A scuba diver explores ocean ecosystems off the coast of Saudi Arabia

Impact of Sustainable Tourism: How it Affects Communities

Written by Isabella Hunt on August 15, 2023. Posted in Blog, Uncategorized.

We all know the age-old story of mass tourism. You know, the one where hordes of camera-clad tourists descend upon breathtaking destinations, casting a shadow over the authenticity of this once-hidden gem. While Instagram content flourishes, breathtaking locations are reduced to mere backdrops. Even worse, local communities often miss out on the benefits of the quick stop-in of the hordes. In this all-too-familiar tale, the negative impacts of tourism become evident.

However, amidst this sea of tourists, a new tide is rising in the world of travel. In a refreshing trend, many tourists are shifting perspectives and prioritizing more sustainable and regenerative experiences. Travelers now yearn to learn about the diverse cultures they encounter and forge genuine connections with the places they explore.

While we can’t ignore the potential drawbacks of tourism, we aim to provide readers with hope. This new wave of sustainable tourism has the power to change destinations’ environment, economy, infrastructure, and cultural heritage.

To shed more light on this transformative movement, we will quote insights from Solimar International’s Senior Project Manager, Micah Sorum. Sorum has been at the forefront of pioneering sustainable tourism initiatives.

So, buckle up as we explore the multidimensional impacts of sustainable tourism beyond the surface-level figures. Stick around and learn how mindful travel can transform not only destinations but also our own perspectives and lives.

The Impacts of Sustainable Tourism

Prioritizing Environmental Sustainability in the Tourism Industry: Strategies for a Greener Future

Breathtaking photo of a snorkeler exploring the crystal-clear, turquoise blue waters of Mahdia, Tunisia. — *Mahdia, Tunisia (Photo by Mohamed Ben Zineb on Unsplash)*

In a world grappling with global warming, it is imperative to prioritize environmental health. Incorporating environmental sustainability will be crucial for the future of tourism businesses: one of the top five most valuable exports in over 150 countries. This entails utilizing resources to meet the needs of the present generation while conserving the world for future generations. Let’s delve into the key impacts that responsible practices can have on the environment:

Conservation and preservation of natural resources: Tourism can help protect valuable ecosystems and biodiversity by actively conserving and preserving natural resources.
Responsible tourism practices, respecting wildlife and ecosystems: Encouraging responsible behavior among tourists, such as observing wildlife from a safe distance and following guidelines to minimize disturbance, helps protect and respect the natural environment.
Collaboration and stakeholder engagement, supporting local communities: By collaborating with local communities, tourism can support their economic development while ensuring that the benefits of tourism reach the local population. This fosters a sense of ownership and encourages the preservation of cultural heritage.
Education: Tourism provides a unique opportunity to educate travelers about environmental wellness. By raising awareness and promoting sustainable practices, tourists can become advocates for environmental conservation in their communities.

When successfully implemented, these aspects of sustainable tourism positively impact the environment. For instance, tourism can help support and preserve iconic nature, generating revenue that incentivizes its conservation. Micah emphasizes that “if the environment is an attraction, then it encourages the preservation of it. It can change the community’s perspective and how they see their own resources. If tourism is set up to benefit community members, then it’s an asset to them” (Sorum, 2023).

It is essential to recognize that mass tourism has the potential to be damaging to the environment. Visitors use strains of natural resources when it exceeds the environment’s coping ability. This is where ecotourism becomes essential for ensuring the sustainability of the industry. By balancing business interests and environmental concerns, ecotourism minimizes the negative impacts of visitor use on natural resources. The tourism industry holds a unique position to educate people worldwide about environmental protection. Through responsible practices, tourism can extend its reach and inspire individuals to take action to safeguard the environment.

When considering climate change, creative endeavors to mitigate tourism’s contribution will be essential to move forward in the industry. Sustainable transportation and energy-efficient accommodations are a couple of emerging practices that will be crucial to the future of this industry. An example of sustainable tourism’s impact is in the Caribbean nations, where the renewable energy infrastructure is underdeveloped and threatened by extreme weather events related to climate change. Solimar International worked alongside the Inter-American Development Bank to design the “Caribbean Climate Smart Islands Program,” encouraging a transition to lower carbon emissions and create a climate-resilient community.

The tourism industry has a lot of influence and opportunities to positively impact the environment. Environmental sustainability and tourism go hand in hand; one will only succeed with the support of the other. Read more here about how Solimar’s mission is to do just that.

