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🌍 How to use Travel as a driver to achieve the SDG by 2030

🎙 PODCAST &

07/07/2023

Friday truth meme is my thing, I guess.

Something to reflect on. Or share 🙃

30/06/2023

Sounds familiar? Is this funny or sad to you?

On that note: Happy Friday my friends!

xx

28/06/2023

This is hard to imagine in a world where we have access to EVERYTHING all the time...
But how do people see this as normal?

It actually really scares me.

In the early 80's we only had a couple of species of apples for example. Red, green or yellow. Then they became a marketing thing, there are labs that create hybrid apples, give them a name and market them in a fancy way.

Do most people not know this or don't care?

27/06/2023

Just a little roundup that could help us navigate the complex challenges we are facing.

Keep learning, asking questions, and having conversations with people who know more and who know less.
Stay humble.
💚

25/06/2023

I still like highlighting hotels, as many of you started following me for travel content. But will only shine a light on those I can personally vouch for.

Nestled in the heart of the Yucatan Peninsula, Chablé Yucatan stands as a shining example of how a hotel can thrive by embracing community. Here, the local community is the beating heart that uplifts the entire hotel. From the moment you step foot on the property, you can sense the profound connection the hotel shares with the history of Yucatan.

2 Years ago, I was lucky to tour this property with Chef and learn about the property through the angle of food and community.

You can listen to the story of Chablé Yucatan through Luis' words on the RETHINK TRAVEL podcast (available on all platforms) 🌿

23/06/2023

Agreed right? But...
Real change goes deeper ✨

We all want to be kind and caring. But let's dig a little deeper and explore what really drives us to change our behaviors. It's not just about knowing and caring; it's about something more personal and profound.

Real behavior change comes from a place within ourselves. It's about how we (re)think, what we value, and the attitudes we hold. It's about looking inward and questioning our own beliefs and patterns of thinking. It's not always easy, but it's where true transformation happens.

To make lasting changes, we need to be self-aware. We have to take a good, hard look at ourselves and examine our motivations and the impact of our choices. This means recognizing our biases, challenging our assumptions, and breaking free from the limitations that hold us back.

Empathy plays a big role too. When we understand that our actions affect others and the world around us, we can begin to see the bigger picture. We start cultivating a sense of connection and a desire to make choices that align with our values.

Remember: change is a journey. It's about constantly questioning ourselves, seeking knowledge, and taking deliberate actions that reflect our newfound understanding.

I do believe this is where to start to make a meaningful impact 🌟

21/06/2023

If I introduced a today friend to someone I knew 15 years ago, and they would talk about me: they would not be talking about the same person.

I used to travel a lot, be a meat eater, drink, smoke, and not care much about my lifestyle's impact (I didn't know). I was obviously the same kind person inside and cared about others, but I didn't have the same information I have today that made me change so much. And it all started with internal changes.

EMBRACE CHANGE - don't be afraid of what people will think. Feel free to reach out to me to learn more, it is truly amazing on the other side 🥰

20/06/2023

☀️ A little more about me and how my changes started with changing from the inside...
And I would love to hear about your stories, too - please share!

Picture by .bytheocean

14/06/2023

We are at a crossroads where we have the opportunity to realign our values, make conscious choices, and foster a more sustainable future.

With the global challenges we face, the concepts of sobriety and degrowth offer us an alternative path forward. In the pursuit of endless growth and consumption, we need to pause, reflect, and consider the power of simplicity and balance.

Sobriety invites us to reevaluate our relationship with material possessions and to step away from the constant pressure to acquire and consume. Similarly, degrowth challenges the conventional notion that endless economic expansion is the only path to progress. It urges us to rethink the current economic model and explore alternatives prioritizing human well-being, environmental harmony, and social justice. It calls for reimagining our relationship with work, production, and consumption, moving towards a more regenerative and equitable society.

🌿

13/06/2023

We live in a world of complex challenges.

I believe the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) give us a "simple" yet powerful framework for understanding our global challenges and taking action.

