By Miriam Olin –

Turtle Conservation - Pramuka Island, Indonesia

Go Mo Places is all about Responsible Tourism; taking only memories and leaving nothing behind. Responsible Tourism, also known as Sustainable Tourism, creates better communities to live in and better destinations to visit. It minimizes negative economic, environmental and social impacts. Boosted economies benefit the locals while improving working conditions and access to the tourism industry. An effective approach involves the community members in making decisions that will affect their way of life. With Responsible Tourism, travelers often enjoy otherwise remote locations while making positive contributions to the conservation of natural and cultural heritage. At times, there is also a volunteer component such as helping orphaned children, building new schools or even wildlife preservation. This is not a new idea, rather a concept that westerners learn from a very young age. We all remember that bear telling us, “only you can prevent forest fires” or the mantra of “reduce, recycle, reuse.” Teachings like these are the building blocks of sustainable tourism.

Orphaned Children - Kampala, Uganda

Responsible Tourism, or lack thereof, affects us all. When a traveler utilizes a product or resource there is always an impact, positive or negative. For instance, when researching hospitality options, travelers are often unaware that there are many “green certifiers.” These organizations serve as watchdogs of the tourism industry. Also, many tourism providers offer environmental impact plans available to the public. When a traveler purchases from a less than eco-conscious vendor it only perpetuates the problem. Unlike those companies, responsible vendors often allocate revenue to the sustainability aspect. Go Mo Places partners with individuals, companies and governments to share authentic tourism without negatively affecting the environment. We assist travelers in determining whether an option is truly sustainable or if greenwashing – appearance only, words not actions – is evident.

Mountain Splendor - Humacchuco, Peru

Sustainable tourism is literally everywhere, from your own backyard to across the globe. One only needs to have the desire and a map. There are so many options available. Imagine visiting lush tropical rain forests, arid deserts, high mountain passes and coral reefs. Now imagine returning years later with grandchildren finding the locale in same pristine condition. Responsible travelers want to help conserve the habitats and wildlife they visit. Ecotourists help preserve natural areas. Locals can sustain themselves better economically by participating in ecotourism than by, for instance, poaching animals or stripping rainforests of precious lumber.

Make New Friends - Chefchaouen, Morocco

Go Mo Places offers responsible tourism options throughout the world; in South America, Africa and Asia. Join in conservation efforts in the Galapagos Islands where 96% of the geography is declared a protected area, reachable only with a government approved guide called a Naturalist. In Africa, you can help build a school or with a community betterment program; then later enjoy a Big Five Safari or perhaps a trip to the Nile. The choices in India are vast also, from visiting many of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites to venturing away from the city life to enjoy the pristine beauty of the very remote eastern Himalayas. Bring your swimsuit for Indonesia, where temperatures are perfect year round. While there, help with the turtle hatchery program, coral reef transplantation efforts, or more UNECSO World Heritage Sites that will leave you in awe.

Now is the right time for a traveler to enjoy the benefits and contribute to ecotourism. Allow Go Mo Places to help you experience truly the trip of a lifetime. Locations are available throughout the world, in every hemisphere and in every climate. Opportunities for hands on involvement are as diverse as the communities served. Regardless of age, skill level, career path or physical ability; everyone and anyone is welcomed to participate. Share your wealth of knowledge and life experiences. The world has become a smaller place, join in the fun!

Branded with the running globe as their mascot, the name Go Mo Places seems a perfect fit. Created with her husband Garrett Olin (Go) in 2010, Miriam Olin (Mo) owns and operates Go Mo Places in Austin, Texas. The coincidence is evident, as though their love of travel was somehow transferred through their initials. Miriam has traveled the globe, is an advocate for sustainable tourism, authored articles and is always ready for the next adventure.