Destination Asia has joined as a member of the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC).
Destination Asia is a leading DMC based in Asia, currently operating across nine countries in Asia, with 17 operational offices across the network. With business divisions covering leisure travel, MICE and cruise, Destination Asia states it remains committed to ethical business practices, embedding sustainability across economic, social, and environmental dimensions. Whenever possible, the company works with local partners and suppliers who share its philosophy while actively monitoring their business practices, collaborating to improve each of its travel services.
Sustainability Commitment
Destination Asia states that it is driven by a commitment to sustainable tourism and a sustainable society. Its focus is on managing resources responsibly to balance economic growth, social needs, and the preservation of cultural integrity and biodiversity — the very elements that make its destinations so appealing. To help achieve this, Destination Asia works closely with suppliers at every step of the supply chain to encourage responsible practices that leave a long-lasting positive impact.
Destination Asia outlines in its Sustainability Policy a commitment to delivering services responsibly while maintaining a strong focus on innovation and high-quality client offerings. The policy highlights efforts to minimize environmental impact, ensure the health and safety of employees and supply chain partners, and promote sustainability across the development, operation, and marketing of its tourism services.
As a long-standing member of the communities in which Destination Asia works, they are actively involved in multiple Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) projects from environmental conservation to empowering local communities, each destination has played a key role in driving positive change. These efforts highlight their ongoing commitment to strengthening communities and creating lasting, meaningful impact across the region.
Sustainability expectations extend to its partners, with codes of conduct and contract clauses requiring suppliers and excursion operators to uphold human rights, avoid child or forced labor, and support local communities. Accommodation partners are encouraged to offer culturally immersive experiences and preference is given to those accommodation providers that work with international sustainability certification schemes.
David Andrews, Group Marketing & Communications Director at Destination Asia commented, “At Destination Asia, we are deeply committed to embedding sustainability, inclusion, and ethical practices into every part of our business. Our goal is to contribute meaningfully to a sustainable society and responsible tourism. Joining the GSTC community is a proud milestone for us, and we look forward to actively participating — learning from others and sharing our own experiences.”
GSTC Welcomes Destination Asia
“We are pleased to welcome Destination Asia as a member of the Global Sustainable Tourism Council. We look forward to working with them to advance sustainable tourism practices in the region and beyond,” said Randy Durband, CEO of GSTC.
About Destination Asia
Destination Asia create memorable journeys that inspire connections and leave lasting impressions. With a focus solely on Asia they operate across nine vibrant countries; Thailand, Vietnam, Japan, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Singapore, Cambodia, Malaysia, and Laos. 17 strategically located offices deliver an unmatched depth of local expertise and commitment to excellence, helping bring each client’s vision to life. Dedicated teams work closely with tour operators, travel agents, wholesalers, incentive houses, meeting planners, and cruise lines to provide tailor-made solutions. With the support of a global sales team, they offer competitively priced services, comprehensive marketing materials, and a steadfast commitment to safe and sustainable travel.
If you would like to learn more about Destination Asia, please visit www.destination-asia.com
About the GSTC
The Global Sustainable Tourism Council® (GSTC®) establishes and manages global sustainable standards, the GSTC Standards, also known as the GSTC Standards. The GSTC Destination Standard for public policy-makers and destination managers, GSTC Hotel Standard & GSTC Tour Operator Standard, GSTC MICE Standard for Venues, Event Organizers, and Events & Exhibitions, and the GSTC Attraction Standard for tourist attractions such as theme parks, museums, and national parks. These are the guiding principles and minimum requirements that any tourism business or destination should aspire to reach in order to protect and sustain the world’s natural and cultural resources while ensuring tourism meets its potential as a tool for conservation and poverty alleviation.
The GSTC Standards form the foundation for GSTC’s assurance role for Certification Bodies that certify hotels/accommodations, tour operators, and destinations as having sustainable policies and practices in place. GSTC does not directly certify any products or services but provides accreditation to those that do.
GSTC is an independent and neutral USA-registered 501(c)3 non-profit organization that represents a diverse and global membership, including national and provincial governments, leading travel companies, hotels, tour operators, NGOs, individuals and communities – all striving to achieve best practices in sustainable tourism. The GSTC is an ISEAL Community Member, a global membership organization for ambitious, collaborative, and transparent sustainability systems.
Information for media and the press: www.gstcouncil.org/about/for-the-press/
Statements expressed in this announcement are presented for informational purposes only and should not be taken as an endorsement or recommendation by GSTC, unless clearly stated.
Photos © Destination Asia
