We are delighted to have been presented a number of awards recently to recognise our continued support and investment in a number of schemes and charities around the globe. Thanks for all your nominations and votes in the many awards in which we receive recognition.
Voted 'Best Long Haul Tour Operator' by members of Which? Holiday
Explore scored five stars for Customer Services, Tour Guides and Organisation in the 2010 Which? Holiday survey.
We were specifically commended for being consistently successful in Which? surveys – with this year’s customer score an amazing 89%. The Which? survey also revealed that people chose Explore because our holidays ‘suit people like me’ and are ‘off the beaten track’. In fact – Which? added that our customers are more likely to be ‘loyal devotees’ as 88% of survey respondents who had travelled with us were repeat customers.
We were also commended for the accuracy of our holiday descriptions both in our brochure and on our website. Which? commented this was surprising considering how complex our itineraries can be.
Explore's Diego Torres wins Wanderlust's 'World's Best Guide' Award
One of our tour leaders, Diego Torres won the top prize at the 2009 Wanderlust Paul Morrison Guide Awards which recognise the achievements of the world’s best guides and tour leaders.
Leading our tours through Ecuador, ecotourism graduate Diego is Diego has been praised for his humour, efficiency and outstanding knowledge of everything from Ecuadorian flora and fauna to football. His compassionate nature and commitment to responsible tourism made an impression with all the judges and as Diego says: “I love to have contact with nature and local people... Responsible tourism is not a choice but the main rule to make this game fair.”
The Sunday Times Best Green Companies 2009
We're proud to be the 18th greenest company in the country, but not only that, we're the number one travel company when it comes to green issues.
What the judges said:
"The adventure holidays offered by independent tour company Explore might be out of this world, but the firm makes sure its focus on responsible tourism doesn't cost customers the earth. The company strives to ensure that its impact on the environment is minimal, its workers around the world are treated fairly and local cultures and customs are respected."
Responsible Travel Awards - Best Tour Operator
“If you cut Explore it will bleed responsible tourism….”
What the judges said:
"A LEADER in implementing responsible tourism principles for many years, Explore has been recognised for training and employing local tour leaders, pushing its suppliers to deliver, investing £300k into projects including energy efficient cooking stoves in Cambodia and most recently for employing a full-time Responsible Tourism Manager."
Green Business Awards - Best Transport or Travel Business
What the judges said:
"Adventure travel operator Explore has put responsible travel at the core of its business. Its initiatives include educating staff and clients about the merits of environmental awareness and supporting sustainability in its 500-plus holiday destinations. The company is investing more than £300,000 this year in carbon- reduction programmes in developing countries, to offset emissions for all the flights it books for both customers and staff. It has helped to boost local employment in destination countries by shifting from UK-based to local tour leaders. The judges were impressed by Explore's integrated commitment to environmental, social and economic initiatives."
Ashley Toft, Explore’s Managing Director:
“We were chosen for our all-encompassing approach to environmental and sustainable tourism, and the fact that all of our staff believe passionately in green issues. Through Fran Hughes, our tireless Responsible Tourism manager, we support a considerable number of schemes and charities across the world, and are constantly reviewing our environmental footprint. This recognition only spurs us on to do more!"
British Travel Awards 2008 - Specialist Tour Operator of the Year - Silver Award
The Travel Industry's equivalent of the Oscars, which is chosen by the British Travel Awards Academy based on nominations from consumers and the travel industry, the British Travel Awards are one of the most prestigious awards in travel.
Explore would like to thank the judges and all of you who voted for us.