Ethical and Responsible Toursim
We provide opportunities for our
participants to develop a real understanding of contemporary
Egypt and the issues that concern the Egyptian people, and
give opportunities for them to 'make a difference' in the
lives of those in need.
Ways in which we try to achieve this
include:
*our use of local business, individuals
and agencies when in Egypt so that money we and our group
spend contributes directly to the local economy and the
economic welfare of local Egyptians. Examples:
*use of individually or Egyptian-company
owned and operated hotels, transport providers and restaurants;
&
* group meals in local village
homes on Elephantine Island where the women of the neighbourhood
prepare meals for the group and receive all payments.
Many of these women have been able to purchase second-hand
sewing machines from this income and now generate personal
income from clothes making.
*provision of information sheets
and talks with participants on:
*social 'do's' and 'don'ts';
*a
code of ethics; &
*expectations regarding site
entry and behaviour.
Ma'at Tours is a member of Luxor4Care
(Membership Number MC0040). In addition
to publicising throughout the Asia-Pacific region this group's
charitable works for abandoned children in Luxor we encourage
our participants to meet local representatives of the organisation
and offer an opportunity for those who wish to make donations.
Click here to learn more about Luxor4Care
As well as visiting the ancient sites
we have one day dedicated to Islamic Cairo and throughout
the tour we encourage our participants to learn more about
Islam via personal interactions with local Muslims. We feel
that this is particularly important given current trends
towards polarisation of opinions and views and a general
lack of understanding of authentic Muslim traditions and
teachings.
When in Cairo we visit the Souk el-Fustat
(photo below) and our participants have the chance
to consider making a purchase at shops selling products
from students of the Association of Upper Egypt for Education
and Development.
Ma'at Tours supports the work of
Animal Care in Egypt (ACE) - a charity devoted to the care
and welfare of animals in Luxor, and the
education of locals so that they can come to understand
the needs of animals better, and how to look after them.
Click here to learn more about ACE
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