In recent years, environmental affairs have taken the same example of reinventing themselves, just like a fashion trend, musicians, construction, etc. Currently, responsible tourist operations have denominations that reach out to niche markets, like ecotourism, green tourism, environmentourism, birdwatching, etc. But, it is worth mentioning, responsible tourism is not just happening in natural areas, and should never happen in exclusively natural areas. It can happen anywhere, and it should happen everywhere. The responsibility in tourism must be a shared one, and evenly distributed among its actors, players and stakeholders. Once this responsibility is applied, tourism can turn into a sustainable activity. In other words, it can stand the test of time. The country of Ecuador has acknowledged at the highest levels of its industry, to promote sustainability as the main opportunity for the preservation of its cultures, protection of natural resources, quality assurance to its visitors, and, quite naturally, profit generation to its players. The benefits of sustainable tourism guarantee quality in all aspects of its industry.
Sustainability in tourism seeks balance and momentum between its three key players: people, environment, and economy. If one of these elements runs loose from balance, then the activity stops from being sustainable. This meeting point allows all beneficiaries to look for new and better opportunities, converting tourism into a continuous source of tangible benefits.
Metropolitan Touring’s operations are focused in finding that balance, so our presence leaves a positive and lasting image. Our more practical commitment extends to supporting the projects of Fundación Galapagos-Ecuador. Actions like solid-waste recycling, coastal clean-up, and especially, our contribution to local education, can gradually achieve the balance sustainability is looking for. We feel very optimistic to see that the real future of tourism can be found in its sustainability.
Fundación Galápagos has been chosen by Coca Cola to participate in the campaign “Every bottle has a story” for its commitment to making a positive difference to the Islands
Metropolitan Touring is one of South America’s most known and respected travel companies, providing unrivalled service to our guests for nearly 60 years. Along with our operations in Ecuador, Peru, Argentina, Chile and Colombia, we also own and operate the finest ships for Galapagos Island cruises - the M/V Santa Cruz, Yacht Isabella II and Yacht La Pinta - as well as the Finch Bay Eco Hotel. Come explore with us!
We take immense pride in our Galapagos cruise explorations, during which our guests experience the ever-changing ecological paradise of the islands. Our Galapagos cruises provide opportunities to walk, swim, snorkel, photograph and observe the archipelago’s amazing wildlife in the company of expert naturalist guides. Our Galapagos cruises are characterized by the highest standards of comfort, cuisine and service on board, combining these elements to provide solo-travelers, families and small groups with an unforgettable exploration of ‘the enchanted isles.’
So, pack your bags and come explore with us for a Galapagos cruise of a lifetime!