Responsible Tourism Awards – World Travel Market 2013

Responsible Tourism Awards – World Travel Market 2013

Posted by Leanne Sturrock on 8th Nov 2013

Yesterday was a great day here at The Great Projects, as we discovered that we had received a 'Highly Commended' certificate at the World Responsible Tourism Awards. The category in which we were recognised was the 'Best for Responsible Wildlife Experiences', and it's something that we're really proud to be recognised for.

Now in their tenth year, the awards are, in the words of Michael Palin, regarded as "one of the most important ways in which we can understand how to travel better". We couldn't agree more, and it's an honour to have been nominated, particularly in this category as we work tirelessly to ensure that all of our wildlife projects are as responsible as possible.

The category completely complements our ethos as a company, and out of the fourteen shortlisted nominees, we managed to gain a place in the top three. This is particularly exciting given the calibre of the awards, which as Justin Francis, the Managing Director of ResponsibleTravel.com, states is the "toughest of all sustainably-themed tourism awards in which to win".

As a company, we pride ourselves on offering the best experience to our participants, on maintaining strong relationships with local communities to ensure the preservation of local customs, and on contributing to the welfare of endangered, mistreated and injured animals through our sustainable conservation schemes. Here are a few words from our Managing Director, Michael Starbuck:

"We were so happy to have been nominated alongside so many fantastic companies and initiatives. It was a great day, and really helps in the long run to not only push the importance of responsible tourism as an emerging field but also to spread the word about animal welfare in tourism."

We currently have thirty projects in four different continents that adhere to our strict principles, and we're always looking to expand our global range. Keep your eyes peeled for future updates!


Share this Article...

Share this article with your friends and followers by using the social media buttons below.


Leave a Comment...

Wanting to add something to this story or just let us know your thoughts? Just leave your comments below. Please be aware that all comments will be moderated: abusive behaviour or self-promotion will not be allowed.

500 characters remaining

Has this blog inspired you to volunteer? If so, why not enquire today? Simply fill out an enquiry form, and allow a member of our travel team to assist with your query! Please note that blog comments are not monitored by the travel team, so any questions related to bookings may be missed.


Featured Videos


Experience The Namibia Wildlife Sanctuary

See what you could get up to as a volunteer at the Namibia Wildlife Sanctuary! This volunteer project offers you the chance to get up close and personal with some of the country's most iconic species.

Discover The Great White Shark Project

Come face to face with one of the world’s most misunderstood predators whilst aiding great white shark conservation. As a volunteer, not only will you get the incredible opportunity to dive with sharks, but you will also assist the team in raising awareness of the great white as you work alongside tourists and local school children to provide them with knowledge of the local environment and the importance of living in harmony with South Africa’s marine life.

Volunteers Review Their Experience at the Nyaru Menteng Orangutan Sanctuary

Volunteers talk about their recent experience at the Nyaru Menteng Orangutan Sanctuary in Borneo.

Latest Blog Arcticles


It’s Orangutan Release Time!

It’s Orangutan Release Time!

12 more orangutans have been successfully released back...

Meet 12 orangutan candidates up for release!

Meet 12 orangutan candidates up for release!

Thanks to the hard work and dedication of the Borneo...

Linda's Samboja Lestari Orangutan Adventure

Linda's Samboja Lestari Orangutan Adventure

Linda Duchin volunteered at the Samboja Lestari Orangutan...

Two Rewilded Cheetahs, Two Years On - A Remarkable Rewilding Story

Two Rewilded Cheetahs, Two Years On - A Remarkable Rewilding Story

Join us on a remarkable rewilding journey as we revisit the...

Janet & Mick's Unforgettable Gorilla Adventure

Janet & Mick's Unforgettable Gorilla Adventure

Janet and Mick joined The Great Gorilla Project last year...

The Team Returns - James & Lauren's South Africa Experience

The Team Returns - James & Lauren's South Africa Experience

Lauren and James have returned and are ready to relay tales...

The Great Projects On Tour: Upcoming Staff Trips

The Great Projects On Tour: Upcoming Staff Trips

Team members Lauren and James, joined colleague Georgia to...

Lynne's Top Tips For Volunteering at the Nyaru Menteng Orangutan Sanctuary

Lynne's Top Tips For Volunteering at the Nyaru Menteng Orangutan Sanctuary

Volunteer Lynne Coe shares her valuable tips on what to...


Where you can go
Contact Info
UK Office
The Great Traveller Ltd,
3 Dairy Yard
Star Street
Ware, Hertfordshire
SG12 7DX
United Kingdom

Opening hours:
   Mon-Fri 8:30am–5:30pm
   Sat 10am-4pm

T: +44(0) 208 885 4987