Based on looking at the website Thisiscarpedm.com, it appears to be a legitimate and well-established travel agency specializing in tours to Ecuador, including the Galapagos Islands and the Amazon.
The site emphasizes “Slow Travel” and sustainability, aligning with ethical travel principles.
Here’s an overall review summary:
- Website Professionalism: High. The site is well-structured, easy to navigate, and visually appealing, offering a wealth of information.
- Transparency and Information: Very good. Details about their history, awards, partnerships, and specific tour offerings are readily available.
- Ethical Considerations: Strong. The emphasis on “Slow Travel,” sustainability, community impact through projects like “Go F.A.R.” and the Nunkui Project reforestation, and partnerships with organizations like Kagumu Adventures aligned with UN Sustainable Development Goals indicate a strong ethical stance.
- Product Clarity: Excellent. Various tour options, including Galapagos cruises and Amazon experiences, are clearly laid out with links to detailed descriptions.
- Customer Support: Appears accessible through a “Contact us” section and “Get a quote” option. Testimonials are also prominently featured.
- Trust Indicators: Multiple trust signals, such as being a Trip Advisor Travellers’ Choice winner for multiple years 2020-2024, a Certificate of Excellence Hall of Fame award 2014-2019, and features in reputable travel guides like Lonely Planet and Rough Guides, are displayed. They also list Registro Turistico and LUAE numbers.
- Room for Improvement: While generally excellent, some information like exact pricing for all tours isn’t immediately visible without requesting a quote, which is common in bespoke travel, but a general range or starting price might be helpful for initial browsing.
Thisiscarpedm.com presents itself as a highly reputable and ethically conscious tour operator.
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Their focus on sustainable tourism, immersive cultural experiences, and environmental projects like reforestation sets them apart.
For travelers seeking meaningful and responsible adventures in Ecuador, the website provides a comprehensive and trustworthy platform.
The detailed blog content, covering everything from local culture to environmental conservation, further solidifies their expertise and commitment to responsible travel.
Here are some excellent alternatives for ethical and mindful travel experiences:
- G Adventures: Known for small-group tours focused on sustainable travel, local immersion, and community development. They have a strong commitment to responsible tourism and offer a wide range of destinations, including many similar to Ecuador.
- Intrepid Travel: Another leader in responsible travel, Intrepid offers authentic local experiences with a focus on environmental and social sustainability. They actively work to minimize their footprint and maximize benefits for local communities.
- National Geographic Expeditions: For those seeking educational and immersive travel, National Geographic partners with tour operators to offer scientifically-driven expeditions that prioritize conservation and cultural understanding.
- Exodus Travels: Specializing in adventurous and sustainable holidays, Exodus has a long-standing commitment to responsible tourism, ensuring their trips benefit local communities and protect the environment.
- Responsible Travel: This platform specifically curates and promotes ethical and sustainable tour operators worldwide, making it easier to find trips that align with responsible tourism principles.
- World Expeditions: A pioneer in trekking and adventure travel, World Expeditions emphasizes sustainable practices, including minimizing waste and supporting local economies, particularly in remote regions.
- REI Adventures: While primarily a gear retailer, REI also offers guided adventure trips that focus on outdoor exploration and responsible travel, often prioritizing conservation and local engagement.
Find detailed reviews on Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org, for software products you can also check Producthunt.
IMPORTANT: We have not personally tested this company’s services. This review is based solely on information provided by the company on their website. For independent, verified user experiences, please refer to trusted sources such as Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org.
Thisiscarpedm.com Review & First Look
When you first land on Thisiscarpedm.com, you’re immediately greeted with a professional, clean interface that speaks volumes about their commitment to quality. The initial impression is one of clarity and trust.
The website’s navigation is intuitive, allowing visitors to easily jump between sections like “Galapagos Tours,” “Amazon Programs,” “Ecuador Trips,” and their extensive “Blog.” This immediate access to core offerings and informative content is a huge plus.