Empowering Communities: The Transformative Power of Sustainable Tourism

Vibrant woven baskets from Gabes, Tunisia showcasing colorful decorations, traditional patterns, and a Hand of Fatima (Hamza) pendant. — *Woven Baskets (Gabes, Tunisia – Photo by Yassine Khalfalli on Unsplash)*

Sustainable tourism goes beyond short-term economic stimulation. It creates a positive ripple effect, transforming the economy and the lives of those directly impacted. By embracing ecotourism practices, we can unlock possibilities for communities worldwide.

At the heart of sustainable tourism impacts lies the power to offer employment opportunities. Micah notes the most impactful aspect of tourism is its ability to create jobs, “not just any job, but jobs that give people autonomy and control over the business and their lives” (2023). It’s not just about numbers; it’s about empowering individuals and families who may otherwise struggle to make ends meet. From tour operators to local suppliers, sustainable tourism creates a web of jobs that uplift communities from poverty.

Take this remarkable example in Jamaica, where Solimar developed a groundbreaking communication tool for businesses to connect with markets, funders, and stakeholders. By establishing a brand platform, creating an online training platform, and crafting business plans, Solimar raised awareness of community tourism and ensured its long-term sustainability. Through education and empowerment, the economic benefits flourished while the vibrant local culture took center stage. Solimar helped to establish and launch the Jamaica Community Experiences Brand in a way that ensures its longevity. Teaching the local community how to market themselves improves the economic benefits and culture.

Sustainable tourism’s impact goes beyond economic empowerment. It also plays a crucial role in conservation funding. By generating revenue through responsible tourism practices, we can channel resources toward preserving the environments that attract visitors. This delicate balance between people and nature is vital for the future. Read more here about how Solimar’s work in the Cayman Islands creates a plan that bridges the gap between challenges.

The success of ecotourism in benefiting the economy depends on sustainable and responsible practices – cultural heritage and environmental health must be constantly ranked equal to economic means. Micah says this has everything to do with organization, stating that “so much of [balancing the economic benefits of tourism with the preservation of a destination’s natural and cultural heritage] is in the way that a destination has set itself up to be managed. Through DMO development, we ensure that someone is there to take over, representing local guides and gathering stakeholders for support on larger projects. We have to have an organizing unit to make it happen” (2023).

By maintaining a balance between economic development and environmental conservation, ecotourism can contribute to the overall sustainability of a destination.

Building Communities: Tourism as a Tool for Infrastructure Development

Breathtaking winter view of the picturesque coastline in Hawaria, Tunisia, showcasing four majestic windmills standing against the lush green hills. — (Hawaria, Tunisia – Photo by Haythem Gataa on Unsplash)

When tourists visit a destination, they bring more than just their backpacks and cameras. The influx of visitors can put considerable strain on a location’s infrastructure. However, this influx of visitors can also motivate investment in a destination’s infrastructure. From a policy perspective, Micah Sorum of Solimar International says we can “look at the infrastructure to ensure tourism can grow in a sustainable way” (2023). Here are a few aspects of infrastructure that tourism can impact:

Roads: As tourist numbers rise, transportation demand increases. Local roads now serve both tourists and residents, leading to wear and tear, higher maintenance costs, and budget strains. However, this also presents an opportunity for job creation and improved infrastructure if development is responsible, benefiting tourists and the local community. In Tunisia, an emerging destination, tourists and locals alike can benefit from the Cap Bon touristic road that connects several popular destinations along a scenic route.
Accommodation: The tourism boom demands new hotels and resorts but often neglects small businesses. However, staying in locally owned guest houses can support the community. Tunisia has seen a rise in guesthouses as local entrepreneurs transform unused spaces into beautiful, bookable rooms. In contrast to giant seaside resorts, these guesthouses offer locally sourced dishes and connect guests to other local experiences, ensuring that tourists’ money reaches more of the community. For example, look at Dar Ben Gacem, whose owner, Leila Ben Gacem, helps preserve cultural heritage and revitalize Tunis’s medina (traditional city) in addition to hosting guests.
Utilities & Services: As tourism grows in an area, the demand for utilities such as water, electricity, and waste management also increases. Local authorities may invest in improving and expanding these services to cater to the needs of tourists and residents alike. A tourist in Tunisia would surely recognize the need for this improvement. With record-breaking heat surges, Tunisia saw its hottest summer yet. Efforts to beat the heat resulted in frequent power outages across the country from energy overconsumption.
Communication: Tourism can drive the need for better communication infrastructure, including internet and mobile networks, ensuring that tourists stay connected during their travels and benefiting residents.
Urban Renewal: To attract tourists, destinations may invest in urban renewal projects and beautification initiatives, making their appearance more appealing to visitors and residents alike. While these initiatives walk the delicate line between restoration and gentrification, careful and considerate planning from local leaders can ensure that communities maintain authenticity amidst renewal projects.

