The EXO Foundation hosts training for Exotissimo Vietnam teams
On 4 October the EXO Foundation hosted training on Responsible Tourism for Exotissimo teams in Vietnam. Held at the Novotel in Ho Chi Minh City, 70 staff and managers of the tour operator attended the training conducted by the Foundation’s Regional Coordinator, Christine Jacquemin.
The EXO Foundation consulted with and advised Exotissimo in the creation of their Responsible Travel Policy and the key goal of the training was imparting to each and every staff the important roles they each can play in assuring Exotissimo continually strives to operate in the most responsible way possible.
The Foundation explained to attendees how to develop responsible tourism through three main channels:
1. Exo offices: Adopting environmentally friendly practices within their offices. Exo’s offices in Ho Chi Minh and Phnom Penh are currently undergoing Earth Check Assessments.
2. Tour design: Including sustainable development criteria to select responsible suppliers.
3. Sensitizing clients: Advising clients on best practices to maximize the positive effects of travel while minimizing its negative impacts and ensure that the cultures and natural environments of our destinations continue to flourish.
The Foundation is also conducting a screening of all suppliers within Exo’s Tour Plan system and will identify suppliers who are promoting and implementing principles of sustainable development. Reservation staff will have the ability to consult with clients on responsible options available in our destinations, which are increasingly in demand. The Foundation has conducted training for teams in Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar and Thailand.