Travel 2007

A new Lewes-based company, Cosmofil, has organised a travel-related fair in the Town Hall in which over 40 companies will run stalls and events. “We want the evening to be about everybody thinking about the language and culture of different countries,” says organiser Ann Spruce. “And of our own culture, too.” Cosmofil, whose speciality is matching paying guests with hosts who are willing to show them around the area they live in, are very concerned about the ethics of travelling, and this will be reflected on the night. “So many people go away on holiday and come back with a few snaps and a suntan, and nothing more,” says Anne. “We would like to promote language and cultural exchanges, so that people come back from their holiday rich in experiences.” Major travel companies are not represented in the fair. Instead there are language teachers, wine companies, cheese sellers and potters. You can learn more about how to minimise the carbon impact of your holiday with Responsible Travel, or book a painting holiday in Umbria with Umbria Retreat.

“We are very concerned about the impact of holidays on the environment,” says Ann, in answer to the inevitable question. “And we are keen to promote local travel. But we think it would be wrong for us not to travel and associate with people from different countries, as long as we can learn from their culture, and them from ours.” There will be plenty of interesting food and drink on offer, as well as a bar selling Harveys, for the less adventurous of palates. AG