Innovation

Bidaia Travel, founded and managed by it's CEO Diego Rojo, is a travel agency that reinvents inexpensive, ethical travel by removing middlemen and collaborating directly with travel partners in each destination who handle tours, guides, and hotels. This novel logistics methodology avoids traditional suppliers, allowing Bidaia to provide high-quality experiences at much cheaper prices. Bidaia, headquartered in Pamplona, Spain, and in Mexico City, has made its imprint on the travel business by focusing affordability, customer pleasure, and sustainability, making formerly costly travel experiences more accessible to more people.

This innovative model contributes directly to the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Goal 12: Responsible Consumption and Production and Goal 13: Climate Action. By working with environmentally conscious airlines, such as Emirates instead of lower-cost carriers that lack green initiatives, Bidaia reduces the carbon footprint associated with travel. Additionally, the company ensures that local partners, from guides to hotels, adhere to environmentally responsible practices. They educate their tour guides on eco-conscious behavior, encouraging clients to follow suit, which minimizes waste and promotes sustainable tourism.

Through a transparent pricing structure, flexibility in trip cancellations, and focus on ethical partnerships, Bidaia also addresses Goal 10: Reduced Inequalities by making diverse travel experiences accessible to a broader audience. The company’s emphasis on cultural respect and sustainability not only supports local economies but fosters an inclusive mindset among travelers. Bidaia Travel’s model demonstrates that by integrating environmental and social values into its operations, travel can become a force for positive global impact.

Inspiration

Diego was deeply inspired by his own transformative experiences in travel. Reflecting on his journey, he shared, “I saw how travel opens minds, but too often, it’s reserved for those who can afford luxury.” His passion for making travel accessible and impactful for all drives Bidaia’s mission. Mr Rojo recognized that traditional travel agencies were “layered with extra costs” that made trips expensive and restricted for many people. There had to be a way “to make travel affordable without compromising quality and integrity.” This realization led him to create Bidaia’s unique model of working directly with local hosts.

Diego’s commitment to environmental responsibility is equally rooted in his personal values. He explained, “Travel shouldn’t harm the planet or the communities we visit. It should respect them.” Diego’s decision to partner only with airlines like Emirates, which have green initiatives, reflects this belief. He shared, “Choosing the right partners is about more than business; it’s about respecting our world and future generations.” By setting this example, Diego aims to inspire travelers to be more conscious of their own impact.

Above all, Diego’s desire to make travel inclusive remains his driving force. “I want people to feel the world is open to them, no matter where they’re from or what they can afford,” he expressed. With Bidaia Travel, he hopes to bridge cultural gaps, promote sustainability, and show that travel can be a path to positive change for everyone.

Overall impact

The innovation introduced by Bidaia Travel has a significant overall impact on both the travel industry and the communities it serves. By prioritizing direct partnerships with local hosts and emphasizing affordability, Bidaia Travel enables a broader demographic to experience travel, thereby increasing cultural exchange and understanding. 

This approach not only enhances the economic viability of local communities but also empowers them by ensuring that a more substantial share of tourism revenue stays within the destination. In the short term, Bidaia’s model has led to an increase in travel bookings from diverse groups, particularly individuals who previously faced financial barriers to travel.

Furthermore, the company has set ambitious goals to expand its reach, aiming to keep on expanding and franchising throughout the world to acquire and solidify a role as a leader in the sustainable tourism sector. Through this innovative approach, Bidaia Travel exemplifies how businesses can contribute to the UN Sustainable Development Goals by fostering economic growth, promoting sustainable practices, and enhancing local cultural pride.

Business benefit

Bidaia Travel's innovative approach to sustainable tourism has not only benefited the communities it serves but has also significantly enhanced its business operations. By partnering with local service providers, the company has created unique travel experiences that attract a growing number of eco-conscious travelers. As a result, Bidaia has seen a substantial increase in retained customers and a rise in bookings since implementing its sustainable model. This should allow the business to invest in further developing its offerings, thus expanding its product line to include immersive cultural experiences that appeal to a broader audience.

Moreover, the commitment to sustainability has had a positive impact on employee morale and retention. Employees report higher job satisfaction levels due to their involvement in meaningful work that contributes to environmental preservation and community empowerment. This focus on employee wellbeing has translated into increased retention rates, as staff feel more connected to the mission and values of the organization.

Additionally, Bidaia's success has opened new markets and investment opportunities. The growing demand for sustainable tourism experiences has positioned Bidaia as a leader in this niche, attracting attention from potential investors interested in supporting ethical travel initiatives. By leveraging its unique model and strong community ties, the company is poised for future growth, which will further enhance its profitability while contributing to the UN Sustainable Development Goals. Because the business embraced a sustainable approach, it has created a win-win scenario that drives revenue, nurtures employee wellbeing, and expands market opportunities.

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Social and environmental benefit

Bidaia Travel's innovative model significantly benefits society and the environment by fostering sustainable tourism practices that prioritize local communities and ecological preservation. By partnering with local tour guides, and service providers, Bidaia ensures that a substantial portion of the revenue generated from tourism remains within the communities they serve. This approach not only empowers local economies but also promotes cultural preservation, as travelers are encouraged to engage with authentic local experiences.

The environmental impact of Bidaia's innovation is also noteworthy. The company implements sustainable practices such as carbon offsetting for travel, promoting eco-friendly accommodations, and encouraging travelers to minimize their environmental footprint. For instance, by collaborating with eco-lodges that utilize renewable energy sources and practice waste reduction, Bidaia helps to mitigate the negative effects of tourism on natural ecosystems.

By focusing on social and environmental sustainability, Bidaia Travel serves as a model for responsible tourism. Its commitment to creating a positive impact is evident in the testimonies from both travelers and community members, who highlight the tangible benefits of this approach. The company's success illustrates that sustainable tourism can be a powerful catalyst for social change and environmental stewardship, making a lasting difference in the regions where they operate.

Interview

Diego Rojo, CEO

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