a sustainable legacy.

BY ERIN LENTZ

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PAY I T F O R WA R D

AS I bump along Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way with my private driver, Andy, I quickly realize why Brendan Vacations is known for its chauffeured experiences, which equals no lines, no buses, and plenty of unforgettable local intel with a dedicated driver for your entire visit. Our mission: discovering several MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experiences along the western coast of Ireland, focusing on benefiting planet, people, and wildlife. I’ll find that Ireland’s people are what makes this country unique, as my journey is immersed in memorable local connections.

THE BEST OF THE BURREN My private introduction to the Burren Farm Experience focuses on a fifth-generation operation by husband-andwife team Cathal and Bronagh O’Rourke. Located in the heart of the Burren in County Clare, the working farm embraces a growing sustainable movement in southwestern Ireland.

Gracing 500 acres, the land feels like a step back in time, framing the Burren’s landscape of bedrock — a stark yet beautiful UNESCO Heritage Site of glacial-era limestone sprinkled with cliffs and caves, fossils, rock formations, and archaeological gems. As we navigate the farm in a rustic jeep, the O’Rourkes relay their passion: to preserve the rich heritage of the land. Guests here can forest bathe in ancient woodlands, savor picnics of 28-day aged organic beef accompanied by local market produce and famous Irish cheese and learn about Ireland’s fairy trees and mystical folklore.

Over samples of his impressive beers, our conversation covers everything from the Irish War of Independence to hops and Limerick musician Mick Hanley.

A TASTE OF GALWAY Any exploration of the western coast must include a stop in Galway. A small university city, its vibrant streets are a fascinating intersection of art, architecture, history, and cuisine. I spend a half day with Regina, a Galway local and private expert guide with Galway Food Tours.

Our main mission is savoring the flavors of leading local entrepreneurs during a tasty whirlwind of cuisine and spirits. The walking tour celebrates artisan producers, cheese makers, creative beer projects, exceptional chocolatiers, traditional family run businesses, and ambitious entrepreneurs showcasing Irish cuisine.

My journey is topped with a visit to Ireland’s School of Falconry at Ashford Castle, where I take a hawk walk with Pippin and a property run with Irish Wolfhounds. The castle oozes history, of course. And in true Irish fashion, after sampling whiskey at the Drawing Room, the bartender says, “You come for the landscapes, but remember our stories." te

Ready to create impact? Enter OFFER M26311 on the website found on the back cover and learn how to collaborate on meaningful travel.

SUSTAINABLE CUISINE Next up, a private tour of the Burren Smokehouse with Swedish owner Birgitta Hedin-Curtin. Located in Lisdoonvarna along Ireland’s famed Wild Atlantic Way — a 2,500 km coastal driving route navigating nine counties and three provinces — the smokehouse is world-renowned for smoked Irish organic salmon. After an interactive showcase explaining the company history and how the salmon is prepared, Birgitta takes me to the smokehouse, detailing the source of each ingredient. Afterward, I meet her husband and local raconteur Peter Curtin, owner and brew master of the famous Roadside Tavern.

Opposite: The Cliffs of Moher. From top: The O'Rourke family of the Burren Farm Experience; city scenes from Galway; fresh salmon from the Burren Smokehouse.

TRAVEL ELEVATES 21

GIVE & GET E L E VAT E

PAC K F O R A

PURPOSE

Discover how you can help impact the global landscape, one suitcase at a time.

BY ERIN LENTZ

22 TRAVEL ELEVATES

GIVE & GET

IT started with a blood pressure cuff and a stethoscope. When Rebecca Rothney, a longtime schoolteacher, coordinated a trip to Kenya in 2008, she had an a-ha moment. As she corresponded with the Lewa Wildlife Conservancy on her itinerary, the company mentioned they supported a nearby clinic and school. “So we asked them what supplies were needed,” Rothney says. "Their response?

A blood pressure cuff and stethoscope. I thought it was a joke. How could a clinic not have these? I was inspired to action.”

