Copenhagen Canal Quayside

What a privilege to visit Copenhagen. I hadn't discovered a new city since 2019 and when you are in my industry, that's quite a long time. The joy of packing the suitcase and heading off to investigate a new country filled me with such joy. A flight to Copenhagen is super quick with a very straight forward transfer from the Danish airport to the city centre. A civilized flight mid morning allowed us to be in the city mid afternoon with time to jump on some bikes and adventure around.  Our base for the next couple of days was the iconic hotel D’Angleterre - a beauty of a property if I have ever seen one. Central, grand, homely, not stuffy - its staff oozed welcome with friendly engaging smiles and caring attitudes - oh and I should add home to the Michelin star restaurant Marchal.  

Karen outside the Hotel D’Angleterre, Copenhagen

Photo by Febiyan

I had been curious to visit Copenhagen and Denmark overall - my knowledge of the country was somewhat limited - think Lego, Carlsberg lager and the Nordi series on Netflix The Bridge!! I love a Scandi thriller! Incidentally that bridge, over 8 kms long, links Denmark to Sweden allowing many Swedes and Danes easy access to live and work in both countries. Back to my curiosity of the country - I had heard good things about the Danes and their way of life, their attitude to community and happiness. You are probably well acquainted by the term Hygge - meaning connection, coziness and enjoying the simple pleasures of life with those you love.

The City of Happiness

Did you know that there is the Research Institute of Happiness headed up by Meik Wiking? The organization is an independent think tank exploring why some societies are happier than others. Their mission is to inform decision makers of the causes and effects of human happiness, making well-being part of the public policy debate, and improving quality of life for everyone on the planet. They partner with cities, governments and organisations to set the agenda to improve quality of life. With so much care in a society it’s obvious that its citizens would find suitable ways to look after their environment too, which is reflected in their living choices and behaviour - the Danes are leading in sustainability especially with building infrastructure and how it affects their environment. Another fun fact I learnt is the new cable, 760kms long - yes you read that correctly (the world's longest high voltage cable) is being laid under the sea between Denmark and the UK which is going to supply us with renewable energy from the Danes wind farms  - how cool is that? A great scheme that will help the environment and help us Brits come away from fossil fuels.

Karen in Christianhavn

Copenhagen really is a beautiful city -  full of eco-friendly buildings using renewable energy initiatives - green roofing, solar, rainwater harvesting systems, urban gardens and green space galore. I thought most novel is the waste plant which has a secondary function of offering a ski slope - a truly innovative and pioneering idea. On the subject of cleaner living - did you know that 9 out of 10 Danes own a bicycle? And 26% of families living with two children in the city of Copenhagen own a cargo bike. Londoner’s - we could do so much better than we do and take a leaf out of the Copenhagener’s book and come away from our dirty polluting cars.

The Hotel D’Angleterre offers their guests bikes for free so it was a pleasure to pedal off and meander around the city on the generously wide bike lanes. One unique cycle super highway crosses the canal. We had to wait as the bridge closed for the cyclists and was raised in order to let a tall ship pass along the canal. It was an awesome sight! 

The bicycle super highways of Copenhagen, by Aurora Ferreira

What else are the Danes doing right, you may ask - well free education for students, free health care, low criminality and a general good work/life balance. It's that feeling of Hygge again. So with the backdrop of understanding why Denmark had drawn me in, let me highlight a few experiences I tried when in the capital of happiness. 

I biked to the picturesque district of Christianshavn. An idyllic place to immerse yourself in the pretty and colourful neighbourhood which is made up of small islands.

The beautiful canals of Copenhagen

I participated in a sea plane excursion, boarding close to the Little Mermaid - it was a 20 minute excursion over the harbour, allowing fantastic views of Copenhagen and beyond. The sea plane excursion with Nordic Seaplanes was followed by a boat ride with Hey Captain- a more intimate boat excursion where you can talk with the captain offering a very personal way to cruise the canals.

