Ashoka’s Changemakers, in partnership with the National Geographic Society, has launched an online competition entitled "Geotourism Challenge 2009: Power of Place - Sustaining Future Destinations”. The goal of the Geotourism Challenge is to identify and showcase innovators - individuals and organisations - that directly or indirectly support good destination stewardship and the approach known as geotourism: "tourism that sustains or enhances the geographical character of a place - its environment, culture, aesthetics, heritage, and the well-being of its residents." As stated by the sponsors, innovators who improve or protect that character of place are as important as geotourism practitioners. The intention is to search for global innovative ideas in tourism that celebrate the distinct destinations of the world by honouring culture, cherishing history, and enhancing the environment.


Those who wish to enter, nominate a candidate, or vote for 3 winners will need to register on the website (free of charge) to participate.

Click here for more information.

Press release from Elizabeth Araujo on March 9 2009.