Since its launch in 2010, Pack for a Purpose has taken over 414,469 pounds of supplies and essential needs to 55 (and counting) countries. Rothney believes small changes can produce huge impact, and after founding her global nonprofit she’s proved herself right. Working with international hotel partners and tour companies, Rothney created a simple yet impactful model for travelers who want to make a difference, simply by packing a suitcase.

The process? Travelers visit the Pack for a Purpose website, search for the region and country they are visiting, access the “Essential Needs” list, and then pack up to a recommended five pounds (travelers can pack more if desired). Needs lists are provided directly by the community-based projects that receive and use the supplies, enabling travelers to make informed decisions and only take items that meet the needs of those who will be using them. Once travelers arrive to their destination, they have directions on where and how to drop supplies off — simple, easy, and highly effective.

“I’m proud that everything is locally curated,” Rothney says. “The needs list comes from what’s really needed in the community, and changes as community needs change. One of our key messages in the beginning was that a stethoscope weighs less than a kilo but can touch 2000 hearts. Today, an antibiotic cream prevents 30 kids from getting an infection from cuts and bruises from playing outside.”

Supplies may be simple, yet the reach is wide. Examples of community initiatives abroad include working with Dive Munda in the Solomon Islands, where the current essential needs list for Helena Goldie Hospital includes malaria testing kits and surgical Oxford handbooks. Guests staying at the Fairmont Mayakoba can help Playa Animal Rescue by simply packing chew toys and leashes, among other needs.

SMALL EFFORT

BIG IMPACT 5 SIMPLE STEPS TO PACK FOR A PURPOSE

1.

Visit packforapurpose.org and select your destination.

2.

Find an accommodation or tour company and a project it supports.

3.

Choose the supplies you wish to take from the specific items requested.

4.

Drop off the supplies at the accommodation or tour company.

5.

They will be delivered to the project.

It’s that easy!

Traveler Susan Sachs Lipman took school supplies to children in Costa Rica. “The school visit turned out to be one of the most special and memorable experiences of our whole trip,” she says. One boy wasn’t in school that day because he had to share a pair of shoes with his brother — a reminder that supplying a simple pair of shoes can change a young child’s education.

“Growing up in the south, my mother always told me, If you're going to visit somebody and accept their hospitality, be it lunch, dinner, or a weekend, you take a gift,” Rothney says. “You say thank you for the hospitality. Gratitude is at the heart of Pack for a Purpose, and when you are expressing this kind of gratitude it is also helping people who really need it." te Opposite, clockwise from top left: Volunteers hand out supplies; a happy student in Costa Rica; children in Curaçao receive supplies; packing for a purpose; students are all smiles in Jamaica.

TRAVEL ELEVATES 23

S TAY I T F O R WA R D

Make a difference in South Africa when experiencing Royal Malewane.

BY AMY ROBERTS

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THE Royal Portfolio's story began in 1999, when Liz and Phil Biden converted their family holiday home into Royal Malewane in South Africa’s Greater Kruger National Park. Soon thereafter, they desired to share additional experiences, and today the family-owned company features luxurious properties throughout South Africa. Altruism and adventure coexist when staying at Royal Malewane, comprised of three luxury safari lodges and three private bush villas — all of which exemplify how The Royal Portfolio considers conservation a top priority.

Clockwise: ©Mark Williams; ©Ryan Jack; ©Mark Williams

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Staying Power

S TAY I T F O R WA R D

ELEPHANT CONSERVATION Given their status as the largest animal on land, it is little surprise elephants need room to roam. But as the human population exploded, the number of African elephants dramatically declined. Guests at Royal Malewane can join conservationists to track bull elephants and humanely sedate them before collaring them for monitoring and data collection. These research efforts help manage elephant distribution throughout Kruger National Park.

ANTI-POACHING Poachers have long killed rhinos for their horns, which are made from keratin — the same protein found in human hair and nails. Despite this, rhino horn remains in high demand across parts of Asia where many (falsely) believe it has medicinal benefits. On the black market, one rhino horn can sell for as much as $300,000, which only incentivizes poachers. Alongside wildlife veterinarians and other trained professionals, guests can assist in dehorning these critically endangered mammals, which helps protect them from poachers.

