Latest news with #responsibletravel
Forbes
4 days ago
- Forbes
These Countries Are Introducing Huge New Tourist Fines Across Europe
With the European summer in full swing and tourist hotspots swelling, many countries are this year fighting back against the scourge of bad tourist behavior. The question that this begs, however, is what exactly constitutes bad behavior? That depends on the country you visit, many of which have introduced fines for seemingly innocuous things that many would never consider bad behavior. Authorities say the rules are aimed at protecting both residents and respectful vacationers. Fancy a drink? If it's alcoholic and you're in Amsterdam, or a raft of other European places, you'll need to go inside. getty 'The rules, while they might sound rigid and punitive when listed out, are all about encouraging responsible and empathetic traveling,' Jessica Harvey Taylor, Head of Press at the Spanish Tourism Office told the BBC. 'They are designed to protect the holiday experiences of the vast majority of people who behave responsibly on holiday.' Many regions that struggle under the volume of tourist numbers yet are dependent on them for survival have created code of conduct campaigns to inform and warn visitors before and during their stay. You may have already seen them on social media and many are now hard to miss once you're there—billboards, posters, the sides of buses and leaflets are all being used to spread awareness. Malaga on Spain's southern coast has launched an Improve Your Stay campaign urging visitors to respect the area, dispose of litter correctly, be fully dressed, keep the noise down and ride bikes and e-scooters responsibly. Don't follow the rules and you can expect a fine of up to €750; around $880. 'Tourism,' noted Juan Antonio Amengual, mayor of Calvià in Mallorca, 'cannot be a burden on citizens.' The beautiful Algarve city of Albufeira has introduced a new campaign encouraging visitors to respect place and people. getty Albufeira in Portugal's Algarve region has launched a similar Stop, Respect, Relax campaign with a vast array of offences and fines, from abandoning shopping carts in the wrong place to spitting, urinating or performing sexual acts or simulations in public. Fines range from €150 to €1,800; around $175 to $2,100. Alongside these rules, more cameras and an increased police presence—especially around nightlife hotspots where drunkenness is a huge root problem—are being used to show authorities mean business. European tourist fines and how to avoid them Fines are far reaching and inconsistent, both in terms of where they're implemented and what you can get fined for. Here's the breakdown. Fines while flying If you're flying in Europe, airlines are clamping down on what they consider unacceptable or antisocial behavior. Budget giant Ryanair (a litmus test for passenger trouble) has this summer introduced a €500 ($585) disruptive passenger fine in an attempt to 'help ensure that our passengers and crew travel in a comfortable and stress-free environment, without unnecessary disruption caused by a tiny number of unruly passengers.' Flying into Turkey could cost you more than you think if you don't adhere to new rules. getty Disruptive may mean something altogether different on a flight to Turkey. This year the Turkish civil aviation authority introduced 'administrative fines' of around $70 for passengers who unbuckle seatbelts, stand up or get out of their seat before the seatbelt sign has been switched off after landing at any Turkish airport. Onboard announcements inform passengers of the rules and consequences for breaking them, so it's worth actually paying attention to the tannoy messages if you're Turkey bound. If not, you could be out of pocket before you've even started your vacation. Fines while driving If you're renting a car in France, Spain, Portugal, Italy or Greece, make sure you're wearing proper footwear. From this year, if you're caught driving barefoot, or in flip flops or sandals, expect to pay fines of up to €300 (around $350.) Driving in flip flops could now cost you a €300 fine in several European countries. getty Naturally, levels, fines and consequences for speeding or driving while intoxicated vary from country to country, so make sure you're aware of the specific rules and pay attention to crossing borders by road, many of which are barely signposted across the European mainland. Fines for inappropriate dress One of the mostly commonly cited complaints from tourist areas around the world is visitors dressing disrespectfully or inappropriately. While many are used to covering up at historic monuments and in places of worship, new fines for wearing swimwear away from the beach are becoming increasingly common. Find yourself in bikini or boardies wandering city streets in Albufeira, Barcelona, Cannes, Sorrento, Split or Venice and you could be staring down the face of a €1,500 ($1,750) fine. Leaving the beach without covering up will now land you with a big fine in many major European cities. getty It doesn't stop at the beach though. If you're hiking the glorious trails of Cinque Terre Park in Italy wearing open-toe sandals or shoes with non-slip soles, officials on the trails may issue you a fine of up to €2,500 (more than $1,900.) Fines for public drinking and smoking Drinking alcohol in the wrong place can now land you not only in hot water with the authorities but also with a fine. Public drinking in the Canary Islands, Magaluf, and the Balearic Islands of Ibiza and Mallorca can now incur fines of up to €3,000 (around $3,500.) Smoking in many places is now equally frowned upon. Light up in a public place children may frequent (from beaches to parks, bus