Travel has the potential to be a powerful force for good, not only transforming communities but also providing opportunities to lift people out of poverty and empower women. These were some of the key messages shared during the GX India: World Community Tourism Summit, which concluded in Jaipur. The summit highlighted how community tourism can bring about lasting, positive change in societies around the world.
One of the notable guests at the summit was Tony Wheeler, the co-founder of Lonely Planet. Wheeler, along with his wife Maureen, revolutionized travel in the 1970s when they published their first travel guide in Melbourne, Australia. The couple had set off from England with just £400 in their pocket, and their journey eventually grew into a global travel guide empire. With his books in the hands of countless travelers worldwide, Wheeler became an iconic figure in the travel industry.
Wheeler sold Lonely Planet to the BBC in 2007 and has since focused on other projects like The Wheeler Institute in London and The Wheeler Centre in Melbourne. Despite his years of exploration, Wheeler shared with the summit that India still holds a special place in his heart, noting that if he added a few more weeks to his India trips, he would have spent a full year exploring the country. He emphasized that tourism, when done right, can have tremendous benefits for local communities.
Bruce Poon Tip, founder of G Adventures and host of the summit, invited Wheeler to speak at the event, explaining how Lonely Planet inspired his own travel journey. Poon Tip’s company has been a leader in community tourism, partnering with Planeterra to create economic opportunities, protect environments, and celebrate local cultures. G Adventures has brought to light several initiatives in India, including Women with Wheels in Delhi, Pink City Rickshaw in Jaipur, Sheroes cafés for acid attack survivors, and Salaam Baalak tours, guided by former street children.
The GX India summit also featured other influential speakers like Jaideep Bansal of Global Himalayan Expedition and Aayusha Prasai of Community Homestay Network. The speakers discussed how community-driven travel can create sustainable change in local economies while preserving cultural heritage. US journalist Elizabeth Becker also contributed her insights, underscoring the importance of responsible tourism in today’s world.
In addition to the inspiring talks, the summit offered attendees the chance to explore community tourism firsthand through a pop-up marketplace organized by Anoothi. The marketplace featured small businesses and women-led enterprises benefiting from tourism, showcasing ethically made textile products and traditional crafts that promote environmental consciousness.
The GX India summit, held on World Tourism Day, reinforced the idea that tourism can indeed be a force for good. By choosing to travel with operators focused on making a positive impact, tourists can play a vital role in supporting sustainable practices, empowering marginalized groups, and preserving cultural heritage. With G Adventures leading the way, community tourism continues to offer a transformative experience for both travelers and local communities alike.
