By: Jeannette Ceja, Jet Set with Jeannette
There's a new generation of leaders in travel who are making sustainable tourism part of the daily business model. This is good news for travelers who are seeking to give back but don’t know how.
More hotels like Terranea Resort are working with Kind Traveler, a company that provides a way for travelers to give back to charities. Marine Mammal Care Center is the local non-profit organization that gets an automatic ten dollar donation from the Terranea Resort when visitors book through Kind Traveler.
"We are in alliance with Kind Traveler, as they provide a platform which allows people who enjoy traveling to give back to their favorite charity," says Nancy Machado, Director of Development for the Marine Mammal Care Center. She shares why sea lions and seals are such an important part of our ecosystem.
"We are here to service the Los Angeles community. We have been here for the past 25 years. Our goal here is to rescue these animals and release them back into the natural wild so future generations can enjoy them," says Machado.
Now, I can state with confidence that I will go to Kind Traveler when I want to book a hotel. Why? The company name says it all. Kind Traveler, founded by Jessica Blotter and Sean Krejci, is a socially-conscious 'Give + Get' hotel booking platform.
As a Kindness Ambassador, I was able to experience firsthand what it felt like to be a Kind Traveler. I joined a phenomenal group of Kindness Ambassadors whom included: Jon Huertas, Justin Walter, Angel Castellanos, Juliana Shallcross and Megan Snedden.
Terranea Resort may be known for the scenic and coastal views. But did you know the resort is also heavily involved in sustainable tourism? Thrilled to have explored the 14 acres of restored habitat and the Sea Salt Conservatory.
If you visit Terranea, don't miss the Sustainability Focused Coastal Walk. Lauren Bergloff, a Sustainability Leader & Naturalist, will guide you along the most breathtaking tour. She exudes so much passion and knowledge about nature. She shared her passion for Sustainable Tourism.
"The only thing better than voting for what you believe in, is to buy what you believe in. When you purchase a sustainable product or choose to stay at a hotel that has the same morals as you, you are casting your vote in the future," says Bergloff.
"The more people choose sustainable tourism, the more tourism will need to sway in that direction. Choose to travel sustainably and see what the future holds."
Want to see exactly what ten dollars can do for Marine Mammal Care? Less than an eight mile drive away from Terranea, the non-profit hospital is open to the public every day of the year.
"Learn about us and what we do. And how you can get involved," says Machado. "There’s so many opportunities that we offer here. Whether that’s education or fundraising for the cause. My message would be learn about us. Share with your friends and family." The organization is run by volunteers and also provides education programs and a Husbandry Internship.
To learn more about how you can help: Marine Mammal Care Center has opportunities for volunteers, drop-off donations, memberships and hosts monthly fundraising events.
Visit: https://marinemammalcarecenterlosangeles.com/