Family holiday in Costa Rica

On this trip: Our policy of staying in locally owned hotels, having local guides and group leaders and using transport owned and operated by local people wherever possible is continued in Costa Rica. Our small groups (approx. 16 people) have a minimal impact on the fragile environment. All tour guides are responsible for ensuring that the guests understand the nature of the environment that they are in and minimise the impact that they may have. For every person who travels with us to Costa Rica, a contribution is made to the Fundacion Neotropica, which protects the rainforest and educates people about conservation. Our local agent is committed to responsible travel. We employ local guides and leaders.

This trip includes a visit to rainforest alliance banana project. Bananas are grown in tropical areas of high biodiversity, and the industry is an economic pillar in many tropical countries, providing millions of jobs for rural residents. For much of its history the industry was notorious for its poor environmental practices. The Rainforest Alliance has helped change the way bananas are farmed; improving water and soil quality, drastically reducing the use of agrochemicals, stopping rainforest destruction, promoting reforestation, reducing waste, and improving conditions for farm workers and their families. These changes have been achieved through the development and implementation of strict environmental and social standards on the farms. You’ll have the opportunity for an optional guided visit to this renowned, eco-friendly project on day six of your trip.

Our Responsible Travel Code: Clients who travel with us will automatically receive a copy of our Responsible Travel leaflet. This contains details and advice on how you can make a positive difference when you travel. If you would like a copy in advance of travel please contact us.

Charity Partnerships: We work in partnership with Plan International. Plan works with some of the world’s poorest communities where three out of four children die before the age of five. We also support Friends of Conservation – an international charity committed to working with local people to develop a balance between their needs and the wildlife with which they share the natural habitat and ecosystems.

Carbon Balancing: Global warming is a real issue and is a direct result of your travel. We have teamed up with Climate Care to give you the opportunity to offset the carbon emissions from your flight. You’ll be asked upon booking if you want to donate – with set amounts from £5. As a company we offset the carbon emissions from all staff travel in full.

Our Foundation: We’ve highlighted a few of the ways in which we offer our support, financially or otherwise, and now you can, too. We have set up our own foundation, which will administer funds donated by you. A small donation of £1 per person will be taken when booking a holiday and that money will be put to good use by one of our carefully selected projects. If you don’t want to make the donation, just tell us when you book.