Success StoriesShetland Wildlife - All the wildlife you could ever imagine… |
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"As pioneers of Scottish eco-tourism, we have a commitment to ensure that our business incorporates environmentally sound principles and minimises any negative they may have on the environment."
Hugh Harrop, Shetland Wildlife |
| With eight years' experience in arranging and guiding holidays in Shetland, many aspects of this business are continually evolving but one feature remains the same - attention to the needs of the client - the first secret of continued growth and success for Shetland Wildlife. |
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Shetland Wildlife are extremely proud of their guides. It is their unique knowledge, experience and leadership that helps to give people the holiday they are looking for. Many have complementary skills such as wildlife photography or wildlife art which give added value to holidays. Others are specialists in seabirds or whales and dolphins and so can add to a good general knowledge of wildlife. Many have travelled widely and can make first hand comparisons between the native wildlife of Shetland and other countries. According to Scottish Natural Heritage "the standard of tours on offer is exemplary and are led by knowledgeable staff who care passionately about the environment."
Having guides with the required knowledge and 'people skills' has proved to be very important for a company like Shetland Wildlife. |
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Shetland Wildlife follow eco-tourism principles, employ local people and use local businesses as much as possible. They also keep groups small. Small groups are essential, not only to benefit the wildlife being observed but also to guarantee more intimate wildlife encounters that are simply not possible with larger groups. A quality approach rather than quantity.
Shetland Wildlife financially support many local and national conservation groups. They are also a member of the Ecotourism Society, an international organisation that promotes environmentally responsible eco-tourism worldwide. As part of their support of conservation groups which promote a better understanding of Shetland's natural heritage, all travellers booking a Shetland Wildlife holiday of more than seven days are offered complimentary membership of a local conservation group for one year. Shetland Wildlife follow a carefully researched set of guidelines, ensuring that they can allow clients to enjoy wildlife in its natural habitat without the threat of disturbance. Shetland Wildlife point out they do not use tapes to lure birds and strongly discourage the taking of specimens - no matter how common the species. This responsible attitude to wildlife viewing is often acknowledged by visitors and one of the reasons for the success of this eco-tourism company. |
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| In October 1999 Shetland Wildlife were awarded a Scottish Tourist Board Thistle Award under the Tourism and the Environment category. The Thistle Awards are firmly recognised as the country's most prestigious tourism award. The Tourism and the Environment category pays tribute to businesses that promote a better understanding of Scotland's natural heritage, while adopting environmentally friendly practices |
| For information on the Scottish Thistle Awards please visit the following website: www.scotexchange.net and click on 'events and conferences'. |
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For further information on Shetland Wildlife Tours please contact:
Michelle Spraggs Tel: 01950 422483 or visit the Shetland Wildlife website at www.shetlandwildlife.co.uk This case study updated on 26 March 2001 |
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