Preserving Communities: How Tourism Can Protect Cultural Heritage

Traditional Tunisian woman wearing stunning gold pendant and bead necklace, vibrant top with traditional patterns, intricate henna designs on hands, matching beaded belt with gold pendants, and rings. — (Traditional Accessories in Tunisia – Photo by Seif Eddin Khayat on Unsplash)

According to Solimar International’s Micah Sorum, tourism can be “a way to preserve cultural heritage” (2023). Citing immersive experiences like artisan workshops and dance classes, Sorum argues that “tourism that’s well designed and well implemented” can be a valuable tool for cultural preservation (2023). Tourism allows visitors to celebrate and learn about local traditions while supporting the livelihoods of artisans and performers. By visiting an emerging destination like Tunisia, travelers can engage in these preservation experiences. The options are limitless from traditional date product workshops in Kebili to tasting couscous in Tozeur.

Additionally, Sorum explained how tourism “can fund the preservation of ruins and historical sites” (2023). Tourists’ entrance fees and contributions in a well-managed destination fund site maintenance and conservation efforts. In Tunisia, the UNESCO world heritage town of Kairouan is a testament to how tourism sustains cultural heritage. When guests explore massive historical mosques and the many other notable sites, they help contribute to their preservation, while local guides simultaneously ensure the stories of the ancient, holy city endure.

Rooftop view of Mosque Okba (Great Mosque of Kairouan) in Kairoan, Tunisia during the enchanting golden hour of late afternoon. — (Mosque Okba, Photo by Haythem Gataa on Unsplash)

Cultural exchange opportunities foster mutual understanding between tourists and locals. As travelers immerse themselves in destinations’ customs and traditions, they gain an appreciation for their cultural heritage. Conversely, local communities benefit by fostering pride in their heritage. Finally, in the modern economy, mass production dominates the market. However, the economic benefits of cultural tourism help artisans continue their traditional practices without losing profits.

While sustainable tourism’s positive impacts on cultural preservation are evident, responsible practices must address challenges like over-commercialization. By embracing sustainable tourism, tourists can help safeguard the authenticity of cultural heritage in destinations like Tunisia. Mindful travel empowers communities, celebrates tradition, and ensures that these valuable treasures endure for generations to come.

Embracing the New Wave of Impactful, Sustainable Tourism

So, are you ready to be part of the new wave of tourism? Every member of the tourism industry, from travelers to tour operators, has a part to play in sustainable tourism impacts. It’s our shared responsibility to ensure these beautiful destinations remain beautiful for generations to come.

Liked learning about sustainable travel and want to hear more? Take one of our courses or read more on our website today. Visit our Institute for Sustainable Destinations website here.

Blog by Isabella Hunt and Kat Selfe

Sustainable Practices: The Amazigh Community

Sustainable Practices: Learning About Tunisia’s Amazigh Community

Written by Noelle Faiza on July 19, 2023. Posted in Blog, Uncategorized.

Lessons from Dahar’s Amazigh Community

Aisle 16, Seat A — A window seat! — I thought to myself as I stowed my carry-on after a short layover in Frankfurt on my way back to the US from my family home in Tunisia. Like many other hyphenated US Americans, I make a trip back to visit family and keep my identity as a Tunisian alive nearly every summer. Sitting down, I noticed the gentleman beside me had a pendant around his neck: the symbol of the Amazigh community. I complimented the necklace and learned he was Algerian. He asked me where I was from.

“I’m Tunisian-American.”

“Then you are Amazigh, too.”

What ensued was a two-hour-long conversation about Amazigh history, culture, and language — much to the annoyance of our fellow passengers. When I showed him a picture of my grandmother, he showed me a picture of his own mother. She was wearing the same garments with similarly red hair dyed from henna and face tattoos holding blessings and protection. It was a healing and validating exchange of an identity that has survived against all odds.

My family is from a rural part of Tunisia’s Sahel region, about two hours south of the capital. Despite surrounding ourselves in Amazigh culture, Arabization successfully distanced us from our roots. In the 70s, the traditional clay houses in our village were torn down and replaced with more “modern” and impractical stone buildings. Around the same time, Amazigh words in our dialect began dying out. This was my father’s generation. They were taught “proper” Arabic due to a governmental effort to modernize Tunisia at a time when Amazigh community was connected with rural sustainable practices, in contrast to the idealized Western model of industrialization.

