Programme Welcome Thank you for joining us to celebrate the World Responsible Tourism Awards 2014, sponsored by the Ministry of Tourism - Sultanate of Oman. What you are about to see is the result of a global search for the most inspiring and enduring responsible tourism experiences in the world. Sitting among you are 25 finalists – each with a distinctive, and perhaps surprising, story to tell; tales of activism and heroism, leadership and vision, from our industry’s many sectors. From public nomination to the scrutiny of our Judging Panel, each finalist has been through a 5-step judging process that counts for 1000s of entries each year, and makes ours the toughest of all sustainable awards to win. But the finalists’ achievements extend beyond this room and manifests into years of work among communities around the world.
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Organising partners
We hope that this morning you’ll join us in congratulating, loudly, their hard work, determination, and inspiration as the Awards are announced. If you’re not already lucky enough to be sitting beside one of these inspirational leaders, you can read more about them, including the reason behind their win, by visiting worldresponsibletourismawards.com, or come along to the evening networking event from 5pm in the Platinum Suite for the chance to meet them in person.
Justin Francis Managing Director responsibletravel.com
Organised by
World Responsible Tourism Awards 2014 at WTM, sponsored by the Sultanate of Oman Ministry of tourism This year’s finalists • Adventure Alternative • Campo and Parque dos Sonhos • Casa de las Olas • Cavan Town & Environs • Chambal Safari Hotels Pvt Ltd • Chole Mjini Conservation & Development Co • Echidna Walkabout Nature Tours • Festivals of Puebla • Footsteps Eco Lodge • Hotel Verde • ITC Grand Chola • Jurys Inn Brighton • Kutch Adventures India • Lewa Wildlife Conservancy • Mdumbi Backpackers • Nam Nern Night Safari • Native Charming Hotels and Accessible Tourism • On Track Safaris • South African Animal Sanctuary Alliance (SAASA) • Thomson Airways • V & A Waterfront, Cape Town • World Animal Protection • GLP Films: Basecamp Foundation - Pioneering Sustainable Tourism in Kenya’s Masai Mara • Travel Oregon: Communities Powered by Travel - John Day River Territory • WWF: The Guardians
with thanks to the judges Professor Harold Goodwin: Professor Responsible Tourism at Manchester Metropolitan University (MMU) and Founder of the International Centre for Responsible Tourism - @icrtourism Justin Francis: CEO, responsibletravel.com - @r_travel Dr Rebecca Hawkins: Managing Director, Responsible Hospitality Partnership (rhp) - @rhpltd Debbie Hindle: Managing Director, Four bgb - @Debbie_Hindle Fiona Jeffery OBE: Founder and Chairman, Just a Drop - @FionaJeffery Simon Press: Senior Exhibition Director, World Travel Market - @wtm_wrtd Lisa Scott: Travel Editor, Metro newspaper - @MetroUK John de Vial: Head of Financial Protection, Association of British Travel Agents (ABTA) - @ABTATravel Dr Matt Walpole: Head of Science, Economica and Partnerships, United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) - @UNEP Mark Watson: Chief Executive, Tourism Concern - @tourismconcern Nikki White: Head of Destinations and Sustainability, Association of British Travel Agents (ABTA) - @ABTATravel
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Things to do in Oman Beauty has an address...Oman A brief history Oman may be one of the newest countries to modern-day tourism, but is actually the oldest independent Arab country with 5,000 years of history and culture. It still has a proud independent feel, since Oman was the first country in international trade among its Arabian counterparts. During the Omani reign, the Omani empire developed a connecting network of countries ranging from South Western Asia to East Africa. Oman’s ship Al Sultanah that docked in New York on April 13 1840 was the first Arab envoy to ever visit the New World – making it the second Arab country to sign a trade treaty with the U.S. The Imams ruled the interior country until 1406, staying in power until 1624, during which time they also saw the arrival of the Portuguese. After expelling its colonists in 1650, Oman used its naval strength to colonise a fair bit of Arabia themselves, including today’s United Arab Emirates and southern Baluchistan, as well as Zanzibar and the adjacent coasts of Kenya, Tanzania and Mozambique. Oman’s international power continued until the early 19th century, until the British and European colonisation of the Middle East. Oman then entered a period of internal disputes between Sultans and Imams, fuelled by the discovery of oil in the 1920’s. Since the rebellions prior to the current Sultan’s reign, Oman has been a peaceful, unified country, with the Sultan pushing for an immediate catch-up period of modernisation, in terms of improved, health, education and infrastructure. The Sultan is also passionate about culture, not only protecting the Omani cultural heritage, but also through his investment in the beaux arts in Oman.
