Amalfi Coast walking holiday, Italy

As a part of our continued commitment to responsible tourism, we operate this trip in a way that aims to reduce impacts and to give as much back as possible to the local communities. For example, we use public transport where possible and the local bakery for packed lunches. We stay in a relatively unknown area of Amalfi so clients are providing income to an area that would usually not benefit from tourism. On the day walk to Valle del Ferriero N.P., the clients visit a local mozzarella factory where the money goes directly to supporting this local enterprise.

We also use local guides in Pompeii and Vesuvius. Our leaders, already committed to Responsible Tourism, have received training and get additional refresher training on a regular basis. They inform clients throughout the week of issues that affect local communities and ways in which we can help reduce the impact and maximise the benefits to the local communities from the visit.

Due to the number of careless tourists on some of the trails we use, there can be some litter, which our leaders have been known to clear up or inform the local council so they can take the matter further.

We use the family-owned and run Due Torri Hotel on this trip, which contributes directly to the local community because local staff are employed. All the hotel food is home made and by using locally produced and sourced goods. The air conditioning is usually on request from reception, so they can minimise the risk of clients leaving it on in their rooms when they leave for the day. The hotel recently installed solar panels which provide hot water for all rooms all year round. By employing local staff and using local produce, they maintain their commitment to responsible tourism.

Each group has a maximum of 16 in order to make less of an impact on the local community. This also allows us to use public transport without interfering too much with the locals.

We have at our UK offices worked to reduce our carbon footprint through a reduction of energy use and energy conservation measures. We also actively reduce the waste produced by having active reduction and recycling policies in place. We run annual staff workshops on Responsible Tourism.

Global warming is a reality and to help you make a difference by reducing the carbon dioxide that is produced when you travel we offer a chance to carbon balance your flights. We encourage all our clients to do this and do so for all our staff travel. Go on do your bit!