Meet the TTG Sustainable Travel Ambassadors class of 2024

“I first saw the TTG Sustainable Travel Heroes programme on ttgmedia.com. I was already interested in sustainable travel, and how we can all travel more sustainably, but I hadn’t really tried to sell this specifically to my clients – I wasn’t sure where to start! The programme has helped me to really look at all aspects of lower-impact travel. From being able to identify suppliers and accommodation providers that are passionate about making real changes, to how to talk to my clients about sustainability without coming across too strong (tip – don’t use the word “sustainable” all the time!). Thanks to the training programme, I’ve been able to witness sustainability in action, and I’ve already started to put into practice some of the tips and tools we have been given to help sell more sustainable travel to our clients.”

“I applied to the TTG Sustainable Travel Heroes programme in 2024 to learn more about how the travel industry can work towards operating more sustainably and responsibly, including in-office and overseas. I wanted to better understand the goals and actions of my suppliers and how to communicate these efforts more effectively to my customers, in turn, encouraging them to consider making a positive impact whilst travelling and reducing their carbon footprint. The programme has given me so much more than this and I have really enjoyed learning more about the facts and figures that surround advertising, legal terms, community initiatives, volunteer organisations, trends and spend, and lots more! I will now aspire to weave all of my learning into the day-to-day operations of my business, offering greener choices when it comes to transport and accommodations, and to showing my customers how travelling more sustainably and responsibly can be of benefit to them – and is fun! I’ll be encouraging them to partake in projects and activities that make a positive impact as they go and learn more about their chosen destinations and the local people.”

“I’ve always had a passion for wildlife viewing and the natural world, so sustainability has been an interest of mine for a while. When I was recommended TTG’s Sustainable Travel Heroes programme by some colleagues, I decided to take my “interest” to the next level. Through the course of the programme I’ve developed a deeper understanding about the key elements of sustainable and responsible travel. I feel more confident approaching these topics with my clients and as such I hope to inspire others to have better travel experiences. One true aspiration after this programme is to book a client onto an AE Expeditions cruise to take part in a Citizen Science programme – how cool would that be?!”

“The TTG Sustainable Travel Heroes programme really has been an invaluable experience, allowing me to expand my understanding of responsible tourism. A trip to South Africa with Intrepid Travel helped me appreciate first-hand what sets them apart from other tour operators (in addition to its commitment to sustainability, community support, and leaving a positive impact at every stop). I was also lucky enough to visit Naxos with the GNTO, which opened my eyes to the innovative steps this beautiful island is taking towards a more sustainable future, from responsible tourism initiatives to preserving its cultural and natural heritage. The programme has extended my knowledge and provided additional insights that will enable me to better guide my clients toward more responsible travel choices. I’m passionate about creating enriching travel experiences that respect local environments and communities, and I’m excited to champion tourism that not only inspires but also sustains the world we explore.”

“I applied to be a part of the TTG Sustainable Travel Heroes programme to find out more about how different countries and suppliers apply sustainability, as well as recommended suppliers. Since starting, I have learnt so much more than I thought I would, from greenwashing and carbon emissions to ethical and unethical ways to travel. I have also met some amazing people who have the same visions in making travel more responsible. From here, I am going to continue to research and pass on to customers how we can all travel better, as well as including a responsible travel guide in all my quotes and bookings. I am also going to strive to use suppliers that can provide responsible and sustainable options. I will continue to create a vision of how I would like Fusion Holidays to move forwards in a more sustainable way, and continue to educate my colleagues in this.”

“I applied for the TTG Sustainable Travel Heroes training programme because I wanted to learn more about the topic and see how I as a business owner and ‘influencer’ (of my clients at least) can make a positive change in my own and my clients’ habits and holiday selections (such as the destination and time when they want to travel, followed by suppliers). Completing the programme has given me a valuable basis to support my ongoing journey and, more importantly, provided me with insights into suppliers I never previously considered working with and connections with a network of like-minded industry professionals with who I can exchange experiences and advice. I already love selling rail and other low-impact holidays, but I now have a toolkit that allows me to more confidently diversify and hopefully attract more clients without feeling I have to drive the “S-word” home.”

“I applied to the TTG Sustainable Travel Heroes programme because I wanted to learn more about responsible suppliers within the travel industry and meet like-minded agents who share a passion for making travel a force for good. The workshops were full of inspirational content and highlighted that even small changes to the way we travel (and live our lives!) can make a big difference. The programme, alongside my fellow Ambassadors, has encouraged me to remain focused on trying to promote responsible and sustainable travel. We don’t need to preach… in fact just being authentic and sharing knowledge and insights allows clients to make informed, responsible travel choices. I think the programme has highlighted how important upskilling and educating travel experts in this field is. We need responsible and sustainable travel to become the default offer.”

“Being part of the TTG Sustainable Travel Heroes programme has been an incredible experience. I joined the programme new to selling travel and unsure of how to marry my personal values with a varied and exciting job role. I’ve made valuable industry contacts who share a passion for sustainability, which has opened doors to new opportunities and possibilities. The agents and suppliers I have met on the programme have been incredibly supportive – this network has not only broadened my knowledge but also inspired me to confidently promote and sell more eco-friendly holiday options. Being a TTG Sustainable Travel Ambassador in Training has boosted my confidence in discussing sustainable travel with clients and helped me offer alternatives that align with their values, all while supporting responsible tourism. As a result, I’ve grown my personal client base, attracting like-minded travellers who prioritize the same environmental and ethical standards as I do. Overall, being part of this programme has been both rewarding and empowering and I am extremely proud and privileged to have been involved.”