Bruce Poon Tip, Founder of G Adventures, Receives Martha Honey Legacy in Responsible Travel Award

Bruce Poon Tip, the founder of G Adventures, has been honored with the 2023 Martha Honey Legacy in Responsible Travel Award by the Center for Responsible Travel (CREST). He received this prestigious award in recognition of his dedication to sustainable and responsible travel, not only through G Adventures but also for his philanthropic efforts.

G Adventures, established 33 years ago, was founded with the mission of transforming people’s lives through travel. Poon Tip and his team have been pioneers in promoting community tourism, striving to create a positive impact on local communities worldwide. Their approach uses tourism as a catalyst for wealth distribution and poverty reduction, especially in some of the world’s most economically disadvantaged regions.

Upon receiving the award, Bruce Poon Tip expressed his commitment to sustainable and equitable tourism, emphasizing the transformative power of community tourism that benefits both travelers and the destinations they visit. He stated that he is honored to receive the award and remains dedicated to advancing a more sustainable and inclusive tourism industry.

Poon Tip’s leadership has been acknowledged in recent years, including his personal sanction by Russia after G Adventures ceased offering tours to Russia and welcoming Russian nationals following the conflict in Ukraine. In addition, he received the Officer of the Order of Canada title in the summer of 2022, becoming the first individual in the travel industry to receive this distinction in over three decades.

Andrea Pinabell, CREST board chair, expressed her excitement about Bruce Poon Tip being chosen as the recipient of the 2023 Martha Honey Legacy in Responsible Travel Award. She highlighted Poon Tip’s unwavering commitment to responsible travel, as demonstrated through his work at G Adventures and the Planeterra Foundation, and how it aligns perfectly with CREST’s values and mission. Bruce Poon Tip’s contributions to the travel industry and his dedication to creating a positive social impact through tourism make him an inspiration to all.

The Martha Honey Legacy in Responsible Travel Award was established in honor of Dr. Martha Honey, co-founder of CREST and a prominent figure in responsible travel.