stops to sport centers) in France and you'll be subject to an on-the-spot €90 ($105) fine. While fines for smoking outside do already exist in certain places across Italy and Spain (Barcelona beach, for example), France is the first European country to implement a nationwide ban. A crackdown on all bad tourist behavior Many of these fines feel appropriate, if expensive, and are clearly priced primarily as a deterrent to bad behavior rather than as a punitive income. Some may catch you by surprise though. Find yourself on the famed white-pebble Lararia Beach on the Aegean Island of Skiathos and you may be tempted to take just one pebble home as a souvenir of your stay. Every pebble on Lalaria Beach could cost you a thousand euros. Best to just take photos instead. getty Heads up—that will cost you €1,000 in fines. So scared are the authorities of their beach being depleted that they've erected 'Lalaria Beach pebble return boxes' at airports, where potential pebble smugglers are also subject to suitcase searches. In Venice, if you sit on the ground or steps to eat or drink, you'll be banned from the area and fined up to €200 ($235.) Take a dip in its famed canals and that fine increases to €350 ($410.) Perhaps most surprising of all, beaches in the likes of Barcelona and the Costa Blanca have introduced a 'sunbed tax' in an effort to stop early morning stampedes to claim the best spot. Reserve too early, or leave your towel on one unattended for too long and you could end up with a €250 ($290) fine. These fines are just the latest efforts in a war against overtourism that has been raging for years. City tourist taxes are now commonplace in the most popular destinations, and many are going a step further by limiting the number of visitors allowed and banning certain types of holiday rentals. Anti-tourism sentiment is a part of everyday life in many tourists hotspots, but few more than Barcelona. NurPhoto via Getty Images Authorities are finally waking up to the impact not just overtourism but also unruly tourists is having on the lives of its residents. These fines are simply the latest measure in that push towards local-visitor equanimity, but whether they will work or not is yet to be seen. While it always pays to be respectful and polite when traveling, knowing the specific rules and regulations for each place you visit could now save you even more.
Trade Arabia
04-06-2025
- Business
- Trade Arabia
Interview: Seychelles embraces eco-luxury and cultural discovery
As one of the world's most alluring island destinations, Seychelles continues to captivate with its unspoilt beauty, rich biodiversity and refined hospitality. But beyond its postcard-perfect shores, the archipelago is evolving to meet the growing appetite for responsible, experience-driven travel. 'Seychelles has long been seen as a luxury destination, particularly in this region,' says Shireen Francis, Principal Secretary for Tourism Seychelles. 'But it's a luxury that comes with a conscience. Conservation remains at the heart of everything we do.' That ethos of sustainability is far from lip service. The island nation has embedded environmental protection into its tourism framework from the outset. 'Without our environment, without our natural assets, we wouldn't have a tourism industry. So, we've made sure everything is developed in a delicate, balanced way,' Francis explains in an interview with TTN's Jayne Houghton. Tourism Seychelles has gone a step further with a national recognition programme that celebrates operators prioritising sustainable practices, aligned with the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC) standards. 'We recently introduced a Platinum Award for those who truly excel. The first recipient was Constance Ephelia, who's been on this journey for over a decade. For them, sustainability is no longer just a practice, it's part of their culture.' With GCC travellers increasingly seeking meaningful escapes, Seychelles is ideally positioned, geographically and experientially. 'We're just four hours from the Gulf. That's a huge advantage,' says Francis. 'It's perfect for long weekends or short breaks, and we're very well connected through carriers like Emirates, Qatar Airways, and Etihad.' This air connectivity has bolstered Seychelles' appeal in the region, and the destination is seeing a diversification of travellers; from the traditional honeymooners to families, corporate groups and solo adventurers. 'While romance remains a strong segment for us, we're definitely seeing growth in multi-generational travel and friend groups,' she notes. 'Our resorts are responding with more family-friendly facilities, interconnected rooms and tailored activities.' More recently, the country has been leaning into immersive, culturally-rooted experiences. 'We want visitors to see more than just the beaches,' Francis says. 'We're promoting cultural and community-based tourism, wellness, and sporting events that reflect the richness of our islands.' This year, Seychelles hosted the FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup—the first time the event has taken place in Africa. 'It's a proud moment for us,' says Francis. 'And in July, we'll launch the Seychelles Sailing Challenge, where participants explore six islands in seven days. It's a mix of adventure, discovery and friendly competition.' Nature lovers, too, are being catered to with events like the Seychelles Nature Trail Challenge, designed for hikers eager to explore the archipelago's lush interiors. 'It's part of our broader shift toward wellness and outdoor activity, which is what many GCC travellers are looking for.' On the marketing front, Tourism Seychelles has embraced digital transformation wholeheartedly. 