Author’s village in 2019, stone buildings pictured in Ouled Faiza, Monastir (Noelle Faiza) — Author’s village in 2019, stone buildings pictured in Ouled Faiza, Monastir, Photo by Noelle Faiza

Unfortunately, this is a reality that most of my community in Tunisia acknowledges as a type of necessary evil rather than a grief-worthy loss of our identity. This mindset is likely because we are those Tunisians who directly benefited from President Bourguiba’s urbanization efforts, unlike those who faced forced removals and brutal assimilations.

Meeting Dahar

This past fall, I had the honor of interviewing numerous business owners in the Dahar region as part of Solimar’s Destination Dahar efforts to increase tourism in the area. In getting to know the destination, my understanding of my country’s heritage greatly evolved. The region is home to some of Tunisia’s few remaining Amazigh communities, and this preservation of heritage was discussed in nearly every conversation I had with locals. Many of these individuals spoke Tamazight, the language of the Amazigh community, as their mother tongue. They shared with me the food they put on their table, the nature of the homes in which they reside, and how they continue to not only preserve, but celebrate their culture and region.

Within each conversation, I noticed a common thread: a desire to thrive alongside the natural environment of Dahar. The traditional homes of the Amazigh weather the desert’s extreme high and low temperatures with year-round comfort. The region’s farmers have a keen interest sustainable practices such as permaculture to respect the native fauna and flora, and water collection strategies work with the flow of the mountain — literally. Permaculture is an agricultural style that promotes a biodiverse, resilient ecosystem that can exist in synergy with the native environment.

It made me wonder how much “modernization” cost Tunisia. We abandoned our indigenous wisdom while idolizing foreign powers whose lifestyle was not only oppressive to our own identity as Tunisians, but incompatible with the realities of North Africa.

What is Sustainability

According to the United Nations, sustainability is “meeting the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.” Such development requires a minimal carbon footprint, mindful use of resources, and support for local communities. Sustainability stands at the core of Solimar’s goals in any project, including Destination Dahar. As the threat of climate change increases and dangerous consequences reverberate worldwide, the path forward demands sustainable solutions to slow down the overconsumption and incredible amounts of waste that have already begun to plague the Earth. However, when it comes to sustainability in the Dahar region, mitigating scarce resources and extreme weather conditions has been a part of the Amazigh community reality for thousands of years.

In a memorable conversation, Radhouan Tiss of Domaine Ouled El Khil (located in the village of Ghomrassen in Dahar) emphasized the importance for us as a human race to “partake in sustainability and environmentally-friendly practices” in response to the challenges of climate change.

Amazigh Homes, an Example of Sustainable Practice

Radhouan Tiss runs an eco-lodge and permaculture farm with his family in an effort to educate visitors about sustainable living. However, the methods which Tiss uses are nothing new. In fact, Tiss enlisted village elders to help him create his ecologically friendly homes in the traditional isothermic Amazigh style.

One of the homes in Tiss’s eco-lodge (Destination Dahar) — One of the homes in Tiss’s eco-lodge, Photo by Destination Dahar

From a foreign perspective, it would be easy to assume that the extreme temperatures of Dahar’s desert would come to appalling heating and cooling bills depending on the time of year. The reality is rather to the contrary; the building style of Amazigh homes is naturally insulative, requiring no central heating nor cooling. “They are very good for insulation. They stay cool in summer and warm in the winter,” explained Tiss. “It is an environmentally friendly way of living… The houses are made from the same material and with the same technique as the ksours: from gypsum and clay.” Ksours, typically in the physical center of Amazigh communities in the region, are storage facilities meant for grain or other foods which are critical to store at a stable temperature.

The homes in Ouled El Khil are domed structures, but the structure changes depending on the specific village’s topography. For example, the isothermic dwellings are carved into mountainsides in more mountainous areas. Others may be built below ground, called “troglodyte” dwellings in English. For Star Wars fans, Luke Skywalker’s home on Planet Tatooine was literally inspired by these structures. For evidence, one does not have to look very far, as Star Wars creator George Lucas named the planet after the region’s real name. Go ahead, check a map! Tataouine, Tunisia — inspiration to Star Wars and sustainable solutions alike.

An example of a traditional home with a different structure — An example of a traditional sustainable home with a different structure, Photo by Jennifer Lundt

Agriculture Sustainable Practices

Permaculture is a type of farming that has only been recently defined, yet practiced for millennia in indigenous cultures… it was mentioned to some degree in nearly every interview I had with an individual from the Dahar region.

