"World's Ten Best Ethical Destinations" - Your New Adventure

The world is a lot different than it was 50 years ago - travel destinations are easier to reach and information about those destinations is much easier to obtain. In addition, the prevalence of responsive consumer markets around the world means that we are able to make statements about what is important to us by how we spend our time and money, especially when it comes to travel.

Riga, Latvia's capital, decked in snow

One group that seeks to help concerned travelers make educated decisions for "ethical" travel decisions is Ethical Traveler, a non-profit that produces an annual report of their "World's Ten Best Ethical Destinations." Their report considers a combination of factors, focusing primarily on social welfare, environmental protection, and human rights.

"We urge you to visit these destinations, and explore the wonderful sights, cultures, and activities they offer," says Ethical Traveler's 2013 report, which has just come out. "Each country selected as a Best Ethical Destination also offers the opportunity to experience unspoiled natural beauty, and to interact with local peoples and cultures in a meaningful, mutually enriching way."

The ten winners who made this years list are:

Africa
Cape Verde

Monte Cara, on Cape Verde's Sao Vincente Island

Ghana
Mauritius
Caribbean/Latin America
Barbados
Costa Rica
Europe
Latvia
Lithuania
Oceania/Pacific Islands
Palau
Samoa
South America
Uruguay

As you look forward to where you might travel in 2013, take a step outside the box and consider one of these unique and worthwhile destinations. Get a remarkable travel experience in places that are making sustainable travel experiences a priority.

Or, if you are feeling especially adventurous, consider one Ethical Traveler's "Destinations of Interest" - locations not yet considered ethical destinations but where they think it is worthwhile to "step behind the 'media curtain' and inform oneself about controversial places through direct contact with local people." The three destinations they list are:

Mt. Popa in Burma (Myanmar)

• Myanmar (Burma) - "During the past 18 months... Burma's new leadership has demonstrated a stunning and apparently genuine desire to move forward."

• Cuba - "As Cuba evolves internally and in relation to its neighbors, we encourage ethical travelers to deepen their understanding of what has enabled this much-maligned country to endure."
• Namibia - Recognized as "one of the most environmentally progressive African nations."

Read Ethical Traveler's full report: The World's Ten Best Ethical Destinations 2013