'Given our size, we have to be smart with our resources,' says Francis. 'Digital platforms allow us to be far more targeted and cost-effective. We're running virtual training programmes for the trade, webinars, and digital campaigns in partnership with media and airlines.' Strategic alliances remain central to the board's approach, with renewed MoUs — like the one signed with Emirates at ATM — helping extend reach and visibility. 'We believe in working together. With limited budgets, partnerships give us double the impact. Whether it's with airlines, media or tour operators, collaboration always brings better results.' Despite the surge in direct bookings and AI-driven planning, the human touch is far from obsolete, especially in this region. 'Trade remains an integral part of the customer journey, particularly for high-net-worth travellers,' Francis points out. 'They may research online, but they still prefer that concierge-style service. That's where the trade comes in — and why shows like ATM remain so important for us.' In a travel landscape that's ever-evolving, Seychelles is striking a rare balance: remaining true to its roots while adapting to the needs of today's traveller. For GCC visitors, it's a destination that offers both luxury and authenticity — wrapped in a warm tropical breeze, just a short flight away.
Travel Daily News
14-05-2025
- Business
- Travel Daily News
Western National Parks debuts new brand and trip-planning platform
Western National Parks rebrands with new digital tools, inspiring deeper connections, responsible travel, and stewardship across 72 lesser-known U.S. national park sites. TUSCON, ARIZ. – Western National Parks (WNP), a longtime nonprofit partner of the National Park Service, introduced a revitalized brand and dynamic digital experience designed to inspire a deeper connection to America's national parks – and to cultivate the next generation of lifelong park advocates. Through this comprehensive relaunch, WNP expands its role as a 'Destination Inspiration Organization,' showcasing 72 national park sites among America's lesser-known parks and the vibrant gateway communities that surround them. From wonderfully wild places like Channel Islands National Park to sacred cultural heritage sites like Wupatki National Monument to historical parks like Brown v. Board of Education, WNP's partner parks represent the hidden gems that tell the stories of the nation. The rebrand is driven by a simple but powerful goal —to help more people connect meaningfully with these parks, visit responsibly, and become lifelong stewards of these extraordinary places. With more than $162 million contributed to parks over the decades, WNP continues to support the future of public lands by encouraging responsible visitation, enhancing experiences, and fostering a love for these treasured places. 'Our national parks are living classrooms, sacred spaces, and homes to extraordinary stories,' said Marie Buck, chief executive officer of Western National Parks. 'They preserve generations of stories, cultures, and histories, and protect vital natural ecosystems. By visiting them thoughtfully and supporting them through advocacy, education, and philanthropy, we ensure they will thrive for generations to come. Now more than ever, we can bring more people to the parks and parks to the people. Through this work, we help them fall in love with parks – nand through that love, protect them.' 'The new brand identity, tourism-focused website, and national advertising campaign mark a transformative moment for WNP,' added Michael Matthews, chief marketing officer of Western National Parks. 'For the first time, we're reaching a broad national audience of travelers seeking meaningful outdoor and cultural experiences. This platform allows us to elevate the visibility of our mission, enhance financial support for our 72 partner parks, inspire deeper park engagement, and drive awareness of our philanthropic and retail initiatives.' Mission and Community Impact WNP's new platform highlights its broader impact: developing key and engaging community programming, raising vital park funds through philanthropic efforts, supporting scientific research, providing grants for educators and scholarships for students pursuing public lands careers, and publishing award-winning books for national parks. Through these initiatives—and with the vital support of visitors – WNP helps parks thrive for all time. Immersive Planning Tools Visitors can craft personalized journeys, from quick weekend escapes to extensive cross-country road trips, through intuitive tools, interactive maps, vivid imagery, and carefully selected recommendations. Gateway Communities Spotlight Travelers are encouraged to explore beyond park borders, diving into local culture, regional traditions, off-the-beaten-path adventures, and culinary highlights in surrounding gateway towns, making their park experience part of a broader, richer vacation. Tailored Park Discovery Users can now find their perfect park match based on specific interests, such as hiking scenic trails, wildlife viewing, stargazing, photography, and birdwatching, rather than simply searching by geography. Curated Itineraries and Inspiration The platform offers editorially crafted, ready-to-use itineraries and multi-stop travel suggestions, simplifying planning and inspiring visitors to create unforgettable adventures. Retail With Purpose Visitors can also shop online or in-park at WNP stores, where 100% of net proceeds support their 72 partner parks across 12 states. Every purchase directly benefits parks, ensuring their stories, landscapes, and ecosystems are preserved for future generations.
