Education and Ecotourism

Posted by Site Administrator | Posted in Uncategorized | Posted on 26-02-2009

By Courtney Phillips

The concept of ecotourism is not a new one.  For approximately two decades, the term ecotourism has been used to promote travel to countries whose primary attractions are its natural wonders.  Ecotourists are a socially and environmentally conscious group of people who wish to have authentic experiences in the lands they travel to, without making a negative impact on the environment or the communities that they visit.

More and more, opportunities to study abroad within nature are providing students of all ages with holistic experiences that bring together the natural elements and those of the classroom for a truly enriching educational endeavor.  Additionally, universities around the world are offering courses, certificates, and degrees in ecotourism to meet the rising demand.

Education is inherent in the ecotourism model.  The entire concept is based around learning from other cultures and environments while making a minimal impact on the ecosystem.  An appreciation of flora, fauna, and terrain is another reason many make visits to certain countries.  

Another focus of the ecotourism trade is to help the communities being visited to become prosperous while maintaining the integrity of the environment around them without catering to big businesses that try to greenwash their operations.  Learning how to live more sustainably while supporting these communities is another goal of this growing group of travelers. 

In the end ecotourism is an educational endeavor, whether one is studying abroad, learning to become a guide, or simply traveling with an eye on the environmental aspects of the places they visit.  People interested in ecotourism should seek out opportunities to learn from other lands and cultures while promoting a sustainable and holistic approach to traveling.    

 

Paving the Way for a Career in Freelance Writing

Posted by Site Administrator | Posted in Uncategorized | Posted on 26-02-2009

By Courtney Phillips

With the state of the economy causing financial distress for a great deal of people, many are looking for new ways to earn money to either supplement their income or start a new career.  The allure of freelance writing drives many budding wordsmiths to hit the keys full force in order to make their dreams of working from home come true.  What follows is a brief article on how to pave the way for a successful freelance career.

Start Producing Content Now

Freelance writers live, breathe, and sleep writing.  They are constantly looking for topics to write about and the world is their source of inspiration.  As a potential freelancer it behooves you to start working on content immediately.  In order to get the big jobs, you are going to need to get some real experience and publications under your belt.

Your Blog Is Your Resume

With technology moving full-speed ahead, there is no reason that you shouldn’t have at least one blog that is regularly updated.  Your blog should be professional and should feature only the best content possible.  If you have plenty of time on your hands, niche-oriented blogs related to your other interests or areas of specialty are a great way to hone those writing skills.

Work is Work

While you may not like every single assignment you are able to get, you are still in a unique and highly coveted position—don’t forget that.  Many people would love to be able to start another career path from home; be sure not to take what you have for granted.

Set a Schedule

Working from home has many benefits, but they can ultimately lead to your downfall.  If what you are writing is specific and research-intensive, take the necessary actions and devote plenty of time to your endeavors.  Deadlines have a tendency of creeping up on you and you don’t want to earn a reputation as a flake.

Be Persistent

As in most endeavors, persistence pays off in the long run.  The more you keep at it, the more likely it is that you will be rewarded down the line.  Keep up with your work load and always keep your eyes on the prize; successful people get where they are because they refuse to be deterred and know what they want.