Each goal focuses on a specific area of concern, such as poverty, education, gender equality, climate action, and more. They address pressing issues we face as a global community in a way that is easy to grasp and apply in our businesses (and daily lives).

I agree they are far from perfect, and some targets may already be obsolete but the 17 interconnected goals provide a roadmap that is accessible.

Which one(s) are your focused on?

11/06/2023

's KURA is a true gem nestled in the breathtaking landscapes of Costa Rica, where a commitment to doing things differently has transformed the travel experience.

Hospitality was reimagined with a bold vision that places environmental stewardship and community engagement at the forefront. The stunning architecture blends seamlessly with the natural surroundings, creating an oasis of tranquility.

KURA has gone above and beyond to embrace sustainable practices throughout its operations. Solar panels harness the power of the sun, and the use of locally sourced materials and furniture crafted by local artisans supports the community and reduces the carbon footprint. Even the swimming pool is chlorine-free, using a natural filtration system that preserves the purity of the water.

Beyond the infrastructure, KURA is committed to preserving the rich biodiversity of Costa Rica. They actively engage in reforestation efforts, working to restore and protect the natural habitats that make this country so unique. They offer educational programs for guests, raising awareness about sustainability and empowering visitors to become ambassadors for positive change.

Hotel KURA stands as a shining example for the travel industry, showcasing that luxury and sustainability can coexist harmoniously. Their commitment to doing things differently inspires us to rethink our own travel choices and consider the impact we have on the planet and local communities. 🌴

06/06/2023

For someone who's been in Marketing for a while, I recently learned about Bernays' immense impact. There is a documentary called "The Century of Self" that is quite interesting to get one more piece of the puzzle on how we got to this global giant mess.

How many of you had heard of him?

02/06/2023

That's what big corp and industries want... And guess what? So many are doing exactly that.

31/05/2023

My podcast has been on hiatus for a year - the time it took me to regroup and refocus - but I did have the privilege to interview amazing guests. One of them is Chef , who I encourage to listen to talking about Mexico and its incredible food culture.

I will get back to it soon and also preparing a little something different! Stay tuned 🎙

30/05/2023

In the face of filters and facades, authenticity is our superpower. And it feels very good since I changed the intention of this page. I lost hundreds of followers, and my content is seen by about 1% of you all, but I'm the happiest ever speaking my mind fully!

so thank you for the support, my beloved 1% 🥰

28/05/2023

A Paradigm of Authenticity: The Brando's Business Success through Environmental Stewardship 🌴

From its inception, The Brando made a bold commitment: to operate with unwavering respect for the environment. By seamlessly integrating luxury with eco-conscious practices, they demonstrated that business excellence and sustainability can go hand in hand.

For The Brando, authenticity became the driving force behind their triumph. By embracing a deep sense of responsibility, they carved out a niche that resonated with conscious travelers seeking transformative experiences rooted in respect for nature.

Their unwavering dedication to the environment didn't just end at the boundaries of their resort. The Brando became a beacon of inspiration, showcasing that businesses can be a powerful force for change. Through partnerships, knowledge sharing, and global outreach, they championed the importance of sustainability across industries and paved the way for the travel industry.

26/05/2023

But have we ever stopped to ponder the untold narratives beneath the surface?

What may seem like heavenly to us visiting or seeing pictures might be a daily struggle for those who call it home. Behind the curtain of beauty, there are often communities grappling with poverty, inequality, or environmental challenges.

It's time to open our eyes and hearts to the unspoken stories. Let us shed the veil of ignorance and cultivate empathy. Recognizing that paradise can be a paradox, we can extend our hands in solidarity and strive to make a positive difference.

It's important to see beyond the postcard-perfect facade and support those who need it most. Let's rewrite the narratives, amplify voices, and build a more empathetic world. 🌍❤️

24/05/2023

For too long, we've been told that the Amazon Rainforest is the lungs of our Planet. True.