Initial Impressions: A Deep Dive into Professionalism
The homepage prominently features their accolades, including Trip Advisor Traveller’s Choice awards for multiple years 2020-2024 and a Certificate of Excellence Hall of Fame from 2014-2019. These aren’t just vanity metrics. they are significant indicators of consistent customer satisfaction and service quality, backed by a globally recognized platform. For a travel company, such consistent recognition is a powerful testament to reliability. Furthermore, their mention of being a “preferred supplier for G Adventures day tour activities in Ecuador” adds another layer of credibility, suggesting they meet the operational standards of a major international tour operator. This isn’t just a mom-and-pop shop. this is a serious player in the Ecuadorian tourism scene.
Understanding the “Slow Travel” Philosophy
One of the standout features of Thisiscarpedm.com is its strong emphasis on “Slow Travel.” This isn’t just a marketing buzzword. it’s a philosophy that permeates their entire approach. They explicitly state: “Slow Travel is all about connection: to local people, cultures, food, and podcast. It’s a sustainable approach that creates the perfect travel experience, immersing you in the local culture, educating you, and leaving an emotional impact both in the present and future, while remaining sustainable for local communities and the environment.” This resonates deeply with conscious travelers who prioritize authentic experiences over rushed itineraries and checklist tourism. Their “Flow Style” rankings for trips, based on novelty, complexity, and unpredictability, show a thoughtful approach to crafting experiences that encourage personal growth and presence, moving beyond mere sightseeing. This commitment to genuine engagement and environmental stewardship is a significant advantage. Goldenerakits.com Review
Thisiscarpedm.com Features
Thisiscarpedm.com offers a comprehensive suite of features designed to facilitate ethical and immersive travel experiences in Ecuador.
Their platform goes beyond simple booking, integrating educational content, sustainable initiatives, and detailed trip planning resources.
Extensive Tour Offerings
The website categorizes its tours into three main areas: Galapagos Islands, Ecuadorian Amazon, and General Ecuador Tours. Each category is richly detailed, showcasing various options from multi-day cruises to adventure activities. For instance, the Galapagos section lists specific catamaran and cruise options like the Cormorant Catamaran and Galapagos Legend Cruise, complete with “View Deals” links. This structured presentation allows potential travelers to explore options based on their preferences and budget. The Amazon tours highlight partnerships with Caiman Ecolodge & Tucan Ecolodge, emphasizing locally owned projects that align with their sustainability goals.
- Galapagos Tours: Wide selection of cruises and catamarans, emphasizing unique wildlife encounters and pristine natural beauty.
- Amazon Programs: Focus on authentic jungle experiences, often involving community-based tourism and ecological conservation efforts.
- Ecuador Trips: Diverse range of experiences covering Andean culture, historical sites in Quito, volcanic adventures, and more, all tailored to the “Slow Travel” ethos.
Commitment to Sustainability and Community Impact
Thisiscarpedm.com doesn’t just talk about sustainability. they actively demonstrate it through tangible initiatives. Their partnership with the Nunkui Project, dedicated to reforesting and rewilding deforested areas of the Amazon rainforest, is a prime example. The fact that a donation plants a tree and guarantees its care for 20 years, absorbing 400 kg of carbon dioxide, provides a concrete impact metric. Moreover, allowing visitors to visit the project site creates a powerful, tangible connection to their efforts. Expressscripts.com Review
Their “Go F.A.R. Project” Focus, Achieve, Reforest is another significant initiative, detailed within their blog. They publish Q2 and Q3 results, providing transparency on their impact. This commitment to reforestation, community empowerment, and sustainable travel practices is a critical feature for environmentally conscious travelers. Their alignment with UN Sustainable Development Goals through their partnership with Kagumu Adventures further solidifies their ethical foundation.
Rich Blog Content and Educational Resources
The website boasts an incredibly rich and diverse blog section. It’s not just a collection of travel narratives. it’s a valuable resource hub.
Topics range from practical travel tips like “10 Common mistakes not to make before visiting Ecuador” to in-depth cultural explorations like “Exploring the Indigenous Cultures and Colonial Architecture of Quito.” They delve into specific locations, local food, health & wellness, and even poetry inspired by their experiences.
