Impact Travel: How Your Vacation Can Change the World
25 April 2026

Impact Travel: How Your Vacation Can Change the World

A Life Less Ordinary

About
The Wishing Well's Terrie Dean explores the growing movement of impact travel—luxury travel experiences that actively give back to the destinations you visit. From biodiversity restoration in Scotland and conservation efforts in Ecuador and the Galápagos Islands, to marine protection in Thailand and the Caribbean, this episode highlights how travel can support wildlife, protect ecosystems, and empower local communities.

We also dive into powerful stories of education and community engagement in Africa, where safari lodges partner with local villages to support children’s learning and conservation leadership. Finally, we examine how travel plays a role in aid and recovery, spotlighting rebuilding efforts in Jamaica after hurricanes and California after wildfires.

If you’re dreaming of meaningful vacations that go beyond sightseeing—journeys where your presence helps restore environments, protect marine life, and strengthen communities—this episode is for you. Learn how responsible travel, curated experiences, and thoughtful tourism can leave a lasting positive impact on the world.

Links from this episode:

Scotland & Europe
    Gleneagles HotelLuxury Gold
    Cairngorms National Park
    Loch Fleet National Nature Reserve
Ecuador & Galápagos
    Mashpi LodgeNational Geographic–Lindblad ExpeditionsMC Galapagos / Delfín Galápagos
Thailand
    Chiva-Som International Health ResortAnantara Phuket
Mexico & Caribbean
    Impression Isla Mujeres (by Secrets)COMO Parrot Cay (Turks & Caicos)Tryall Club (Jamaica)The Jamaica Inn
Africa
    Xigera Safari Lodge (Botswana)Wilderness Safaris – Children in the WildernessSingita Serengeti (Tanzania)Micato Safaris
United States
    Conrad Los Angeles1 Hotel West HollywoodArbor Day Foundation