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Here's the 10 most recent posts:
I’ve been noticing that flights to classic charter destinations like Greece seem to depart insanely early in the morning lately. I’m talking 5–7 am takeoffs that basically require getting up in the middle of the night. I get that airlines want to maximize aircraft usage and avoid congestion later in the day, but it still feels extreme compared to how it used to be. For me this is a real downside, because I almost pick destinations based on flight times alone. I really hate starting a trip already exhausted from lack of sleep, especially when it’s supposed to be a relaxing holiday.
Is this something others are seeing too, or is it mainly a Sweden thing? I’d be curious to hear if travelers from other countries are also dealing with these super-early charter departures, or if you’re still getting more humane flight times elsewhere.
I really wish the Swedish charter companies would let you filter trips by departure time on their websites, because for me that alone can be the deciding factor when choosing where to go.
We're excited to share that Nomad Stays has acquired RemoteCasa, creating the world’s largest specialist digital nomad accommodation network in Latin America.
Adding over 1,000 new verified properties across 16 cities in Mexico, Colombia, and Argentina, setting the stage for more options on the global category-defining platform.
RemoteCasa (www.remotecasa.co) built an incredible supply network and passionate community across Latin America — regions where nomads truly thrive. Bringing their 1,000+ properties and local relationships into our ecosystem gives us instant scale in Latin America and moves us closer to a world where digital nomads can quickly find professional, affordable, suitable temporary home bases to explore from without compromising their online work.
For nomad travelers, this integration delivers immediate benefits:
-1,000+ new verified listings across 16 nomad cities in Mexico, Colombia, and Argentina
-Flexible pricing tiers — from budget-friendly apartments to premium work-friendly homes
-Nomad-first standards:high-speed WiFi, dedicated workspaces, and community-rich environments
-Instant booking through the Nomad Stays platform, ensuring efficiency, reliability and transparency
For property partners, the opportunity dramatically expands their global exposure — connecting them to Nomad Stays’ 30,000-50,000 monthly active users, and up to 600,000 monthly AI Agent requests, deep data-rich technology, and a global network of professional remote workers seeking medium- and long-term accommodation.
For host countries, having a dependable partner servicing a lucrative multi-month traveler market means they can easily expand their destination marketing campaigns for maximum economic gains without resorting to high-volume short-stay tourists.
"This acquisition marks the culmination of RemoteCasa's mission to connect nomads with incredible destinations across 16 cities,” said Dan Lawrence, CEO and Co-Founder of RemoteCasa. “We set out to give independent professionals real homes, real connections, and real belonging in Latin America. Now, through Nomad Stays’ established platform and global footprint, that vision scales to a worldwide audience.”
Read the full media release at www.nomadstays.com/mediarelease/Nomad-Stays-Acquires-RemoteCasa
Hi Mark and team, congrats on the acquisition!
Will the RemoteCasa website and brand continue to operate under Nomad Stays? When will the integration be completed?
Thanks Ian.
At this stage we won't continue the RemoteCasa brand in its own right but we are keeping, and growing, the Nomad Brunch Club brand and meetups.
We may end up repurposing the RemoteCasa brand for some new ideas down the track, or even a specialty microsite but right now we're hoping the new rooms can be onboarded fully into the main Nomad Stays site within 6 weeks.
Moving fast is the name of the game as we've got a lot of demand to satisfy.
Hi, I'm Rebecca
I was wondering if anyone has got any tips on T&Cs?
I've been asked to provide some for a proposal to take UK school groups out on excursions that include activities and short hikes in Spain (with their teachers).
I'd be grateful for any advice!
Thanks
Here's a fun 24/7 live stream of Las Vegas's Harry Reid International Airport (LAS) featuring flight arrivals and departures, from flight tracking website FlightRadar24.
The fully automated live stream features views of aircraft arriving and departing on runways 26R and 26L, and combines live ATC (Air Traffic Control) communications with overlays of each aircraft.
www.youtube.com/watch?v=cn8_34TuMaM
While you're watching, here are some fun facts about Las Vegas Airport:
• LAS is the 5th busiest airport globally for aircraft movements
• 2024 saw 58.4 million passengers use the airport (an all time record)
• 93% of passengers are domestic, 7% international
• A world-record setting 1958 Cessna 172 hangs above baggage claim in Terminal 1 for setting the world endurance record in 1959 by staying airborne for over 64 days.
• Due to shifting magnetic poles, runways 7L/25R and 7R/25L were renamed to 8L/26R and 8R/26L in 2017.
More about this project and how they built it over on FlightRadar24's blog: www.flightradar24.com/blog/inside-flightradar24/live-from-las-vegas-our-first-automated-live-stream/
I had no idea there was a live stream of the Vegas airport. Very cool.
