The Joy Journal | Vol. 5
Your monthly dose of joy | Make social impact your travel goal
At The JoYOUs Journey, we believe that travelers should make a positive contribution to local communities. On all of our trips, we offer social impact components in partnership with nonprofits that we've vetted.
In November, I had the privilege of planning a trip for a non-profit organization that provides financial solutions to people living on less than $2/day. The trip started off with some bonding time as the group toured Uganda – from Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, where they trekked a mountain to visit with gorillas to Queen Elizabeth National Park, where they saw wildlife like tree-climbing lions.
After these adventurous experiences, the group visited the Nakivale Refugee Settlement where they witnessed first-hand how the nonprofit's financial solutions are changing the lives of refugees and helping them build a better future for their families. The group learned about programs that support women and met with young people who are launching their own businesses. On their final days in Uganda, they visited schools that receive financial help to provide affordable, quality education. When the group returned from their trip, they were so inspired by the impact they saw, they put together a fundraiser to raise additional funds to help with this project!
"Our social impact trip to Uganda was very emotional and inspirational for me. These refugees are so resilient – meeting them and understanding their desire to make a new life for their family makes me want to give more and support this project more." - Jeannie Buckner
One of the benefits of traveling is the opportunity to understand other perspectives but also realizing the similarities that exist between us all. We love partnering with nonprofits to connect their work with your journey and help you make a true impact while traveling!
Joyously Yours,
Adele
In-Flight Reading
13 Facts That Will Change Your Perspective on the World | Interesting Facts
The Ultimate Travel Packing & Checklist | Travel + Leisure
Best Places to Travel in 2023 (we’re partial to the 6th one) | Town & Country
A TSA Refresher: 8 Rules to Know | The Discoverer
Christmas Foods Around the World | Atlas Obscura
Baggage Claim
In the spirit of social impact, we’re sharing one of our favorite travel items – a RefuSHE scarf!
Scarves are great as a makeshift blanket on chilly planes, an extra layer when the temperature drops at night, and a fun accessory for your bag by day.
RefuSHE’s Artisan Collective scarves are a triple win because they also support the young refugee women who make them, so you can feel good about the newest addition to your closet.
We’re partial to this one because of that beautiful green color, but there are so many to choose from – plus, they’re available in the US and Kenya!
Watch List
Holiday in the Wild | Netflix
The White Lotus - Season 2 | Apple TV
Out of Africa | Prime Video
Gorillas in the Mist | Prime Video
The Reluctant Traveler | Apple TV (coming Feb. 2023!)
Partners & Places
This month's partner spotlight is the Mahogany Springs Lodge in Uganda’s Bwindi National Forest. Between family game drives or guided walks, stargazing, coffee on the balcony, cooking classes, yoga, and swimming – there’s something for everyone at this beautiful, secluded oasis! Singita Lebombo is a world-class lodge for those looking to meet the Big Five and relax in simple yet elegant luxury.