- Practical Guides: “Quito – 10 tips when visiting” and “Planning your Trip for Slow Travel.”
- Cultural Immersion: Articles on local traditions, historical sites, and indigenous communities.
- Nature & Wildlife: Detailed posts on Galapagos wildlife, Amazon biodiversity, and various national parks.
- Sustainable Travel Advice: Guides on eco-friendly accommodations and responsible traveler behavior.
- “Flow State” Exploration: Unique content exploring the concept of “flow states” in travel, encouraging deeper engagement and presence.
This extensive content library positions Thisiscarpedm.com not just as a booking platform but as an authority and guide for responsible travel in Ecuador.
It demonstrates a commitment to informing and educating their audience, fostering a deeper appreciation for the destination and its ethical considerations. Breet.app Review
Thisiscarpedm.com Pros & Cons
When evaluating any service, it’s essential to look at both the strengths that make it stand out and any areas where it might not meet every expectation.
Thisiscarpedm.com, while generally impressive, has its distinct advantages and a few points that some users might find less than ideal.
Advantages of Thisiscarpedm.com
The primary strengths of Thisiscarpedm.com lie in its ethical backbone, extensive experience, and comprehensive approach to travel.
- Strong Ethical Stance and Sustainability Focus: This is arguably their biggest differentiator. Their commitment to “Slow Travel,” the Nunkui Project for reforestation, and the “Go F.A.R. Project” directly supporting local communities and environmental conservation are exemplary. This aligns perfectly with the growing demand for responsible and impactful tourism. They don’t just say they’re sustainable. they provide tangible evidence and opportunities for travelers to contribute. This deep commitment benefits both the environment and the local Ecuadorian communities.
- Proven Track Record and Credibility: With over 15 years in operation since 2007 and consistent Trip Advisor Traveller’s Choice awards 2020-2024 and Hall of Fame recognition 2014-2019, Thisiscarpedm.com demonstrates a long history of reliable service and customer satisfaction. Endorsements from major travel guides like Lonely Planet and Rough Guides further validate their standing in the industry. This level of proven success inspires confidence.
- Diverse and Immersive Tour Offerings: From Galapagos cruises to Amazon ecolodges and cultural tours in the Andes, they offer a wide array of experiences that cater to different interests while maintaining their “Slow Travel” philosophy. The detailed blog content on specific destinations, wildlife, and cultural aspects helps travelers make informed choices and prepares them for an enriching journey.
- Transparency in Impact and Partnerships: The website clearly outlines its partnerships with organizations like Kagumu Adventures aligned with UN Sustainable Development Goals and its direct investments in local projects like Caiman Ecolodge and Tucan Ecolodge. Publishing results from their “Go F.A.R. Project” adds a layer of accountability that is commendable.
- Rich Informational Content: The blog is a treasure trove of information, providing insights into Ecuadorian culture, history, natural wonders, and practical travel advice. This makes the website a valuable resource even for those just planning a trip, not necessarily booking directly through them.
Potential Drawbacks for Some Users
While the pros are significant, there are a few minor aspects that some travelers might find less convenient.
- Pricing Transparency: While they offer a “Get a quote!” option, explicit pricing for all tours isn’t immediately available on the website. For many online travel agencies, at least a starting price range or per-person rate is provided upfront. This might require potential customers to take an extra step requesting a quote before they can compare costs, which could be a minor barrier for those who prefer instant price comparisons.
- Focus on Ecuador Only: While Thisiscarpedm.com excels in Ecuadorian travel, it’s a niche provider. Travelers looking for multi-country South American trips or destinations outside Ecuador would need to look elsewhere, or combine their CarpeDM trip with other bookings. This isn’t a “con” in terms of quality, but rather a limitation in scope for certain travel plans.
Thisiscarpedm.com Alternatives
When it comes to ethical and responsible travel, particularly for immersive experiences in unique destinations like Ecuador, there are several reputable alternatives that share a similar ethos.