This is such a great idea!
My wife and I just got back from an amazing trip to Long Island in the Bahamas. There were no direct flights so we flew into Nassau and then took a propeller plane to Long Island. We had almost every beach to ourselves because of the small population and lack of direct flights. If you're looking for secluded beaches, you should add Long Island to your list of places to visit.
Awesome video!
Thanks so much Joy! We had an amazing time exploring this remote island.
Isometric NYC is a giant online isometric pixel-art map of New York City that you can zoom around and explore. Visit landmarks such as Manhattan and Central Park, the Statue of Liberty, JFK and La Guardia Airports, all in beautiful isometric detail.
🗽 Try it out at cannoneyed.com/isometric-nyc
If you remember playing computer games of this style (such as Sim City) then you will enjoy the nostalgia this website brings. This project also demonstrates how destinations could develop completely new styles of interactive maps to showcase cities in a fun way.
The project was created by Andy Coenen (a developer at Google Deepmind) and you can learn how he built it with AI over at cannoneyed.com/projects/isometric-nyc
- Enjoy!
I just clicked on the map and it really shows how massive New York City is. I still haven't been, but this is a really cool project. Thanks for sharing.
This is cool! Love it.
We are planning my husband's milestone 40th birthday trip this year including an African safari. I'm looking for advice from people who have done taken this trip which country they visited, which parks, tours/etc. they recommend.
Also, open to connecting with tour/package operators who can help me plan this. We are targeting Thanksgiving week or July.
What a great way to celebrate a milestone. A MASSIVE Hello from sunny Cape Town, South Africa. Please drop me an email or call ( WhatsApp works) and I will help you. www.africantravelcrew.com Look forward to hearing from you, there is no time like the present. Neil
Hello Amritha
Africa is always an amazing idea. I would recommend Planning a 40th birthday safari is such a special idea, and for a first milestone trip we usually recommend Tanzania, Kenya, or Uganda. Tanzania is ideal if you want the classic safari feel, wide open plains, big cats, and the option to end with a few relaxed days in Zanzibar. Kenya is perfect for iconic wildlife moments in the Maasai Mara and Amboseli, great guiding, and dramatic scenery. Uganda is a wonderful choice if you prefer something quieter and more personal, with beautiful landscapes, game drives, boat safaris, and the option to add chimp or gorilla tracking. July brings peak wildlife viewing so its a perfect time.
A few gentle but important tips can really shape the experience. Try not to rush. Fewer parks with more time in each almost always leads to better sightings and less fatigue. A private vehicle and an excellent guide matter more than how fancy the lodge looks. Build in breathing space so the trip feels like a celebration, not a checklist. Small touches like a sunset drink in the bush, bush breakfast , flexible game drive hours, and a customised dinner experince makes the days feel meaningful and personal.
At Adventures With Locals, we plan safaris a little differently. We are a female-led, all female team, and we care about responsible tourism that genuinely benefits local communities. We design private, custom journeys at a comfortable pace, work closely with local guides and lodges, and pay attention to the details that make a milestone birthday feel thoughtful and warm. If you would like, share your dates, travel style, and what matters most to you, and we would love to help you shape a safari that feels truly personal.
Feel free to reach out at adventureswithlocals@gmail.com for recommendations or even advice that could help you have a great day
From firsthand experience planning and operating safaris, Tanzania and Kenya are consistently top choices for first-time (and milestone) safari travelers.
Country & Parks to Consider:
Tanzania: Serengeti (iconic wildlife & Great Migration), Ngorongoro Crater (dense game viewing in a dramatic setting), Tarangire (elephants and baobabs), and Lake Manyara. Tanzania is especially well-suited for travelers seeking exclusivity, space, and a refined safari pace.
Kenya: Maasai Mara pairs beautifully with cultural encounters and migration viewing, particularly in July to October.
Timing:
July: Peak wildlife viewing, dry season, excellent for the Great Migration in both Serengeti and Maasai Mara.
Thanksgiving week: Also an excellent time in Tanzania, lush landscapes, and great game viewing.
Lodging Style:
For a milestone birthday, many travelers prefer boutique luxury or high-end tented camps rather than large lodges, they offer privacy, personalized service, and a more intimate connection with the wilderness.
Working with Operators:
If you’re considering tour operators, I’d recommend looking beyond price alone and focusing on:
1. How customized the itinerary is (vs. off-the-shelf packages)
2. Guide quality and consistency
3. Flexibility during the trip
4. Thoughtful touches for the celebration itself (private dinners, surprises, pacing)
I represent Legacy Destinations & DMC, a Tanzania-based safari company specializing in tailor-made safaris for milestone celebrations, honeymoons, and private journeys. What sets us apart is that we design each safari from the ground up, no templates and we operate on-the-ground, allowing for real-time support, trusted lodge partnerships, and seamless logistics.
