Costa RicaTravel Guard polled travel agents to learn more about clients who are concerned about eco-tourism and “green” travel.
Environmentally friendly travel has become popular in the industry for some time, according to agents. Twenty-four percent of those who responded said that interest in green travel is currently the highest it has ever been in the last 10 years. Fifty-one percent reported that interest has remained the same throughout the time period.
The majority of the travel agents noted that the most popular eco-tourism activity among their clients is visiting historical sites, followed by wildlife activities. The least popular activities included visiting national parks and learning about local culture by attending community events or visiting villages.
Costa Rica has become known for its offerings in green travel, with almost half of travel agents noting the country as the most popular destination among clients, followed by South Africa, the Galapagos Islands, Peru and Belize.
Eco-tourism travel can be expensive and usually involves a more complicated itinerary. Travelers embarking on eco-tourism trips have a variety of concerns, most notably suffering an injury in a remote location. Other concerns included flight delays or cancellations, inclement weather, contracting a tropical or rare disease or unexpected trip cancellation.
The average age of clients booking an eco-tourism trip was over 45.
Travelers can also get involved in “voluntourism” activities after booking their trip. Volunteers can devote a day or two to participate, but fewer are most interested in trips focused solely on volunteering.
Travel Guard also offers comprehensive insurance plans that come with 24-hour assistance service. Coverage typically includes medical expenses, emergency medical transportation, trip interruption, trip cancellation, and baggage loss, delay and damage. A Cancel for Any Reason add-on that may cover travelers’ last minute trip changes, is also available.
The My Travel Guard plan even lets travelers customize and build their own plan tailored to each trip so that their trip investment is covered.
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