These companies prioritize sustainability, local engagement, and authentic experiences, making them excellent choices for conscious travelers.
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- Key Features: Small group tours, local guides, community projects, extensive range of destinations globally including South America, focus on responsible travel initiatives, active adventure options.
- Price/Average Price: Mid-range to premium, depending on the trip style and duration.
- Pros: Strong commitment to local communities and sustainability, diverse itineraries, opportunities for cultural immersion. Highly respected in the industry for ethical practices.
- Cons: Group travel might not appeal to solo travelers seeking complete independence, itineraries can sometimes be packed, less customizable than bespoke options.
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Intrepid Travel: Hanamash.com Review
- Key Features: Focus on sustainable travel, local transport, community-based tourism, diverse travel styles food, trekking, wildlife, global presence, carbon offsetting.
- Price/Average Price: Mid-range.
- Pros: Pioneer in responsible tourism, excellent local experiences, good for solo travelers due to small group dynamic, transparent about their impact.
- Cons: Accommodation can be basic on some trips to enhance authenticity, some itineraries might be too “off the beaten path” for less adventurous travelers.
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- Key Features: An online platform showcasing ethical and sustainable tours from various operators worldwide. Vetted partners, clear criteria for responsible tourism.
- Price/Average Price: Varies widely as it’s a marketplace.
- Pros: Excellent resource for finding truly ethical tours, wide variety of experiences and operators, detailed information on sustainability practices for each trip.
- Cons: Not an operator themselves, so you book through third parties. quality varies depending on the specific tour operator chosen.
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- Key Features: Adventure holidays, trekking, cycling, cultural tours, strong focus on responsible tourism and minimizing environmental impact, operates in over 100 countries.
- Price/Average Price: Mid-range to premium.
- Pros: Well-established, strong reputation for adventure travel, good emphasis on sustainability and supporting local economies, diverse activity levels.
- Cons: Group sizes can be larger than some smaller operators, some trips are physically demanding, which might not suit everyone.
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- Key Features: A specialized tour operator focusing on trekking, climbing, and cultural tours in the Andes, including Ecuador. Strong emphasis on safety, local expertise, and responsible tourism.
- Price/Average Price: Varies based on customization and activity level.
- Pros: Deep local knowledge, highly personalized itineraries, excellent for serious trekkers and climbers, strong safety record, good for tailored experiences.
- Cons: More niche, primarily focused on active adventures, might not have as many “slow travel” options for general sightseeing as CarpeDM.
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- Key Features: Luxury Galapagos cruises and bespoke tours in Ecuador. Focus on high-end service, expert naturalist guides, and sustainable practices for conserving the islands.
- Price/Average Price: Premium/Luxury.
- Pros: Top-tier service, unparalleled Galapagos experiences, highly knowledgeable guides, smaller group sizes on cruises for more intimate encounters.
- Cons: Significantly higher price point, might not appeal to budget-conscious or “slow travel” focused adventurers looking for more rustic experiences.
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Eco-Lodges and Community Tourism Initiatives e.g., in the Amazon: Flyjinnah.com Review
- Key Features: Direct booking with independent eco-lodges or community-run tourism projects, often in remote areas. Focus on direct support for local communities, conservation, and immersive cultural exchange.
- Price/Average Price: Varies greatly, often more affordable than large tour operators, but can also be premium for high-quality eco-lodges.
- Pros: Direct economic benefit to locals, deeply authentic experiences, strong environmental focus, flexibility in designing your own itinerary.
- Cons: Requires more independent planning and research, logistics can be more challenging without a full tour operator, service levels might vary.
How to Cancel Thisiscarpedm.com Subscription
As Thisiscarpedm.com primarily operates as a tour agency, it doesn’t offer typical “subscriptions” in the sense of recurring monthly or annual payments for content or services.
Instead, their offerings are one-time tour bookings or potentially recurring commitments for specific projects or partnerships, which would be governed by individual contracts.
Therefore, the concept of “canceling a subscription” doesn’t directly apply in the usual online service context.
