Phuket often gets a reputation for being busy—and yes, it absolutely can be. Lively beach towns, buzzing nightlife, and packed streets are part of its appeal for some travellers. But when you’re travelling with a toddler, the key to enjoying Phuket is simple - choose the right resort location.

Do that well, and Phuket becomes a wonderfully easy, sunny and memorable family destination. Get it wrong, and it can feel overwhelming very quickly.

Phuket is Thailand’s largest island, and that means variety. While areas like Patong are famous for their energy, there are also peaceful stretches of coastline where life slows right down. These quieter areas are ideal for families, offering calm beaches, gentle seas, and resorts designed with space and comfort in mind.

We always recommend looking at Phuket’s quieter northwest coast or secluded bays away from the main tourist centres. These areas offer more peaceful beachfront settings, resorts with large gardens and often private beach access as well as a shorter airport transfer. Traffic in Phuket can be very hectic especially in peak hours and no one needs unnecessary stress on a holiday!

You still have easy access to Phuket Old Town, markets and boat trips—but you return at the end of the day to somewhere calm and restorative.

On our recent trip, we stayed in two carefully chosen resorts that showed us just how family-friendly Phuket can be when you base yourself in the right areas.

First, we stayed at SAii Laguna Phuket and it ticked so many boxes for travelling with a toddler. It makes an immediate impression from the moment you arrive. The open, light-filled lobby has a real wow factor with sweeping views across the sea.

One of the biggest highlights is the location. SAii Laguna sits right on Bang Tao Beach, which is wide, sandy, and very child-friendly. Bang Tao offers a rare combination in Phuket: a beautiful, wide beach, walkable restaurants, stylish beach clubs and a relaxed atmosphere that still feels connected.

The grounds are expansive and immaculately maintained, offering plenty of space to stroll, relax or let little ones play safely. The lagoon system that winds through the resort not only adds to the scenery but also allows guests to use the charming lagoon shuttle boats. It’s such a fun and relaxing way to get around—and our toddler absolutely loved it. A commute that absolutely doubles as an activity! We particularly liked out visit to the Canal village - a selection of restaurants and boutique shops right by the water!

This is genuinely a fantastic family resort. Their ground-floor rooms offer direct access to grassy areas or the beach—perfect for letting kids roam and burn off energy. The beach is calm and safe, making paddling and sand play easy and stress-free. The pool water slide was an absolute hit! Our toddler wanted to go again and again and it quickly became the highlight of every day.

The staff were consistently kind, attentive, and genuinely welcoming to families. Breakfast was another standout—an impressive selection with plenty of choice for both adults and little ones.

For the second part of our Phuket stay, we chose The Slate—and it could not have been a more perfect contrast. Located near Nai Yang Beach, just minutes from the airport yet feeling wonderfully secluded, The Slate offers a rare sense of calm in an otherwise lively island.

This is a resort we confidently recommend to clients seeking something truly distinctive: a place where design, nature and tranquillity come together beautifully.

What makes The Slate unique is its bold, industrial-meets-nature design, inspired by Phuket’s tin-mining heritage. The resort feels like a living art gallery, with fascinating details around every corner.

What we liked the the most is its lush, natural setting that feels calm and immersive, atmospheric fire pits lit in the evenings and thoughtfully designed suites and villas that feel private and serene. 

Resort villas deserve a special mention. They are truly exceptional and easily among the most spacious I have seen at any resort worldwide. Designed as private sanctuaries, each villa offers an extraordinary sense of space and seclusion, with a large private swimming pool, generous garden and beautifully designed outdoor areas. What truly sets them apart is the inclusion of a private spa within the villa itself, complete with space for two massage beds, a sauna and a steam room—an indulgent feature rarely found even in the world’s finest resorts. With separate living and bedroom pavilions, the villas provide both privacy and flexibility, making them ideal for guests who value space, comfort and understated luxury. Surprisingly, the cost was very affordable too!

Our Pearl suite was excellent also—spacious, beautifully designed and incredibly peaceful with its private outdoor space . It felt like a sanctuary, and after busy days in Phuket, returning to such a calm environment was priceless.

The breakfast here was, once again, outstanding—easily among the best we experienced on the trip. The staff were warm, friendly and genuinely welcoming.

