Responsibletravel.com expands and joins TTA

Online sustainable holidays company responsibletravel.com has set up a separate arm to promote hotels.

The company is also opening a dedicated travel agency division to book the Responsible Hotels of the World properties.

Responsibletravel.com has become a member of the Travel Trust Association to provide financial security and protection when taking bookings for both accommodations and flights.

The new collection feature on a new microsite – www.responsiblehotelsoftheworld.com and will also be marketed through the main responsibletravel.com site.

Justin Francis, managing director and co-founder of responsibletravel.com said: "When we launched in 2001 there was a definite feeling in the tourism industry that customers didn’t care about responsible tourism.

“What we have shown over the last eight years is that there is a real demand for enjoyable, authentic, locally distinctive holidays that are better for local people and environments.

“Whilst the UK remains our most popular destination, we’ve also discovered hotels around the world that are meeting this demand – providing truly unique holiday experiences whilst at the same time putting responsibility at the heart of their businesses.

"Now as a traditional travel agent we will be offering travellers a more tailor-made, personalised service, as well as passing on the best deals and looking after their travel arrangements, including flights in the process."

The 40 hotels within the Responsible Hotels of the World collection have been screened for their commitment to responsible tourism. Travellers will be asked to leave a review of these elements of their holiday when they return.

The properties are in the Caribbean, South East Asia, the Indian Ocean, Central America and East Africa and will be gradually expanded as more properties qualify.

by Phil Davies