Trends in the International Travel Industry:
International market is changing to reflect socially, environmentally and culturally aware holiday makers. There is a market advantage, and repeat business, to be secured by enabling clients to enrich their experience and obviously extended nights at the property and locations.

IATO says that an ethical trading policy can provide both a commercial advantage and a positive marketing tool. Intrepid says on why they follow responsible tourism policies, “It helps us to meet customer demand. 52% are more likely to book a holiday with an ethical operator according to Tear Fund 2001”.

At the CSR Asia Conference in Singapore July 2006, Geoff Manchester of Intrepid said that, “Responsible Tourism spending can be very good investment. This enhances your corporate image. This has increased our PR opportunities. This helps us attract the right kind of travellers.”

Studies have shown that change is taking place in holiday maker aspirations. When asked (In the UK- market) whether or not more likely book a holiday with a company if they had a written code to guarantee good working conditions, protect the environment and support charities in the tourist destination. 1999 45% said YES 2002 52% which is a 7% increase in three years. After all this, the term Responsible Tourism brings in a google hit of 1420,000!!

Mintel International Group forecasts that by 2010 outbound UK ethical market will be 2.5m trips per year to various destinations.