💡 But I'm learning more and more from the real stewards of the Amazon what it means to them, their home, their culture, their food and their water.

Can we deploy more compassion and kindness?

23/05/2023

Wisdom Unveiled: Lessons Learned from Watatakalu Yawalapiti 🌍

Still reflecting on this "meet-cute" ✨

19/05/2023

🌍 Shifting Perspectives: The Key to Sustainability

🔍 In sustainability, perspective is more valuable than you think. Understanding why requires us to embrace diverse viewpoints and challenge our preconceived notions (even if we're experts who learned a lot).

🌻 Sustainable Development is not a one-size-fits-all concept. It encompasses many interconnected aspects, from environmental stewardship to social justice and economic balance. By expanding our perspectives, we can uncover innovative solutions and foster inclusive approaches.

🌏 To work in sustainability or embark on a learning journey, we need to step into the shoes of others. By seeing through different lenses, we gain the empathy needed to drive meaningful action.

I realized the importance of it when I started talking to people in other regions, listening to the language they use and how they view our (Europeans + US) lifestyle and narrative.

I've done this a lot when switching from my Swiss viewpoint to my Korean one - my whole life- without realizing it. How did you shift your perspective?
Share with me!

17/05/2023

🤔 What if 'normal' is just a comfortable illusion? Why do we cling to the way things have always been done? It's time to question, challenge, and break free from the constraints of tradition.

💡 The Rethink Mindset is about breaking the chains of 'normal'

16/05/2023

Coming back to some basics about what we call "sustainable development". Who else than experts in the field to tell us about decades of research and their learnings.

The planetary boundaries were made public in a Netflix documentary 2 years ago and if you haven't watched it yet, I really encourage you to do so!

05/05/2023

Some food for thought; Happy Friday!

🥰

04/05/2023

No, you don't. Actually, I'm not sure we need more "stuff" made, to be honest.

While eco-friendly products and practices are important, there are many other social and economic issues that businesses can address to make a positive impact. In fact, focusing solely on the environment can sometimes distract from other important issues, such as social justice and economic inequality.

An impact business can be a company that provides job opportunities and training to individuals from marginalized communities. By giving people the tools and resources they need to succeed, these businesses are not only helping individuals and families but also strengthening local economies and creating positive social change.

They can also focus on providing access to clean water, healthcare, education, and other basic needs. Addressing these fundamental issues can improve quality of life and promote long-term sustainability.

Sustainability and impact come in many forms. By thinking creatively and embracing a broad definition of what it means to be an impact business, entrepreneurs can find new and innovative ways to make a positive difference in the world.

You can go back to some of my previous posts to see examples of great businesses!

30/04/2023

Honestly, on Sundays, I like to relax my mind...
So this is a great time to highlight positive travel examples.

Isla Palenque is part of the led by someone I admire very much: .pfister

In their own words:

"We’re passionate about sharing this stunning corner of the world with you, but not at the risk of harming it.

That’s why, we developed Isla Palenque with the highest standards in sustainability without sacrificing an ounce of island comfort.

We utilize renewable materials for sustainable and low-impact construction. We use locally-sourced biodegradable products and serve all-organic foods. We employ local staff and educate them, our local community, and our guests in an enjoyable, inspiring way.

We steep your experience in the comfort that comes from knowing you’re living in harmony with the local community and your natural surroundings."

As I now "group" my travels by region, with my pledge to take 1 long-haul a year, I will probably be able to be in Central America in 2 or 3 years. Can't wait to visit finally!

28/04/2023

I know... this is not directed to everyone reading.

This is targeted especially to individuals in positions of changing systems, such as CEOs, shareholders, and government officials, who have a greater responsibility to make changes.

F*ssil F*el, construction, food & agriculture, fashion... These industries have a disproportionately negative impact on the environment. We need to hold them accountable for their actions and demand that they take immediate and meaningful action to repair what they have destroyed.

Because decision-makers prioritize short-term profits over sustainability, we've seen devastating effects on the environment.

