Dear readers,
I am exciting to share that I have been selected to participate in the First Mile project, an initiative aimed at advancing sustainability within the tourism sector. This exciting opportunity allows me to contribute to improving traveler behavior and fostering responsible travel practices.
The First Mile project focuses on supporting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the tourism industry across several European countries, including France, Italy, Norway, and Slovenia. Its mission is to experiment with innovative solutions grounded in behavioral sciences to promote sustainable tourism practices.
As a passionate travel designer and tour guide specializing in experiential and sustainable journeys, this project aligns perfectly with my values and expertise.
In collaboration with a few selected tour operators who share my vision and mission, I curate intimate trips for small groups in the Azores, Portugal, and other destinations where I have immersed myself deeply, feeling at home and where I’ve already traveled.
My approach emphasizes private guided tours, stays in family-run accommodations, (home-stays) boutique hotels, and eco-friendly experiences centered around walking, cycling and outdoor activities. As an outdoor and sports enthusiast, I incorporate outdoor activities into every journey, aligning with the principles of sustainable and responsible tourism to ensure we always respect the environment and minimize our impact.
Through my platform “Travel with Ila” and collaborations with international travel publications, I actively share insights and reflections on sustainable travel, promoting lesser-known destinations that I love to explore and visit before they become popular tourist spots.
Having authored a guidebook on the Azores, and currently working on new narratives recounting personal adventures like scaling Kilimanjaro and my solo travels in Latin America, I am excited to announce my next publication, “The Responsible Traveler’s Handbook,” supported by the First Mile project.
In collaboration with like-minded peers across Europe, I am eager to explore strategies to tackle crucial issues such as waste reduction, promoting green mobility, advocating for local cuisine, and managing visitor flows. Together, we aim to inspire meaningful changes in traveler behavior and elevate the appeal of sustainable choices in tourism.
I look forward to embarking on this transformative journey with the First Mile project and sharing insights and outcomes with the global travel community. Stay tuned for more updates on our collective efforts towards responsible tourism. Let’s make every mile count towards a sustainable future in travel!
