Yesterday saw the official launch of the Geotourism Development Foundation, a global not-for-profit organisation committed to elevating travel as a force for good through community development projects. Responding to a growing interest in independent, experiential and local travel, the GDF aims to cultivate community, cultural or environmental projects that link to tourism and derive revenue from visitors.

There is no shortage of niche travel labels out there. I suspect, though, that more than just a few of them are either meaningless or confusing to travel consumers. But I want take a stand with regard to one – Local Travel. It is the strongest foot forward if we are to work together to improve ethical standards in tourism from the bottom up and for everyone involved.

The importance of balancing sustainability and profitability is the primary underlying theme of the first European Ecotourism Conference, being held from 26 to 30 September, 2010, in Pärnu, Estonia. Established with a mission to serve as a Europe-wide forum through which stakeholders involved in ecotourism can gain insight into its development, opportunities and future challenges.

Together with Spotted by Locals, the WHL Group is a founding member of the Local Travel Movement – a website uniting people and organisations with a passion for Local Travel and commitment to Local Travel values. It’s a movement gathering momentum!

There is no right or wrong about how we position the Local Travel Movement, but its relevance is obvious. As I look at the evolution of travel, we are at the leading edge of what I would call Travel 3.0.