Photo by Rolands Varsbergs

100% take a  guided food tour. Danish food wasn't particularly known globally until a new wave of chefs brought restaurants like Noma into international attention. Joining a Food Tour Copenhagen you’ll meet the  locals and be given local insight. There is so much diversity in Copenhagen’s food scene.   In 2021 14 of Copenhagen's restaurants had 23 Micheln stars between them!  I was fortunate to visit La Glace - the oldest patisserie in Denmark, Aamanns 1921 a famous Danish restaurant and the food markets at Tovehallerne.

Time in Copenhagen would not be complete without a visit to Tivoil Gardens, the oldest theme park in the world. 

My last evening was spent at the Balthazar champagne bar where they are renowned for their signature champagne cocktails - I had a Downton Abbey - very in keeping with the release of the new Downton Abbey movie recently released!

Swimming at Islands Brugge, Copenhagen

Swimming at Islands Brugge, Copenhagen

I could have done with a few more hours in this glorious capital - my last morning I headed to the area called Islands Brygge - which translates as Iceland’s Quay - a gorgeous stretch of waterfront where outdoor bathing and swimmers gather all year round. It was a magical experience for me.

 Karen travelled in April 2022 to Copenhagen in the company of Flospitality and stayed at D'Angleterre Hotel.  

It’s a vital migration highway that follows the Cocos Ridge connecting the Galapagos Islands, Ecuador with Cocos island, Costa Rica. One of our Make Travel Matter charity partners, Galapagos Conservation Trust (GCT) has been supporting the creation of the proposed Galapagos-Cocos Swimway protected area since 2018, by helping their science partners gather important evidence needed to drive forward the creation of this 240,000 km2 route, which is critical for conserving endangered Galapagos marine species.

Photo credit to Migramar

This May saw the launch of the 2021 Galapagos-Cocos Swimway expedition. It has an expert team of scientists gathering evidence to support the protection of this vital Swimway. They started in Costa Rica, travelled down to Cocos Island National Park and down the Swimway to the Galapagos Islands. Alongside this, GCT are running a virtual Swimway Challenge which is encouraging people to walk, run, swim, cycle or wheelchair the length of the Swimway whilst raising awareness and funds. We are signed up! 700 miles of swimming, (mostly) and cycling + walking. You can give here if you feel inclined!

The Galapagos Islands offer an enriching, once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see various animals and marine life in their natural habitats. We send clients to the Islands, which were studied by Charles Darwin and inspired him with his Theory of Evolution, as well as visiting Ecuador.  This image below though shows a different story, right?

Photo credit to Fu Yuan Yu Leng 999 in 2017 Galapagos National Park

The Galapagos Conservation Trust is one of our charity partners. As part of our Make Travel Matter campaign, we have supported them in various ways. Travel Matters have accepted the challenge and created a team for the Virtual Swimway. I am an avid fan of open water swimming and despite not being able to be in the Galapagos to support this project, I believe we can create more awareness about this crucial passage for the protection of the marine life. You can follow here on our fundraising page and support the team members who are swimming, walking and cycling the equivalent distance of 700 miles. I am making the most of my membership to the UK’s largest outdoor swimming pool - the Tooting Lido. Currently 13 degrees water temperature, you can’t stay in long but I’m totalling up the lengths with my team mates! My other team members are using Brockwell Lido and Charlton Lido - both in London. Please do support us if you can!

Tooting Lido, London - where most of my swimming is taking place.

Tourism is the largest employer on the Galapagos Islands making up over 80% of the economy. In 2019, over 270,000 people visited Galapagos. In 2020, this dropped to 72,000 – a massive 73% decline. Vital scientific research will be severely impacted because of the decline. The Galapagos Islands is a volcanic archipelago in the Pacific Ocean. It's considered one of the world's foremost destinations for wildlife-viewing. The incredible diversity of wildlife found in Galapagos is what makes this volcanic archipelago so very special.

We hope when international travel resumes safely from the UK and when people consider travelling to this breathtaking natural region of the world, that they will enquire about possible ways to support this vital work for generations to come.

And just to remind you, we are supporters of the Future of Tourism coalition, who’s Guiding Principles provide a clear moral and business imperative for building a healthier tourism industry while protecting the places and people on which it depends. Our participation of the Swimway Challenge is one clear demonstration of these principles.

