Despite the fact that most sharks are among the most threatened marine wildlife in our oceans, shark conservation efforts continue to face great challenges due to sharks’ “reputation” as dangerous predators. Learn more about sharks from Hawaii Shark Encounters and be part of the global efforts to fight misconceptions, support more research and further conservation initiatives. Hawaii Shark Encounters works closely with Shark Allies, a non-profit organization that promotes proper understanding and respect for sharks and supports ocean conservation.

The ecoDestinations US Wild West online auction closed yesterday, Thursday, April 30. We are grateful for the generous contributions by the following partners and trip sponsors this month, whose support has made this initiative possible. TIES is proud to collaborate with these foremost industry partners. If you were a successful bidder this month, congratulations, and thank you for your active participation. All proceeds raised from your purchase through the ecoDestinations auction will go directly to TIES to support our numerous projects in support of responsible travel worldwide.

A magical mosaic of cultures and ecosystems, the Western region of the United States is impossible to summarize. Here, Native Americans, Latinos, Asians, Mormons, Polynesians, Inuits, hippies, Hollywood stars, ski bums, computer geeks, and green revolutionaries are just a few of the intermingling cultures that will make your visit to the region an unforgettable experience. Of course, the Wild West offers unparalleled opportunities for nature loves and adventure enthusiasts: deserts, mountains, volcanoes, plains, beaches…

University of Hawaii is hosting the one-day workshop, “Sustainable Travel in the Hawaiian Islands: Current obstacles and future opportunities” – which is the first in a series of interactive workshops that will engage key stakeholders to work together to identify opportunities, create solutions, and commit to actions that chart a path toward establishing the Hawaiian Islands as a destination of Sustainable Best Practices. TIES Board member Masaru Takayama (Executive Director, Japan Ecolodge Association, and Director, Spirit of Japan Travel) will be presenting at the workshop.