The iconic Black Ginger restaurant, reached by ferry across a lagoon, is an experience in itself and will be a highlight of any stay.

When it comes to location, the resort is ideally positioned in a vibrant yet convenient area, with a wide range of dining, shopping and leisure options right on the doorstep. 

The Slate is one of those rare resorts that leaves a lasting impression. 

Phuket isn’t about avoiding the crowds entirely—it’s about knowing where to stay. A well-chosen resort transforms the experience from overwhelming to effortless.

Maryna and her family travelled to Thailand in November 2024. We specialise in matching families with the right resorts in Thailand. Please email

Or call us on Tel: 0208675 7878 to discuss your perfect stay !

photo credit Marina Shcherbakova, SAii Laguna Phuket, The Slate

Thailand is often celebrated for its buzzing beaches and lively tourist hubs—but when you’re travelling with a toddler, serenity becomes priceless. 

That’s why our recent twin-centre adventure to Koh Lanta and Koh Jum was the perfect blend of peaceful island life, authentic Thai culture, and family-friendly luxury.

These islands remain blissfully untouched compared to Thailand’s more crowded hotspots. Think quiet beaches, friendly locals and a calm pace of life. They’re ideal for families seeking rest, nature, and meaningful experiences.

Our stay began at the award-winning Pimalai Resort, a stunning eco-conscious retreat tucked into lush jungle overlooking a pristine beach. It’s the kind of place where you instantly exhale. It somehow manages to feel both luxurious and super relaxed. How about a sunset happy hour on the beach where the shoes are optional?

We had the chance to experience two room categories. The first one was a Deluxe room - perfect for families with little ones, these rooms are just steps from the beach, restaurants, and pools. Spacious, comfortable, and incredibly convenient—loading up on beach toys or popping back when you’ve forgotten a sun hat for the 17th time was incredibly easy!

Our Hillside One Bedroom Pool villa was nothing short of breathtaking. Perched above the treetops, it offered panoramic views, huge indoor and outdoor space, a private pool and total privacy. The villa’s expansive layout gave us plenty of room to relax once our toddler was asleep—an underrated perk for parents! Resort buggies were readily available and it only took a few minutes getting to the main facilities of the resort. 

The staff were exceptionally warm, attentive, and genuinely kind to our little one. Every restaurant offered something delicious—fresh seafood, Thai favourites, Western dishes as well as wonderful kid-friendly options. Our favourite was Rak Talay Beachfront restaurant - we could eat in peace while our son played in the sand nearby. 

As a certified sustainable resort, Pimalai ensures all this luxury remains eco-friendly.

A small village just outside the resort offers local restaurants, shops, and a chance to experience daily island life.

A highlight of our trip was the resort’s luxury boat tour to Koh Haa, a cluster of islands famous for crystal-clear waters and vibrant marine life. We snorkelled over colourful reefs, spotted tropical fish, and soaked up the tranquillity. The day ended with drinks and canapés on board as the sun dipped into the sea—a magical memory for parents, even if the toddler enjoyed mostly snacks and sea breezes!

Our second experience was the Following Giants tour. This experience was deeply meaningful as this is an ethical no-touch, no-ride elephant sanctuary. We watched rescued elephants roam freely in their natural habitat. Each elephant had its own story and character. Observing these gentle giants simply being themselves—eating, walking, socialising—was incredibly moving and a wonderful way to introduce a child to wildlife conservation.

After Koh Lanta, we boarded a speedboat to Koh Jum, a peaceful, authentic island that feels like stepping back in time. Quiet, rustic, and wonderfully untouched, Koh Jum is perfect for travellers wanting a deep connection with nature and is only 30 min away by speedboat from Koh Lanta. It was the perfect amount of time—not long enough for a toddler meltdown, but long enough for us to feel adventurous.

We stayed at Koh Jum Beach Villas, a true nature-lover’s paradise. From the moment we arrived, the experience felt thoughtful and personal. The resort grows much of its produce in its own vegetable garden, and we were welcomed into our villa with a plate of the freshest papaya, a simple yet lovely touch that immediately set the tone for our stay.

The resort blends seamlessly with the tropical forest, with luxury villas located just steps from the beach.  

Our Pool Villa was spacious and serene. A separate kitchen located in its own standalone building was very convenient, making longer stays especially comfortable.

