If you’re interested in fair-trade and are looking for an opportunity to meet the people behind the products then these are the holidays for you. Global adventures start with a local perspective – that's our philosophy. Whether abroad, or just as importantly at home, the start point is the same; how to get the most enjoyable holiday for our customers while benefiting the local people, economy and respecting the environment.
This is the UK's leading fair trade organisation which is engaged in innovative and effective trade and has been fighting poverty through trade since 1979. We work at the national and international level advocating changes in trade rules to make them work in the interests of the poor and mobilise public opinion to support fairer trade practices. Our sales are now worth more than £12 million a year, providing vital income for producers in over 30 countries.
Working with a local partner on fair trade terms this tour offers the unique opportunity to visit producers, development projects and cooperatives in the Philippines, a great way to understand how effective sustainable trading improve the lives of the local people. There is an optional extension to explore Camiguin Island.
In selecting accommodation in small hotel, private homes and guest houses we make sure that the local communities benefit. By collaborating with locally based people when visiting wildlife areas we are able to contribute to the regional economy. Being able to participate and connect with the local culture provides a richer holiday experience. Accompanied by a local knowledgeable guide who truly knows the area, our guests are able to get more of a feel for the place and the environment.
We provide guests with Travellers’ Codes that encourage the reduction of water usage, systems for collecting, recycling or safe disposal of litter and relevant suggestions to minimise damage to the environment, wildlife and marine ecosystems. All our holidays have a maximum group size of 12 to 14 people minimizing both the social and environmental impact.
Fair trade is at the heart of how this tour company operates, their principles include paying a fair price for services and developing long term relationships with their partners. These enlightening trips create real connections between travellers and the communities they visit. Guests get to see how certain products are made, who grows the coffee they drink or weaves the basket that sits on their mantelpiece, and the producers really enjoy seeing the people who buy their wares and how valued their products are. All tours are set up in conjunction with local guides who really know how to best showcase their country.
We invite every traveller who books a holiday via us to send in a review. Because we don't run the holidays they're completely independent and unedited... remember to read between the lines though, as two people on the same holiday can have different views!
