WORKING HARD ON VACATION
Just before the Covid pandemic1, Jill Corden went on vacation to Hawaii – a popular tourist destination2 that is famous for its wonderful climate, beautiful beaches and amazing landscapes. Jill was one of over 10 million tourists who visited Hawaii in 2019. But, unlike almost all tourists everywhere, she didn't go to admire the scenery or lie in the sun. Instead, she was there on a new type of vacation arranged by the EcoTrips company, and spent much of her time planting trees in the countryside.(lines 1–6)
In one way, Jill's vacation is not unusual3. For over 50 years, small groups of young people have been traveling all over the world for their vacations, participating in environmental programs. Some, for example, go to care for injured wild animals. Others help clean polluted rivers, or work on local farms. These groups live in tents and cook their own meals. Jill, too, worked hard during the day. But afterwards, a luxury hotel4 was waiting for her with everything that a five-star hotel offers, including a large swimming pool.(lines 7–12)
In the past year, vacations like the one Jill went on have become very popular. "It's partly because people want to get out into nature after staying at home during the pandemic," says Roger Morrison, head of EcoTrips. "And it's also because people are so tired of cooking, tidying up and cleaning their homes. They want to help the environment – but after long, difficult years at home, they also want to be pampered5."(lines 13–17)
Before the Covid pandemic, it was hard to find this combination of luxury accommodation and environmental projects. But as demand grew, more companies began offering this type of vacation. "Nowadays you can find a whole range of options, including some for people who can't do hard physical work," says Morrison. "Our own customers, for instance, can choose to help environmental projects by entering6 data into a computer, or by giving classes to other tourists about the projects."(lines 18–23)
The environmental efforts of tourists like Jill are very much appreciated by local communities. For many years, they have seen enormous damage done by tourists both in their cities and in the countryside, and have been looking for solutions. Some communities have even considered limiting the number of visitors. Doing that, however, can have very serious economic consequences. "Now there are tourists who leave the area in a better state than it was before they arrived," says Morrison. "So everyone is happy."(lines 24–29)