GROUND HORNBILL BREEDING Naturally curious, the iconic Southern ground hornbill is the largest species of hornbill on the planet, and its numbers are rapidly declining. A successful breeding program has helped to increase the population in protected areas. Guests can help further these efforts when they join ornithology experts in the field to monitor and assess nesting sites.

CONSERVATION EDUCATION Ad-hoc conservation efforts are fruitless without a generational approach to sustainability. That’s why The Royal Portfolio works with communities and schools throughout South Africa to showcase the benefits of protecting natural resources, conserving wildlife, and environmental dedication. Guests can visit nearby villages and schools to further support these efforts.

PLANET BEFORE PROFIT Regardless of your accommodation or adventure choice, rest assured The Royal Portfolio is dedicated to minimizing tourism’s impact on the local community, wildlife, and the environment. Water usage, ethically sourced goods, community wellbeing, and animal welfare are at the forefront of every decision, provision, and offering. te

Remote control. Enter OFFER H1107 on the website found on the back cover for more online inspiration or call or email us to learn how we can up-level your next inspired journey.

Clockwise from top left: Up close with elephants in South Africa's Kruger National Park; cheetah cuddles seen on a game drive; candlelit dinner at the Royal Malewane.

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H O R I ZO N E L E VAT E

THE BEST OF

JORDAN Visit one of 12 social enterprises on the country's Meaningful Travel Map.

BY AMY ROBERTS

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HORIZON

VENTURE to this intriguing country, and you'll be met with welcoming hospitality, spectacular nature, and endless opportunities to make a genuine and sustainable impact.

Travelers can add meaning and memories to their trip by participating in any of a dozen social programs across Jordan. The projects are hosted in partnership with Tourism Cares, a non-profit organization dedicated to the long-term survival of the travel and tourism industry.

Jordan's Meaningful Travel Map makes it easier for ethically conscious travelers to identify organizations making positive social and environmental impacts in destinations around the globe. Here are just a few of the unique projects and programs in Jordan.

AMMARIN BEDOUIN CAMP In the shadows of Petra, the Ammarin Bedouin Camp invites guests to discover the centuries-old Bedouin culture by taking part in traditions like bread baking, carpet weaving, and a fascinating coffee ritual that explores the meaning and music of cardamon-spiced coffee — an important symbol of hospitality and trust.

Enjoy songs, folklore, and dance as you celebrate a culture of nomadic camel and goat herders. Visitors to the camp experience the renowned Bedouin custom of providing services to passing caravans. Every stay at the camp supports the local Ammarins, who oversee this special place and protect its unique perspective.

FEYNAN ECOLODGE Located in the heart of the Dana Biosphere Reserve, the Feynan Ecolodge has been named one of the top 25 ecolodges in the world by National Geographic Traveler magazine. Truly off the grid, the lodge is entirely solar-powered, offers natural ventilation, and a local spring provides all water. Those who stay at Feynan Ecolodge directly support conservation efforts for the Dana Biosphere Reserve, one of the country’s largest nature reserves. Covering roughly 125 square miles of picturesque mountains and the wadis that snake along them throughout the Great Rift Valley, Dana Biosphere Reserve straddles the intersection of three distinct climate zones and supports more than 600 varieties of plants, more than 180 species of birds, and 45 species of mammals.

BANI HAMIDA WEAVING PROJECT In 1995, Her Majesty Queen Rania Al Abdullah founded the Jordan River Foundation to advance women’s rights, promote child safety, and empower communities. Just three years after its creation, the Jordan River Foundation partnered with the Bani Hamida Weaving Project, where women artisans excitedly display their handmade wool products and provide an interactive weaving lesson to those who are interested in learning the trade. Since its inception, the Bani Hamida Weaving Project has helped over 1,650 women raise their standard of living while preserving their local heritage. Visitors are welcome to use the weaving machines and contribute to a basket or rug they wish to buy or can purchase finished items. te Positive impact travel. Enter OFFER M26303 on the website found on the back cover and we will help you plan your next Jordan journey.

Opposite: Petra at night. From top: Architectural views of Feynan Ecolodge; the Bani Hamida Weaving Project helps local women.

