Laos guided tour, with added comfort

Planet

CARBON REDUCTION

Eastin Vientiane 1. Specific Renewable Energy Use is Planned but not Confirmed On-Site. The hotel's policy mentions promoting energy conservation through key card systems and energy-efficient LED lighting, and it lists "potential renewable sources like solar panels" as an area for future development.
Notable Carbon Reduction Achievements:
* The hotel received a Carbon Emission Reduction certificate (from Guava, a UN Sustainable Tourism Partner) in January 2024.
* This certificate recognized the reduction of 918 kg CO?e from liquid amenities and 59 kg CO?e from lower carbon branded dry amenities in 2024.

Amari Vang Vieng 1. No publicly confirmed renewable energy use on-site. The Amari brand's strategy mentions exploring renewable sources like solar panels for future development, but there is no public confirmation of this at the Vang Vieng property.
Confirmed Carbon Reduction Efforts:
* Energy Efficiency: The brand utilizes energy-saving measures like key card systems and energy-efficient lighting.
* EV Charging Stations: The hotel provides EV charging stations for guests, supporting lower-carbon transportation options.
* Waste Reduction: Reducing the carbon footprint associated with manufacturing and transport by minimizing waste (see Q2).

Namkat Yorla Pa Resort 1. Yes, renewable energy is mentioned in some sources. One public source mentions the resort is committed to environmental sustainability, "utilizing renewable energy sources" (Source: Even do).
Confirmed Carbon Reduction Efforts:
* LED Lighting: More than 90% of the lighting system uses LED lighting to monitor and reduce energy consumption.
* Energy Monitoring: They actively monitor energy consumption with plans for further energy reduction through technology and equipment maintenance.
* Sustainable Procurement: They prioritize local and organic food sourcing to reduce transportation emissions (a key factor in carbon footprint).

Sanakeo Hotel Luang Prabang 1. No publicly available information on renewable energy use. Flora HOTEL?We do not use solar panels, we use for VIP and family rooms water heaters for 3 rooms, regular maintenance and checks on air cons Hot water units, using long life Bulbs. Recycling all our waste, even coffee grounds are used back in the garden / orange grove for composting, flora has a frontal entrance shrub and use the coffee grounds on these as well


On this trip, only two meals (one lunch and one dinner) are included in the price. But however, is to accommodate diverse dietary requirements and their food-focused tours are designed to promote local dishes and local ingredients. Therefore, vegetarian and vegan options would be available, especially during the Cooking Class which uses local ingredients. The philosophy is to visit local markets, meet farmers, and use local restaurants to promote local dishes, ensuring the food is as local and seasonal as possible.

focus on reducing reliance on long-haul flights by growing its rail, walking, trekking, and cycling ranges. This trip uses two significant train journeys (Vientiane to Vang Vieng and Vang Vieng to Oudomxay, and a final train journey back to Vientiane). The trip utilizes Train (2nd Class) for three segments, which is an efficient mode of transport for CO2 per person to support the sustainable idea to use local transport where safe, reliable, and feasible. The trip includes Jungle, Canopy walking near Nam Kat Waterfall (Day 5), Kayaking on the Nam Song River (Day 3), and extensive walking as part of sightseeing and village visits.

ENVIRONMENT AND WILDLIFE

The trip includes activities within protected or natural areas, such as Trekking near Nam Kat Waterfall and Kayaking on the Nam Song River. Entry fees for parks or protected areas like these are included in the overall trip cost.

The program designed by committed to protecting and restoring nature by supporting nature-based solutions like reforestation and ecosystem restoration through its Impact Strategy. As optional program, the Natural Dye Preparation and visit Thai Lue Cotton handicrafts supports sustainable use of natural resources and ethic minority.

the program is including the local leaders/guides who are the "country's greatest narrators". For specific activities like the Trekking near Nam Kat Waterfall and the Hmong Village Visit, local people often act as guides, which is a key principle of responsible travel strategy to use experts to connect travelers with a place and its people.

the local guide will minimize resource use (energy, water, waste) on trips by encouraging passengers to minimize their waste and water usage. They also provide information to customers on preserving the natural and built attractions by asking permission before photographing and not touching fragile environments.

People

LOCAL ECONOMY

The itinerary is designed to maximize local economic benefit: * Employment: The tours use local leaders/guides. * Local Activities: Optional Cooking Class (with a local chef/family, maximizing local food sourcing), a Natural Dye Preparation class (supporting local crafts and income generation). * Accommodation: The company primarily uses locally owned infrastructure and works with locally owned businesses to ensure money is injected back into the local economy.


EMPLOYMENT, INCLUSIVITY and DIVSERSITY

The majority Responsible Travel Policy explicitly states they work to maximize local positive impact by employing predominantly local staff and leaders within their operational teams and using local suppliers. Our local land operator has committed to Gender Equality and committed to open of diversity leaders. Their strategy nurtures equal employment without regard to race, gender, sexual orientation, or nationality.

The program is designed to supportive the Gender Equality and Reduced Inequalities by empowering women and ethnic minorities through job creation and income opportunities in tourism. The Hmong Village Visit and the Natural Dye Preparation class directly involve members of an ethnic minority group in a remote area, generating income opportunities for them.

By the program, there is a workplace for diversity strategy to nurture equal employment without regard to race, gender, sexual orientation, or nationality. They are known for promoting an inclusive travel environment. by agreement we have an aim to provide a transparent way for travelers to donate for helping to improve the livelihoods of vulnerable individuals and communities.

The trip is rated Activity Level 2 ("Easy & Moderate") and includes a significant amount of walking/trekking, kayaking, and train travel. It would likely be unsuitable for individuals with limited mobility unless they contact us directly to discuss specific accessibility options.