Madame Leila Gamar of La Cuesta explained, “gardening is a specialty of the house,” and most of the food she serves her guests comes directly from her backyard or the local area. In particular, she grows an array of fruit trees that flourish in the region: date, fig, and pomegranate. From the fruit, she makes jams and juices to serve year-round, but during the respective season of each tree, Gamar offers the produce fresh. Farm-to-table style local agriculture is one of the most sustainable methods of food consumption, reducing transport waste and supporting small business owners.

The Olive Reigns Supreme

Similar to most Mediterranean cultures, the olive tree holds immeasurable cultural and culinary significance in Tunisia. Dahar is certainly no exception, with most families having a certain number of olive trees they harvest annually. A portion of this olive oil is typically sold for profit, while a portion is kept to cushion the family’s supply of the household staple until the next year.

Author’s family Olive Orchard in Ouled Faiza, Monastir (Miled Faiza) — Sustainable agriculture – Author’s family Olive Orchard in Ouled Faiza, Monastir, Photo by Miled Faiza

Tarek Hasnaoui of Diar Toujane described the winter harvest season to me in detail, describing it as an exciting time to be in Dahar. “In the time of the olive harvest, guests are invited to pick olives and learn about the process,” explained Hasnaoui, “January is the peak season for harvesting the black olives. They still press the olives in the traditional style, with donkeys stomping.”

In another example of agriculture sustainable practices, the olive oil harvest is a tradition in Tunisia going back as far as written history can denote. The community cultivates the local trees, and the knowledge of how to upkeep the orchards is kept within communities responsible for caring for them. The traditional method of pressing the olives, using the force of a donkey’s stride rather than a machine press, adds to the sustainability of the practice by reducing carbon emissions. The result is a delicious oil with a freshness and purity far superior to the green bottles on grocery store shelves.

Sustainable Irrigation Practices

Located where the Sahara meets the Mediterranean, Dahar faces the ever-increasing threat of water scarcity. Due to climate change, the dry environment is only being exacerbated. At the time of writing, it has not rained in the region for three years. Historically, Dahar could expect rain on a somewhat regular basis. Over the centuries, the Amazigh community developed a unique irrigation technique complemented by the mountainous topography. Walls, not unlike dams, are built at the foot of slopes, such as towards the base of a hill, to collect run-off water for use. These structures are called jessours, or jessr in singular. One of their primary functions is to gather water for the purpose of irrigating fruit trees and agricultural crops. By collecting water, jessours help provide much-needed hydration to these plants, aiding in their growth and ensuring their health. They can be utilized for groundwater replenishment through a process called infiltration. The water collected in the jessours seeps into the ground, recharging the underground water sources. This is beneficial for maintaining a sustainable water supply and supporting the overall water cycle.

This water conservation method supports the natural flow of water without intruding on natural ecosystems, which is often a major concern when implementing dams. Therefore, it is an environmentally friendly method to use rainwater efficiently to fulfill the community’s needs.

An Example for the World

Dahar is a brilliant example of the ingenuity of indigenous peoples, whose cultures and ancient wisdom have developed alongside the land they still cultivate. The Amazigh community demonstrates a way to survive with respect for the Earth in even the harshest environments. Many of the individuals I interviewed in this project hope that their work will serve as a model for sustainable home and community construction, especially in similarly arid climates. Tactics such as adobe homes and permaculture agriculture for food production can be very beneficial. Looking towards the Amazigh people in the fight against climate change will be a critical step for Tunisia, a return to our roots and an amendment to the culture our nation abandoned in misguided attempts to modernize at our country’s own expense.

Want to learn more about how we are working to develop sustainable tourism in Tunisia? Check out Solimar’s USAID Visit Tunisia Project https://www.solimarinternational.com/project/visit-tunisia/

Tunisia, destination that uses situation analysis

How to Conduct a Situation Analysis to Develop a Tourism Strategy?

Written by Madison Tomaso on December 2, 2022. Posted in Blog.

What is A Situation Analysis?

Tourists at destination after successful tourism strategy — A successful tourism destination requires situation analysis.

Traveling to a destination can feel like an individual journey. But, did you know that most tourism destinations develop thoughtful strategies to ensure their destinations attract visitors in intentional and measured ways? A tourism strategy is designed to highlight a destination’s best aspects, such as food and history, while also offering solutions to tourism challenges that a destination might face, such as limited infrastructure. A successful tourism strategy is a first step to making a country safe, educational, and enjoyable for travelers. Essential to every tourism strategy is a situation analysis that details the supply and demand of tourism to the destination along with the opportunities and challenges that a destination faces using techniques such as stakeholder interviews, online data analysis, and on-the-ground assessments.

Why is a Situation Analysis Important?