Future of Tourism supporter

Dr. Bremley Lyngdoh, founder and CEO of Worldview Impact Foundation (WIF), is leading the way in the reforestation on our planet.

Travel Matters has been supporting tree planting projects around the world through our partnership with Trees for Cities and we realise how tremendously important it is to measure and try to off-set our carbon footprint or may be even journey to net zero.

We consider Dr Lyngdoh such an inspiration and we are very honoured to partner with his work.

Over the last 27 years since Bremley left his hometown in northeast India, he worked in 75 countries developing a range of innovative projects in Asia, Africa and South America aimed at producing ecologically sound and economically viable activities that contribute directly to reducing rural poverty, and generating productive sustainable livelihoods for vulnerable local communities and young people. 

As the warrior son of mother Earth he has planted 27 million trees with different partners over the years in Myanmar, India, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Bhutan, Brazil, Mexico, Colombia, Kenya, Uganda, Democratic Republic of Congo, China, USA, UK and many other countries to help restore the balance on our planet. 

Dr Lyngdoh's goal is to plant an incredible1 billion trees by 2030 to drawdown many tons of CO2 from the Earth’s atmosphere to slow down climate change and secure the future of generations to come. 

His work in southwest Myanmar and northeast India is particularly impressive. The mangrove trees he has been planting will play a big part in restoring the climate around coastal regions of Myanmar. And Dr. Lyngdoh does not hesitate to use the best technology to achieve his goals! WIF has partnered with Biocarbon Engineering to plant mangrove seeds through drones. A small fleet of these drones can plant up to 400,000 seeds in a day along with mapping out best places to plant the trees by collecting data about soil health, topography and growth of already existing plants. How brilliant is that!

Here at Travel Matters we share Dr. Lyngdoh's values and believe that the absence of travel due to the pandemic will result in people re-evaluating their relationships with others and with the environment. We all must stand up for key issues such as diversity, inclusion, human rights, improvement of livelihoods, elimination of food poverty and better mental and physical health and contribute to positive social and economic change.

We’re dedicated to showing how travel, when done right, can impact the world in a positive manner using tourism as a force for good. With this in mind, we are launching our Unique Retreats and journeys with purpose - sustainable holidays designed with you and the environment in mind and that bring you closer to the countries you visit. 

Photos by Joel Vodell and Timothy K on Unsplash

As a person who has visited numerous exotic destinations, I understand the importance of nature and authenticity preservation. And the hidden gem of a country we will talk about today has both in heaps.

Located off the coast of Africa in the Gulf of Guinea, São Tomé and Príncipe is the second smallest country of the continent after Seychelles and its beauty will impress even the most intrepid traveller. This island nation is part of a volcano chain boasting of striking rock and coral formations, rainforests and beaches, not to mention its fascinating history! This unspoilt destination is safe and friendly and ecotourists in particular will find it appealing due to its Jurassic park feel.

Did you know that São Tomé and Príncipe have more endemic species per square kilometre than the Galapagos? In 2012 Príncipe became a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve so it’s development, including tourism, is carefully regulated under the Man and Biosphere Programme. The Principeans are proud of their biosphere status and it is something that unites islanders and visitors.

Quite unusually the country enjoys two dry seasons! The first one is between December and February and the second is June through September. Although the best time to bird watch is October to March - don' forget your binoculars - there is a lot to watch! The two primary islands of São Tomé and Príncipe together with several rocky islets are home to just over 215,000 inhabitants. 

So how do you travel to this little piece of paradise? The only way to get there is by flying to Sao Tome where the international airport is located. The airport on Principe is only serviced by domestic flights connecting the two islands sitting 140 km apart with the flight time taking only 35 minutes.

If you come from Europe, you can choose between STR Airways or TAP Portugal both flying from Lisbon. Travelling from Africa, the options are Ghana, Gabon and Angola.

