Advocating against 'Tourism Leakage' whilst travelling the world......
I created Community Back Pocket to encourage travellers to spend locally. I’ve been fortunate to travel to some of the most beautiful but fragile places over the past 20 years. Through my travels, I’ve observed how tourism leakage impacts host communities. But, by being a more conscious and responsible traveller we can minimise tourism leakage. Community Back Pocket encourages travellers to think beyond obvious global conglomerates.
I’ve always been passionate about sustainable and responsible travel. So much so, my degree is in Travel & Tourism even though I’m a recruiter by day! My aim is to showcase local hospitality instead of multinational commodification. So, that by working together we can preserve traditional culture, minimise social and ethnic stress. And by spending local we can have a positive impact on the lives of the host community.
Interested in local culture and authenticity I try to stay, eat and experience locally. But, sometimes it’s hard. The research, time, and effort make it easier to book with a multinational brand. So, Community Back Pocket is here to make it easier for you. See it as a one-stop shop and go-to resource focusing on local options.
Sometimes it can be difficult for local businesses to market themselves. They rely on agencies and wholesalers who cut prices to rock bottom. Booking direct with local businesses not only benefits them but can save you dollars too.
By spending local you will have a more genuine and authentic experience. This is a site for those who want to travel but want to support the local economy and help reduce tourism leakage. I hope my responsible travel blog will offer you inspiration. I aim to empower you to make the right choices. Together we can minimise tourism leakage.
Community Back Pocket started with me researching my own trip to climb Kilimanjaro. Read my story here.
Latest blog posts
Thailand, off the beaten track
Many travellers will have seen pictures of Kayan women wearing distinctive brass neck rings and heard of ‘show village’ travesties. Thanks to a joint partnership between the village of Huay Pu Keng (HPK) and Fair Tourism Foundation there is now an ethical and regenerative way to visit.
In this article Aye Muang one of the villagers very kindly took time out of his very busy schedule to share with us why he loves his village so much and why you should take the opportunity to visit.
Things to do in Quito
Meet Angelica and Christian owners of Terra Sur Travels a tour company based in Ecuador. In this interview they share their story and the best things to do in Quito.
Responsible travel for all
Now, more than ever, the social interaction and economic returns resulting from tourism worldwide can transform lives and destinations unlike ever before.
Here are some simple ways you can contribute to the lives of others and positively impact our incredible planet every time you pack your bags.
Things to do in Coonawarra
Meet Simon and Kerry Meares owners of Coonawarra Experiences in South Australia. With an unwavering passion for Coonawarra, they provide authentic and personalised tours. In this interview they share the best things to do in Coonawarra.
Kokoda Track walking tours and visiting PNG
Kokoda Track walking tours and visiting PNG Papua New Guinea and Kokoda Track walking tours first came on my radar when I walked the Great Wall of China to raise money for MS Australia in 2019. Their next fundraising adventure was to walk the Kokoda Track. Something I...
Why I won’t hurry back to Byron Bay
Waves crashing at Byron Bay Beach Byron Bay is a place that nature has been kind to. Gifted with timber, gold, world-class surf breaks, and mild temperatures. Coastal utopia where the sea doesn’t drop below a comfortable 18 degrees. Steeped in...
