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In a world shrunk by jet travel, television and the internet, expeditions still offer the daring traveller opportunities to make new discoveries about the environment and themselves.

These days the expedition is planned and organised in a much more businesslike and professional manner than those organised by earlier generations.

The need to raise, or conserve, funds means that an enthusiastic volunteer, willing to make a financial contribution, is likely to be welcomed with open arms.

Modern day expeditions have also evolved to the point where the commercial, or charitable, expedition organisers are willing to balance self development for expedition members along with scientific, conservation or development elements within the expedition itself.

While for some people expeditions are seen as a form of adventure holiday, the vast majority see them as a way of assisting conservation at both home and abroad, while at the same time training expedition members in key skills and self development.

Popularity: 67%

Although there is increasing awareness of the impact that tourism can have on our environment, tourist travel continues to grow year on year.

Tourism can be a powerful force for conservation, there are more than 5,000 national parks, wildlife sanctuaries and reserves around the world. Many of these resources are heavily dependent upon the tourist industry for their financial security. However, tourism can also be the cause of significant environmental damage. For example through CO2 emissions and the damage to to local species and habitats. In parts of the Mediterranean region turtle nesting sites have been destroyed to make way for hotels and other developments.

The travelling light philosophy means that we travel with responsibility, we aim to have the minimum impact on the environment and we respect the local traditions and culture of the places we visit.

I encourage you to think globally but to support locally by avoiding taking unnecessary items on your journey, by choosing the most appropriate mode of transport and by immersing yourself in the local culture and environment. If you must leave a footprint behind ensure that your footprint benefits the local community and economy.

Popularity: 32%