 The official language is Portuguese and the long history of the country goes back to the same time as that of the Americas - the colony of São Tomé was founded in 1493, just a year after Christopher Columbus officially set foot on the continent. Sugar cane was the main commodity at the time and the remnants of historic Portuguese architecture can still be found around the islands in the form of charming colonial buildings, churches and old plantations. Presently Sao Tome is also the place where they produce some of the most exclusive chocolate in the world as well as excellent coffee! Yum!

When it comes to accommodation there is a property that really stands out - we love Sundy Praia, one of the National Geographic unique lodges of the world that is a sustainable tourism project providing unforgettable experiences through interaction with the local community.

 Merging seamlessly with their forest surrounds, their 15 tented villas lie hidden among a scattering of tropical almond and banana trees, each gazing down to the sea and recreating the lifestyle of local people. 

Surrounded by the songs of birds and sounds of clashing waves you will feel free with stress just melting away. 

Activities at the lodge include scenic boat trips, biosphere trails, 4X4 island tours, local fishing village and plantation visits and so much more. Female sea turtles come to lay their eggs on the beaches of Principe island between September and April and families in particular will be interested to learn about the conservation of this threatened species.

But not everything is about ecotourism here - special events such as weddings and honeymoons will become a treat that you will never forget.

I am getting itchy feet simply from writing about this stunning destination and hope you will too. Get in touch for your tailormade proposal.

Images by @HBD Principe

South Korea, in the heart of East Asia, is one the continent’s economic and cultural leaders. It is visited by millions of Asian tourists yearly, although it is still not as developed for international tourism compared to popular Asians destinations for Westerners such as Thailand or Japan.

Buddhist Temple

I visited South Korea in April 2019. It was my first trip to an Asian country! Why did I choose this destination? That’s easy - Think ancient temples, spotlessly clean streets, cherry blossom, modern skyscrapers, Korean cuisine and a country enriched with history (and let’s not forget premium skincare).

The incredible Gyeongbokgung Palace

One of the first things I noticed in the capital city Seoul, where I spent my hotel stay, was the Koreans’ sense of community. As an English & French native and speaking fluent Spanish, I was quite surprised to find out most Koreans do not speak any European languages! It was a challenge to speak with them but so rewarding, as it was the first time I went to a country where I could not properly communicate with a local community. It is important here to respect Koreans, to be patient in understanding each other and using body language.  

However, the locals are so welcoming and will help you if you get lost in the City. They are not used to seeing Westerners, so they feel privileged to see responsible visitors come to their small, traditional restaurants and are eager to share their culture.  

(Travel Matters Tip: Koreans love their spicy food, so if they tell you that Ramen is not very spicy, watch out, you may need a few glasses of water on the side!)

Seoul Suburbs

A contentious topic that I was determined to understand a little more about was regarding the use of the Hanbok (or Chosŏn-ot - a traditional clothing worn during formal occasions) by tourists -

Do you think international tourists should be given a choice to wear this traditional clothing?

Is it considered as cultural appropriation?

The Hanbok (pictured below) is an ancient traditional attire consisting of the dress, headgear and accessories. I asked locals regarding this subject, and whilst everyone can have their own opinion, Koreans mostly do not mind it. In fact, they encourage travellers to try on the dress as they feel proud it is part of their national culture and they love to share this with foreigners. Indeed, it is very common to pass by small shops that offer a day Hanbok rental!

Hanbok, or Chosŏn-ot

So, is South Korea on your bucket list of responsible travels?

(Sophie travelled to South Korea in April 2019)

As Travel Matters comes to the end of 2020 and continues to operate into our third decade, I look at our vision and mission with a sense of renewed purpose. At the beginning of the year, I signed a declaration “Tourism Declares a Climate Emergency.” This commitment remains as true today as it did in January, despite this challenging year of global pandemic.

The Vision

We curate and sell bespoke holidays and experiences around the world. We have a responsibility to create memorable travel experiences in a world where local communities and our planet can co- exist and flourish. We are dedicated to show how travel, when done right, can impact the world in a positive manner and can break down barriers. We aim to help protect the destinations we send travellers to and endeavour to engage our clients, industry wide connections and employees through our Make Travel Matter campaign.