Why we’re proud to sponsor the World Responsible Tourism Awards 2014 The Ministry of Tourism of the Sultanate of Oman wishes to develop a range of quality tourism products that not only promote cultural integrity and environmental protection but that also lead to a diverse and sustainable tourism industry both at home in the Sultanate and overseas. By sponsoring the Awards The Ministry of Tourism of the Sultanate of Oman wishes to recognise and support the development of tourism products across the world that are internationally renowned yet mindful of their position within the natural eco-systems and traditional communities from which they have grown. The Ministry of Tourism of the Sultanate of Oman believes the protection of historic, cultural and natural heritage should always be developed in a way that also provides sustainable economic benefit for the surrounding local communities. By promoting ecologically and culturally sound tourism products, we hope consumers will have the opportunity to assist in the economic spread of tourism whilst protecting natural eco-systems and communities.
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Things to do in Oman OUR TOP ACTIVITIES IN OMAN The wonders of wadis Wadi is an Arabic name for a valley with a waterbed and comes in two extreme forms usually. Dry as a bone, or flooded. Oman is, therefore, a place to hire a 4X4, as the roads suddenly end and you wander into a dry wadi, taking in all its curves and caves, either by some dusty, daredevil driving , hardcore but heavenly hiking or, if it is water filled, leave the car behind and take in some of the most wonderful wild swimming. Wadi Shab, for example, has secret emerald green caves and waterfalls all year round, leading down to the coastal village of Tiwi, where the mouth of the wadi enters the Arabian Sea. Or head to Wadi Bani Auf where old houses are built into its slopes, and terraces are cultivated with date and pomegranate plantations using the ancient falaj system. No matter where you go, you are never far from a wadi and all nearly all tours include a visit to one.
Who doesn’t love a souk? You are spoilt with souks in Oman. So, for starters, Muttrah is great for hand carved silver and gold jewellery although you might need to check for real Omani origins. The Wednesday souk at Buraimi is run only by women and specialises in handicrafts and pottery. The Sinaw Souk specialises in Bedouin crafts and for Oman’s fine frankincense, head to Al Husn Souk in Salalah.
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Always have desert The desert is a must on the Omani menu, the most famous area known as, quite simply, The Empty Quarter, or ‘Rub Al Khali’, which is part of the world’s largest sand desert. Explore by 4X4 but always with an expert guide, and ideally a Bedouin who knows every dune or when a mirage is not a mirage. Wahiba Sands is also amazing and closer to Muscat but, whichever desert you choose, they are places to ponder peace, camp under an explosion of stars, join a Bedouin caravan of camels at moonlight when it is cooler, or take tea with them in their reed dwellings. They’ll share stories of desert life and humble you with their innate sense of hospitality, leaving you with the sweetest and most lasting flavour of real Oman. For an appetizer, read Wilfred Thesiger’s 1959 classic travelogue, Arabian Sands.
Hiking With expert guides, the right season and plenty of stamina, this is one of the most exhilarating (and empty) countries to hike in. Walk through Oman’s wilderness, stomp along dry wadis, ramble across the rugged Hajar Mountains or through Jebel Shams, Oman’s ‘Grand Canyon’. Hikers can even retrace the steps of the SAS who ran a takeover expedition up to Jebal Akhdar in the 1950’s.
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Top 10 things to do in Oman 1. Spot turtles, but tread carefully Oman’s 3,165km of coast is a turtle haven of world importance. Visit Ras AI Hadd Turtle Reserve, a top choice for the turtles that return year after year to lay their eggs. In particular, the endangered green turtle that thrives in this turtle reserve, protected by Royal Decree since 1996. The turtles can be seen late at night or just before dawn. Always visit with an expert ranger.
