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The RISE Traveler: Unpacking Conversations of Sustainable Travel
Gathering scholars, activists and tourism professionals with expertise in intersectional social justice, DEI, sustainability, and decolonial theory for conversations surrounding the ethics of travel, we’re here to move a step beyond the “Instagram ready” world of travel and to think critically and deeply about how travel can uplift global communities, protect natural ecosystems, and be a source of growth for travelers.
Here at RISE Travel Institute we are committed to empowering travelers and travel professionals through education. Our programs, research, Experiential Journeys, scholarships, and free resources are all aimed at bringing you closer to a more responsible and ethical travel experience. Learn more by visiting RISETravelInstitute.org
The RISE Traveler: Unpacking Conversations of Sustainable Travel
Mini-episode! A focus on Travel Education with Steve Hesse
The RISE Travel podcast is packed with valuable insights, so we’ve pulled out some key highlights for our listeners. Alongside our full-length episodes, we’ll also release shorter ones to make it easier for everyone to find the information they need.
This mini-episode is from Season 1, Episode 5 (link for full episode). In this episode Steve Hesse, RISE Institute Board member, highlights the importance of integrating with local communities during student travel, avoiding corporate entities to support the local economy. He describes cultural exchange activities with local schools, highlighting the joy and intensity of cross-cultural connections, even with language barriers.
Steve also shares personal anecdotes, such as a transformative experience at the Taj Mahal and a chance encounter in Japan that led to meeting his partner. He also discusses the challenges of cultural misunderstandings, using an example from India to illustrate the need for awareness and respect for local customs and social norms.
Website: https://www.risetravelinstitute.org
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