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Dec. 3, 2024
281: How to Enhance Events with Sustainable & Inclusive Travel Practices
Tracy chats with Susheda Rawal, a renowned traveler and cultural connoisseur. đ With a staggering 120 countries under her belt, Susheda brings a wealth of experience in sustainable and inclusive travel practices to the table.
We delve into the heart of authentic travel, where Susheda shares her secrets for uncovering genuine local experiencesâfrom savoring street food in Bangkok to exploring 200-year-old vineyards hosted by local families. đˇđŽ Discover her passion for involving local communities in event planning to create richer, more meaningful experiences. Whether itâs incorporating authentic cuisines or fostering cross-cultural communication through food, Sushedaâs insights are invaluable for anyone planning impactful events.
Susheda also introduces us to her childrenâs book series, "Beato Goes to Japan," where her cat, Beato, explores different cultures, imparting crucial lessons on community and respect. đđž These books aim to expose young readers to global cultures, inspired by Sushedaâs own travel experiences.
Stories from her recent travels to Uganda, where she highlighted the entrepreneurial spirit of local women and the innovative sustainability practices of eco-lodges, are not to be missed.
Heard on the Episode
"I seek authentic experiences by engaging with local communities and their culinary practices." ~Susheda Rawal (10:15)
"I believe every travel can be sustainable by making conscious decisions of where you go, where you stay, where you eat, and where you shop, and always connecting with the community." ~Susheda Rawal (28:14)
"Women in the tequila industry transform agave byproducts into sustainable crafts, driving community entrepreneurship." ~Susheda Rawal (23:40)
Key Topics Discussed
Local Culinary Experiences
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Importance of integrating local cuisine in event planning.
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Engaging community members for authentic cultural exposure.
Community Involvement & Sustainability
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Involving local businesses to promote sustainability.
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Support initiatives empowering women entrepreneurs.
Experiential Travel
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Benefits of street food tours and home-cooked meals abroad.
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Using food as a means for cultural exchange and conversation.
Key Takeaways
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Authentic Culinary Integration: Ensure your events feature local cuisine to offer genuine cultural experiences, catering to both adventurous and familiar palates.
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Community Engagement: Partner with local vendors and communities to support sustainability and provide guests with unique, meaningful experiences.
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Empower Through Experiences: Experiential travel, such as participating in food tours or home-cooked meals, can significantly enhance cultural understanding and appreciation.
Tips
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Local Partnerships: Collaborate with local tourism departments and vendors to source authentic food and experiences.
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Detailed Planning: Incorporate provisions for both local and familiar dietary preferences.
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Sustainability Focus: Choose suppliers who prioritize sustainability, like those repurposing byproducts into crafts.
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Community Programs: Engage with initiatives supporting local communities, especially women and entrepreneurial projects.
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Cultural Sensitivity: Offer education through food to promote cultural respect and understanding.
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Susheda Rawal
Travel Expert and Award-Winning Writer
Susheda Raval, a global citizen, has spent half of her life in India and the other half in the United States. With extensive travel experience across 120 countries, she has immersed herself in diverse cultures, communities, and culinary traditions. Susheda believes in the necessity of integrating cultural respect and sustainability into professional and personal gatherings. She advocates for meetings that not only address important topics but also honor the rich backgrounds of all participants, emphasizing that community and cultural sustainability are just as crucial as environmental concerns.