2. Visit a livestock market To really open your eyes to authentic Oman, enjoy a Friday morning visit to the Nizwa Livestock Market. Here you can observe the frenetic cattle auctions, and taste the region’s famous dates in the adjoining souq. It’s a pleasingly non-commercial, authentic alternative to the more aggressive market experiences found elsewhere.
3. Fascinating forts Oman’s omnipresent Sultan has taken a laudable long-term view of the preservation of the country’s cultural heritage, with 54 of its more than 500 ancient forts undergoing programmes of restoration. Purchase crafts directly from the stalls run by local women inside the forts, maintaining what were traditionally bustling trading places and supporting local entrepreneurs.
4. Arabic architecture The sheer splendour of the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque is a must-see in Muscat. Open to non-Muslims between each day (except Friday), you will find friendly clerics here happy to discuss the Islamic faith with anyone wanting to listen, understand and converse. Women must cover their hair, wear long sleeves and trousers or skirt, or can hire an abaya for a more respectful visit.
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5. Live like the Bedouin
6. Traditional Omani life
7. Seek in Salalah
Visit the Bedouin for a glimpse into a slowly disappearing way of life. This is as close an experience as possible to traditional desert life. And Bedouin hospitality is legendary and you will be made very welcome.
This fascinating living museum, Al Hamra, based in an ancient, mud-brick village of the same name, offers an insight into traditional Omani life. Supporting it provides an alternative income for local women.
This is the Dhofar region of Oman, far South, and a chosen favourite with Omanis in the monsoon, or Khareef, where they go in seek of rain and valleys that turn from arid to almost ambrosial.
8. Wonderful wadis
9. Dolphin watching trip
10. Breathtaking walks
Hardcore but heavenly hiking will have you wandering through a dry wadi taking in all its curves and caves, or, if it is water filled, leave the boots behind and take in some of the most wonderful wild swimming.
See these beautiful creatures in their natural environment and learn more about them from your on board guide and captain who help to ensure a safe (for dolphins and travellers) and educational experience
This is one of the most exhilarating (and empty) countries to hike in. Walk through Oman’s wilderness, stomp along dry wadis, ramble across the rugged Hajar Mountains or through Jebel Shams, Oman’s ‘Grand Canyon’.
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Best time to visit Oman Temperatures vary throughout the country and October to April tend to be the coolest months in most parts.. Although you can visit all year round, the height of summer is a great time to head to the mountains so that you can keep a little cooler, or just stay in the shady cool of your hotel when the sun is at its highest. And if getting a suntan is all you are after, Oman is also the right place for you as long as you stay in a swimsuit in your resort. What to do & when • If you want to head to the province of Dhofar in the south, the monsoon, or ‘Khareef’ as known in local dialect, comes in from June to September. Omanis head here during this time to enjoy the rain and mist, and so prices push up to peak season rates in this region. However, it’s also green and lush during this time, so a wonderful sight for outdoor and adventure lovers. • Temperatures reach 38°C during the day and dipping to about 29°C at night in summer months. So, if you want to trek stay clear of May, June, July and August, or stay up in the mountainous cooler areas. However, if you just want to hang by the pool, the hotels all drop their rates hugely at this time. • If you want to see turtles the best time to come are the months of August, September, October and November as this is the key time for turtle nesting activity, however you can still visit the turtle reserve all year round to view turtle activity • A lot of places close during the Muslim period of Ramadan, so it is good to discuss that with your tour operator, however, food and alcohol are both available in most international hotels in Muscat after sundown.
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Authentic Arabia YOUR GUIDE TO RESPONSIBLE TOURISM IN OMAN
Oman offers infinitesimal desert dunes, sandstone forts that segue seamlessly into surrounding golden sands, wadis filled with turquoise water that feel like magical sanctuaries when you dive into them, and three seas to choose from for coastal escapism. If you like big spaces and big ideals, Oman is an eye opening and exhilarating place to visit. Considering Oman is deemed the Middle East and Arabia’s best kept secret, tourists visiting Oman are whisked into a whirlwind that takes you from opulent to charming, charismatic to dramatic, all in a day.