This villa was ideal for our toddler, who loved splashing and playing in the private pool throughout the day. The pool was a true full-size swimming pool, generous enough for proper laps as well as relaxed family time.

Wellness is another highlight here. I enjoyed an excellent Thai massage for just 800 baht, offering remarkable value and an experience that easily rivals treatments at far more expensive resorts. 

At night, the resort transforms into something truly special. We wandered the pathways with a torch, surrounded by the sounds of the forest and gentle waves in the distance. It felt intimate, immersive, and completely unique.

Sustainability is central to everything they do at Koh Jum Beach Villas. The pools use a sea water chlorinator, which is healthier and more eco-friendly. The resort is deeply committed to environmental protection, making it a fantastic choice for conscious travellers.

Time slowed down here. We spent our days playing on the beach, exploring small villages, and enjoying the simplicity of island life—no crowds, no rush, just pure relaxation. Our time on Koh Jum was a perfect example of why this island is such a special recommendation for clients seeking space, authenticity and relaxed luxury. It is a destination we confidently recommend to clients looking to slow down, reconnect with nature and enjoy Thailand at its most peaceful.

This trip was the perfect mix of adventure, comfort, and child-friendly chaos. 

Maryna travelled to Thailand in November 2025. If you’re dreaming of Thailand but worried it’ll be too busy or too stressful with a little one—let us

help you, Please email or call us on Tel 02086757878 to discuss your perfect Island!

photo credit Marina Shcherbakova, Pimalai Resort and Koh Jum Beach Villas

I’m sitting on my towel in the sauna at the Alpiana hotel in the beautiful South Tyrol. Its Aufguss world championships and our Aufguss facilitator, Patricia, is a Slovakian who has chosen some beautiful music to perform to.

When I first experienced Aufguss, I was amazed by how it engaged all my senses. This unique sauna ritual lasts about 15 minutes, but it feels like a complete journey. The Aufguss master, with practiced skill, uses water and a towel to move the heat around the sauna, creating an ever-changing atmosphere.

There are six elements that make each session special.

• Heat: The temperature rises until I can feel my heart getting faster and a rush of endorphins flood my body, leaving me both energized and relaxed.

• Essential oils: The air fills with wonderful scents, each chosen for their unique benefits, and I find myself breathing more deeply.

• Towel work: Watching the master’s graceful towel movements is almost hypnotic—there’s a real artistry to it that I never expected.

• Lighting and ambience: The sauna can be bathed in soft natural light, other times in dramatic colours, each setting a different mood.

• Music: The towel’s movements are perfectly timed to the music, turning the whole experience into a performance that I feel very privileged to witness.

• Style: Ultimately, it’s the Aufguss master’s personal touch that brings everything together, guiding us through a ritual that feels both communal and deeply individual.

Every time I took part, I was reminded how powerful these simple elements can be when combined with care and intention. It’s more than just a sauna—it’s a moment of connection, relaxation, and sensory delight.

As sauna participants settle in, some closing their eyes, others simply listening as Patricia begins her performance. With practiced movements, she wafts the hot air using a small towel, synchronizing each gesture with the music. Nearby, a wooden bucket holds three ice balls, each infused with a different essential oil. Patricia uses a large ladle to place the ice balls onto the heated plates, releasing waves of bergamot, rosemary, and citrus into the air. The aroma mingles with the music, creating a truly immersive atmosphere.

My last Alpiana Aufguss session, aptly named “Taste of Summer,” is a sensory delight. I find myself smiling, fully absorbed in the harmonious blend of sound and scent. The air circulates just enough to keep me comfortable throughout, allowing me to enjoy the experience from start to finish.

As the session ends, I step into the iced water dipping pool, feeling instantly refreshed. Afterwards, we gather for Farmers Tea, a fragrant blend served with fresh fruit—a perfect conclusion to our shared ritual.

Discovering that the Alpiana and other Dolce Vita Hotels in the region offer this unique ritual to their guests made the experience all the more memorable. Trust me, you will want to try it!

There are many activities on offer at the Alpiana as well as sauna and cold dips. There is a weekly programme for guests – morning hikes, yoga, Pilates, chestnut roasting, meditation, and aqua gym – the list goes on….

