Adventure operator G Adventures will offer an extended programme of community tourism trips to Bosnia and Herzegovina next year.
The new trips are the result of a collaboration between the US government’s USAID Developing Sustainable Tourism in Bosnia and Herzegovina (USAID Turizam) initiative, the Global Travel & Tourism Resilience Council (GTTRC) and G Adventures.
Yves Marceau, G Adventures’ product vice-president, said: “The Balkans is a special part of the world that is growing in popularity as people move beyond traditional European destinations.
“As more travellers start to visit, it’s important that tourism develops the right way – a way that supports local people and communities. Travel is a two-way exchange, and we’re excited to introduce our new trips in 2025.
“This collaboration is a powerful example of how rural and local communities that are not on the main tourism route can benefit when governments, NGOs and private social enterprises work together to do the right thing.”
More: G Adventures to host 15 UK and Ireland agents at community tourism event
Karl Wurster, director of the economic development office at USAID/BiH, added: “We are pleased to launch our collaboration with G Adventures, a company that takes travellers from around the world to more than 100 countries.
“What’s most impressive is G Adventures’ commitment to community tourism, which will ensure the long-term sustainability of tourism development in Bosnia and Herzegovina.”
Representatives from G Adventures will visit Bosnia and Herzegovina to explore new destinations, services and experiences to expand existing itineraries and introduce new and extended trips.
USAID Turizam will introduce G Adventures to suppliers and service providers to discuss ideas for future experiences and press trips.
GTTRC will present this collaboration at its events as an example of a positive model for sustainable tourism development.
Laurie Myers, global strategist for GTTRC, commented: “Over the past few years, Bosnia and Herzegovina has been celebrated among the burgeoning sustainable destinations during our conferences and events, and we are pleased to drive yet another partnership that showcases the power of tourism in the development of sustainable community tourism.”
Ibrahim Osta, USAID Turizam’s senior destination development advisor, described the partnership as “a testament to the power of sustainability and responsible business conduct for a thriving tourism sector underpinned by a people-centric approach”.
Pictured: Stupe, Bosnia and Herzegovina