Travel Daily News
12-05-2025
- Travel Daily News
Untamed Travelling appoints IMAGINE PR as North America PR agency
IMAGINE PR becomes North American PR agency for Untamed Travelling, a luxury travel company crafting bespoke, immersive, and responsible global journeys. NEW YORK, NY – IMAGINE PR has been appointed as the North American Public Relations Representative for Untamed Travelling, a leading luxury travel company specializing in building personalized itineraries for travelers across the globe. Guided by the philosophy 'Where the World Can't Find You,' Untamed Travelling specializes in crafting journeys that lead travelers deep into the extraordinary. Founded by Jozef Verbruggen, Untamed Travelling has 25 years of experience in crafting tailor-made journeys to remote and diverse destinations across Africa, Latin America, Asia, Europe, the Middle East, Antarctica, the Arctic and beyond. Each itinerary is built entirely from scratch around the traveler's passions, pace, and purpose, ensuring that no two journeys are alike. Every element, from private transfers and exclusive lodging to insider access and expert local guides, is curated by a team of seasoned travel designers who bring deep knowledge and personal insight to each experience. Untamed Travelling's travel designers are passionate globetrotters themselves, each with extensive firsthand knowledge of the destinations they specialize in, often gained through regular on-the-ground research and personal travel. This approach allows them to uncover hidden gems, build strong local partnerships, and stay up to date with evolving conditions and opportunities in each region. Rather than relying on pre-packaged tours or fixed templates, the team takes the time to understand each client's unique travel personality, whether they're seeking seclusion, adrenaline or cultural immersion. 'Travel has the power to change not just the traveler, but also the communities and environments they touch along the way,' says Verbruggen. 'Our goal is to create journeys that leave a lasting imprint and are as enriching for the people and places visited as they are for our clients. With our expansion into North America, we look forward to connecting even more travelers with the world's most inspiring and off-the-beaten-path destinations.' Clients can choose from a range of experience types through Untamed Travelling, including: Nature Travel: For those drawn to wild landscapes and biodiversity, Untamed Travelling offers adventures that highlight the natural world—from tracking gorillas in Rwanda to exploring the Galápagos Islands by expedition cruise. Cultural Travel: Thoughtfully curated trips designed to immerse guests in the stories, traditions, and soul of a destination. Whether it's ancient temples, contemporary art, or tribal rituals, the focus is on forging real connections with local communities. Adventure and Active Travel:Carefully tailored to each traveler's level of comfort and ambition, these journeys might include hiking, diving, heli-skiing, or multi-day treks, always with an emphasis on safety and sustainability. Luxury Safaris and Wildlife Expeditions: Untamed Travelling has longstanding relationships with exclusive camps, lodges, and conservation partners throughout Africa and beyond. The company also offers itineraries curated to special events and themes, including family adventures, culinary journeys, honeymoons, photography trips, train journeys, among others. Untamed Travelling's mission goes beyond creating personalized itineraries, as it aims to place a strong emphasis on responsible tourism and actively work to ensure each itinerary has a positive impact on the destinations it reaches. This includes promoting lesser-known destinations to reduce overtourism, supporting nature reserves and community-led tourism initiatives, and advising clients on ethical travel practices. The company supports giving back to communities when traveling, whether by supporting conservation projects in Africa or highlighting the voices and stories of Indigenous communities in Latin America and Asia. As a member of Virtuoso, the leading global network specializing in luxury and experiential travel, the company grants access to exclusive advantages that elevate each journey.
