Nikki Rose

Dear Wim,

Thank you for your support of Responsible Travel projects in Crete. Most of us would probably agree that more projects are crucial. That requires a lot of work by many dedicated people on this island of significant cultural and natural heritage. But if residents "build it" they should be assured that their efforts are appreciated and supported. That's still not clear.

There is much to discover in Crete but also much to protect and preserve. Implementation and support of preservation work that we all benefit from requires our active participation, whether we be public or private entities, journalists or travelers. Most of us love Crete for her culture and natural beauty...but we might not realize that what seems to be so accessible is always at risk.

If tourism is not benefiting the majority of residents or protecting and celebrating a region's fascinating heritage...we need to rethink our collective role in tourism and work together to make it better...to act before it's too late.

All the best,
Nikki