The tourism industry is a critical source of jobs and economic growth, as well as a decisive factor in a nation’s sustainable development. While a tourism strategy is necessary to help develop tourism, a cookie-cutter approach will not be effective at addressing each destination’s unique circumstances. Thus, individualized situation analyses are critical for creating an effective tourism strategy. In this blog, we will examine some guidelines for performing an impactful situation analysis, as well as the use of situation analysis in one growing destination, Tunisia.

Situation Analysis, as Explained by the World Bank

Analyzing data for situation analysis — Data analysis is a crucial aspect of conducting a situation analysis.

How do tourism practitioners go about conducting a situation analysis of a destination? Solimar International, for example, follows the strategy guidelines outlined by the World Bank, a global partnership dedicated to using sustainable solutions to combat poverty. Per the World Bank’s method, there are four essential steps to conducting a successful situation analysis.

Project planning
Desk-based research
An in-country evaluation
An analysis of their data to compile a report detailing both their research and conclusions

Each step requires complex research, discussion, and analysis. Within these guidelines, the World Bank also offers detailed suggestions on how to complete each step: A situation analysis team must interview a range of stakeholders within a country’s tourism industry, everyone from artisans selling goods to travel booking agents. Desk research entails compiling and studying all documents relevant to the destination’s tourism, and the statistical analysis of comparing the performance of the country to similar countries. This data must then be analyzed to identify the opportunities, challenges, and solutions surrounding the destination. Finally, the World Bank advises the team to use all their data, research, and analysis to create the final tourism strategy document.

What Should be Included in the Final Report?

Because the main objective of a situation analysis is to identify both the biggest opportunities and constraints associated with a given destination, the report therefore must outline the destination’s offerings. These can include anything from thriving wineries to well-preserved cultural sites. However, the report must also acknowledge the challenges that were pinpointed by the analysis. Issues such as poor infrastructure or lack of safety can be major hindrances to tourism. In addition, a proper analysis should identify potential solutions to the constraints, and these should be included in the report as well. It is also crucial for the report to list key stakeholders in the local tourism industry, in addition to potential partners that may help to implement the plan. This detail ensures that the plan includes everyone who has a vested interest in helping the strategy succeed.

Practical Application: How A Situation Analysis was Used in Creating Tunisia’s Tourism Strategy

View of Tunisia, destination using situation analysis — *Tunisia is a beautiful destination for tourists to enjoy*

Tunisia is a wonderful destination, with numerous activities for tourists to enjoy. It is rife with opportunities for successful tourism, from a Mediterranean coastline to historical sites. However, the destination is not yet on par with nearby destinations such as Morocco and Egypt. Tunisia receives approximately a million tourists per year, and the country hopes to grow its tourism sector. To achieve this, Solimar is currently working on the USAID Visit Tunisia program Tunisia’s tourism visibility. One of the program’s initial goals was to develop a national tourism strategy, which included a comprehensive situation analysis.

To complete the analysis, Solimar interviewed major stakeholders in Tunisia, including those in the public and private sectors. It is critical to converse with stakeholders in order to understand the expectations for the plan’s results and to provide further insight into the destination’s current tourism situation. Extensive desk research was conducted this included comparing Tunisia’s data to that of competing countries, and reading previous strategies and relevant documents for Tunisia. Solimar also reviewed all available tourism sector data from Tunisia. Through this data, Solimar was able to better understand both the problems and advantage tourism faced in Tunisia. Finally, Solimar analyzed the statistics from Tunisia’s tourism sector. Using this data and analysis, Solimar was able to form a solid foundation of the country’s current tourism industry to inform the development of recommendations for the National Tourism Strategy.

Interested in learning more about strategic planning for tourism? Be sure to like Solimar on Facebook to stay updated on our latest projects!

Travel Greenwashing: How to Spot it in the Tourism Industry

Written by Noelle Faiza on October 20, 2022. Posted in Blog, Uncategorized.

Travel greenwashing and the challenges of an environmentally conscious tourist: who to trust, how to spot authenticity, and more.

From backpackers to luxury travelers, the climate crisis affects us all. As travelers become increasingly aware of the issues impacting the Earth, they seek to reward and fiscally support businesses in the tourism industry with environmentally friendly practices. A subsection of the tourism industry known as “eco-tourism” has emerged in response to the demand for eco-friendly options. Some tourists are consciously opting to use their vacation time to do things like take a domestic road trip along the Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail instead of flying thousands of miles to an all-inclusive resort.

