Co-Founder of Secret Paradise Maldives Ruth Franklin talks about how she has built her business based on a resilient and sustainable formula, working closely with the local communities and the NGOs. Secret Paradise Maldives promotes local tourism in line with Maldivian culture and traditions. They aim to protect the environment and limit where ever possible any negative impact on local life through the education of both guests and locals. Independent Travel trends for the Maldives have been observed and are steadily growing, enabling tourists to visit the destination on lower budgets and creating authentic connections with the local communities through guided tours. This episode highlights:- how to mindfully travel across the islands in the Maldives- how to interact with local communities when visiting the villages- how to support local organizations and NGOs Learn more about Secret Paradise Maldives hereYour Host: Dolores SemeraroHospitality Virtual Keynote Speaker Dolores Semeraro is a Travel Recovery Strategist with more than 15 years of experience in hospitality, marketing, and trading. She is passionate about helping her clients develop the leadership strategies they need to restore travel confidence and win their customers back.Dolores’ high-energy virtual keynote presentations are thought-provoking and open the audience’s perception of what really matters to today’s travel consumers.www.doloressemeraro.comSeason 1 - Episode 23SUBSCRIBE to receive the latest episode straight to your inbox: SubscribeCatch up on the latest episode on www.truthbehindtravelpodcast.comRATE AND REVIEW THE SHOW ON Apple PodcastDolores Semeraro is a Tourism Keynote Speaker & Hospitality Communication Expert who has helped hospitality, tourism organizations, and travel professionals to navigate the tourism industry crisis during the pandemic and restore travel confidence in their clients. Prior to becoming a professional speaker, Dolores has worked in tourism and hospitality for about 20 years across Europe, Asia and the Indian Ocean in Marketing and Communication senior roles for some of the most established global hospitality organizations. She delivers inspiring and actionable Tourism & Hospitality Keynote talks to travel and tourism conferences, summits, and hybrid industry events focusing on the future of travel, travel and tourism recovery, hospitality digital marketing and communication, and tourism innovation. www.doloressemeraro.com