Hola fellow travelers! If you’ve been keeping up with our work, you’ve probably heard about ECPAT-USA, the anti-trafficking policy organization.

AltruVistas and ECPAT-USA have worked together for the past few years assembling trips with purpose.

We’re a proud supporter of ECPAT’s efforts to expose the truth about human trafficking and educating others about its victims. Some of you may recall that AltruVistas signed the ECPAT Tourism Child Protection Code of Conduct, the internationally recognized set of guidelines travel and tourism companies can sign to demonstrate their commitment to fighting the commercial sexual exploitation of children.

AltruVistas and ECPAT-USA Partner Up Again

Now we’re excited to announce that AltruVistas and ECPAT-USA are partnering once again, this time on our next trip together to Thailand, ideal for those looking to travel with purpose:

Behind the CODE: An ECPAT Advocacy Journey to Thailand
November 27 – December 7th, 2016

The 11-day journey is focused on giving participants a glimpse at how modern day travel is combating modern day slavery and ending the commercial sexual exploitation of children.

Sarah Porter, ECPAT-USA’s director of development and partnerships, describes, “The journey gives participants an educative perspective about the issue of human trafficking.”

The trip is open to all participants who want to learn more about the issue, while focusing on socially responsible travel and tourism.

Participants will begin their journey by meeting with advocates from international aid groups and policy makers to develop a better understanding of the scope of the issue, along with the socio-economic factors that contribute to sex trafficking and exploitation in Thailand.

Included will be a visit to ECPAT International’s headquarters based in Bangkok to gain an invaluable perspective on the issue of sex trafficking and exploitation. Travelers will also enjoy several cultural excursions and get to visit the beautiful countrysides of Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai.

“We’re excited to offer people from all walks of life a socially responsible trip that provides them with an opportunity to experience Thailand in a way that’s meaningful, enjoyable and educational,” said Porter.

Last year, Maritz Travel sent two employees on this same journey to Thailand as part of its ongoing commitment to the cause. When asked why he chose to send two employees to Thailand, Maritz Travel CEO David Peckinpaugh responded, “To have our staff members serve as catalysts for change.”

According to Peckinpaugh, by providing his employees the experience, they are able to share their stories, thus helping bring the issue even more to life. “It’s amazing to me how many people and organizations are not aware of the extent of human trafficking. It’s not (just) a Thailand issue — it’s a U.S. issue, a St. Louis issue, a Chicago issue, a New York issue. It’s in your backyard.”

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