At another level, when influencers use their platforms to promote unsustainable lifestyles, they contribute to the problem rather than the solution.

As individuals, we can certainly do our part in living a more sober life, reducing our footprint and making more sustainable choices. However, it's also important to hold those in positions of power accountable and demand that they take immediate action.

Not all humans are equal in their ability to make an impact. So let's speak up and tag those who need to hear this message.

27/04/2023

As consumers become increasingly aware of the negative impacts of their purchasing decisions, they are demanding better. They are no longer content to buy products that harm people and the planet, from food and clothing to electronics and cosmetics.

Most corporations are struggling to keep up with this shift in demand, particularly those that have built their business models around maximizing profits and growth at any cost.

Take the example of palm oil, which is found in everything from all sorts of food to shampoo. While the demand is increasing for palm oil-free products, many suppliers continue to rely on this commodity as a cheap and readily available ingredient. This is causing the rapid and constant destruction of native rainforests (loss of biodiversity, increased greenhouse gas emissions, and negative impacts on local communities) in countries like Indonesia and Malaysia.

The same is true for feed farms used to produce beef. In order to meet the demand for meat products, many suppliers rely on concentrated animal feeding operations (CAFOs), which have significant negative impacts on the environment, animal welfare, and public health. The livestock industry is not adopting more sustainable and ethical practices, in part due to pressure from investors and shareholders who prioritize short-term profits over long-term sustainability and well-being.

Note the shift is inevitable, and suppliers that fail to adapt risk being left behind. It's time for them to take responsibility for the impact of their actions and work towards a more sustainable future.

As consumers, our role is to make conscious choices and support companies that prioritize sustainability. This is how we can send a message to the corporate world that we demand better. But always remember, we as individuals are not solely responsible for the giant corporate chaos.

What are the companies you feel have shifted and made things right?

26/04/2023

I can't even count how many people approached me in the last 3 years asking "how to add sustainability to their marketing" to stay relevant... So once more:

Unless Businesses are ready to have a holistic approach to building a good business, it won't pass the test of time.

By Business, it can be anything, a hotel, a service, or a product, but rethink if what you put out there benefits people or if you do it for your ego. Then, you need to know what you stand for and what you're solving and be very clear on your foundations. Don't do it for the PR; people will find out, I promise!

Building brands for my clients has been the core of my work for over 15 years, working with many hotels and service-providing entrepreneurs. The way I shifted my mindset and my lifestyle in the last 10 years and my learnings on sustainable development is what I'm passionately talking about.

23/04/2023

I know this happens around the globe, but let me tell you about my Asian experience.

As a proud Korean (hi, Mom!), I deeply love and appreciate the beauty and culture of South Korea and many other Asian countries.

I've witnessed firsthand, and for as long as I can remember, the unfortunate behavior of some Western travelers who visit our side of the Globe. It breaks my heart to see people treating locals with disrespect, acting inappropriately at religious sites, and disregarding local customs.

I get it, cultural differences can lead to misunderstandings, but travelers must go places with a willingness to learn. Take the time to educate yourself about local customs and show respect for the people and places you encounter on your journey. By doing so, we create a more positive and meaningful travel experience for everyone involved.

Yes, in Korea or Thailand, their English is sometimes non-existent, but why do you expect them to speak English? I've seen tourists lose patience and speak horribly to people because they were not understood! Learn a word or two! Learn how to order food and say where you're from! Be kind!

It is time to change this. This is one of the pledges I hope gets shared and applied.

21/04/2023

Happy Friday Leaders!

20/04/2023

I know too many people who settled for "what is". That's it, no questioning, no adaptation to the changing world, nothing...

But we're ALLOWED to change, change our beliefs, actually, we should be ENCOURAGED to do so. Don't let people keep you in to your past self that makes them comfortable.

Celebrating, everyone who is on a journey to change! 😍🤩

18/04/2023

Nobody's perfect when it comes to sustainability, but that doesn't mean we can't strive for progress.

