The 2013 Responsible Tourism Guide from Guide du Routard

Benefiting once again from the support of its partner Voyages-sncf.com as well as the expertise of the ADEME and Comité 21, The 2013 Responsible Tourism Guide’s sixth edition offers freshly recommended destinations for France, selected for their commitment to the cause. From guest rooms and treehouses to eco-friendly campsites and eco-labelled hotels, there’s something for every lifestyle and budget.

The new edition of the Routard Collection’s Responsible Tourism Guide focuses on responsible tourist initiatives that have been personally selected by Routard employees during their travels through France’s various regions, with the stated aim of sharing travellers’ commitment to protecting the planet. The guide also presents the 2012 nominees and winners of the Responsible Tourism Awards, organized by Voyages-sncf.com in cooperation with Routard.com and Europ Assistance, which support and reward those who strive every day to promote tourism that benefits people and the planet. The awards also showcase authentic locations and innovative initiatives.

The first part of the guide presents an overview of responsible tourism as well as a selection of websites and events dedicated to it. It also includes the growing number of tour operators, organizations and other entities that work to promote this committed way of travelling and are members of ATES (an organization promoting fair, ethical tourism) or certified by ATR (an organization dedicated to responsible tourism). You will also find explanations of the various labels used to verify and guarantee compliance with specific social and environmental criteria, which travellers can rely on when choosing their accommodations in France.

The guide’s selection of recommended addresses once again convincingly demonstrates that responsible tourism is easy, can take many forms, is possible all over France and is within everyone’s budget. And although sustainable tourism promotes reduced consumption and helps protect the environment, it is also inventive, enjoyable and enriching. It’s clear that environmental protection and fun can go hand-in-hand.

• Bookstore release date: 13 March 2013 
• 160 pages
• Price: €10.05