There are guided walks as well as cycle paths to wander along. The countryside was a welcome respite from the busy city I live in. I enjoyed exploring the locality - chestnut groves, apple orchards, churches, and forests - a mixture of culture and nature. Just breathing in the fresh air made me feel so good.

Fun fact, I learnt that South Tyrol is the largest supplier of organic apples in the whole EU: some 25 % of all of the organic apples grown in Europe originate from South Tyrol.

Staying at the Alpiana, with its choice of outdoor pools, (for those who know me) will understand that I was in my element – cold water immersion, swims, followed by sauna. The hotel has a wonderful spa too, offering treatments to guests. The restaurant offers culinary delights – headed by chef Arnold Nussbaumer. Dishes are served by the team who are extremely attentive and professional. I loved the fusion of Tyrolean and Italian dishes.

The Alpiana is the perfect place for a retreat. The staff are incredibly friendly with the Margesin family actively working within the property. Would I return? In a heartbeat.

 Karen stayed at the Alpiana in South Tyrol in November 2025 courtesy of Dolce Vita Hotels.  Please email or call us on Tel 0208 675 7878 to discuss your stay. We will share ideas of getting there and combining a break with other places.   

Images credit to Dolce Vita Hotels & Karen Simmonds

At the southernmost tip of Mexico's Baja California peninsula, where the Pacific Ocean meets the Sea of Cortez, you’ll find Los Cabos – a destination that manages to be both wild and luxurious. It's the sort of place where you might spot a whale breaching from the infinity pool of your five-star resort or sip a mezcal cocktail while watching pelicans dive-bomb for their dinner. What makes Los Cabos exceptional? While the Yucatan certainly has its charms (and I do love Tulum and Holbox), the beaches in Los Cabos are on another level entirely - pristine, less crowded, and framed by dramatic rock formations that create the most spectacular backdrop to every photo.

Marine Life

Los Cabos is a marine biologist's dream. The waters surrounding the peninsula host approximately 80% of the world's aquatic mammals – a statistic that becomes quite awe-inspiring when you're watching a humpback whale and her calf breach just offshore during breakfast (which I am assured happens regularly during the season).

Whale watching here apparently isn't the squinting-at-distant-splashes you might have experienced elsewhere. During the season (December to April), boat tours are plentiful, but my top tip is to simply watch from shore – particularly from the cliff-side restaurant at Esperanza Resort, where the food somehow manages to live up to the Attenborough moments happening in the waters below.

Beyond the Beach: Mountains, Golf Courses and Adventures

While the sea is the star attraction, Los Cabos offers surprising depth for the adventurous visitor. The Sierra de la Laguna mountains provide waterfalls, off roading and hiking trails with views that rival those from any infinity pool.

For golf enthusiasts, the courses here border on the ridiculous in their beauty. The Pamilla Golf Club features 27 holes, each seemingly competing with the next for the most spectacular view over the Sea of Cortez. Even as someone who considers golf a good walk spoiled, I found myself constantly reaching for my camera as I was shown around the course.

Accommodation: From Treehouses to All-Inclusive Luxury

The accommodation options in Los Cabos range from the luxurious to the fascinatingly unique. Acre stands out in the latter category – a property featuring treehouses, villas and casitas set within an oasis of palm trees. The property operates its own organic farm, supplying the excellent restaurant, and cookery school (where I helped to whip up a lunch of local delicacies including the most amazing ceviche) and also rescues puppies. Yes, actual puppies!!

If, like me, you believe that one pool is never enough, Auberge Resorts Chileno Bay will feel like aquatic heaven. The property features three cascading pools, thoughtfully designed for different demographics: one for children (safely distant from my cocktail), one for families, and one adults-only sanctuary where I spent most of my time.

The afternoon floating margarita bar deserves special mention – serving mini margaritas and Pina coladas. I requested (purely for research purposes) one of each and can confirm that they are perfectly made and easily consumed while floating in the warm water and enjoying the spectacular views.

If I had to choose one resort that captures everything magical about Los Cabos, it would be Montage Los Cabos. This is the rare gem that ticks every single box on your luxury wish list.

The food here is nothing short of legendary - think tuna tostadas, jumbo prawns, perfect steaks and of course the most spectacular ocean views. Though what sets Montage apart from many Los Cabos properties is its swimmable beach - a true rarity in this dramatic coastline where most beaches are better admired than entered. Here, you can actually enjoy the gentle waves with your morning coffee or afternoon cocktail.

