Sampan aims to create journeys that offer both an exceptional experience to our guests while also having a positive impact on the lives of local communities. Our journeys are designed to encourage empathy and understanding, and work towards a peaceful, prosperous and democratic future.

By being aware of the needs and desires of the people and places that we love to visit, responsible travel can deliver an enriching and flavoursome experience while preserving these destinations for future generations.

We believe that when coupled with creativity, our commitment to responsible travel – at heart, simply a compassion for the people and places our guests visit – does not detract from a holiday but enriches it. This kind of travel can be transformative travel. Travel that does not suspend reality but instead encourages engagement with new realities. This is honest, authentic travel. Slow travel.

When travelling around Myanmar, India and Bangladesh we attempt to tread as lightly as possible, gently engaging with the local communities and wildlife. Engines are turned off when not in use, rubbish generated is disposed of appropriately, and mutual respect is encouraged through sensitive and informed cultural interaction with local communities.

From 2017 to 2019 we have been winners at the Myanmar Responsible Tourism Awards. In 2017 our magazine was recognised for its commitment to the communication of sustainability. In both 2018 & 2019 we were named Best Responsible Tour Operator. In 2020 we were shortlisted for the Experience Mekong Showcase – celebrating organisations that provide authentic local experiences while at the same time making a significant social impact.

In 2018 we achieved the Travelife Certified standard. Travelife is a three-stage certification program for tour operators and travel agents: (Stage 1) Travelife Engaged; (Stage 2) Travelife Partner and (Stage 3) Travelife Certified. We were awarded Travelife Certified (Stage 3). Travelife Certified is a recognition of our excellence towards social and environmental sustainability. We comply with more than 160 criteria related to sustainability management, office operations, working with suppliers and customer communication. Travelife is a certification body that is formally Accredited by the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC), the highest global body for sustainability in tourism, supported by the United Nations.”

Sampan’s Positive Impact Policy is a working, breathing document that outlines what we have already  managed, what we are currently doing, and what we hope to achieve in the future. Our Child Protection Policy can be viewed here.

To find out more about our sustainable policies and practices, please don’t hesitate to Managing Director Bertie Alexander Lawson at bertie.lawson(at)sampantravel.com.