Scientific tourism

After eco-tourism, a French tour operator Escursia has teamed up with the Fondation Nicholas Hulot (FNH), to offer holidays aimed at a better understanding of nature from a scientific point of view. The Nicolas Hulot Foundation actively seeks to improve the general public's understanding of the ecological state of the planet and raise awareness of the importance of environmental preservation.

Photo by Flickr user Drewhound. Creative Commons licence.

The holidays offered will involve sailing on the Fleur de Lampoul, a restored sailing boat from Brittany and used as an educational ship by the FNH. The holiday makers will be able to help sail and maintain the ship, while learning about the marine ecosystems and preserving the coasts. Holidays can last anything from 4 to 15 days, sailing along the French, Spanish or Portuguese coasts.

I first thought scientific tourism sounded a little off-putting but in reality it means an activity holiday with an interest in nature and the environment. Looking at the other destinations that Escursia offers, they really are quite appealing. They aim to attract the general public looking for original and different holidays. No need for any prior knowledge, just sufficient curiosity!

I'd love to try one of the shorter breaks to see if we like it. The nearest we've been was canoeing down the Ardèche which issn't quite the same. I tend to like my home comforts, though I don't suppose they need be mutually exclusive.