Happy to share insights, sample routes, or simply answer questions as you explore options and equally happy to help even if you’re still in the research phase. Feel free to contact me through mike@legacydestinations-dmc.com or +255-743626826 (WhatsApp contact).
Wishing you an incredible celebration ahead.
Hi Amrithha,
It really depends on what you enjoy doing when traveling. Each African country has their own characteristics when it comes to safaris. Traveling in July? Go to South Africa, Botswana, Kenya, Mozambique, Namibia, Uganda, Rwanda or Tanzania. Thanksgiving week? You have less options (it's the rainy season in many countries) but you can still go to Namibia.
I'm running Dunia Travel, a tour operator focusing excluisively on trips to Africa. Feel free to reach out : info @ dunia-travel.com
Amritha, Neil has years of experience doing tours and running lodges; and is one of the most amazing and best people to assist you. We have become more than just colleagues and we have been working together for a number of years now. You will be in great hands, having Neil assist with your request.
Hi Amritha.
I suggest you reach out to an operator. They will be able to cater to your exact needs and budget and there are way too many lodges and parks in various countries to try and plan it yourself.
A tour operator I would recommend is familysafarisbookings.com
You can contact Gareth via email at gareth@familysafarisbookings.com
You will not regret doing a safari trip!
Thank you I will reach out to Gareth!
Yes the combinations are overwhelming!! That's why I wanted to reach out to my Travel Massive network first.
1. Pick the right country (this matters more than the lodge)
Different countries = very different vibes.
Best first-time safaris
Kenya 🇰🇪 – Classic “Out of Africa” scenes, Great Migration (July–Oct), strong cultural experiences.
Tanzania 🇹🇿 – Serengeti + Ngorongoro = chef’s kiss. Slightly pricier, insanely beautiful.
Best for luxury & ease
Botswana 🇧🇼 – Top-tier wildlife, fewer crowds, stunning lodges (also $$$).
South Africa 🇿🇦 – Great value, malaria-free private reserves, excellent food & wine.
More adventurous / underrated
Namibia 🇳🇦 – Desert landscapes + wildlife (very photogenic).
Zambia / Zimbabwe 🇿🇲🇿🇼 – Amazing walking safaris + Victoria Falls.
👉 If you tell me your budget + travel style, I can narrow this fast.
2. When to go (don’t just chase “dry season”)
Dry season (Jun–Oct) = best wildlife viewing, less greenery, higher prices.
Green season (Nov–Mar) = lush landscapes, baby animals, fewer tourists, better deals.
Great Migration:
Serengeti (Dec–Mar calving, Jul–Sep river crossings)
Maasai Mara (Jul–Oct)
Try kenya expresso tours and safaris will offer you the best experience ever
We went on Safari for my 50th last year. it was amazing! I did a podcast comparing two diffent Safari experiences we had (a luxury lodge vs. a self drive safari and tent camp in a national park) I reccomend doing both! You can check out the podcast at podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/travel-in-10-travel-podcast/id83260487?i=1000671968133
Hi Amritha
Greetings from Uganda! The Pearl of Africa.
I'd love to help advise on a trip for your husband's 40th.
I am a fellow blogger and content creator and work with a number of tour operators, lodges and guides in Uganda, Rwanda and across East Africa. I also host The East Africa Travel Podcast www.eastafricatravelpodcast.com. I travel the region widely, researching for my blog Diary of a Muzungu www.diaryofamuzungu.com and international guidebooks such as Fodor's. Which activities are you and your husband most interested in?
Hello,
We have a boutique travel company based in Diani Beach (Google Diani Beach)
Our travel consultant can help you ideate,
This is what we can do, instead of us sending you generic itineraries, why don't we do what all TOs don't do?
We start with a Zoom meeting (40 minutes)
He will answer all questions, including how to travel responsibly and get the most out of your trip, and travel for a purpose, not just for structured, touristy packages. Is it a thing: support@kaaribu.com
Thanks, I've emailed your team.
Hi Amritha! What a wonderful way to celebrate a 40th. An African safari would be unforgettable.
Both July and Thanksgiving week can work very well, but they offer slightly different experiences. July is peak dry season in southern Africa, which is excellent for wildlife viewing, especially around waterholes. Thanksgiving week also works well, particularly in southern Africa, and can be a great time to combine wildlife with the dramatic landscapes.
For first-time safari travellers, Namibia and South Africa are both fantastic options:
Namibia is ideal if you’re looking for wide-open landscapes, wildlife, culture, deserts (like Sossusvlei), and a sense of space and adventure — without feeling rushed.
