We’re all about embracing the spirit of adventure while fostering a supportive and respectful environment. Our community expectations are designed to ensure that all our adventures are a blast and a safe space welcoming for everyone involved! From respecting each other and Mother Earth to being punctual and prepared, these 7 guiding principles will help us all lead with kindness and make our epic shared experience that much more extraordinary.
R-e-s-p-e-c-t
Words and Actions matter. Let’s use inclusive language and be mindful of our actions and words at all times. We have a wonderfully diverse group of humans here, and we want to show them all the respect they deserve. (This includes respecting yourself and your body too!)
Respect your mother
Respect also carries over to respecting Mother Earth. Without her, we wouldn’t be able to do any of these things, and it‘s our job to take care of her. Here at WHOA, we plant trees on behalf of each of our travelers, and offset the in-country carbon emissions for all of our travelers. While hiking, it’s your responsibility to do your part and ensure all your trash gets packed out (including toilet paper!), refrain from using single-use plastics when packing, and strive to leave places better than you found them.
Don’t be Tardy to the Party
When you’re traveling with a group, it’s essential that you’re on time, even better, EARLY, for all meet-ups! If the guides say 8AM, that means 8AM - ready to roll out. Whether the time is set so we can beat hiking in the rain that’s forecasted, or whether it’s to catch a specific train, the times are set for a reason. Being late holds up the team and throws off the whole day. There’s enough spontaneity that comes naturally in adventures, you don’t need to add to it!
Look for rainbows
Not every adventure goes as planned. Sometimes it rains, sometimes there’s traffic, and that's part of the fun of it all! Staying positive, leaning on each other, and laughing together when the going gets tough is where the fondest memories will be made. We can’t wait to make some with you!
Lead with Kindness
Give others (and yourself) grace to learn and be imperfect. Always try to look for glimmers, and remember, even though we’re all in this together, we’re all climbing our own mountains. Let’s create a space where everyone can not only grow, but thrive, and gain a better understanding of this big beautiful world!
Don’t wait to Communicate
Your GALs and Guides are super humans who are there to support you every step of the way, but they aren’t mind readers. Let us know if you’re not feeling well or if you have a blister. Communicate openly with us and all the other travelers - it’s the only way we can understand one another and empathize as a team.
Focus on Today
Adventures are one of the only chances we have these days to completely disconnect from the hustle and bustle of the real world - so take advantage! Be in the moment, try to let go of your expectations, and take every feeling and experience as it comes. Every night, we’ll go over everything you need to know for the next day, so you just need to focus on taking in your surroundings and connecting with the here and now.
