
Who Are We? | Why Use Us? | Our Basic Principles | Responsible Tourism | Sites Of Interest
Owned and managed by Rosemary Sloggett, for almost a decade now, The Independent Traveller has sustained the leading edge in quality and responsible tourism. Since our inception, we have continued to maintain a healthy alternative to modern-day packaged tours. Not affiliated to any of the global travel companies, our clients can benefit from unbiased, flexible and professional advice that can only be obtained from companies that are self-managed and self-governed.
We offer a superb range of worldwide holiday ideas, featuring unique and often overlooked locations, handpicked for the special interests and personal preferences of our customers. Be it ornithologists, keen followers of sport, historical groups, artists or people wishing to travel in small, likeminded groups of travellers - all are equally well catered for at The Independent Traveller.
Closest to our heart though, are the picturesque and vibrant landscapes and communities of Southern Africa. With an incredible knowledge of Africa’s southern stretch, we now offer you the most exclusive itineraries and specialist knowledge of previously undiscovered locations that the region has to offer.
Sizzle down in a luxury spa in the famed Zulu Kingdom. Brave the outdoors, survivor style, during a bush and beach holiday, or seek the natural wonders on adventure tours to Zambia.
Company Registration Number: 3521676 | VAT Number: 697581372
Why Use Us? (Please note: the links below will redirect you to another site)
The Independent Traveller has two offices: the main base in Maidenhead, UK and a satellite office in Cape Town, South Africa. In the UK, we are members of the Association of British Travel Agents, ABTA, and we hold an Air Travel Organisers Licence, ATOL 5912. These are organisations with rigorous codes of conduct and are dedicated to upholding high standards of professionalism. Book with The Independent Traveller and be safe in the knowledge that your holiday is financially protected.
In addition, we are accredited with the International Air Transport Association, IATA which allows us to offer flights with scheduled airlines on a worldwide basis. The Independent Traveller is also a proud member of the African Travel and Tourism Association ATTA.
PROTECT THE ENVIRONMENT
Protects its flora, fauna and landscapes
RESPECT LOCAL CULTURES
Respect traditions, religions and ancient heritages
BENEFIT LOCAL COMMUNITIES
Benefit people economically and socially
CONSERVE NATURAL RESOURCES
From our day-to-day office life to living in the destinations we visit
MINIMISE POLLUTION
Through noise reduction, waste disposal and minimising congestion
Responsible Tourism is one of the foundation stones of our business philosophy. All forms of tourism have an environmental, social and economic impact on the landscapes, local communities, and other tour destinations. Therefore we aspire to be responsible in all our endeavours, supporting the local communities we visit, and encouraging wise, ecologically sound use of the land. Working with our suppliers to publicise good practices and actively encouraging the spread of responsible tourism, is what sets The Independent Traveller apart.
We use lodges, hotels, camps and parks that have a conservation policy in place and that provide support through employment and improvements to their surrounding communities. In addition, The Independent Traveller donates a percentage of its profits to designated charities, and we encourage our clients to personally meet the various projects that we support.
Climate Care
When you fly, drive, and heat your home, your CO2 emissions add to climate change. Climate Care lets you offset these emissions by funding sustainable energy projects. Full details are on this site.
The Travel Foundation
The Travel Foundation is a UK charity that cares for places we love to visit. It works in partnership with the UK tourism industry and encourages tourists and tourism organisations to make a positive contribution to their favourite destinations across the world.
International Centre for Responsible Tourism in South Africa
"Making better places for people to live in, better places for people to visit." All forms of tourism can be more responsible, and it is about tourists and tourism companies taking responsibility for maximising the positive impacts, and minimising the negative ones.
Tourism Concern
The last thing any of us wants is to have our holiday plans interrupted by the thought that there are serious problems for people living in the destinations we are going to visit. This organisation raises awareness of such issues and makes the case for change.
Fair Trade in Tourism South Africa
FTTSA encourages and publicises fair and responsible business practices by South African tourism establishments. Their trademark symbol is awarded to tourism establishments that meet stringent criteria such as fair wages, ethical business practice and respect for human rights.
Foreign and Commonwealth Office
A comprehensive site offering not only travel advice, but also up-to-date information on topical world issues ranging from the FCO (Foreign & Commonwealth Office), and helping those who are kidnapped overseas, to winning the 2012 Olympics for London.