South Africa (Kruger region) is perfect for a weekend trip to see the Big Five.
If you’d like, I’m happy to share a platform I’m involved with called Plume Africa (www.plume.africa). We specialise in instant, fully coordinated safari packages/circuits in Namibia and offer a Kruger package — including lodges, transfers between destinations, and guided activities — without the need to self-drive or manage lots of separate bookings. It’s designed to make your planning much easier, especially if it's your first time.
Either way, happy to answer questions any more questions.
Good luck ! :)
Tanzania is a great choice for an African safari, especially if you’re looking for classic wildlife areas like the Serengeti and Ngorongoro, strong guiding standards, and the option to combine a safari with Mount Kilimanjaro or Zanzibar.
What really makes the difference here is good planning and working with a properly licensed operator that knows the parks, seasons, and logistics on the ground.
We operate locally in Tanzania as Everyday Safaris, organizing safaris and Kilimanjaro climbs for international travelers and partners. Happy to share advice or insights with anyone considering Tanzania.
Hello Amritha
Awesomeness that you’re thinking of celebrating your hubby’s milestone on a Safari trip!
We don’t book safaris - we offer wine tourism experiences. But Safaris are also my hubbles and I’s escape and total fascination. So I’m happy to help you crystallise all the quotes and information you gather.
In South Africa we have a television channel called WildEarth. You can access it online too wildearth.tv
It’s an amazing resource for not only breaking away from the busyness of the day, but their programs inform you about the different animals - their terrains, Safari guides and vehicles, weather (best seasons per regions for viewing or significant movement of the animals), notable periods like the great migration or mating season, and which species can be found in which parts of Africa. Watching the channel could help to narrow down your search to the kind of experiences you want. I must say I haven’t seen any shows about the gorillas of Uganda yet - I may have missed it.
Wishing you all the best and shout if you need to test any thoughts or plans.
Have an amazing week.
Hi Amritha,
Congratulations on planning such a special milestone celebration! A 40th birthday safari is absolutely unforgettable.
We recently wrote a comprehensive guide about African safaris that might help you navigate all the options you're receiving here: zuid-afrikareizen.be/afrika-safari/
While I see many excellent recommendations for Tanzania, Kenya, and Uganda above (all fantastic choices!), I'd like to add South Africa to your consideration, especially given your timeframe options.
Why South Africa works particularly well:
For July (peak season): South Africa's dry winter offers exceptional wildlife viewing as animals concentrate around water sources. Kruger National Park and surrounding private reserves like Sabi Sands deliver outstanding Big Five experiences with excellent infrastructure.
For Thanksgiving week: This timing actually works beautifully in South Africa (early summer/green season) when many East African destinations face heavy rains. You'll see lush landscapes, newborn animals, and excellent birding - plus generally better rates.
What makes South Africa unique and pleasant for a milestone celebration:
* Malaria-free options like Addo Elephant Park and Pilanesberg if health concerns are a factor
* Incredible variety beyond safari: You can seamlessly combine wildlife with Cape Town, wine country, coastal experiences, or the cinematic Garden Route
* Self-drive freedom OR luxury lodges: Budget-friendly options in public parks or splurge-worthy private reserves - truly "on maat voor ieders budget" (tailored to any budget)
* The "Big Seven": Only place you can see both the Big Five AND great white sharks and southern right whales
The article I mentioned covers everything from the best parks (Kruger, Hluhluwe-iMfolozi, Kgalagadi) to practical tips on timing, packing, and responsible tourism. It is in Dutch, but I'm pretty sure your browser will assist in translating it perfectly.
Whatever you choose, make sure your operator emphasizes personalized service for this special occasion - those thoughtful touches (bush dinners, sunset drinks, flexible schedules) transform a great safari into an extraordinary birthday celebration.
We are only operating in Belgium & the Netherlands, but I am sure you will find a great colleague near you!
Safe travels,
Fredric
I highly recommend a Tanzania safari, especially Serengeti + Ngorongoro Crater, serval wildlife having lunch with wilders, and ending with a few days in Zanzibar. It’s the perfect mix of wildlife, luxury, and celebration. I bet it's gonna be a lifetime memory for you and your husband. I recommend contacting this guy, he is well knowledge curating tour and trips info@jemasafaris.com, just give it a try, check with him
Just wondering if anyone has any experience with Tourist.com they are asking me to join the platform, but before I do I thought I would ask the community as there seems to be an explosion of online resellers some of which don't look great. this was the email from them - am slightly dubious as they claim its FREE
Hello,
Just following up on your recent correspondence with our team.
