Everyone deserves the chance to travel. Yet, all too often, seeing the world is a privilege reserved for the global elite. At Elevate Destinations, we’re on a mission to democratize tourism. We aim to connect local youths to their own environments as travelers and stewards.
Through our innovative Buy a Trip, Give a Trip model, your trip purchase creates travel opportunities for local kids. For the first time, they experience nearby natural and cultural wonders, see the sights, have fun, and make the kind of travel memories we often take for granted.
Since our beginnings, giving back has been a core aspect of our brand, driving us to positively impact the communities and environments of the destinations we visit.
Here’s just one example of Buy a Trip, Give a Trip in action:
The Travelers:
On October 24th, 2024, the alleyways of Marrakech became a little busier as an excited bunch of travelers arrived. A group of 80 teenage girls and 36 facilitators from Project Soar set out on a transformative journey in their own country. The teenagers came together from various schools along the coast, all the way from Tangier to Dakhla. They traveled from rural communities, small towns and big cities. This year marks the second time we’ve run a Buy A Trip, Give A Trip excursion with Project Soar.
Project Soar is a non-profit organization dedicated to empowering adolescent girls in Morocco. The participants for the day were mainly comprised of members from the Soar Club, a leadership training program to develop their skills and confidence, enabling them to effectively guide and inspire their peers. The curriculum focuses on essential skills such as leadership, project management, and advocacy—tools that will help shape them into the confident and resilient leaders of tomorrow. Today’s excursion provided an opportunity for these girls to apply what they have learned in a fun and supportive environment.
The Details:
The journey began at the iconic Jemaa el-Fnaa Square, a bustling marketplace that perfectly captures the vibrant energy of Marrakech. Rather than heading directly to Bahia Palace, the teens chose to walk and enjoy the atmosphere of the city.
As they navigated through Marrakech, many who were previously unfamiliar with the city gained a newfound confidence. They took on leadership roles, guiding and supporting one another throughout the day.
Upon reaching Bahia Palace, the group was captivated by the intricate designs and stunning architecture. As they were guided through the historic monument, they snapped photos and explored the beautiful gardens surrounding the palace. For many of these young women, this was their first encounter with such historic landmarks, making it a truly memorable experience.
After visiting Bahia Palace, the group returned to Jemaa el-Fnaa Square to enjoy the lively atmosphere before sitting down for dinner. Fatima, one of the participants, shared her thoughts about the experience: “I loved my time with Project Soar; I learned a lot and enjoyed making friends with people from different backgrounds.”
This outing was more than a sightseeing tour; it was a transformative experience that reinforced the skills these young women had recently learned during their leadership training. Having broadened their perspectives and gained greater confidence, the girls returned home inspired to take on new challenges.
Partner Organization:
Project Soar:
Project Soar in Morocco empowers adolescent girls through education and leadership programs, fostering their understanding of self-worth, rights, and personal development.
Read about other Buy A Trip, Give A Trip experiences.