There is also no shortage of travel businesses touting their sustainability practices. But when businesses decide to skip a step, reaping the rewards of sustainable efforts without actually implementing sustainable alternatives, it can leave travelers struggling to navigate between who is actually sustainable and who is simply doing travel greenwashing.

travel sustainably by hiking beautiful mountain vistas — Traveler taking in the view from Ciucas, Romania (David Marcu, Unsplash)

Back to Basics

What is Greenwashing?

In general terms, greenwashing is a marketing style that falsely advertises a service or product in an environmentally friendly light. Given how pervasive greenwashing is within the tourism industry, it can be particularly tricky for a traveler to identify. For example, when a hotel claims to use sustainable practices in order to cater to a more ecologically conscious market, they would be greenwashing if they are unfaithful to those claims.

How to Spot Travel Greenwashing

Keep an eye out for lone buzz words like “eco”, “environmentally-friendly”, and “sustainable” in descriptions. If there is no information or detailed examples to back it up, it is likely false. A business committed to sustainability will not shy away from getting into specifics.

In case the irony didn’t give it away already, these plastic cups labeled “Eco” that were found at a beach cleanup on Long Island, New York are a great example of greenwashing (Brian Yurasits, Unsplash)

When in doubt, ask!

Any eco-entrepreneur worth their buck will gladly engage in conversation with a potential customer on their sustainable practices. When planning your trip, it is always a good idea to contact a business and ask for more details. Don’t let language barriers deter you either! Google Translate can be a great communication tool when using simple sentences, especially if email or instant messaging is an option.

Are they legit?

A genuinely sustainable business will typically present evidence alongside their environmentalist claims. If you want an example of what to look for, then look no further than the numerous guest houses in the Dahar region of Tunisia. Many businesses like Ouled El Khil (pictured below), boast farm-fresh dishes produced via sustainable agricultural methods like permaculture and provide pictures with in-depth descriptions to add legitimacy to their claims. If you are still on the fence after reviewing the evidence, it never hurts to engage the service provider for more information.

Environmentally friendly permaculture farming at guesthouse Domaine Ouled El Khil in Ghomrassen, Tunisia (Destination Dahar) — Environmentally friendly permaculture farming at guesthouse Domaine Ouled El Khil in Ghomrassen, Tunisia (© FTADD)

Let’s Put Our Knowledge of Travel Greenwashing to the Test

The whole point of marketing is to influence an audience into feeling a certain way, and greenwashing is no different. When done well, greenwashing can be deceiving, so let’s go for a test drive:

After a quick web search, you find a hotel for your next vacation. It looks nice enough and claims to be “eco-friendly”. The question of the hour: is it really — or is this greenwashing?

Some key questions to ask:

How does the hotel support local residents and the surrounding community?
How does the hotel prevent harming the natural habitat around them?
What is the hotel’s waste management policy?
Do they recycle and avoid single use plastics?
How do they work to conserve water?
How do they prevent pollution?

Questions that probe further into the company’s future are also a great way to get to know the ethos of the establishment you are considering to support. For example, ask about their plan to reduce their carbon footprint. The more you can target your questions, the more direct and useful the responses will be. Most business owners who prioritize sustainable practices will happily discuss their efforts with a potential guest. In fact, they likely appreciate and share your passion for solving the complex problems our planet faces.

On the off chance they do not engage, it is likely they do not have the evidence to support their claims. At this point, you may be better off taking your business somewhere that you deem truly worthy of your patronship, but at the very least you have given them something to consider by reaching out.

Litter on a beach near a resort in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic. (Dustin Woodhouse, Unsplash)

Preventing Travel Greenwashing in the First Place

The World Federation of Advertisers recently updated its code on greenwashing. Their new guidance emphasizes that any environmentalist claims in a service or product description must be clear, readily backed up, and precise. Misleading by omission is also ill-advised. However, despite these strides in anti-greenwashing policy, there is no global enforcement of such initiatives. It is up to individual nations to legislate anti-greenwashing regulations. Therefore, when looking to travel abroad, it can be helpful to check the greenwashing laws of the country you are visiting. If a nation enforces anti-greenwashing advertising regulations, then claims made in descriptions may be more readily trusted.

Better yet, if you don’t feel like spending hours trying to understand anti-greenwashing legislation, there are organizations that weed out the greenwashing for you. Groups like Solimar International can help you find businesses that align with your ethical and sustainable values. Check out Solimar’s recommendations for your next eco-friendly adventure!

Sustainable Tourism in Southern Morocco

Written by Eliot Heiss on May 19, 2022. Posted in Blog, Uncategorized.

