OAEN: What peaked your interest in ecotourism?
In college I conducted an ethnographic research project about the effects of tourist development in a small beach town in the Philippines. I learned a lot about how tourism development can be a boon for local economies. Before I began the project, I assumed there would be friction and negative response to development from local villagers. It would uproot their traditional lifestyle of fishing for a living. Turns out tourism developers were working with conservation organizations to protect the natural habit and underwater ecosystems from hazardous fishing practices - cyanide and bombs - that destroyed the environment. Besides aiding the environment, tourism development was also providing local fisherman with higher paying jobs and bringing money into the small fishing towns. It was a real, agreeable, sustainable solution for people AND the environment. Progress without violence, injustice or resistance. I was amazed and intrigued.
OAEN: What made you decide on Nicaragua?
I planned a trip to Nicaragua because the tourism industry is still a work in progress. I enjoy traveling to places where local culture and lifestyle are still easily accessible. I wanted to stay on a farm and converse with locals and get to know the land and it's people in a more authentic way. I find more value in cultural travel than leisure and luxury. Nicaragua was perfect for that.
OAEN: What made these travel experiences different from past experiences?
Nicaragua was incredibly safe. I grew up in political turmoil of Venezuela. I never felt totally safe. I grew up learning that my ability to make smart decisions could jeopardize or secure my safety. In Nicaragua, I felt safe. It was affordable, still rural enough, and the people were really helpful and friendly. A lot of times, you take the risks of being in more dangerous locations to experience rural life and cultural authenticity. It was a beautiful mixture of rural travel, ecological/adventure excursions and security.
OAEN: What do you think are the biggest misconceptions regarding eco-tourism?
Ecotourism is not synonymous with cultural sustainability or responsibility yet. The term "ecotourism" is still heavily environmentally focused, while sustainable tourism is more broad in its definition. I think both terms need to be recognized as encompassing cultural responsibility in tourism development as well. I don't think you can claim to be environmentally sustainable without assuming the responsibility for the displacement or involvement of the local people, and the maintenance of their culture.
OAEN: What kind of future do you see for ecotourism? Ecotourism is the future. I see it all of it's potential and if it's development and marketed correctly, I see ecotourism as a major global progress. I think it could lead to a revolution in the way people think about travel and individual responsibility.
OAEN: Are there specific organizations attached to ecotourism that you would recommend to people looking to get into this particular type of travel?
I'd recommend looking into the Ecotourism International Society (TIES).
Thanks so much for speaking with us, Kelly!