The Art of Meaningful Travel
Like so many people, I wanted to do something, but the problem seemed too large and complex. Then I recalled another conversation during which I was told that the art of meaningful travel was as simple as one, two, three:
One: Listen to community elders, chiefs and leaders.
Two: Peel back the layers until you get to the actual heart of the problem.
Three: Share your Professor Google knowledge, mix it with local knowledge, and cooperatively develop localised solutions.
We all have access to case studies describing how communities have successfully tackled environmental or social woes. Exchanging such knowledge, adapting it to differing conditions/ customs, and engaging the local community, results in solutions that are achievable and lasting. You DON’T need money or expertise to help others; simply make like Nike and Just Do It!
Knowledge share
In the past year, SUP Wilderness Adventures paddlers have helped renovate four village kindies, rebuild a health clinic, develop social enterprise, engage in cultural rescue, and improve the wellbeing of thousands of villagers across the Asia-Pacific region.
In 2018, we will teach Philippine villagers how to transform Coke bottles into solar lighting, use water bottles to make air conditioning panels for huts in Vanuatu, and create clay water filters from mud in Laos.
What’s all this got to do with stand up paddle boarding? A heck of a lot as it turns out! … SUP
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Chantal Clarke is founder of SUP Wilderness Adventures and Two Llamas Environmental & Social Projects. She’s a climate change scientist, cultural anthropologist and Master Trainer in Sustainable Tourism.
More info: www.supwildernessadventures.com