South of the Moroccan tourism hub of Marrakesh is the jewel of Southern Morocco, Agadir. Encompassing Agadir and various other small towns, southern Morocco is largely underdeveloped with untapped potential. Morocco has been well-known by French tourists for a long time given its former status as a French colony. What is lesser known is that Agadir and Southern Morocco have an increasing capability to cater to the demands of sustainable tourists. Its location directly below Western Europe means it is only a short flight away for Europeans. With French and English widely spoken, communication is convenient for many travelers.

Key Destinations in Southern Morocco

Curious about where you should travel in Morocco and what you should do to make the biggest impact on your journey? Keep reading:

1. Agadir

The most popular destination in Southern Morocco is certainly Agadir. It rests on the western coast of Morocco, with 10 kilometers of beaches which receive over 300 days of sun per year. It is the perfect location for any beach lover, with easily accessible cafes, restaurants, and nightlife.

One reason why this city has a path to sustainable tourism is it is extremely walkable. One can spend the morning walking up and down Agadir Beach along the shoreline. If you venture inland to Souk El Had market, you can visit the hundreds of stalls selling unique Moroccan items, like bowls, jewelry, and other handicrafts. A large percentage of these stalls are owned by local Amazigh women, descendants of the pre-Arab people in North Africa.

Souss-Massa National Park is a long stretch of land just south of Agadir, where the terrain ranges from grassland steppes, sand dunes, sandy beaches, to wetlands. This park is the best chance for nature loving travelers to experience the wild side of southern Morocco. The park is home to 250 different species of nesting and migratory birds. The most famous of which is the Bald Ibis, other residents include antelopes, boars and mongooses.

2. Tamraght and Taghazout

Further to the north, about a 25-minute drive, are the surfing towns of Tamraght and Taghazout. These smaller towns do not have resorts like Agadir, but offer quieter accommodation in mini hotels and Moroccan lodges for a more traditional experience. Often accommodations will offer Moroccan dishes for each meal of the day. Or you can visit the local markets for a chance to interact and negotiate your prices with the locals.

These towns have their own beaches and shops without the hustle and bustle of the larger Agadir. Here you can find water sports equipment rentals and guided tours around the area. Located in the shadow of the lesser Atlas Mountains, there are opportunities to hike into the mountains or simply lounge on the beach.

Paradise Valley is a quick day trip. Travelers can grab a minibus from various locations and arrive in a lush valley to swim and relax. Visiting this oasis is like stepping into another world away from the dry, arid Moroccan climate. This valley is also home to one of the oldest and most traditional honey making operations in the world.

3. Sustainable Activities to Enjoy on the Coast

The Southern Moroccan coast is primarily known for its surfing. The beaches along Agadir and the surrounding towns have a variety of different surf spots for all skill levels. Whether you are a beginner trying to experience a new sport or a pro seeking to hone your skills, there is a beach and a wave for you!

Surfing and the other water sports here may be the ultimate sustainable activities. The surfing culture is obsessed with keeping the ocean clean. After all, it is no fun to surf in polluted waters. Solely using the power of the ocean waves limits CO2 emissions and makes one tune in with the ocean’s natural power. Other water activities include sailing, parasailing, and swimming. If you want a break from the water, there are also horseback riding and camel tours where you can experience traditional Moroccan travel.

How can you get to Southern Morocco?

When traveling around Morocco, you have several different options. There are many bus coaches which go up and down the coast. In addition, Morocco has a few different train and rail lines to limit your carbon footprint.

If you are traveling around the city or a shorter distance, there are rental bike stands in the bigger cities. Renting bikes allows you to take in more of the sights for a cheaper, sustainable experience. If you don’t feel like pedaling yourself, there are taxi bikes available for a small fee.

Solimar’s History of Supporting Sustainable Tourism in North Africa

Solimar International has always been committed to helping developing countries create a better sustainable tourism sector and garner more tourists to visit developing communities. At Solimar, we believe in tourism development that creates a positive experience for local businesses, local people, and the tourists themselves. This should be done without sacrificing the future of the planet.

In the past, Solimar has worked in Morocco. In 2012, we worked to create a series of cultural heritage routes to increase awareness of traditional Moroccan artisans and bolster their income.

Solimar is currently working on a USAID project in Tunisia. The goal of this five year initiative is to develop sustainable tourism in traditionally under-visited areas, bringing economic benefits to local communities and their inhabitants. This is the second project we have worked on in Tunisia – the first was the advancement and development of cultural heritage tours, in conjunction with the Smithsonian.

WE DEVELOP, MANAGE, AND MARKET SUSTAINABLE TOURISM DESTINATIONS

Tag: #Sustainabletravel