On internationally recognized Earth Day (celebrated on April 22nd), this year’s theme ‘Restore Our Earth’ prompted us to share a bit about our philosophy with our travel community. We believe in the power of transformative travel experiences. Underpinned by regenerative and sustainable travel practices, we choose to partner with those who share our values-based attitude toward our purpose-driven work.
What is Transformational Travel?
We’ve always believed in the ethos of transformational travel. Recently, this phrase is reaching the ears of travelers, lobbyists, industry leaders, and policymakers. But, we need more cohesion in this space. Together, we can achieve it.
The Transformational Travel Council, a transformation design organization, defines the concept as “intentionally traveling to stretch, learn, and grow into new ways of being and engaging with the world.” The movement aims at changing the way we travel, live, and impact each other and the planet by providing uniquely rich, accessible tools for travelers and tourism members. Track their rising star online by following the hashtags #transformationaltravel #travelawakend #depthoverdistance #connectengagetransform.
One such tool is the Transformational Travel Journal. “A good travel journal invites us to draw out our best self both at home and abroad, and The Transformational Travel Journal does just that. “Alive with beautiful prompts and spaces to reflect, this is a journal that extends our journeys well beyond the actual trip,” says Dr. Anu Taranath, Professor, Racial Equality Consultant, and Author of ‘Beyond Guilt Trips: Mindful Travel In An Unequal World.’
Why choose a Transformational Travel trip?
In short, because you care deeply about our collective tomorrow on every level. We are mindful that the future of travel lies in sustainability and regeneration, one of transformational travel’s cornerstones. We want to be a part of a world where preserving our planet, and its diversity of wildlife and cultures is paramount.
We are a proud member of Responsible Travel, one of the world’s largest sustainable travel companies. We embody their business values and support their work in local communities and growing eco-tourism worldwide.
We incorporate visits to ethical sanctuaries, local communities, and their projects in as many of our itineraries as possible for mutual betterment.
Our clients enjoy an authentic experience and see first-hand the impact their tourism spend has.
Two examples of our transformative travel journeys which you could join are:
Adele Sinisterra, the owner of Retreat To Africa, explains, “As we connect deeply to Nature, we shift our perspective of the world without and simultaneously transform within. We obtain inner peace, balance, and harmony and contribute towards a better Earth for all.”
Transformational travel comprises inward and outward facets of your journey.
“Inner” activities included on our transformational trips include silent walks in Nature. Gentle yoga and heart-based meditation, solo time for reflecting and journaling.
From an “outer world” perspective, we have the opportunity to meet the local people who live and take care of these wilderness spaces to learn from them and support them at the same time.
Kindred Spirits
Each supplier, lodge, and partner we work with is mission aligned with our ethos and functions in support of them.
!Xaus Lodge is an excellent example of our resonant partners, located within the Transfrontier Peace Parks Foundation, benefiting the ‡Khomani San and Mier communities. Our upcoming Kalahari Retreat and Kalahari Soul Safari (2022) both feature a stay here. Details on these life-changing experiences will be available soon.
Platbos Forest Camp is home to the Platbos Reforestation Project. Here, we visit the tree nursery and reforestation project and stay in an Earth-friendly off-the-grid accommodation experience.
Touch the Earth lightly, dream sincerely, gaze up as you reach for the stars. In the dawning light of a new tomorrow in travel, the spirit of Africa is calling you home.
