Planeterra, the non-profit partner of G Adventures, has completed ‘Project 100’ – its initiative to partner with 100 community tourism projects around the world.
As well as operating as standalone enterprises, the projects will be available to visit on G Adventures’ tours in 2021 and beyond.
Project 100 was announced in 2015 by Bruce Poon Tip, the founder of Planeterra and G Adventures, with a five-year mission to support 100 community tourism enterprises.
As it announced funding for the final 10 projects, Planeterra also unveiled its ‘Home for the Holidays’ fundraising campaign which aims to raise $15,000 by the end of 2020.
Communities around the world that rely on tourism have had almost a year without income, so the money raised can help with training and support as the projects prepare to welcome travellers back in 2021.
Poon Tip said: “We were determined to complete Project 100 this year as these communities are going to need travellers more than ever following the devastating impact of the global pandemic.
“Most travellers know what an incredible experience it is to eat at a community-run restaurant, to buy souvenirs directly from an artisan, or to empower a women’s business in the travel industry.”
All 100 projects in 57 countries can be viewed on Planeterra’s website, where donations can also be made to assist all community tourism partners. The final 10 projects to be completed are:
• Turismo Comunitario Urari (pictured) in Boquete, Panama – providing jobs hosting travellers on tours and at the community-owned restaurant, cocoa farm, and lodge.
• Galapagos Coffee Tour.
• Cafe Reconcile, New Orleans, US – providing mentorship and support for at-risk youth.
• Wise Greece in Athens – selling locally-made products, with income being invested into purchasing food for homeless shelters, refugee organisations and others in need.
• No Limits Cafe in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia – training centre for young adults with Down syndrome.
• Isla Maciel, Buenos Aires, Argentina – tour experience working to break the stigma associated with the area, while providing youth with opportunities to gain skills in tourism.
• Driver Srey, Siem Reap, Cambodia – a women-owned tuk-tuk enterprise.
• Alebrijes Zoologico Magico, Oaxaca, Mexico – a women-owned cooperative dedicated to preserving the zapoteca culture.
• Machanents Tourism & Art Centre, Yerevan, Armenia – restaurant and art gallery whose revenue supports a non-profit art programme serving 400 children.
• Good Work Foundation, Hazyview, South Africa – cafe hosting a training program for at-risk youth.