Understanding Booking Cancellation Policies
For tour bookings, the cancellation policy would be outlined in the terms and conditions agreed upon at the time of booking. This is standard practice in the travel industry. Typically, these policies involve:
- Cancellation Fees: A percentage of the total tour cost, which increases as the cancellation date gets closer to the departure date.
- Refunds: Depending on the timing of the cancellation, a full, partial, or no refund might be issued.
- Non-refundable Deposits: Many tours require a non-refundable deposit to secure the booking.
- Force Majeure Clauses: Provisions for cancellations due to unforeseen circumstances like natural disasters or pandemics.
To cancel a tour booked with Thisiscarpedm.com, you would generally need to: Us.mammotion.com Review
- Review your booking confirmation: This document should contain the specific cancellation terms applicable to your tour.
- Contact Thisiscarpedm.com directly: Reach out to their customer service via email or phone, as listed on their “Contact us” page. Clearly state your intention to cancel and provide your booking reference number.
- Follow their instructions: They will guide you through the process, inform you of any applicable fees, and process any eligible refunds.
Based on industry standards, it’s wise to have travel insurance that covers cancellations for unforeseen personal circumstances, as tour operators’ policies are often strict to cover their operational costs.
Cancelling Engagement with “Go F.A.R. Project” or Similar Initiatives
If your query relates to withdrawing from a specific engagement with their “Go F.A.R.
Project” or the Nunkui Project e.g., if you made a recurring donation or pledged ongoing support, this would also be handled on a case-by-case basis.
- Check the terms of your contribution/pledge: Any agreement for ongoing support would have specific terms for discontinuation.
- Contact the relevant project team: Use the contact information provided on their website or the specific project page.
- Communicate your request: Clearly state your desire to discontinue your support and follow their outlined procedure.
In essence, because Thisiscarpedm.com operates as a service provider for travel rather than a subscription model, cancellation procedures are transactional and tied to specific agreements rather than a generic “unsubscribe” button.
Always refer to your original booking or agreement documents and contact them directly for the most accurate and up-to-date information. Butterflymx.com Review
How to Cancel Thisiscarpedm.com Free Trial
The concept of a “free trial” doesn’t directly apply to Thisiscarpedm.com’s business model.
As a tour operator specializing in travel experiences to Ecuador, their offerings are primarily guided tours and packages, which are paid services, not trial subscriptions for software or content.
Therefore, there is no “free trial” for Thisiscarpedm.com services in the way you might find for a streaming service or a software application.
Their website, extensive blog content, and informational resources are freely accessible, serving as a “preview” of their expertise and offerings.
If a user were to misunderstand a promotional offer or a discounted introductory package as a “free trial,” the terms of that specific promotion would dictate any cancellation or refund policy. Mycanadapayday.com Review
However, this is distinct from the common understanding of a recurring free trial that needs active cancellation to avoid charges.
In summary:
- Thisiscarpedm.com does not offer “free trials” for its core tour services.
- All tour bookings are paid engagements subject to their specific booking and cancellation policies.
- Their website content, blog, and resources are freely available for browsing and information gathering.
If you have signed up for anything that you mistakenly believe was a “free trial” from Thisiscarpedm.com, it is crucial to:
- Review the specific terms of what you signed up for. Look at any confirmation emails or agreements.
- Contact Thisiscarpedm.com directly through their official “Contact us” page. Explain your situation and seek clarification. They can advise you on the nature of your agreement and any applicable terms.
It’s highly unlikely that you would incur any recurring charges from Thisiscarpedm.com without explicitly booking a tour or engaging in a specific, clearly defined financial contribution to one of their projects like the Nunkui Project, which would also have explicit terms.
Thisiscarpedm.com Pricing
Determining the exact pricing for Thisiscarpedm.com’s tours isn’t as straightforward as clicking a “pricing” tab on their website. Mbfx.co Review
As a bespoke travel agency specializing in tailored experiences, their approach to pricing reflects the customizability and complexity of their offerings, particularly for multi-day tours, cruises, and personalized itineraries.