The rethink mindset is about reflecting on our values and making conscious choices that align with our true selves and the things that matter most to us. Let's embrace this approach and make a positive impact on the world.

I am also really passionate about deconstructing the belief that we as individuals are responsible for everything that's happening. However, collectively we can put actions in place to not ADD to the problem. And we can collectively call out Big Corps and Governments; it's happened before and needs to happen again. Lastly, if you're building a business, you do have a responsibility to build one that is aligned with the realities of our world. I will be talking about this a lot more!

16/04/2023

Here is great Example of what happens when people Rethink "business as usual":

The Marine Reserve project is an inspiring example of the positive impact that can be achieved through dedicated conservation efforts. This marine protected area was transformed from a shark finning camp into a thriving ecosystem where endangered species such as manta rays, sharks and turtles now thrive. The shift towards conservation has allowed nature to recover and rebound, demonstrating the importance of rewilding in maintaining healthy ecosystems.
resort 's investment in rewilding has benefited not only the natural environment, but also the local community. The resort's team employs 80% of its staff from the surrounding area, providing employment opportunities and economic growth. This shows how conservation efforts can be integrated with sustainable development.

The Misool Marine Reserve project has set an example for the world to follow. By employing a holistic approach, including direct interventions such as assisting turtles back to the ocean after laying their eggs, the team has shown that conservation can be effective at different scales. Their efforts demonstrate the value of marine protected areas, not only in preserving biodiversity but also in providing benefits such as climate regulation, food security and recreational opportunities.

The Misool Resort's shift towards conservation and rewilding is a beacon of hope, inspiring other resorts to take action to protect the environment they are in.

14/04/2023

I can't even count how many lectures I listened to or books I read by people like or even or !

I've been working on my self-development for over 10 years and there is such a connection between our thoughts (call it mental health or self-dev) and how we live our lives. I know that working on my inner self and my thoughts are at the core of how I completely shifted my consumption behaviors. I changed how I travel, eat, dress and act.

The reasons I changed the intention of this page is to be more of myself and share how I evolved with my learnings on sustainability but also on how our thoughts matter.

I'd love to start conversations with you about this and hear your stories.
Comment below or send me DM's

13/04/2023

The truth is, one of the reasons I "detached" myself from the travel industry is because I'm so disheartened by the behavior I see post-covid. I thought we had learned a thing or two...
(and also because my heart is not entirely in that industry, more on this soon)

I now live in Lisbon and what I see by tourists visiting Portugal is 🤯. And I've had people telling me insane behaviors from Mexico to Bali and everywhere in between. It feels even worst than before!

Should we ask these people what they would do and what choices they would make if there was ZERO possibility of showing it to others? Would they travel all the way to Bali to take a picture on a swing with a rented dress that floats in the air??

I actually believe should shift and stop giving so much visibility to anything that inspires these behaviors. What do you suggest we do?

Because frankly, what I thought was a great way to inspire people to travel differently feels like it has only been preaching to my choir.

Or? has any of you changed your views after just being inspired?

I will be talking more about in the next weeks to address this.

11/04/2023

Have you ever thought about what status symbols do to you, your kids, and your friends...?

This topic should be addressed massively in this age of omnipresent "influence" on social media and horrible examples of what "success" means.

Yesterday, I commented on a post by and about the so called glamorous life of billionaires.
My comment read: "Also we need to find a way to stop giving them a platform to show off and "inspire" (eek) thousands of young kids who see this as "success". The latest 🤯 moment to me is when no 's wife has an entire show about her lifestyle and how now that she's "made it", she can take a jet to go to Paris for 30 min and try on a dress! Stop the non sense!

What do you think and how have you experienced this?