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Partnering with Local Communities to Empower Lasting Change Since 1982, Abercrombie & Kent Philanthropy has been committed to positively impacting lives and livelihoods in the communities where A&K guests travel. With more than 50 projects on all seven continents, AKP is making dedicated and strategic investments in education, conservation, health care and enterprise.

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features.

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MINDFUL TRAVEL

THE HAWAIIAN ISLANDS Why it's important to visit now.

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FREEZE FRAME

A visual entrée to The Ripple Effect.

A traditional refuge in Iberá, part of the Rewilding Argentina project.

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©Matias Rebak- Rewilding Argentina

Journeys that truly make a difference.

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©Warrior Women - Indigenous Tourism of Alberta Roam Creative

TR AVEL CONSCI

©Rafael Abuin - Rewilding Argentina

When it comes to making a difference, there IS a difference.

OUSLY

BY AMY ROBERTS

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IN

his book, Sustainable Tourism Management, author John Swarbooke communicates his idea that "responsible travel" has focused largely on tokenism and feel-goodery than practical action and fundamental change. He writes in order to examine the true impact of travel, we must view sustainable tourism as a continuous journey, not a final destination. We must follow every seasoned traveler’s creed: Adapt. Afterall, social, environmental, and economic problems don’t have a one-size-fits-all solution. So, what does ethical, impactful, and meaningful travel look like in practice? Well, a lot like these programs, which are designed for travelers to impact global communities as they discover the world.

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PEDAL POWER For many, biking across some of the world’s most jawdropping scenery — think the Canadian Rockies, Swiss Alps, and the French Pyrenees — is a life-changing experience. And not just for the people in the saddle.

Backroads partners with World Bicycle Relief (WBR) to help support the international nonprofit’s mission to empower those living in rural villages where walking is both time consuming and often dangerous. By providing bicycles to those in need, WBR enables healthcare workers to visit more patients’ homes, children to get to school safely, and entrepreneurs to bring their goods to market.

VISIT A TUK TUK LIBRARY IN LAOS The literacy rate of Laos is over 70 percent, and is often lower in rural areas where children must walk long distances to reach their school. Add poorquality classrooms, limited teacher training, and a shortage of reading materials, and these children are unfortunately not poised for success. To help, however, Trails of Indochina, the Luang Prabang Public Library, in collaboration with Cooperative Learning International, helps place needed books with young students via its Lao Children’s Library Boats and Tuk-Tuk Library. Join this unique mobile library for an inspiring morning. You’ll visit a village school, learn how hygiene is promoted through songs, stories, and drama and then help distribute a health bag containing personal hygiene items or a learning bag with exercise books and pencils.

DID YOU KNOW? Cultural heritage tourism helps reduce social inequalities and sustain communities by providing training, support, and economic opportunity to underrepresented youth.

Visit Rosebud Sioux Tribe Reservation in South Dakota, and you’ll find the Lakota Youth Development, a nonprofit organization that supports Native children and supported by the Treadright Foundation. The kids educate visitors via Trafalgar on the traditional lifeways of the Lakota people, and in turn can explore travel and hospitality as a career choice.

Previous page, from left: Hot air balloons drift over the Serengeti National Park; Warrior Women greet visitors in Jasper National Park; native birds in Iberá with Rewilding Argentina; supporting the Sioux Tribe with Lakota Youth Development. Clockwise from top left: A Laotian youth adorns handmade postcards; recipients of World Bicycle Relief and Backroads; preserving culture with Lakota Youth Development.

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ENRICHMENT WARRIOR WOMEN Home to one of the world’s largest dark sky preserves, Canada’s Jasper National Park is renowned for the abundant wildlife, extensive trail system, raggedly glorious mountain peaks, massive glaciers, and azure lakes that span its 2.7 million acres. But one of the park’s lesser-known attributes is arguably the real treasure. Here, Warrior Women from the Sturgeon Lake Cree Nation welcome visitors and share the spiritual traditions, sacred rituals, and the indigenous history of the First Nations community. During a Luxury Gold journey, fireside chats, drumming and singing ceremonies, plus traditional foods served with a side of legendary Cree storytelling connect visitors to the land and people who have called it home for over 10,000 years.

