Wildlife tourism focused on wildlife conservation can be an important economic factor in communities around the world, but irresponsible wildlife experiences that harm both animals and the environment are a sad side of the equation, a money-making scheme for sometimes impoverished communities, selling an experience to tourists that will pay to take a photo with a tiger cub or ride a dolphin. For a responsible wildlife experience that benefits everyone (and that’s enjoyable for the whole family), check out the options below.
Family Elephant Refuge Voluntourism
A perfect choice for families with teenagers, this vacation skips the elephant rides and typical tourism associated with these magnificent beasts and takes travelers to a Thai elephant refuge, catering to animals rescued from the streets of Bangkok. Prepare food, feed the elephants, bathe them — all while enjoying accommodations right in the heart of a larger wildlife sanctuary, home to more than 400 animals.
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You’re likely already familiar with the natural wonders of the Galapagos. Enjoy stays in eco-friendly resorts with wildlife experiences that limit your impact on the unique environment as much as possible. Adventure activities are plentiful, from mountain biking to zip lining, horseback riding to white water rafting.
If your family dreams of a once-in-a-lifetime African safari, head to Kenya for a 13-day safari and beach vacation. The accommodations are all eco-friendly and the tour providers are closely linked to community projects and practice responsible tourism, for an experience that limits your impact on the environment and the wildlife, while benefiting local communities.
Whale and Sea Turtle Conservation Adventure
A tour with a focus on marine life, this five-day expedition on the Baja California peninsula includes recording vital data on sea turtles, monitoring gray whales and exploring mangroves. Additionally, tourism in the region promotes economic development in an area that previously relied heavily on overfishing and poaching.
Wolf Conservation in Northern Germany
For a multigenerational, adults-only expedition in northern Germany, team up with scientists monitoring the return of the wolf population to Lower Saxony. You’ll be placed on a small team to record wolf tracks and kills, as well as survey prey species.
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Apr 24, 2024Colorful Kids Programming Awaits at The Flower Fields at Carlsbad Ranch
Before the season is over, take your family travel to The Flower Fields at Carlsbad Ranch. Kids rule the world at the Flower Fields this spring and, with flowers officially in bloom, it creates the perfect rainbow backdrop for a family day out. Here are can’t-miss springtime activities and deals for children you won’t want to miss.
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United Airlines Celebrates its First Class of United Aviate Graduates
As the only major U.S. airline to own a flight school, United Airlines already hit a major milestone, and now the carrier celebrates another important — and historic — step as the inaugural class of United Aviate Academy pilots graduates, leading the next generation of aviators. The 51 students in the graduating class were majority, at 80 percent, women and people of color — another stride toward United’s goal of training 5,000 new pilots by 2030 with half women or POC.
Parents
Apr 24, 2024Treat Mom to Tea at The St. Regis Atlanta
Are you planning family travel to Atlanta for Mother’s Day this year? For those in the area on May 11 and 12, celebrate mom with a Mother’s Day Afternoon Tea at The St. Regis Atlanta. Afternoon tea is a hallmark at the property and this year’s Mother’s Day version will honor Audrey Hepburn and her iconic role in Breakfast at Tiffany’s.
Destinations / North America
Apr 23, 2024What’s New in Billings, Montana, This Spring and Summer
Plan your spring or summer family travel to Billings, Montana, this year. The largest city in the state offers plenty of family-friendly fun.
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Make the Most of Hamad International Airport When Transferring
Making travel plans can be exciting; did you know planning on how to spend time at the airport the right way can enrich the overall trip experience? As a transfer hub, traveling through Doha's Hamad International Airport is a unique experience, as waiting never feels like waiting at one of the best airports in the world.
Destinations / North America
Apr 23, 2024Where to Tiptoe Through Tulips in the United States
First brought to the United States by Dutch immigrants in the late 1600s, tulips have become a colorful symbol of spring throughout the country and a popular spring and summer spot for family travelers. You don’t need to travel far to find them blooming in front yards and, in spring, displays of tulips paint parks and botanic gardens from Maine to Texas. A few places go all out with annual tulip festivals that are perfect spring trips for families.
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