The rooms are just gorgeous. Each suite feels like your own private sanctuary with interiors that blend contemporary Mexican design with coastal elegance.

For those who prefer their luxury all-inclusive, Grand Velas offers rooms that all face the sea (so no awkward conversations at check-in about "garden views"), and remarkably, includes a Michelin-starred restaurant in the all-inclusive plan. Imagine ordering a Michelin star tasting menu without mentally calculating the damage on your credit card with each course.

Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, culinary exploration or simply the perfect pool-side margarita, Los Cabos delivers with a distinctly Mexican blend of warmth, luxury and natural beauty. Just be prepared for the possibility that, like me, you might find yourself googling "can I run a travel business from Mexico?"

My advice for the perfect trip: A couple of days in Mexico City en route. Even just 24 hours in this vibrant metropolis will be a perfect complement to your beach escape. The contrast between the capital's urban energy and Los Cabos' natural splendour creates a balanced Mexican experience that will leave you understanding why I'm so madly in love with this country.

 If you are planning your trip to Mexico, contact Jacky.

( This blog has been written by Jacky Bowman, Travel Matters Travel Advisor. She visited Mexico in September 2025. For more information and details about your

next holiday, please make an Enquiry today!)

The Maldives hardly need an introduction. No matter how many times you visit, that buzz of excitement never really fades. Each island has something different to offer, and this time, I was off to explore Baa Atoll — one of the best areas for diving and spotting majestic manta rays. It’s also conveniently close to Malé, with just a short 35-minute seaplane ride to reach Amilla Resort, located in the UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve.

Our adventure began on a private yacht ride from a nearby island — already a pretty dreamy start. From the moment we arrived, Amilla had this lovely mix of laid-back luxury and genuine connection to nature. We were welcomed by one of the friendliest faces, Liyaz, who showed us around and helped us get familiar with everything the island has to offer.

We kicked things off with a snorkel around the island’s vibrant house reef, gliding alongside colourful fish and corals. Afterwards, we unwound at the Javvu Spa, where we tried a sound healing session —think gentle vibrations from Tibetan singing bowls and gongs that relax you completely. It was a unique experience and set the tone for a few days of total bliss. The spa menu at Javvu was very impressive, offering everything from massages and body wraps to reflexology, using natural products.

What makes Amilla stand out is how closely it’s connected to its surroundings. Strolling through the Mystique Garden, we saw where much of the resort’s produce comes from — banana trees, sweet potatoes, hydroponic greens, and even mushrooms ! Amilla also has a brilliant Homemade@Amilla initiative. Almost everything is made on-site — nut milks, kombucha, yoghurt, jams, even natural Spa products. Coconuts from the island’s grove are turned into oil, cream, and vinegar at The Nut, and even the breakfast eggs come fresh from their own chickens.

Here, sustainability isn’t just a slogan — it’s a way of life. The UN(do) the Harm recycling hub ensures almost nothing goes to waste. Glass is crushed and reused, food waste is composted, and plastics are sent off for recycling through Parley for the Oceans. Water is made on the island using reverse osmosis and bottled in reusable glass — no plastic bottles in sight. Even toothpaste comes in tablets ! Pretty impressive, I must say - A growing portion of the resort’s energy also comes from solar panels, helping reduce its carbon footprint.

Amilla feels wonderfully wild and natural, more like a tropical jungle than a manicured resort. With 2,500 coconut trees and a few 400-year-old banyan trees, it’s full of life. Standing in the middle of the greenery, you almost forget you’re on a tiny island surrounded by the ocean. Unlike some resorts that pack in too many unused facilities, Amilla keeps things natural and peaceful while still offering plenty to keep even the most active guests entertained— and we loved that. There’s a fully equipped fitness centre — with an outdoor option for those who prefer not to lose that nature connection — as well as multiple sports courts, tennis, event spaces, and even glamping under the stars. The surrounding reef is in great condition ( one of the best in the Maldives ! ), offering some of the best snorkelling we’ve experienced straight off shore. We spotted turtles, stingrays, reef sharks and endless colourful fish. Even when the weather turned and cancelled our guided snorkelling trip, we still managed to enjoy the reef straight from our Water Villa.

