Beyond Green is spotlighting member properties that support the well-being of local people, going beyond eco-conscious to embrace fundamental principles such as fair wages, gender equality and the preservation of indigenous and local cultures. Each member property is subject to a rigorous vetting process, based on the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, and must adhere to more than 50 sustainability indicators that align with global sustainable tourism standards. The member hotels also ensure the preservation of cultural heritage through a range of initiatives.
For over 16 years, Hidden India Mahavan (Kanha National Park, India) has actively engaged with the local community, organizing health camps for 56 villages and providing resources such as computers, uniforms, desks, televisions and electricity for nearby schools. Collaborating with the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, the property developed environmentally friendly charcoal briquettes, replacing illegally sourced fuel. Working closely with Gond artists and local youth, the hotel facilitates a cultural exchange that documents the region’s heritage through art. Hidden India Mahavan also supports the production and sale of tribal jewelry in a unique collaboration with park rangers.
The Parkside Hotel & Spa (Victoria, Canada) takes significant strides in preserving local cultural heritage. In 2021, the hotel embarked on a journey of reconciliation with the Songhees Nation, recognizing their historical relationship with the land upon which the hotel stands. Becoming the first hotel in Greater Victoria to work towards signing a memorandum of reconciliation, the hotel strengthened its commitment as Friends of the Songhees. Guests are invited to connect with the Lekwungen peoples through guided tours, fostering the preservation of the region’s essence and sense of place.
Arenas Del Mar (Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica) is an eco-friendly beach resort rooted in its commitment to the local community. Its all-Costa Rican staff benefits from training, growth opportunities and access to healthcare. Its “Dock to Dish” program fosters connections between fishermen and chefs for sustainable seafood while bolstering local fishing communities. Arenas Del Mar also supports local schools and organizes visits for rural children who have never experienced the ocean, providing them with a chance to connect with their country’s coastline and develop a deeper appreciation for their natural surroundings.
Constructed with 200-year-old reclaimed logs from Yellowstone National Park after the great fire of 1988, Bentwood Inn (Wilson, WY) houses a library with nearly 200 titles dedicated to the history and cultural legacy of the region. The inn actively encourages guests to explore the nearby Wind River Indian Reservation, home to the Eastern Shoshone and Northern Arapaho tribes, and can arrange for Wind River elders to share their stories with guests.
Additional member properties include andBeyond Mnemba Island (Zanzibar, Tanzania), which has partnered with Africa Foundation on various community-led programs; and Turtle Inn (Placencia, Belize), which preserves Mayan heritage by offering guests a range of traditional experiences.
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