IMPROVING INDIA Calcutta is practically synonymous with the name Mother Teresa — a nun made famous for her devotion to helping the sick, poor, and orphaned. Today, her work lives on through organizations like Calcutta Rescue, a charity dedicated to helping those living in poverty access healthcare, education, and safe, clean drinking water. While exploring the Calcutta Rescue with Uniworld Boutique River Cruises, travelers can experience first-hand the impact this organization makes on the people living in the slums throughout India, including Kolkata and West Bengal. The charity’s fairtrade handicraft project is a chance for visitors to purchase one-of-a-kind goods and support local makers.

DID YOU KNOW? AmaWaterways sponsors the ODA Free Village English School in Siem Reap, Cambodia. Developed in 2011 in association with Opportunities of Development through Art, it fosters English-language skills in local grammar-school children. The end result? Improving lives and subsequent employment opportunities. Travelers can visit this inspiring area along the Mekong River, home to unforgettable temples and locals.

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ENVIRONMENT

Top RIght: ©Matias Rebak- Rewilding Argentina

BIG CAT CONSERVATION Though pumas and jaguars are both highly adaptable species, the pressures inflicted on them by humans have decimated the populations of these big cats throughout South America. Habitat loss, poaching, and ranchers who trap or even kill these majestic animals in an effort to protect livestock are just a few of the threats they face.

But a harmonious coexistence between man and animal is possible, thanks to organizations like &Beyond and Rewilding Argentina, a nonprofit that works to the reverse the species extinction crisis and restore balance to the ecosystem while promoting the wellbeing of the local community.

Located in the Iberá Wetlands in the heart of the Province of Corrientes, Rewilding Argentina’s Iberá Project works to recover and reintroduce key species in the area. And the organization’s Patagonia Project works to conserve large areas of Patagonian Steppe, recover populations of endangered, rare, or endemic species, and assist local wildlife watching tourism projects.

In addition to reintroducing locally extinct animals and augmenting populations of depleted wildlife, the nonprofit works with local communities, businesses, and governments to understand how a healthy and balanced ecosystem benefits humans as much as it does nature.

Conservation-focused safaris throughout Iberá and Patagonia are an opportunity to witness these graceful and efficient ambush predators, learn more about the pressures they face, and support efforts to protect them.

DID YOU KNOW? One of the easiest — and healthiest — ways to reduce your carbon footprint is to increase your steps! When traveling in Japan, consider exploring new places on foot. Windows of Japan encourages walking tours — a popular way to explore backstreets and small neighborhoods in Tokyo and Kyoto.

Or, rent a bike and pedal across the stunning countryside. te

Ready to travel powerfully on your next journey?

Enter OFFER M26314 on the website found on the back cover and we will help you plan a trip with positive impact.

Clockwise from top left: Selling flowers at India's Mullik Ghat flower market; exploring the Iberá Wetlands in Argentina at sunset; visiting the ODA Free Village English School in Siem Reap, Cambodia with AmaWaterways..

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Right Image: © Hawaii Tourism Authority/ Tor Johnson

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Mālama

Hawaiʻi While visiting the islands after the Maui wildfires, the meaning of mana (spiritual energy) can be redefined when giving back.

BY ERIN LENTZ

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aloha.

It's 6:45 a.m. on the island of Hawaiʻi. I watch a candy-orange sun rise from an outrigger canoe while Captain “Uncle George” from the Mauna Lani, Auberge Resorts Collection, chants in traditional ʻŌlelo Hawaiʻi (Hawaiian language). Other than his commanding voice, the only sound is the kiss of the Pacific on the hull of our boat. Emphasizing the phrase “E ala e” (awaken/arise), he explains how Polynesians traditionally greet each day: with gratitude, respect, and renewal. He points to a lone coconut tree on the shore, which has weathered many storms. “As the native Hawaiians would say,” he explains, “Let us stand tall. Let us stand proud. Let us show the strength in how we can bend, like the coconut tree, and come back standing stronger, together.”

