Responsible Tourism

With the increasing media attention on aviation surrounding climate change there has never been a more important time for us to understand it and do our bit to help.

We have always had a strong commitment to responsible tourism and supported local communities for many years now. We decided to set up our own carbon offset scheme - Opt In and Offset. Not only does this reduce carbon emissions but also benefits the local communities.

Read more about our Carbon Offset Program »

Tourism can bring a wealth of benefits to destinations particularly developing countries and rural/local communities. However we mustn't forget that at the same time tourism can adversely affect the nature and environment of a destination if it is not looked after. We at Serenity Holidays strive to work positively towards protecting the natural beauty, wildlife and culture of the countries in our programmes so that future generations can continue residing in and visiting the country.

The Gambia Experience - Highly Commended

AITO Responsible Tourism Awards 2007

The Gambia Experience was delighted to scoop a Highly Commended accolade in AITO's Responsible Tourism Awards 2007, as announced at the AITO Meets the Media event in London on 15 January [08].

More about AITO Responsible Tourism Awards »

We have been awarded 3 star Responsible Tourism status, the highest level possible, by the Association of Independent Tour Operators (AITO).

We commit to

• Employ local staff wherever possible, provide training and give fair terms of employment to ensure their long-term security
• Encourage clients to spend their money wisely by buying local products and services
• Provide clients excellent background information on all aspects of countries visited and for responsible tourism to continue to be a serious consideration in our pre-departure advice
• Consider responsible tourism in managerial decisions and throughout the business
• For all staff to be committed to the development of long-term responsible tourism and to be regularly informed on our progress
• Fair terms of employment for all Serenity staff and to ensure their long-term security
• Work positively towards protecting the natural beauty, wildlife and culture of countries visited so that future generations can continue to enjoy residing in and visiting the country
• Keep our clients well informed of our commitment to responsible tourism
• Promote respect and understanding for the countries visited and its people
• Encourage our clients to contribute to our carbon offset scheme
• Run our UK and resort offices in the most energy efficient manner as possible

It is not just about what we do in resort, we are also very keen to ensure we follow these principles in our UK office. Please click here for our UK office Responsible Tourism policy.

What you can do

Be informed

• Take the time to read our information on your destination prior to your departure
• Refer to the information in our brochure and our pre-departure information containing comprehensive information on your destination.

Opt in & Offset

• Support our carbon offset scheme. Read more »

Spend your money wisely

Make sure your money benefits the local people by buying local products and services

Preserve energy

Save energy and the environment so please turn off lights, air-conditioning and electrical items when not needed.

Preserve water

Water is extremely precious especially in developing countries so please help preserve supplies by:

• Only leaving dirty towels and laundry on the floor for washing
• Turn off dripping taps
• Using a basin of water with a plug rather than a running tap
• Having a shower instead of bathing in a full tub
• Reporting any leaks immediately

Dispose of litter carefully

Discard rubbish such as wrappers, bottles and plastic bags in the bins provided. Litter not only looks unpleasant but attracts vermin and can potentially be very dangerous to wildlife and people.

Respect other people

Please always ask permission when taking photographs. Respect other guests and locals by keeping noise levels to a minimum at night.

Do not support illegal trading

Avoid buying items made from ivory, reptile skin, fur or tortoise/turtle shell to ensure animals and plants are able to thrive in their natural environment.

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