Travel Matters acknowledges that climate change is real and there is a climate emergency. We recognise we have to act now to address this crisis in our third decade of trading. We pledge to work with our suppliers by collaborating to help build a new, regenerative tourism industry that engages our clients.

The Mission

We are dedicated to show how travel, when done right, can impact the world in a positive manner using tourism as a force for good. We are passionate about travelling and aim to share how we care for our planet and people through our work.

How we operate a travel company & address our carbon footprint + reduction in the work place:
We use Ecotricity as our energy provider using 100% renewable energy.
Use energy efficient light bulbs and turn off electrical devices when not in use.

Minimise our water use.
We recycle.
We use our own re useable bottles.
We cycle and walk to work or take public transport.

We put a reminder in our email signatures.
Use FSC-certified or recycled paper in the office and replace direct marketing with e-marketing.
Use the Ecosia Web Browser.

We facilitate team meetings and external meetings via conference call at every possible opportunity to reduce the need for physical travel.

We operate a remote working policy where possible.

With our partners:

Develop our partnership with Jump, engaging travel companies to embrace sustainability.

Continue supporting the Travel Foundation, as part of their role in the Future for Tourism Coalition.

Plant trees for every holiday booked through our partnership with Trees for Cities.

Support Climate Perks, the scheme for employers who grant additional days to staff to enable them to travel on holiday overland, without ‘losing’ leave days for the travel time.

We encourage the offsetting of carbon emissions for flights through Flightnook, who have an online emissions calculator.

We choose carefully our specialist suppliers and partners, some as AITO members who share the values that we do and pledge to protect the environment, respect local cultures, traditions, religions and built heritage, benefit local communities – both economically and socially, conserve natural resources from office to destination and minimise pollution through noise, waste disposal and congestion.

We favour partnering with community-owned/managed lodges or hotels, where our clients can have a meaningful impact on the local community.

In our client’s journey and holiday planning experience:

We encourage clients to use the train to reach destinations instead of flying as well as booking car hire or trains to travel between destinations.

We provide information about which airlines and routes are most efficient.

We encourage travellers by advocating the pack for a purpose initiative – taking small essentials that help the local communities they visit.

We believe cultural immersion and experiencing a new way of life transforms the guest.

We provide tips and ideas of how to support programmes and organisations that are working to protect the welfare, culture and environment within the destinations.

We encourage the support of the local communities by buying local, eating local food and drinking local brands as well as supporting local traditional artisans for their locally made products. We want to help keep traditional crafts alive, while also supporting small, independent business owners and artists.

Our Tourism Declares a Climate Emergency Plan

As Travel Matters heads into its 3rd decade and develops as a company, we aim to keep sustainability and responsible tourism at the heart of our business model. We have a responsibility to promote sustainable travel where possible and help protect the destinations, landscapes and habitats our customers love to visit.

Through our communications on social media, blogs, interviews and our conversations with our clients, our Make Travel Matter campaign raises awareness of how tourism can and should have a positive impact, as well as highlighting the negative impact of the climate crisis. We promote ideas around conservation & regeneration as well as helping travellers consider how to give back in meaningful ways, ensuring local communities, destinations and the environment benefit.

We aim to encourage clients and partners to take measures to monitor and reduce carbon through the development of our Jump partnership; an engagement programme that boosts sustainability and wellbeing.

We continue to explore partnerships which complement and align with our values and offer services which support Tourism Declares a Climate Emergency. We agree with the principles of the Future for Tourism Coalition.

We will continue to advocate for system change in travel, particularly in aviation as we learn more about carbon levy proposals for frequent flyer programmes as we aim to create a low carbon future.

We commit to reviewing, monitoring and reducing our own carbon impacts, both personally and professionally. Our partnership with Trees for Cities will continue as we pledge to have a tree planted on each holiday sold.

We are committed to collaborate with the Tourism Declares community, through learning and sharing better practice collectively.

Images by:

Scott Evans @scottsweb on Unsplash

Andreea-Maria Juganaru @andreeajuganaru on Unsplash