Tourism Cares announces major expansion of its Meaningful Travel Map

CANTON, MASS. USA – Setting a new standard for responsible tourism, Tourism Cares, a global non-profit dedicated to advancing sustainability for the travel and tourism industry, is proud to unveil the newest cohort of its Meaningful Travel Map Members – trailblazing destinations dedicated to advancing community-led, sustainable travel worldwide. With this expansion, the Meaningful Travel Map now features more than 550 vetted partners, reflecting the exponential growth and industry-wide embrace of sustainable travel experiences that benefit communities, protect cultural and environmental assets, and foster deeper connections between travelers and destinations. By joining the Map, destinations amplify their sustainability efforts, expand economic opportunities to diverse communities, and help shape a more equitable and resilient future for tourism.

Developed by Tourism Cares, the Meaningful Travel Map is an innovative digital tool that highlights responsible, purpose-driven tourism enterprises around the world, helping travel professionals and sustainably-minded travelers build more responsible itineraries that drive positive social and environmental impact for local communities. These eight new destinations showcase the global scope of the Map and the increasing desire across the tourism industry to prioritize community involvement, cultural preservation, environmental responsibility, and diversity in each and every travel experience. As part of this new cohort, Tourism Cares welcomes South African Tourism, the first member destination to build a Meaningful Travel Map in Africa.

Travelers exploring the Meaningful Travel Map of South Africa can discover a wealth of transformative experiences, from wildlife rehabilitation centers and Indigenous-led cultural tours to eco-lodges that reinvest in community development and organizations dedicated to preserving the country’s pristine coastlines. The Map encourages visitors to move beyond traditional itineraries, forging deeper and more impactful connections with both the people and the landscapes of South Africa. As the first African destination featured on the Map, South African Tourism exemplifies a holistic approach to tourism that supports biodiversity conservation, respects cultural heritage, and uplifts local communities. With over 21 national parks, 12 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, nearly 2,000 miles of coastline, and a renowned tradition of warm hospitality, South Africa offers an extraordinary canvas for responsible and meaningful travel.

“South Africa’s landscapes, wildlife, and cultures are among the richest and most diverse in the world, and we recognize the importance of safeguarding them for generations to come,”
said Darryl Erasmus, Chief Operations Officer at South African Tourism. “The launch of the Meaningful Travel Map of South Africa allows us to spotlight the remarkable efforts of local
tourism changemakers and invite the world to experience South Africa in a more conscious and meaningful way.”

Additional new Meaningful Travel Map Destination Members include:

• Tourism Ireland: A European destination that prioritizes its environmental care, rich culture, and a warm, welcoming community spirit.
• Greater Miami & Miami Beach: A diverse destination setting a new standard for marine conservation, cultural pride, and accessibility.
• Visit Pittsburgh: Using thoughtful tourism to revitalize urban neighborhoods and support local entrepreneurs
• Visit Houston: Champions of community-driven tourism that celebrate local heritage • The Palm Beaches: Uplifting responsible tourism across 47 miles of pristine Florida coastline
• Visit Joplin: A beacon for community resilience focused on supporting local businesses.
• Discover Newport: Preserving Rhode Island’s Coastal Communities by promoting cultural heritage and protecting the region’s marine and coastal environments.

“The rapid growth of the Meaningful Travel Map is a reflection of our industry’s shared vision for a more equitable, sustainable, and impactful future,” said Greg Takehara, CEO of Tourism
Cares. “Each new destination and partner strengthens our collective ability to drive positive change, empower local communities, and offer travelers experiences that truly matter. We
are proud to welcome these new members, including our first in Africa, and look forward to seeing the ripple effects of their work across the globe.”

The worldwide expansion of Tourism Cares’ Meaningful Travel Program over the last two years showcases the industry’s growing commitment to meaningful travel, a movement ensuring tourism directly benefits host communities, safeguards local heritage, and inspires travelers to make a positive difference with every trip. With more than 550 featured partners, the Map is one of the largest global networks of its kind, offering travel professionals, including tour operators and travel advisors, a unique resource that ensures responsible tourism, builds community connections, and enhances client experiences. With this Map as a guide, Tourism Cares hopes to redefine the future of travel, one meaningful connection at a time.

The article Tourism Cares announces major expansion of its Meaningful Travel Map first appeared in TravelDailyNews International.