That resiliency is evidenced in the state-wide Mālama Hawaiʻi (care for) program, designed for reciprocity: Visitors can participate in hands-on programs created to give back to the island while also experiencing a deep immersion into local culture. Anchored in the ethos that a Hawaiian vacation can truly change lives, what makes the state unique is not just the natural beauty or culture, but the connection between land, sea, and people. Here’s how to experience the soul and serenity of the islands, while giving back in tandem, at a time when it’s most needed. .

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Previous page: Aerial view of Maui’s scenic coastline; the lei is a symbol of honor. Left: A palm tree paradise at the Grand Wailea, A Waldorf Astoria Resort. Opposite from top: Time to hang ten; aerial view of the Grand Wailea, A Waldorf Astoria Resort.

© Melia Lucida

This daily ritual is designed to give visitors a glimpse into Polynesian culture, and on this morning my fellow boaters are hanging onto his every word. We look toward Maui and honor the island with a moment of silence, the lap of the Pacific a reminder of life’s constant ebb and flow. During this indelible time on the island of Hawaiʻi and Maui, I’ll quickly discover that local perspectives share a common thread: resiliency.

MAUI When I landed at Kahului airport — a month after the devastating Lahaina wildfires — I was unsure of what to expect and worried if I was visiting at the right time, or if I should be visiting at all.

While Wailea was physically unaffected by the fires, the emotional impact was still in its infancy.

Any concern, however, was quickly diffused. Maui needs visitors, welcomes those willing to help or vacation, and though the island is finding its footing after the tragedy, it’s flexing resiliency like never before. While West Maui rebuilds, the rest of the island, including its vibrant southern coastline, is not only open for business but dependent on tourism. There is no better time than the present to say aloha — with a mindful itinerary, respectful attitude, and a mission to contribute to the recovery, whether packing for a purpose or volunteering while visiting.

WHERE TO STAY GRAND WAILEA, A WALDORF ASTORIA RESORT Kalei 'Uwēko'olani, Grand Wailea’s Cultural Programming Manager and Leadership Educator, reminds visitors and locals of the Hawaiian phrase “O ka pono ke hana 'ia a iho mai nā lani,” or “continue to do good until the heavens come down on you.” With the resort’s cultural programming, you’ll find ample opportunity to learn about traditional Hawaiian culture while staying at this iconic resort. When you’re ready to unplug and recharge, a recent property transformation includes restaurant relaunches and the brand new Kilolani Spa. Slated for an early 2024 debut, the holistic spa will showcase treatments and services inspired by traditional Hawaiian concepts and state-of-the-art innovation.

Top: © Hawaii Tourism Authority (HTA) / Ben Ono

VOLUNTOURISM: HOW TO HELP MAUI RECOVERY

ONGOING MAUI PROGRAMS

FEED MY SHEEP. Focused on food distribution and sorting,

SURFRIDER FOUNDATION. With beach cleanups held

Feed My Sheep is a unique mobile food distribution program.

Each week, it takes distributions to neighborhoods in need.

Staff and volunteers pass out groceries to those who need help and qualify financially.

MAUI HUMANE SOCIETY. Help sort and organize incoming

donations for our four-legged friends. Maui Humane Society’s mission is to protect and save the lives of Maui’s animals, accepting all in need, educating the community, and inspiring respect and compassion towards all animals.

throughout the year, giving back can be as simple as bringing your own gloves and reusable bag and getting to work.

THE SEWING HUI. With “Talk Story, Sew, & Feast,” The

Sewing Hui works on various initiatives that address community needs. Sewing skills is a plus, but not mandated for volunteer sessions in upcountry Maui.

HAWAIʻI WILDLIFE FUND. Help protect nesting turtles on dawn patrol, nest watch, night patrol, or all three.

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ISLAND OF HAWAIʻI

© Nicole Franzen

As the largest in the state, the island of Hawaiʻi is famously known for two active volcanoes and varying climates — you can experience snow, sand, rainforest, and more, all in a day’s drive. Akin to its neighboring islands, there’s also no shortage of magnificent waterfalls (don’t miss Waipiʻo Valley’s Hi’ilawe Falls). Yet what makes the island of Hawaiʻi most mesmerizing is its slower pace, close-knit community, and the tangible mana, or spiritual energy, evidenced in the strong connection between land, sea, and people.

