With women making up 54 percent of the workforce in the tourism sector globally, compared to 39 percent in the overall economy, tourism is not only an engine of progress but also a crucial source of wealth and income for vulnerable people, including women.
In Africa, women make up as much as 69% of employees in the tourism sector. However, despite these opportunities, women in tourism face economic obstacles amplified by the global recession and regional conflicts. In addition, they face environmental challenges, particularly related to climate change.
Despite their significant representation, women in tourism often find themselves confined to low-paying jobs, highlighting the urgent need to overcome systemic barriers and make full use of their potential.
Women and Sustainability: Goal 5 of the SDGs
Gender equality and the empowerment of women and girls are key goals for sustainable development and poverty reduction in the world. Goal 5 of the SDGs, Gender Equality and Empowerment of All Women and Girls, aims to eliminate all forms of discrimination and violence against women, ensuring their equal opportunities in economic and political life, as well as promoting their active participation in society. Despite the progress made, gender inequality and gender-based violence remain major challenges to be addressed.
Travel Experiences in Support of Women’s Empowerment:
In our travels, we actively promote women’s work, believing it to be valuable and essential. Women are a crucial component of society and play a key role in the tourism sector, bringing innovation and a unique sensibility that contributes to the sustainable development of this sector.
Here are some examples of how women are featured in some of the activities offered in our sustainable and regenerative journeys:
1. Uganda: Ride 4 a Woman
Ride 4 a Woman is more than just a community center; it is a place where more than 300 women from 11 villages courageously face challenges related to HIV, domestic violence and poverty. On your trip to Uganda, you will not only have the opportunity to stay in the cooperative, but you will actively participate in the workshop activities. From pedal sewing classes to basket weaving, from dance to music, each woman contributes her own unique skills. Together, you will cook and share a typical meal, allowing your purchases in the community store to support this initiative, creating a lasting impact on the lives of these women.
2. Jordan: Beit Sweimeh Cooperative
Beit Sweimeh Cooperative is the beating heart of Jordan’s Dead Sea Valley, where young women between the ages of 18 and 24 have the opportunity to develop skills and abilities through a local support project. During your trip to Jordan, you will have the privilege of dining in the cooperative, directly experiencing the progress and transformation of Sweimeh into a unique tourist destination. By contributing to the cooperative’s activities, you will give tangible support to sustainable community development, helping to develop the skills and capacities of local communities and provide them with employment opportunities.
3. Armenia: Dining experiences with Alvard
The Armenian town of Ijevan, famous for its forested landscapes, has over the years undergone a slow decline and depopulation due to a lack of opportunities for the younger generation. The appearance of the town is typical of smaller towns in the former Soviet Union. One lady, named Alvard, started a small tourist enterprise that welcomes visitors by offering them an authentic experience of Armenian life. His initiative came about by chance when his daughter, a tour guide, was asked to show an Armenian house. Since then, Mrs. Alvard has been welcoming travelers to her home, offering traditional meals prepared with fresh ingredients from the local market. During your trip to Armenia, you will have the opportunity to have lunch in her home, tasting traditional dishes prepared with fresh ingredients from the local market. This experience not only allows you to taste Armenian cuisine, but also offers a unique glimpse into the daily life of an Armenian family, enriching your visit with Alvard’s generosity and authenticity.
4. Spain: Mindfulness and Craft Experience with Carmen
On your trip to the Maestrazgo region of Spain you will meet Carmen, a ceramic artisan. In a mountainous setting, you can immerse yourself in a relaxing experience of mindfulness and craftsmanship. You will create your stoneware piece under Carmen’s guidance, an experience that goes beyond artistic creation, celebrating the imperfection and unique beauty of each piece. This experience not only gives you a moment of peace of mind, but by supporting women’s entrepreneurship you will help promote sustainability in tourism.
In light of these extraordinary experiences, our commitment to women’s empowerment and sustainability becomes tangible.
Each trip with us is an opportunity not only to explore unique places, but also to actively contribute to the progress of local communities. By investing in women’s entrepreneurship, we support sustainable tourism and shape a future where every trip becomes a bridge for positive change. We believe that through these experiences, we can cultivate meaningful connections and leave a positive imprint on the world.
We look forward to welcoming you aboard our trips, where adventure is intertwined with sustainability and the generosity of the women who make each experience unique and unforgettable, discover all the trips here!