Attached you’ll find a detailed proposal explaining how our platform works, the advantages of joining, and what you can expect as one of our partners.
Here’s a quick summary:
∙ Add your business to the Tourist app for free
∙ Keep 100% of your earnings — we never charge commissions
∙ Simply provide an exclusive discount or special offer for Tourist travelers (the final offer is fully up to you)
Registration is very simple — it’s just a short form at partners.tourist.com and the setup takes less than a minute.
Here's a step-by-step guide for registering & adding offers.
[link removed]
Should you have any questions, please let me know.
Best regards,
Walter
Tourist.com — Your key to the world
Hi James, I was contacted with an almost identical message in December last year. I asked "Can you tell me more about who is behind your business? e.g. your team etc" and I got a generic response that didn't answer my question. When I followed up with a "Who are the founders and who is the CEO of your company?" I did not get a reply.
If they can't tell you who is the owner or the founders of the company, I wouldn't trust it. Nice domain though!
Hi Iam, thanks for the comment, yea seems strange that they cant answer who the CEO is, I wonder what thier plan is to make money in the long term, will quizz them and update my findings on this discussion for the benefit of everyone, but as you said, fantastic domain name, it does look very professional :-)
I also got contacted a couple of days ago with an HTML short email with typos... I'm interested in hearing from people who have joined the app.
Hey James,
Yeah, I heard from them too and got the same email.
They explain the partnership is free, with no commissions or fees, and they only ask for a small discount. They say they earn from traveler subscriptions, while we keep 100% of the payment.
I haven’t decided yet, though. As a tour operator, I’m always looking to expand and get more visibility, but I want to make sure there’s no hidden catch or anything I’m missing.
I have long wondered why Mount Kilimanjaro is marketed as an uncomplicated tourist activity, presented as broadly accessible and almost routine, even though it is a high altitude environment where the margin for error is narrow and the consequences of poor decisions can be serious. The idea that it is a mountain almost anyone can climb with enough determination has become so normalized that it rarely invites scrutiny, despite the way it shapes pricing, itineraries, and expectations.
The more time I have spent around Kilimanjaro, the clearer it has become that safety on the mountain is largely determined long before anyone sets foot on the trail. It is built into choices about itinerary length, acclimatization pace, group size, staffing, and the pressure placed on reaching the summit. These decisions are often made far from Tanzania, guided by marketing narratives and cost considerations rather than by the realities of operating at altitude.
When incidents occur, responsibility does not fall evenly across an expedition. It concentrates on local guides and porters who must manage health emergencies, rapidly changing weather, and difficult judgment calls in an environment where mistakes have immediate consequences. Kilimanjaro depends entirely on local labor, yet the dominant narrative continues to frame the climb as an individual achievement rather than a collective effort sustained by the experience and risk borne by others.
Most guides, assistant guides, cooks, and porters work as freelancers, paid per climb and dependent on seasonal demand. Despite this uncertainty, they carry the greatest responsibility on the mountain. They monitor acclimatization, recognize early signs of altitude illness, and decide when to slow down or turn back. Their judgment is what keeps people safe, yet the pressure to deliver summits often overrides the authority their role requires.
This is where ethical questions emerge. When climbs are rushed to reduce costs or to protect summit success rates, risk does not disappear but is transferred downward to those with the least power to refuse it. Framing Kilimanjaro as simple or universally accessible allows these dynamics to remain largely invisible, even though they shape outcomes on the mountain.
Over time, this has led me to question how a responsible Kilimanjaro climb should be designed. Rather than measuring success primarily by whether the summit is reached, a well designed expedition prioritizes adequate acclimatization, manageable group sizes, and leadership structures that respect local expertise. Within this approach, porter welfare is not a secondary concern but a central element of safety for everyone involved.
I also believe responsibility should not end at the park gate. Kilimanjaro exists within a lived landscape shaped by communities whose lives are affected by tourism and environmental change. When climbs conclude without any engagement beyond wages and park fees, they remain extractive in practice, even when intentions are good. Some expeditions now extend the journey beyond the descent by connecting climbers with practical, community led initiatives, such as clean energy access, that respond to real needs and are implemented through local systems.
Because of these experiences, I wrote a comprehensive guide that examines how Kilimanjaro climbing is structured, how safety and labor intersect, and why responsibility should extend beyond the summit rather than ending at the gate. The full analysis is on my website: [Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro With Purpose: A Responsible Guide to Safety and Community Impact](www.visitnatives.com/post/climbing-mount-kilimanjaro-with-purpose-a-responsible-guide-to-safety-and-community-impact).
For those working in adventure travel or expedition design, the question is no longer simply whether people should continue climbing Kilimanjaro, but whether summit success should remain the primary measure of a good climb, or whether the model itself needs to change.
