Responsible travel

Our trips introduce you to local people, culture and traditions, with opportunities to learn about everyday life and the customs of the places you visit.

Comitted

to working with local communities

Grand Cuvée Tours recognizes the importance of local people, culture and the natural surroundings in the destinations where we operate. These are important considerations in how we plan our trips and run our business.

Working with local communities is a long-term commitment. Cooperation with local businesses and tourism professionals is part of our growth strategy and everyday operations.

We support businesses in the destinations you visit by choosing locally owned accommodation wherever possible.

We work with local partners in our destinations and use local guides and drivers wherever possible. We are committed to fair pay and respectful working relationships with everyone involved in your trip.

In our office, we encourage cycling to work, car sharing, recycling and reducing everyday energy use. We also maintain our own garden.

We care

Respecting local communities and natural surroundings

We encourage you to keep local customs and natural surroundings in mind throughout your trip.

Respect local customs and cultural sensitivities when engaging with local people to avoid causing embarrassment or offence.
Learn a few words in the local language to help you connect with the people you meet.
Always ask permission before taking someone’s photograph, and follow any restrictions on flash photography around artwork.
Recycle where suitable facilities are available. Refill your water bottle where safe drinking water is available. Remove unnecessary packaging before you travel, and take used batteries home for proper recycling if suitable facilities are not available locally.
Where your hotel offers a sheet or towel reuse policy, take part whenever you feel comfortable doing so. Turn off lights and electrical equipment when you’re not using them, and switch off air conditioning when it’s not needed or when you leave the room. Be mindful of water use in your hotel and throughout your trip.
When visiting national parks and nature reserves, stay on marked paths, follow local guidance and leave wildlife undisturbed. Keep noise to a minimum so you and others can enjoy the sights, sounds and quiet of nature.
We work with locally owned businesses wherever possible. You can also choose locally owned restaurants, try local food and drinks, and buy locally made crafts and souvenirs directly from local shops or makers.
Different cultures have different attitudes to tipping. Ask us or your guide for advice.