Laos | The Gibbon Experience

In this era of growing goodwill, there has been passionate people who have explored this region and fell in love with the people and the handicrafts.  They've taken traditional methods of local artisans and provided platforms for them to conserve their own culture and techniques.  When you shop at places that also use their business to support local communities, your dollar goes so much further.  Next time you're in Bali, Siem Reap, Luang Prabang, or Hanoi, check out these places to purchase memorable and purposeful trinkets.

While we travel and explore in Southeast Asia and the world, it is important to remember that every dollar does count.  "Every dollar spent is a vote for a better future".  So let's make sure you are buying souvenirs that you will actually use, not something that will end up in the bin; eat at places who support health care scenes or doubles up as hospitality training; and sleep in locally run accommodations who also use their business for good.  

When we travel to countries, we are looking for an experience and indirectly and opportunity to grow as a person.  Exploring different places and meeting new people, gives us new perspectives and appreciation for what we have.  But so often, do we just take from communities and countries without even thinking about how to give back.  In the recent decades, many individuals have travelled to Southeast and stayed to pursue their passions by starting projects that give back to the community.  You'll find below some social enterprises that all serve a greater purpose.

As humans with voices, we have the power and responsibility to protect those who can't protect themselves.  Explore Southeast Asia with a purpose by supporting the following organisations who go above and beyond to save and rehabilitate gentle creatures and educate us to be better.

As part of Chickenfeet's Travel Better Series, we encourage everyone to travel away from common places to the underestimated and under-appreciated.  Bali is just one of those places where everybody and their dog has been to, but have you ventured anywhere off the beaten path?  Check out seven outstanding places below.  Also, note these all of these places take extra care about the environment and/or support a great social cause.  If you're gonna splash some cash at a hotel or villa, you might as well do so as one that also does some good.