Social Responsibility
Supporting Local Business
At WV, we believe that when traveling abroad, the majority of the money spent should benefit and remain within the local economy.
To support this, we prioritize using locally owned and operated restaurants and accommodations. In established project locations like Luang Prabang, we have built strong relationships with local guesthouses and restaurants. In new project areas, we make every effort to select locally-run businesses, and if local options are not immediately available, we work toward sourcing everything locally over time. This approach not only aligns with our ethical values but also enriches the travel experience by offering deeper insight into local culture.
Throughout our trips, our experienced guides and trip leaders engage participants in discussions on responsible tourism and the positive impact of making thoughtful, ethical travel choices.
Commitment To Animal Welfare
WV is committed to partnering exclusively with organizations dedicated to conservation and prioritizing the welfare of animals. Before forming any partnerships, WV’s senior staff thoroughly evaluates potential organizations to ensure alignment with our ethics, values, and mission.
WV does not support or engage with any organization or tour that puts animals at risk, causes harm, or contributes to the exploitation of wildlife. While some popular attractions may offer seemingly harmless shows, interactions, or rides, they often involve significant suffering for the animals involved. In Chiang Mai, we have for example partnered with a “hands-off” sanctuary that prioritizes the well-being of the elephants above all.
WV is dedicated to educating our participants about responsible tourism practices. During our trips, trip leaders and guides actively engage with participants to raise awareness about ethical issues and trends in the tourism industry that they may not have previously considered.
Global Efforts & Solutions
WV partners with community projects in multiple countries, and our programs are designed to support the UN Sustainable Development Goals. While the impact of our projects may seem small from a global perspective, community development thrives on participation. The more people are engaged, educated, and involved in addressing global issues, the faster we can make meaningful progress.
WV trips play a key role in this process. We focus on educating participants about the challenges our projects address and emphasize our commitment to an environmentally sustainable approach to development. Many of our projects require significant effort, with larger initiatives taking up to two years to complete. This reflects our belief that lasting change requires time, participation, and the contribution of many.
