A few weeks ago we wrote about our in country partner in Nepal, Tiger Mountain Properties. We recently donated to Tiger Mountain's local school programs. In our recent blog, Tiger Tops Swisssair blog, we wrote about the educational outreach in place near Tiger Tops Tharu Lodge. Over the next few weeks, we would like to share some more information on Tiger Mountain's ecotourism initiatives.

Tiger Mountain helps connect guests with local communities and wildlife, improving villagers’ lives and helping protect eco-systems. Tiger Mountain lodges and eco tours comply with rigorous environmental policies to help mitigate the negative impact of travel on the environment. To reduce energy and waste Tiger Mountain properties use solar power, vehicles maintained to emission control standards, and ox carts or elephants whenever possible. Food served at the properties includes organically raised vegetables and local products. The lodges are constructed from local materials, by local craftsmen, and strive to preserve the indigenous ethnicity. Additionally, the hotels employ people from the local communities, and purchase local products whenever possible.

This is a guest post by Nico Crisafulli. Nico authors the AirTreks Travel Blog and mans the social stream for AirTreks.com. He’s a consummate travel lover and a 10-year veteran of the industry. He lives in San Francisco with his wife and forthcoming child.

The fabled round-the-world trip (RTW) is no secret. There’s been a growing interest in this particular style of travel over the last decade with more and more people thinking beyond the simple there-and-back- again style vacation. AirTreks is in the business of helping people make that leap in consciousness. And the first step is to know how to do it best.

I’ve put together 4 ways to help you get more from your long-term round-the-world trip, both before and after you leave.

Plan smarter

Once people have decided to travel, put their money down and spent time figuring out what they want to do, most already want to cram their laptop into the nearest meat grinder. Even thinking about more hours hammering away at the Internet is enough to send them over the edge. The trick is not to plan more, but to plan smarter, to make the most of the time you spend researching online.

Banyan Tree Lijiang Lijiang, China

The Banyan Tree Lijiang is located 2,000 meters above sea level 15 minutes away from the UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Old Town of Lijiang. The Old Town of Lijiang is sometimes regarded as the Venice of the Orient for tours to China because of the bridges and canals that wind through the cities cobbled streets. The hotel design was inspired by local Naxi culture, and includes pink stone, grey bricks, traditional red clay roof tiles, and interconnected canals. The hotel offers 55 villas with breath-taking views of the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain. The spacious villas can include a private garden, heated outdoor jet pools or plunge pools. There are 40 Garden and Deluxe Garden Villas, 13 Pool and Deluxe Pool Villas, one 2 bedroom Pool Villa, and one Presidential Villa. The extensive spa includes spacious treatment rooms, a hair salon, a yoga pavilion and a gym. There is also a tea lounge connected to the spa. The resort has 2 all day dining options, Ming Yue cafe and Bai Yun, which offers banquet style dining. Additionally, there is a bar and lounge. If you're looking to explore the surroundings, Banyan Tree Lijiang offers guests exclusive treks with local guides.

India has everything from beautiful mountains, warm beaches, peaceful temples, unique festivals to metropolitan cities and vast deserts. The diverse culture and landscape attracts travelers looking for just about every adventure imaginable. For some the country can be overwhelming at times, though there is bound to be something suitable for everyone. Whether you’re looking for spiritual awakening, a unique off the beaten path adventure, or an exotic hideaway, India offers something for everyone and an immense amount of time can be spent exploring the vast, diverse country. Travel tips vary greatly depending on what region of the country you’ll be traveling to. Below you’ll find answers to some commonly asked questions to help you plan for unforgettable India tours.

A cruise around the Galapagos Islands is a great addition to any Ecuador tours itinerary. The Galapagos Islands offers travelers an unforgettable trip that can include snorkeling, diving, wildlife viewing, kayaking, land safaris and much more. The isolated Islands have many plant and animal species that you can’t see anywhere else in the world, making it a truly once in a lifetime experience. Global Basecamps works with the most ecologically friendly and sustainable small ships on the water. Our unique Galapagos tours feature a variety of cruising options, incredible multi-day walking safaris, and lodge-based island explorations.