Family self drive holiday in Mexico

Environment

We realise that travel and tourism can benefit as well as harm the environment, the economy and the social and cultural structures of communities. The concept of sustainable tourism - the travel trade’s principles of using tourism to benefit local communities, conserve natural resources, and bolster the survival of cultural heritage – lies close to our heart. Our love and passion for Latin America encourages us to do everything in our power to protect the destinations we take you to. As members of AITO, we are committed to AITO’s Sustainable Tourism Guidelines, which means that we ensure that environmental and cultural demands are kept as low as possible.

We provide you with ‘rules of the road’ guidelines to ensure that you feel comfortable driving in Yucatán. In addition, we will inform you about any areas where driving is not permitted to ensure to minimise the negative impacts on the environment and wildlife. Furthermore, we’ve developed strong relationships with local suppliers who all share our vision and agree to uphold a commitment to the safekeeping of the environment and local communities. We will always encourage you to keep a few basic things in mind, including refilling your water bottle, disposing of rubbish in a responsible way and not leaving the lights or air-conditioning on in your hotel room when you’re not there.

Optional activities include swimming with whale sharks, kayaking the mangroves and visiting the flamingo-dotted Passion Island in Holbox. Holbox Island has been decreed a Whale Shark Sanctuary and Whale Shark Nature Reserve, as well as an ecological reserve, ensuring that the flora and fauna in the 60,000 hectares of rainforest, lagoons, mangroves and ocean are protected.

When selecting accommodation, our preference goes out to hotels and lodges which have a verifiable commitment to eco-friendly practices. Moreover, we strive to use accommodation that reflect the environment they are set in and respect their local surroundings and history. In Mérida your family will stay at Hacienda Misne, a restored 18th century hacienda set in a tropical garden. The buildings are keeping with a traditional hacienda, featuring high ceilings, wooden shutters, terracotta roof tiles and tiled floors.

Community

We pride ourselves on delivering our clients truly authentic and unforgettable experiences in Latin America which connect travellers with the people whose country they visit. During this tour you will have the opportunity to enjoy guided visits to archaeological sites, including Chichén Itzá and Uxmal, as well as a guided visit to sisal hacienda Sotuta de Peón. This is the best way to learn more about the historical sites of interest and interact with the local inhabitants. Guides will also recommend any locally owned and run restaurants, bars and shops that are of good quality to give you the opportunity to have a unique insight into local daily life and interact with the local communities. In addition, you will support the local economy and promote the local culture at the same time.

Our expert guides are on hand to provide advice on the best way to communicate with the local community, what and what not to buy, as well as explaining the importance of giving gifts responsibly, and acting in a respectful way while taking photographs.