Oman is...
authentic Arabia and so totally alluring. Beauty has an address… Oman.
People & Language Arabic is, of course, the national language, but many Omanis speak good English and a considerable amount of Omanis also speak Swahili and Hindi. There are also various other indigenous languages such as Jabbali in the Dhofar region and Kumzari and Shihhi Arabic found in Musandam. There is a sizeable Indian immigrant population, so you will also hear a lot of Hindi spoken. The most common greeting is Salam alaykum , or ‘Peace be upon you’ The most common reply is Wa alaykum as-salam , meaning ‘And upon you be peace’
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Oman isn’t...
man-made nor does it indulge in obvious architecture
Gifts & shopping Oman is THE place to buy Frankincense (and is one of the few countries in the world where it’s grown)
Eating & drinking
Dates are everywhere and the perfect gift
• You will never be short of a date in Oman.
Seek out local honey, especially the wild one from bees hiding in high mountain caves
• Shuwa is meat marinated in spices, wrapped in banana leaf to marinate and kept in a hole underground containing fire to be cooked for 1-2 days
You won’t want to buy a goat in Nizwa, instead opt for rose water, made from roses grown in Jabal Akhdar
• Qahwa is Omani coffee, with a hint of cardamom. Often served with delicious sweet halwa.
• Sewyah is a delicacy made from sweet noodles, usually had for breakfast sometimes accompanied by an omelette. • Um Ali is a popular pudding made from cinnamon nut.
Category sponsors & supporters Best animal welfare initiative The best animal welfare initiative category is awarded to a tourism business or organisation leading the way in their approach to the care, wellbeing and dignity of animals.
supported by:
Best aviation programme for carbon reduction Best aviation programme for carbon reduction is for an airline or other aviation organisation working to reduce the carbon emissions of travel.
sponsored by:
Best for beach tourism Best for beach tourism is awarded to a tourism business, organisation or initiative providing or contributing to responsible holidays in beach settings.
sponsored by:
Best city hotel
sponsored by:
The Best city hotel category is for city-based places to stay with a creative and credible approach to responsible tourism in an urban setting.
The Best destination for responsible tourism category is awarded to a holiday destination setting an inspirational and inuential example for responsible tourism.
sponsored by:
Best for people with disabilities The Best for people with disabilities category awards a tourism attraction or facility making holiday experiences accessible and enjoyable for all, making everyone equally welcome whatever their physical or mental challenges.
sponsored by:
Best for engaging people & culture Best for engaging people and culture awards a tourism business, organisation or initiative that puts the celebration of local people and their cultures at the heart of memorable tourism experiences.
sponsored by:
People’s choice for responsible tourism sponsored by:
Best cultural heritage attraction Best cultural heritage attraction is awarded to a tourism attraction or experience that is designed to protect and promote the heritage of a community.
Best destination for responsible tourism
sponsored by:
Last year for the very first time we created a People’s Choice category where you get to vote from a choice of amazing responsible tourism businesses- previous winners of the World Responsible Tourism Awards.
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Best for poverty reduction Best for poverty reduction is awarded to a tourism organisation with a creative and long-term approach to reducing poverty among local communitities.
sponsored by:
Best short film for responsible tourism Best Short Film for Responsible Tourism - a new category celebrating a short piece of film or documentary that encourages and inspires travellers to holiday responsibly.
sponsored by:
Media partners
ttg NORDIC
travel trade gazette
S w e d e n H D e n m a r k H N o r way H F i n l a n d H I c e l a n d
Best for wildlife conservation The Best for wildlife conservation - category is awarded to a tourism business or initiative that preserves and carefully manages habitat and wildlife species.
sponsored by:
OVERALL WINNER This coveted category crowns the organisation that has shown true leadership in the way it implements responsible tourism practices; we are looking for a winner that will inspire others to walk in their footsteps. sponsored by:
www.omantourism.gov.om @Oman_Tourism_UK
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worldresponsibletourismawards.com @RTAwards