The “Get a Quote!” Approach
Instead of displaying fixed prices for all tours, Thisiscarpedm.com employs a “Get a quote!” model. This means that for most of their comprehensive packages, especially for Galapagos cruises and multi-day Amazon adventures, you need to contact them directly to receive a personalized price.
Why this approach?
- Customization: Travel experiences in places like the Galapagos can vary wildly based on boat class budget, tourist, first-class, luxury, cabin type, duration of the trip e.g., 4, 5, 8 days, specific itinerary, and included activities. A fixed price might not accurately reflect the nuanced choices available.
- Variable Costs: Prices for flights to specific regions like Galapagos, local permits, guide fees, and lodge rates can fluctuate based on seasonality, availability, and local economic conditions. A dynamic quoting system allows them to provide the most accurate and up-to-date pricing.
- Personalized Service: Requesting a quote often involves a brief consultation, allowing the agency to understand your preferences, budget, and travel style. This enables them to craft a more suitable itinerary and provide a more relevant price. This aligns with their “Slow Travel” ethos, which prioritizes a personalized and thoughtful approach.
What to Expect When Requesting a Quote
When you use the “Get a quote!” feature often leading to their “Contact us” page, you will likely be asked for information such as: Boothwyn.com Review
- Desired Destination/Tour Type: e.g., Galapagos, Amazon, Andes trekking.
- Preferred Travel Dates/Season: This impacts availability and pricing.
- Number of Travelers: Prices are often per person, but group sizes affect logistics.
- Desired Comfort Level/Budget Range: Helps them recommend appropriate accommodations and services.
- Specific Interests/Activities: Tailors the itinerary to your preferences.
Generally, you can anticipate that tours to destinations like the Galapagos will be on the higher end due to conservation fees, limited capacity, and specialized logistics. For instance, a basic 4-day Galapagos cruise can start from $1,500-$2,500 USD per person, while luxury options or longer itineraries can easily exceed $5,000-$10,000+ USD per person. Amazon lodge stays can range from $300-$800 USD per person per night, depending on the lodge and inclusions. Day tours around Quito or the Andes would be significantly less, likely ranging from $50-$200 USD per person.
Transparency and Value
While direct pricing is not universally displayed, the website’s strong emphasis on sustainable practices, local investment, and high-quality experiences backed by numerous awards suggests that their pricing reflects the value provided. Ethical travel often comes with a slightly higher cost compared to mass tourism, as it aims to fairly compensate local communities, invest in conservation, and offer more authentic, less impactful experiences. Given their long-standing reputation and clear commitment to these values, the cost is likely justified for travelers prioritizing responsible tourism.
Thisiscarpedm.com vs. Competitors
Comparing Thisiscarpedm.com to its competitors reveals its unique positioning in the adventure and sustainable travel market, particularly for Ecuador.
While many companies offer tours to the region, Thisiscarpedm.com differentiates itself through its deep local roots, explicit sustainability focus, and “Slow Travel” philosophy.
Thisiscarpedm.com Strengths in Comparison
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Hyper-Local Expertise and Focus: Rentacarvanrell.com Review
- Thisiscarpedm.com: Specializes exclusively in Ecuador. This singular focus means unparalleled local knowledge, established relationships with local suppliers like Caiman Ecolodge and Tucan Ecolodge, and a deep understanding of the country’s diverse regions. Their Quito-based office in the historical center provides a strong on-the-ground presence.
- Competitors e.g., G Adventures, Intrepid Travel: While they offer Ecuador tours, they operate globally. Their expertise is broad, but sometimes lacks the granular, specialized knowledge that comes from a dedicated country focus.
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Explicit “Slow Travel” and “Flow State” Philosophy:
- Thisiscarpedm.com: Actively promotes and integrates “Slow Travel” and the concept of “Flow States” into their trip design. This appeals to travelers seeking deeper immersion, personal growth, and authentic cultural connection rather than a rushed itinerary. They are articulate about this philosophy, from blog posts to trip descriptions.
