[fil-an-too-ri-sem] noun. A mash-up of philanthropy and tourism. The act of choosing a holiday or experience in order to support a destination in need of tourism.
What is philantourism?
OK, so philantourism isn't in the Oxford English Dictionary (yet), or even the Urban Dictionary come to that, but it is a new addition to Original Travel's lexicon and something we see as being the hot new travel trend for 2020. You heard it here first.
A natural evolution of voluntourism, but less of a commitment, philantourism is where you choose your next holiday destination according to where is most in need of your spending money. And that's it. Once you've booked, you don't need to do anything after you arrive other than enjoy the culture, buy local and put your tourist dollar into local pockets.
Here are some top picks of places that would really benefit from your visit:
Sri Lanka
Briefly on the FCDO's (Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office - formerly Foreign & Commonwealth Office) don't travel list following the tragic Easter bombings in 2019, Sri Lanka is safe to travel once more and visitors are never disappointed by this enchanting Indian Ocean isle. From the ancient sites of the Cultural Triangle to its wildlife - it's one of the only countries in the world where you can seasonally see both the biggest land mammal (elephants) and biggest sea mammal (blue whales) - and its fantastical culinary offerings, it truly has something for everyone.
Turkey
Turkey has had a tough time of it as we all know, but it is very much open for business and remains one of our favourite European destinations. Sitting at the crossroads of Asia and Europe, it's a fascinating melting pot of cultures and history. Combine this with delicious food, one of the world's coolest cities (Istanbul - and yes, that's an indisputable fact), the lunar-like landscape of Cappadocia and one of the best coastlines in Europe, the Aegean Coast, and it will be money very well spent.
Nicaragua
Recently removed from the FCDO's don't travel list, Nicaragua is back on the map and visitors will be rewarded with volcano treks, lake swimming, the beautiful Pacific coast and the wonderful Spanish architecture of Granada. Not exactly a hardship...