Transat is enhancing its commitment to sustainable travel through a unique educational initiative, partnering with Iberostar Hotels & Resorts and the University of Guelph’s School of Hospitality, Food and Tourism Management. The third iteration of the Journey for Change program offers 12 students an immersive, hands-on experience in the Dominican Republic—a country renowned for its rich biodiversity and tourist appeal.
Sustainable travel plays a crucial role in Transat’s corporate responsibility strategy. Chrystal Healy, Vice President of Corporate Responsibility at Transat, expressed her enthusiasm for the initiative, stating, “Sustainable travel is at the heart of Transat’s corporate responsibility strategy, and I’m pleased to see that the next generation is already sensitive to these issues.” This program aligns with Transat’s goal of fostering awareness and action among students regarding social and environmental matters.
The Journey for Change program is designed to be educational yet practical. Participants engage in a diverse curriculum that covers topics such as responsible sourcing, food waste prevention, and composting. Additionally, students will partake in crucial environmental efforts like coral reef rehabilitation, mangrove planting, and organized beach clean-up activities. Dr. Statia Elliot, a professor at the University of Guelph, underscored the unique aspect of the program, noting, “The strength of Journey for Change is that the destination is the classroom. Students learn about sustainable tourism while experiencing being a tourist themselves."
This initiative also brings the students into contact with local communities and tourism service providers, allowing them to understand the multifaceted challenges of sustainable tourism firsthand. Gabriel Martorell, Sustainability Director for the Americas at Iberostar, highlighted the company’s dedication to sustainability: “At Iberostar, we view sustainability as a core principle that drives and guides our business.” The students will visit the Coral Lab, enhancing their understanding of coral research and its significance in addressing the challenges posed by climate change.
The first edition of Journey for Change took place in spring 2019 in Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic. Previous iterations of the program have successfully fostered connections between students and local communities while providing insight into sustainable tourism practices. Such hands-on experiences not only educate the students but also empower them to advocate for sustainable travel when they return home, thereby multiplying the impact of this pivotal initiative.
Engaging in sustainable practices and embracing responsible tourism reinforce the importance of environmental stewardship. Whether through educational workshops or direct community involvement, programs like Journey for Change exemplify how collaborative efforts can inspire a generation to contribute positively to their communities and the environment.
For additional information on Iberostar’s sustainability efforts, visit Iberostar. To learn more about the University of Guelph’s program, explore University of Guelph.