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VOLUNTOURISM: HOW TO HELP ISLAND OF HAWAIʻI AMY B.H. GREENWELL ETHNOBOTANICAL GARDEN. Help preserve history and shape the future.

Volunteer workdays are scheduled regularly on Saturday mornings at the garden.

HAWAIʻI ENVIRONMENTAL RESTORATION. Join Keau’ohana Rainforest’s enthusiastic supporters to help restore Hawaiʻi’s largest lowland forest. Learn about native species and the health of the local environment.

HAWAIʻI WILDLIFE FUND. Help preserve and rehabilitate the native ecosystem. Build trails, clear weeds, plant trees, collect native seeds, and propagate plants to grow into future forests.

Right Image: © Heather Goodman

WHERE TO STAY MAUNA LANI, AUBERGE RESORTS COLLECTION Gracing the iconic Kohala Coast and considered a landmark of the island, the Mauna Lani property has played host to generations of family, friends, and Hawaiian royalty. Reimagined in 2019, Mauna Lani, Auberge Resorts Collection has preserved the heart of the property while incorporating a stylish redesign while also fostering unique partnerships with Goop, Western Aloha, and a new food and wine festival staging top celebrity chefs. Greet the day with the aforementioned sunrise canoe outing, spend lazy afternoons playing cornhole on the Great Lawn, or go paddleboarding, scuba diving, and snorkeling with local guides from the resort’s Surf Shack. After working up an appetite exploring the island, return to the Canoe House for the best dining on the island. te

Experience the mana of Hawaiʻi. Enter OFFER M26315 on the website found on the back cover to plan an unforgettable island escape.

Clockwise from top: A bird's-eye view of the Mauna Lani; the resort and stylish lobby were re-imagined in 2019; golden hour at the Surf Shack.

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THE

RIPPLE EFFECT Founded by National Geographic photographer Annie Griffiths, Ripple Effect Images is a nonprofit photo collective of storytellers focused on empowering women.

Via these indelible photos, take a visual journey around the world.

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In rural Tanzania, a Maasai woman will ensure her future by engineering clean cookstoves and installing solar lighting in traditional boma huts.

Photo by Annie Griffiths/Ripple Effect Images

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Saalumarada Thimmakka, 108 years old, prays to the roadside trees she planted in Hulikal, India. When she and her husband coudn't have children, she created her own ripple effect, planting 300 banyan trees 80 years ago.

Photo by John Stanmeyer Ripple Effect Images

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Water in this local girl’s village was so scarce that pots have been washed with sand. Thanks to a new tank by India’s Jal Bhagirathi Foundation, today, every home has a toilet, and the village is abuzz with building and laughter.

Photo by Lynn Johnson/Ripple Effect Images

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GOJoven Guatemala Fellows is at the forefront of Guatemalan society, promoting respect and protection for Guatemalan youth. To date, it has reached 13,000 youth with sexual and reproductive health training.

Photo by Carol Guzy/Ripple Effect Images

GET INVOLVED Support initiatives that help women and contribute to one of the greatest global ripple effects. By uplifting women in places seen throughout these pages, you in turn uplift entire local communities. Many non-profit organizations and travel companies support or implement female-focused programs to anchor facets of healthcare and education. For additional visual inspiration and to donate, visit rippleeffectimages.org.

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The Self-Employed Women's Association (SEWA), in Gujarat, India, helps women learn to build and repair solar lanterns in areas where no electricity exists. SEWA President Ramilaben Jayantibhai Rohit went from being abandoned by her husband, village, and society because she didn’t produce children after three years of marriage. She has since helped 130,000-plus women.

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L A S T LO O K

together, we can thrive.

Whether packing supplies to bring to local schools, participating in a beach clean up, or helping protect wildlife, by working together our global footprint is poised for power.

FOUNDING SPONSORS Travel Elevates celebrates and thanks their Founding Sponsors. These partners support and deliver exceptional and unforgettable travel experiences, and they are committed to protecting and supporting people, places, wildlife, and communities around the world.

the Cruise Planners family

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We are all catalysts for change.

E D U CAT E . E M POWE R . E L E VAT E .

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U LT I M AT E E X P E R I E N C E S

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