ABSTRACT
This chapter is written from my perspective as a Nicaraguan woman in my role as a program coordinator who organizes and executes international service learning (ISL) and global education trips to Nicaragua as well as Ecuador. Ten years ago, I decided to study tourism management in my home country, Nicaragua, and abroad. My decision was determined by my belief that travel is transformational, inspiring, and eye-opening. After graduating, I worked for tour operators for a few months until I realized how tourists were given only a superficial experience of my country. In traditional tourism, people were not challenged, nor were they put outside of their comfort zone. It seemed to me that I was there to please tourists, make sure they had fun, and showcase the pretty side of my country. But what about the communities we visited? There was more to them than simply being the background of a nice photograph. They were real people who lived different lives, and visitors could learn so much from them. After this experience, I decided to work for organizations that facilitated meaningful journeys that would have a positive impact on both the host communities and the travelers.