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I am slowly getting back to my reality after this unique opportunity to learn and share with the people who founded #ecofromafrica in Casamance, Senegal. Special mention to Clement, who made us feel at home, safe and shared so much.⁣ ⁣ Thanks to Equestrio Foundation and Plantons Utile, I spent my 40th birthday in the most humbling way. I never imagined I could challenge myself out of my comfort zone so far and I am so happy to have finally gone there. As a travel editor I saw many places but always returned to comfortable settings after the sunset. This was nothing like it and was an amazing trip to such another level! ⁣ ⁣ Timing was/is odd as my heart is wounded. It felt weird not having access to the latest updates. It seemed even more impossible to complain about having no electricity or limited water, so I didn't. ⁣ ⁣ I will share more about the mangrove ecosystems we visited and all the projects they have for this beautiful region of the world.⁣ ⁣ #sustainabledevelopment #leavenoonebehind⁣

Like my friend @elbrooksshehata always says: "follow the money" | And thanks to my friends for trusting me with babysitting their doggie so I can boos the algo with #dogslife content | #rethink #rethinkyourlifestyle #rethinkourfuture #rethinkoursystems #rethinkourinfluence #stopthenonsense

Back then, supermarkets and shops looked so different compared to what they are now. As the years passed, our population grew, and with it came a seamless surge in production and consumption, leaving a trail of unmanageable waste. We are surrounded by trash: clothes, electronics, packaging, single-use plastics, and various disposable products. It suffocates our rivers and oceans, chokes our landfills, and poses a dire threat to our ecosystems. Do we even realize how much STUFF lives all around us? And how much is produced in industries like fashion, cars, electronics and just stupid goods? How did we arrive at this point? The search for convenience, the drive for profit, advertising tactics and the relentless pursuit of growth have all played a part. We became a society fixated on immediate gratification, closing our eyes on the long-term consequences of our actions. The world became a stage for excess, where abundance came at the cost of our planet's well-being. And we call this "progress" Then the world became more interconnected, and global trade expanded; the concept of seasonality began to blur. The demand for out-of-season produce has led to unsustainable farming practices, including extensive pesticide use, excessive water consumption, and long-distance transportation. We urgently need to speak up and push our "leaders" to create regulations that promote sustainable consumption and production and hold companies accountable. We can also make a difference by making better choices as consumers through ripple effect. Support businesses that care about the environment and ask for sustainable alternatives. It's time to return to simpler times. #RethinkYourLifestyle #stopthenonsense #therethinkhub #rethink

I call it "the Blame Game”⁣ ⁣ When I hear people in Europe or the US say things like "it's Asian people's fault," "they consume too much," or "they're polluting our planet," it bothers me... especially as a Korean. ⁣ ⁣ Many cities in Asia, like Seoul or Bangkok, have A LOT of people, and yes, there is a focus on consumption and materialistic success. But this idea of success, with its emphasis on possessions, was heavily promoted by the Western World, spreading the message that showing off wealth is the way to “success” (or happiness?)⁣ ⁣ We must consider the historical background of colonialism and the unfair treatment that European powers imposed on Asia. These countries were exploited and shaped to manufacturing and production practices. ⁣ ⁣ So many of them became major manufacturing centers, producing everything we can imagine to meet the demands of Western markets. They often (always?) face unfair trade practices and labor exploitation, perpetuating high production rates. So, when people blame Asian nations for polluting, they apparently forget that Western countries have played a significant role in creating this situation.⁣ ⁣ As wealth grew in Asia, the local demand and rapid transition to a “modern world” obviously caught up. So yes, they consume a lot; there are scooters everywhere, lots of old vehicles, they burn everything they can and use lots of plastic... But instead of pointing fingers, we need to recognize the systemic inequalities rooted in historical colonialism and ongoing exploitation. Western countries share responsibility for the environmental consequences of the globalized production and consumption patterns they helped shape. (Don’t even get me started on shipping all this stuff, will get to it soon).⁣ ⁣ Root causes need to be addressed, and a lot of education needs to happen worldwide for people to embrace real values and realize that status symbols SUCK. ⁣ ⁣ Happy Monday! #rethink #rethinkyourlifestyl

This image speaks a thousand words. Let's protect the people of the Amazon Rainforest at all costs. They are already surrounded #influencefoetheplanet

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