My name is Anniina Sandberg. I am an anthropologist and the founder of Visit Natives, a travel company focused on community led and field based experiences. I have worked in Northern Tanzania and around Mount Kilimanjaro, spending time with mountain crews and communities connected to the tourism economy there.
I wrote this piece after repeatedly seeing how safety on Kilimanjaro is shaped less by individual climbers and more by structural decisions made long before anyone reaches the mountain. This article is a shortened reflection on those observations. I have also written a much more comprehensive guide that looks in detail at how Kilimanjaro climbing is designed, how labor and safety intersect, and what responsibility can realistically look like beyond the summit, which I link to in the post for anyone who wants to go deeper:
I would genuinely welcome perspectives from others working in adventure travel, guiding, or expedition design. Where do you think responsibility on a mountain like Kilimanjaro should begin, and where should it end?
Thousands of travelers fly to Tanzania every year to attempt to climb the highest point on the African continent, Mount Kilimanjaro (5.895 meters). Some of them return home without reaching the summit. This happens for a variety of reasons,
One is to forget that Kilimanjaro climbing isn't something you can do it by yourself you need a crew and crew need you as well, As Kilimanjaro local Toour Guide over experience of 10 years and above I have this statements during a brief to my team and cleats.
The mountain never bows down for anyone, so please I have special request
SPECIAL REQUEST: Please, remember we are all climbing as a team and a family and therefore should be ready and willing to assist each other during the trekking whenever the need arises.
Jambo, I'm Maria, a travel and content creator living in Zanzibar since 2019.
Living in Zanzibar is wonderful — the beaches, spice farms, and vibrant culture are incredible and the people care deeply about their home. But like many popular destinations, the island faces challenges with waste management, recycling, and energy.
I'd like to open up a discussion about sustainable tourism initiatives in Zanzibar and invite other members to share their experiences or feedback.
Here's two topics I want to share my thoughts on: plastic waste, and clean energy.
Plastic waste
Plastic waste is a big problem, and when you visit, they remind you not to bring plastic bags inside the island. Many people are aware of the impact of plastic on the environment and marine life.
Interestingly, the local community has found creative ways to recycle and repurpose garbage; Plastic bottles and containers are reused and transformed into new products.
There are also glass recycling initiatives. Companies collect old glass bottles, like wine bottles, and turn them into a new glass products, giving a second life to what would otherwise become waste.
We often hear that tourism equals garbage - but it doesn't have to be this way. Tourism brings income, jobs, and cultural exchange, but it can be done sustainably. Hotels, businesses, residents, and visitors who prioritize recycling, reducing plastic, and reusing resources can make a huge difference.
Despite local efforts, garbage collection and awareness are still inconsistent, and require the collaboration between residents, businesses, visitors, and the government.
Clean energy
One thing you might notice when visiting is that electricity here can still be unpredictable. Many hotels still face power outages, especially during busy tourist season. The reality is that almost all hotels in Zanzibar rely on diesel generators. While generators provide electricity, they are expensive, noisy, and polluting. This means, that when fuel supplies are low on equipment fails, hotels can experience blackouts.
My husband works in the solar business, and we often talk about this topic. He tells me that many hotels still don't believe in solar - when they see the cost, they immediately drop the idea. We are in 2025, why don't more hotels use solar power?
Well, there are a few reasons.
The problem is they don't see the long term-benefits. Solar power can save money, reduce reliance on generators, and make businesses more sustainable. Some hotels have started using solar, and it's inspiring to see, but many are still hesitant.
Another reason for frequent power issues is that Zanzibar depends on electricity imported from mainland Tanzania. If there's a disruption in the national grid, the island feels the impact, and the reliance on generators becomes even more critical.
The government is aware of the issue and has introduced programs to encourage renewable energy, including tax breaks and pilot projects. However, implementation is slow, and many hotel owners either don't know about these programs or hesitate to invest. Awareness is key - many business simply don't realize the economic and environmental benefits of switching to solar.
For travelers; support eco-friendly hotels, enjoy the island, and know that Zanzibar has the potential to become a solar-powered paradise. With awareness, innovation, and responsible tourism, the island can maintain its stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and natural beauty for the generations to come.
If you've traveled to Zanzibar please share your experience from a sustainable tourism perspective, I'd be glad to hear about it!
