StepUpTravel.org - Socially-Minded Travel Classifieds

StepUpTravel is the traveler´s Craigslist. The site is geared towards socially-minded travelers who are seeking to enrich themselves in new cultures while appreciating and aiding indigenous communities. Locals can offer their services, whether it be language tutoring or guided tours of the back country, while travelers can experience the world in a unique and interesting way. Categories include places to stay, things to do, and collaboratives . Currently on the homepage you´ll find ads for room rentals and tango lessons in Buenos Aires, diving in Indonesia, a mixed hostel in Chengdu, and ambiental expeditions in Brazil. South America racks up the most points with over 700 postings, with Asia coming in second at 300.

“We promote responsible travel which emphasizes the importance of personal exchanges, deeper cultural understanding, genuine benefit to local people and their communities, preservation of the environment, and ultimately a more peaceful and equitable world.”

StepUp will find an open market as more and more people are becoming aware of social issues as travel prices drop. The younger generations from affluent countries are always keen on getting culture from indigenous regions; especially as media attention is directed to the plight of the third world countries, collaborative travel and aid programs are becoming popular.

How will the site gain currency? The idea is well intentioned, however, how is the word going to be spread? How do they intend to recruit local people?