- Competitors: Many advocate for responsible tourism, but few make “Slow Travel” or psychological engagement principles as central to their brand identity and trip design as Thisiscarpedm.com. Their emphasis is often more on active adventure or cultural interaction without the explicit “slow” or “flow” framework.
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Direct and Transparent Sustainability Projects:
- Thisiscarpedm.com: Has tangible, transparent sustainability initiatives like the Nunkui Project reforestation with quantifiable carbon absorption and the “Go F.A.R. Project” with published results. They directly invest in locally-owned ecolodges.
- Competitors: Many large tour operators have strong responsible travel policies and community impact programs, often through their own foundations or partnerships e.g., G Adventures’ Planeterra Foundation, Intrepid’s initiatives. However, Thisiscarpedm.com’s local, direct, and quantifiable projects might feel more immediate and accessible to the conscious traveler looking to make a direct impact in Ecuador.
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Award-Winning Local Reputation:
- Thisiscarpedm.com: Consistent Trip Advisor awards and Hall of Fame recognition over many years, along with mentions in Lonely Planet and Rough Guides, cement their reputation as a highly recommended local agency.
- Competitors: Larger international companies have broad international reputations. However, for specific local acclaim and trust within Ecuador’s tourism community, Thisiscarpedm.com holds a significant advantage.
Where Competitors Might Have an Edge
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Global Reach and Multi-Country Itineraries:
- Competitors e.g., G Adventures, Intrepid: Offer multi-country trips across South America and the world, allowing travelers to book diverse experiences through a single platform.
- Thisiscarpedm.com: Solely focuses on Ecuador. This is a strength fors but a limitation for those planning broader regional travel.
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Immediate Online Pricing and Booking: Brazos-walking-sticks.com Review
- Competitors: Many provide immediate online pricing and booking options for standard tours, making it easier for quick comparison and instant reservation.
- Thisiscarpedm.com: Relies on a “Get a quote!” system for most complex tours, requiring direct contact. This might be less convenient for travelers who prefer a fully self-service online booking experience.
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Variety of Group Sizes and Travel Styles Beyond “Slow”:
- Competitors: Offer a wider range of travel styles, from large coach tours to small expedition cruises, and a broader spectrum of activity levels, catering to almost any traveler preference.
In conclusion, Thisiscarpedm.com stands out as an excellent choice for travelers specifically interested in an ethical, immersive, and authentic experience in Ecuador, supported by a highly reputable local operator with a strong sustainability ethos.
For those prioritizing a broader global reach, instant booking, or a wider variety of very specific travel styles outside the “Slow Travel” framework, larger international competitors might offer more options.
FAQ
What is Thisiscarpedm.com?
Thisiscarpedm.com is an award-winning tour operator and travel agency based in Ecuador, specializing in sustainable and immersive travel experiences, including tours to the Galapagos Islands, the Amazon rainforest, and various cultural and adventure trips across the country.
Is Thisiscarpedm.com a legitimate company?
Yes, Thisiscarpedm.com appears to be a legitimate company, established in 2007. They have received multiple Trip Advisor Traveller’s Choice awards 2020-2024, a Certificate of Excellence Hall of Fame 2014-2019, and are featured in reputable travel guides like Lonely Planet and Rough Guides.
They also display official tourism registration numbers.
What is “Slow Travel” according to Thisiscarpedm.com?
“Slow Travel” for Thisiscarpedm.com is a philosophy focused on deep connection and immersion with local people, cultures, food, and podcast, rather than rushing through a checklist of sights.
It emphasizes sustainability, education, and creating lasting emotional impact.
What are the main destinations offered by Thisiscarpedm.com?
Thisiscarpedm.com primarily offers tours to the Galapagos Islands, the Ecuadorian Amazon, and various regions across mainland Ecuador, including Quito, the Andes, and specific national parks. Teleflora.com Review
Does Thisiscarpedm.com offer last-minute deals for Galapagos?
Yes, the website mentions and provides a link for “GALAPAGOS LAST MINUTE Offers,” suggesting they do provide opportunities for travelers looking for spontaneous trips to the islands.
How does Thisiscarpedm.com contribute to sustainability?