Love this post, Maria! I've done a lot of work around plastic waste and sustainability in Southeast Asia and really resonate with the issues you highlighted. A little intention goes a long way, and especially supporting those operators and hotels taking steps to make things better :)
Hi Maria,
thank you for sharing such an inspiring perspective on tourism in Zanzibar! I spent three weeks there a few years ago and truly had one of the best times. On the one hand, I also noticed a lot of rubbish on some beaches. On the other hand, it was powerful to see how many small local initiatives are actively driving sustainability. I visited several and loved them, for example:
-CHAKO Zanzibar – they upcycle wine bottles into beautiful décor and furniture. You can even tour their production site.
-Recycle@OZTI & Ozeankind – fantastic initiatives collecting plastic from beaches with local communities and children; they recycle it into furniture, keychains, and more.
I wrote a blog article about them: village-adventures.com/sansibar-schluesselanhaenger-aus-6-deckeln-recycling-mit-impact/
-Chumbe Island – one of the most spectacular places I’ve ever seen and a flagship sustainability project in Zanzibar.
-Muungoni Village – my favorite place to experience authentic rural life. I spent three days in a simple homestay; we did a mangrove boat tour, and Rama showed me so much of village life there.
There are so many other businesses and places I genuinely loved.
With Village Adventures, I’m focusing exactly on sustainable, rural, and local initiatives—especially homestays and local guides—and helping to promote them.
If you’re interested in a cooperation or in being a testimonial for Village Adventures, I’d be delighted. The platform is still quite new, and I’m currently focusing on visibility.
Hi Maria it's really interesting to read your comments. Waste, as the other commentators have said is a massive issue in many countries. Our organisation runs the free to enter Responsible Tourism Awards - these run around the world and in Africa we announce them at WTM Africa. Last year's winners included a waste project with the TUI care foundation in Zanzibar but I'd definitely recommend reading some of the other waste winners which are doing great work on this subject in Africa. You can find more detail here icrt.global/africa-changemakers-2025/. If you know of anyone else doing great work in Zanzibar or elsewhere please do encourage them to enter the 2026 Responsible Tourism Awards. our 2026 categories are different but It's free to enter!
Thanks for your comment Isabel. Sounds interesting to be part of Village Adventure as testimonial. Karibu tena Zanzibar :)
Thanks Debbie for your comment. I would look into it!
HERE'S THE NEXT 5 UPCOMING EVENTS:
Join the Travel Massive Morocco community for an afternoon of culture and connection at Maison Culturelle du Tapis in Marrakech
After our previous gatherings, we're bringing Travel Massive to the heart of Marrakech's medina. Join us (Christine, Pilar, and Nasser) as we explore Morocco's carpet heritage and connect with fellow travel professionals.
Our afternoon includes guided tour of the museum followed by networking in an intimate cultural setting and visit to the terrace cafe. Share insights, discuss challenges, discover collaboration opportunities, and build genuine connections with Morocco's travel community.
Schedule:
4:00pm - 4:15pm — Arrival & welcome
4:15pm - 5:00pm — Museum tour with Nasser Ksikes of Maison Culturelle du Tapis
5:00pm - 6:00pm — Networking
Join this special Travel Massive event to learn about Chicago Museum Tours by experiencing their most popular tour, the Art Institute Highlights Tour!
Sharp at 5:30pm, embark on a captivating 2-hour journey with a tour guide from Chicago Museum Tours through the heart of creativity at the Art Institute. Whether you’re an art enthusiast, a complete novice, or simply seeking inspiration, this tour of the Art Institute is an unforgettable experience.
After the tour, debrief and unwind at a nearby bar. The first drink is on Chicago Museum Tours.
Limited spots available! Registration closes on Tuesday, February 24th.
Learn more about Chicago Museum Tours here: www.chicagomuseumtours.com.
Link to event pageKick off the biggest travel fair in the world with the Travel Massive community and friends in Berlin
Mingle and dance with travel influencers, DMO & hospitality representatives, startup founders and travel industry professionals from all around the world at Generator Berlin in the heart of Berlin at the start of ITB.
Grab your tickets quickly since our event with over 350 attendees sold out 2 weeks in advance last year !
Travel Massive first timer or long-standing regular, we're looking forward to welcoming you. Here's the important details:
⏱ Tuesday, March 3, 2026 @ 19:00 (until late)
📍 Generator Alexanderplatz (Otto-Braun-Straße 65, 10178 Berlin)
🎟 RSVP essential. Tickets € 15 early birds / € 25 regular price
🍺 Some free drinks offered by our sponsors
👋 Complete your Travel Massive to connect with other attendees.
🎟️ One ticket per member (no +1's).
👋 Want to bring a team of +10 people? Get in touch.
Here's a look back at last year's epic evening...
www.youtube.com/watch?v=01j7zdEu7kc
A big thank you to our sponsors for their fantastic support. Learn more about them below.
