It’s easy to book a honeymoon to a warm, pretty place. But if you want to start your marriage with a trip that also respects the residents, culture, and environment of the destination, it becomes a bit more difficult. Okay, very difficult.

I didn’t want to book a formulaic trip to a resort on a beach. And I didn’t want to pay thousands of dollars into the pockets of wealthy resort / cruise line owners who exploit the natural landscape and treat the hard-working local employees like dirt. This, unfortunately, is very common, especially in the Caribbean. White people get to relax with Pina Coladas on a pristine sandy beach, while the locals are fenced off (literally) and scrape by, living in poverty. I knew I could not enjoy a vacation like this.

Behold, Global Basecamps! It’s an online-based travel agency that exclusively works with accommodations, transportation companies, and attractions that are environmentally and socially responsible. They state: “We firmly believe that conservation and capitalism can work hand in hand to protect the planet's cultural and ecological resources and that independent travel furthers the exchange of the ideas, understanding and common heritage necessary to create positive change.” In short, they do all the work for you, so you can rest assured that your tourist dollars are helping- not hurting- the country you enjoy.

After a short email, a travel agent promptly contacted me and together we decided that Costa Rica was the best option. Laura listened carefully and artfully crafted a trip that struck the right balance of relaxation and adventure. Everything was planned carefully – all the lodging, the transportation, the tours, and even the flights. The trip was a great deal, considering all it included. My husband and I always felt safe and well cared for, like valuable customers.

I highly recommend Global Basecamps to anyone who seeks a personalized trip that respects our planet and its people.