Let’s not forget the dining — it’s on an entirely different level. We had the pleasure of dining at five different restaurants, and each was a blissful experience in its own way. From the vibrant Greek flavours and delicious meze at Tessera, to the perfectly grilled beef medallions, the rich golden masalas at East, and the freshest, most delicate sushi at Feeling Koi — every meal felt special. With so many dining options to explore, discovering your favourite becomes a delightful activity in itself.

As ocean lovers, we were impressed by Amilla’s coral regeneration project. Coral fragments are carefully attached to frames and replanted to help rebuild the reef. Guests can even “adopt” a coral frame and receive updates on how it’s growing — a lovely touch that keeps you connected to the Maldives long after you return home.

We stayed in a House Reef Villa, which meant we could go snorkelling right from our veranda — quite literally rolling out of bed, coffee in hand, and diving into crystal-clear water. The villa was spacious, beautifully designed, and full of thoughtful touches. Just picture-perfect paradise! Amilla offers a wide range of villas, from reef and sunset villas to Beach Pool Villas and even unique Treetop Villas — which are now firmly on our wish list for next time! They are by far one of the most spacious villas we have seen, which can easily accommodate the entire family.

Amilla’s idea of sustainability goes beyond the environment. The resort supports nearby islands by donating palm trees, showcasing local crafts, and even hosting school visits to its football academy. We also loved how inclusive it is — several villas are adapted for wheelchair users, and staff are trained to support guests with hidden disabilities. Everyone is welcome to experience this little paradise.

Our stay at Amilla felt like so much more than just a beach holiday. It served as a reminder that luxury and responsibility can indeed go hand in hand. From snorkelling with marine life to sound healing at the spa, every experience was mindful and full of care. We left with beautiful memories — but also with inspiration from Amilla’s thoughtful approach to sustainability. And honestly, that’s the best souvenir you can take home.

Monika travelled to the Maldives in May 2025 with Saranta Associates – Travel Matter partners.

So, if you’re thinking about visiting the Maldives, don’t miss exploring its most breathtaking atolls and islands. Contact Travel Matters today, and we will advise you on the best island for your needs.

(This blog has been written by Monika, Travel Matters’ Senior Travel Advisor. She visited the Maldives in May 2025. For more information and details about your next holiday, please make an Enquiry today!)

It’s a vital migration highway that follows the Cocos Ridge connecting the Galapagos Islands, Ecuador with Cocos island, Costa Rica. One of our Make Travel Matter charity partners, Galapagos Conservation Trust (GCT) has been supporting the creation of the proposed Galapagos-Cocos Swimway protected area since 2018, by helping their science partners gather important evidence needed to drive forward the creation of this 240,000 km2 route, which is critical for conserving endangered Galapagos marine species.

Photo credit to Migramar

This May saw the launch of the 2021 Galapagos-Cocos Swimway expedition. It has an expert team of scientists gathering evidence to support the protection of this vital Swimway. They started in Costa Rica, travelled down to Cocos Island National Park and down the Swimway to the Galapagos Islands. Alongside this, GCT are running a virtual Swimway Challenge which is encouraging people to walk, run, swim, cycle or wheelchair the length of the Swimway whilst raising awareness and funds. We are signed up! 700 miles of swimming, (mostly) and cycling + walking. You can give here if you feel inclined!

The Galapagos Islands offer an enriching, once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see various animals and marine life in their natural habitats. We send clients to the Islands, which were studied by Charles Darwin and inspired him with his Theory of Evolution, as well as visiting Ecuador.  This image below though shows a different story, right?

Photo credit to Fu Yuan Yu Leng 999 in 2017 Galapagos National Park

The Galapagos Conservation Trust is one of our charity partners. As part of our Make Travel Matter campaign, we have supported them in various ways. Travel Matters have accepted the challenge and created a team for the Virtual Swimway. I am an avid fan of open water swimming and despite not being able to be in the Galapagos to support this project, I believe we can create more awareness about this crucial passage for the protection of the marine life. You can follow here on our fundraising page and support the team members who are swimming, walking and cycling the equivalent distance of 700 miles. I am making the most of my membership to the UK’s largest outdoor swimming pool - the Tooting Lido. Currently 13 degrees water temperature, you can’t stay in long but I’m totalling up the lengths with my team mates! My other team members are using Brockwell Lido and Charlton Lido - both in London. Please do support us if you can!

