Virgin Holidays Responsible Tourism Awards 2008

Time is running out!

Nominations for this year’s Responsible Tourism Awards will close on 16 June 2008 (next Monday) so be sure to cast your vote for your favourite responsible retreat.

If you’re not already familiar with the Responsible Tourism Awards, as the name suggests, they are dedicated to rewarding individuals, companies and businesses that provide genuinely green holidays which operate in a way that respects and benefits local communities and without impacting too much on the surrounding environment.

The awards, now in their fifth year, are undoubtedly the most respected in the ecotourism industry; well, they are sponsored by Virgin, so they must be big. Receiving an award from these guys is kudos indeed.

All types of tourism are open for nomination so whether you’ve taken part in a lesser known ecotourism project, discovered a great new responsible tour operator or stayed in a new 100% carbon neutral lodge, get clicking to register your vote. There’s a a 15-day trip to India courtesy of Real World Adventures up for grabs, too, so get those fingertips tapping.

Below are the 13 award categories to help with your decision, although I can’t help noticing the distinct lack of ‘Best Eco/Responsible Tourism Blog’ (hint, hint). Maybe next year, eh?

Happy voting.

Categories

Best responsible tour operator – sponsored by The Adventure Company
Best large accommodation – sponsored by Hyatt Hotels & Resorts
Best small accommodation – sponsored by VisitBrighton
Best in a mountain environment - sponsored by Exodus
Best in a marine environment
Best responsible cruise operator *New for 2008*
Best for low carbon transport or technology – sponsored by Maison de la France
Best for conservation of endangered species or protected area – sponsored by South Australian Tourism Commission
Best for conservation of cultural heritage - sponsored by Jamaica Tourist Board
Best for poverty reduction
Best volunteering organisation
Best destination – sponsored by Conservation International
Best personal contribution

Judges

Chair: Harold Goodwin, Professor of Responsible Tourism Management at Leeds Metropolitan University & Director of the International Centre for Responsible Tourism