Thisiscarpedm.com contributes to sustainability through its “Slow Travel” philosophy, partnerships like the Nunkui Project for reforestation in the Amazon planting trees and guaranteeing their care for 20 years, and the “Go F.A.R.
Project,” which aims to make a positive impact through sustainable travel.
Is Thisiscarpedm.com involved in community projects?
Yes, Thisiscarpedm.com actively supports locally owned projects and makes direct investments in ecolodges like Caiman Ecolodge and Tucan Ecolodge, which align with their sustainability goals and contribute to local communities.
What kind of accommodation can I expect on a Thisiscarpedm.com tour?
Accommodation varies depending on the specific tour and destination.
For Galapagos, they offer various catamaran and cruise options. For the Amazon, they partner with ecolodges.
For mainland Ecuador, it would depend on the itinerary’s comfort level, with an emphasis on sustainable and authentic stays.
Can I customize a tour with Thisiscarpedm.com?
While the website encourages a “Get a quote!” approach which suggests a degree of customization, it’s best to directly contact them to discuss personalized itineraries based on your preferences, budget, and travel style.
Does Thisiscarpedm.com provide travel insurance?
The website does not explicitly state whether they provide travel insurance.
It is standard practice for travelers to arrange their own comprehensive travel insurance, which is highly recommended for any international trip.
What is the “Go F.A.R. Project” mentioned by Thisiscarpedm.com?
The “Go F.A.R.
Project” is one of CarpeDM’s initiatives focused on making a positive impact, likely standing for “Focus, Achieve, Reforest” based on their blog content.
They publish quarterly results detailing their efforts in reforestation and community empowerment.
Is Thisiscarpedm.com suitable for solo female travelers?
The website has a blog post titled “Empower Yourself with the Magic of Ecuador: Solo Female Travelers take note…”, suggesting they offer experiences suitable for solo female travelers and may provide relevant advice or support.
What are the advantages of booking with a local agency like Thisiscarpedm.com?
Booking with a local agency like Thisiscarpedm.com often provides unparalleled local expertise, direct support for the local economy, more authentic cultural experiences, and often more flexible or specialized itineraries that larger international operators might not offer.
How can I contact Thisiscarpedm.com for a quote or inquiry?
You can contact Thisiscarpedm.com through their “Contact us” page, which typically includes an inquiry form, email address, and potentially phone numbers. They also have a prominent “Get a quote!” button.
Does Thisiscarpedm.com offer volunteer programs?
The website states, “Our volunteer programs are currently in the works but stay close as we got some great surprises in store,” indicating that volunteer opportunities are planned for the future.
What types of activities are highlighted in Thisiscarpedm.com’s tours?
Their tours highlight a wide range of activities including hiking, trekking, wildlife viewing especially in Galapagos and Amazon, cultural immersion, historical site visits, and adventure sports, all within the framework of “Slow Travel.”
How long has Thisiscarpedm.com been operating?
Thisiscarpedm.com was established in 2007, meaning they have been operating for over 15 years in the Ecuadorian tourism industry.
Are there any specific types of cruises offered for the Galapagos by Thisiscarpedm.com?
Yes, they list various catamaran and cruise options for the Galapagos, including Cormorant Catamaran, Treasure of Galapagos Catamaran, Tip Top II Catamaran, Seaman Catamaran, Petrel Catamaran, Bonita Yacht Galapagos, Galapagos Legend Cruise, La Pinta Galapagos Cruise Ship, Tip Top V Catamaran, and Endemic Catamaran.
Does Thisiscarpedm.com have a physical office?
Yes, the website mentions they are “Located in the heart of Historical Quito in San Blas,” implying they have a physical office in Quito, Ecuador.
What is the significance of “Flow State” in Thisiscarpedm.com’s travel approach?
“Flow State” refers to a mental state of deep engagement and immersion.
Thisiscarpedm.com aims to design trips that facilitate this state by incorporating elements of novelty, complexity, and unpredictability, pushing travelers out of their comfort zones to enhance their experience and presence.
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