Tooting Lido, London - where most of my swimming is taking place.

Tourism is the largest employer on the Galapagos Islands making up over 80% of the economy. In 2019, over 270,000 people visited Galapagos. In 2020, this dropped to 72,000 – a massive 73% decline. Vital scientific research will be severely impacted because of the decline. The Galapagos Islands is a volcanic archipelago in the Pacific Ocean. It's considered one of the world's foremost destinations for wildlife-viewing. The incredible diversity of wildlife found in Galapagos is what makes this volcanic archipelago so very special.

We hope when international travel resumes safely from the UK and when people consider travelling to this breathtaking natural region of the world, that they will enquire about possible ways to support this vital work for generations to come.

And just to remind you, we are supporters of the Future of Tourism coalition, who’s Guiding Principles provide a clear moral and business imperative for building a healthier tourism industry while protecting the places and people on which it depends. Our participation of the Swimway Challenge is one clear demonstration of these principles.

Future of Tourism supporter

This guest blog was written by Tricia Barnett, Director of Equality in Tourism.

Equality in Tourism believes tourism should be fairer for women. We are a charity working to put gender on the agenda of global tourism. We want women all over the world to enjoy equal benefits of tourism, because in general they don’t. It’s not at all unusual for women to be working at the in the least well paid jobs with little opportunities for training. For example, a housekeeper in an award winning eco hotel in a country like Sri Lanka or Kenya might just earn £1 a day. She also might be struggling with a split shift, which means she hardly gets to see her children. But there are all sorts of ways that women can benefit from tourism and it’s so normal to see women selling their handicrafts or opening their homes for visitors to stay. For many of these women, tourism has been empowering.

Women farmers in Tanzania

But there are also people who live in successful tourism destinations who live in a parallel universe and have no idea how they might benefit from the visitors who are in a separate bubble. Equality in Tourism has our own path breaking project in the Kilimanjaro region of Tanzania. So many people come to climb the iconic mountain, but all around are impoverished families living a subsistence life. Many of these are farmers, and in Tanzania as elsewhere in the world, it is women who are the farmers. 

Four years ago we began work with a local women’s empowerment organisation, KWIECO ww.kwieco.com 

to train the most marginalised farming women in better farming methods, farming as a business, entrepreneurship and women’s empowerment. The objective was to help them create a co-operative which would supply the many local hotels and lodges with quality fruit and vegetables. Before training, they competed with each other in the market place to sell their produce to dealers. Prices were very low. So low, that when we first began work with the women and started a microfinance scheme, some couldn’t even save 30 pence.

Our business plan showed that the co-operative, Wamboma: Women Farming for Their Future, would be self sufficient in three years. They opened a shop. But then climate change created floods and drought that destroyed three crops. We raised money and now they have industrial sized greenhouses, drip irrigation, tanks and pumps. 

We were back on our feet. Until Covid-19 closed all the hotels and tourism came to a halt. 

We have always operated on a shoestring. But now we are stuck. The women are back in the market place and not getting the cost of their labour back as they sell at low prices once again. Having saved brilliantly and made use of their loans to send their children to university or buy a sowing machine or improve their farms, they can no longer save. What is such an important asset though, is that they have, for the first time in their lives, food security. 

We have had to think on our feet and the women would like to be trained to dry their produce and – a very western suggestion – to create farm boxes. All of this needs investment for training and equipment and a website, so we need to fundraise again. 

The results have been life changing. We would love to take the learning and share it elsewhere where women farm and tourism is a key industry.

Tricia at a weekly meeting in Namwai

The women, who were the most marginalised in their communities, are now sought out for their advice. They are managing the shop and their savings and their production. They are working together. They are challenging their men to support them better and are being supported to fight against gender based violence that has been rampant. It is quite wonderful to hear from the women how the project has changed their lives. Before the pandemic, a big adventure operator was organising for their tours to come to the villages and meet the women and see what they’ve achieved and to buy their produce. 

One day, perhaps you will be able to as well. You would be very welcome. 

Tricia Barnett 

www.equalityintourism.org 

Director 

Equality in Tourism