The Community-Based Ecotourism in the Yucatán Peninsula study abroad program is a four week adventure sponsored by the Department of Landscape Architecture. It provides a unique combination of study abroad experiences and the opportunity to participate in a service-learning project. In Yucatán, students visit natural, cultural and historic sites, such as Mayan ruins, internationally recognized biosphere reserves, and colonial cities.
Some of the sites visited included ecotourism venues of various descriptions from large corporate operations, to individual and Non-Government Organization (NGO) facilities and community-based programs. One week involves a stay at the Kaxil Kiuic Biocultural reserve where students study, work and sleep in solar powered, thatched roof cabañas.
Students also meet with civic leaders and researchers in the tourism, cultural and environmental fields to become familiar with the unique and significant characteristics of the region. Special guest lecturers include prominent conservationists, anthropologists, and archeologists. The service-learning portion of the program provides an opportunity for students to help implement some of the concepts and principles of community-based ecotourism that they have learned and experienced during the trip.
They meet with residents from a rural Mayan community who wish to supplement their subsistence life style with tourism income while preserving and promoting their unique heritage and natural environments. The students provide design ideas and solutions for the community based on their studies and travel experiences. The program concludes with a visit to the Caribbean coast for a visit to the Sian Ka’an Biosphere reserve and the Xcaret eco-park, as well as some time to relax and unwind at the beach.
Charles Klein
Associate Professor of Landscape Architecture
Charles.Klein@ttu.edu | (806)742-3771