🪩 About Generator Berlin
Pack your bags, because Berlin beckons… Whether you’re a solo traveller, raver, history nerd or just looking to explore the German capital, our experience and design-led hotel is the perfect place to stay in central Berlin.
🪩 About ITB Berlin
ITB Berlin is the World's Leading Travel Trade Show® and an indispensable meeting place for the global tourism industry. Next to its diverse exhibition area, the ITB Berlin Convention provides forward-looking impulses with top-notch speakers. At the same time, ITB 360° offers knowledge throughout the year with articles, videos, and podcast episodes. ITB is more than just a trade show—it is a global hub for an entire industry. From 3 to 5 March 2026 ITB Berlin will celebrate its 60th anniversary.
🌎 About Stripe
Stripe is a financial infrastructure platform for businesses. Millions of companies from the world's largest enterprises to the most ambitious start-ups use Stripe to accept payments, grow revenue and accelerate new business opportunities. Learn more at stripe.com/industries/travel
🤳 About FreedomPay
FreedomPay is a global leader in the travel industry with payment acceptance technology installed in many of the biggest airlines, 100+ airports, luxury cruise liners and travel plazas around the world. One unified platform technology with 1000+ integration partners is transforming the travel experience. Learn more at freedompay.com
💸 About Stay22
Stay22 helps travel creators turn content into revenue effortlessly. Their AI-powered technology connects readers’ travel intent in real time to the right products and accommodations, so creators earn more with less work. Whether you’re a blogger, publisher, or content creator, Stay22’s vast network and seamless integration mean better experiences for your readers—while you focus on what you love most: creating and exploring the world. Learn more at stay22.com
📍 About Destination Digital
Destination Digital is a travel influencer & creator marketing agency with over 15 years of experience. We connect content creators, influencers, tourism boards and travel brands from around the world via our Digital Sphere community & events and run influencer campaigns.
👉 Interested to learn more? Catch Bjorn at the party or just drop him an email at bjorn@destinationdigital.agency
🌎 About Travel Massive
The Travel Massive community connects thousands of tourism professionals, travel media, influencers and startups from around the world to meet, connect and share ideas. Our Berlin ITB meetups have been running since 2013 and have played host to some of Berlin's biggest travel meetups at venues across Berlin.
👉 Please note: When you register for this event we will may share your details (including email) with our event sponsors. There may also be photography during the evening.
Link to event pageAfter a hugely successful inaugural year, Family Traveller Live is returning to
Allianz Stadium in Twickenham on 21–22 March 2026 for an unforgettable weekend of active family adventure.
Get ready for a family day out like no other. Over two action-packed days you can:
➤ Zipline across Allianz Stadium.
➤ Abseil at the home of English Rugby.
➤ Try your hand at Pickleball, Drumba, Rugby Skills and so much more.
➤ Let the little ones loose in soft-play.
➤ Step behind the scenes on the England changing room tour.
➤ Train like an astronaut and brave the multi-access trainer.
➤ And discover the world’s best family travel destinations, all under one roof.
This is the ultimate chance to spark your family’s wanderlust, get active, and experience something truly special together.
Tickets are limited. Don’t miss out: familytraveller.seetickets.com/event/family-traveller-live-2026/allianz-stadium/3531997?offercode=tm50.
As a member of Travel Massive you can enjoy 50% off entry tickets with our exclusive partner code: TM50.
We can’t wait to see you there!
🚀🌍 And if you are a travel brand ready to put your destination, product, or experience in front of a highly engaged, affluent, family audience, you can discover the opportunities to exhibit or sponsor a bespoke activation at the show by contacting Matthew Gardiner: matthew@travelmassive.com.
Link to event pageLast October, we announced that we would host a startup pitch event in 2026. Stay tuned for updates on this event.
Link to event pageMeet Fellow Travelers At The Extraordinary Travel Festival 3rd Edition in Bangkok, Thailand
Join us in Bangkok, Thailand from October 22-25 for The Extraordinary Travel Festival 3rd edition and meet with the world's most accomplished travelers for 4 days of keynotes, panels, workshops, and networking that shines a spotlight on extraordinary travel and adventures.
www.youtube.com/watch?v=-3soRsYQKpc
Three reasons why you should join us:
Community; meet new & old friends who share your passion of travel
Content; listen in to over 30 incredible travel speakers
Chart a course; explore the destination & nearby region
We bring travelers together from around the world, the Marco Polos of the 21st century; Who are any of the following:
• Accomplished, avid, and adventurous travelers
• Traveling to every country in the world
• Passionate to explore extreme destinations
• And love to have fun and network with likeminded people
Learn more and secure your ticket at www.extraordinarytravelfest.com
Link to event pageHere's the 10 latest classified ads:
This is the end of the page. Thanks for being a part of our community!