There has never been a more important moment to recognize those shaping the future of travel. It’s not just due to the COVID-19 pandemic, which transformed the industry, but also because of the racial reckoning of the last few years, which has reinforced the need for greater access and representation in travel; the rapid advance of technology; and the climate crisis. For the very first time, we’re honoring people and businesses who are tackling these issues with fresh, creative thinking to bring us into the future across the realms of tech, design, sustainability, community, inclusion, accessibility, and conservation. From cities focused on urban regeneration and sweeping conservation programs in rural areas to carbon-conscious hotels and airlines introducing new inclusivity measures, these 56 innovators are changing the way we travel.

Niarra Travel | 🤝 🦏

The idea: London-based tour operator Niarra Travel is hoping to change industry norms by halving the standard 20 percent commission on bookings and investing the other 10 percent in conservation and communities in the destinations it serves.
Details: Byron Thomas started Niarra Travel in 2020 with a new industry standard in mind. The company seeks to make the trip planning process as collaborative as possible while hosting conservation-forward offerings like game drives in Australia’s Arkaba Conservancy and sustainable accommodations in the continents they operate. As much as possible, Niarra funnels tourism dollars from these experiences to the local people and the places they live. So, scout the best of Kenya’s wildlife or venture into the cloud forests of Costa Rica with ease of mind, knowing that your holiday is not only going to be uplifting for you but also for the local economy, animals, and the natural environment as well.
Why it matters: Through establishing this commission model, other tour operators will be encouraged to offer similar programs in order to remain competitive.