These hotels are making a real impact, highlighted by the Global Vision Awards. From sustainability practices and community engagement to innovative design and accessible travel, these brands are setting new standards. They demonstrate a genuine commitment to responsible tourism, reshaping the guest experience and influencing the wider industry. They're truly changing travel for the better.
1. Six Senses: Pioneering Wellness and Sustainability
Six Senses has long been a leader in integrating wellness and sustainability into its core operations. The brand's commitment extends far beyond surface-level initiatives. They focus on holistic well-being for their guests, their employees, and the environment. Their efforts have set a benchmark for the industry.
Key initiatives include:
Earth Lab: Each resort features an Earth Lab, a dedicated space for showcasing sustainability efforts, conducting workshops, and engaging guests in environmental education.
Waste Reduction: Six Senses is committed to eliminating single-use plastics and minimizing waste across all properties. They implement comprehensive recycling programs and source locally whenever possible.
Community Support: They actively support local communities through various initiatives, including employment opportunities, sourcing of local products, and funding for community development projects.
Six Senses demonstrates that luxury and sustainability can coexist harmoniously. They inspire travelers to make conscious choices and contribute to a more responsible travel experience. Their dedication to preserving the environment and enriching local communities makes them a true game-changer.
2. Habitas: Fostering Community and Connection
Habitas is redefining the concept of hospitality by creating immersive experiences that foster community and connection. Their unique approach focuses on creating a sense of belonging and encouraging guests to engage with the local culture and environment. Habitas properties are designed to integrate seamlessly with their surroundings and reflect the unique character of each destination.
Habitas distinguishes itself through:
Nomadic Structures: Using modular, sustainable building techniques, Habitas creates accommodations that are both stylish and environmentally friendly. These structures minimize impact on the land and allow for easy relocation if needed.
Community Programming: Each Habitas property offers a diverse range of programming, including wellness retreats, cultural experiences, and workshops led by local artisans and experts. These activities encourage guests to connect with each other and with the local community.
Social Impact: Habitas partners with local organizations to support education, conservation, and economic development initiatives. They are committed to creating positive social impact in the communities where they operate.
Habitas offers a new model for travel, one that prioritizes connection, community, and responsible stewardship of the environment. They prove that travel can be a catalyst for positive change.
3. Wilderness Safaris: Championing Conservation Tourism
Wilderness Safaris is a pioneer in conservation tourism, dedicated to protecting Africa's wilderness areas and empowering local communities. Their eco-lodges are located in some of the most remote and pristine environments on the continent, and their operations are designed to minimize environmental impact and maximize benefits for local communities.
The brand excels through:
Conservation Focus: Wilderness Safaris invests heavily in conservation efforts, including anti-poaching patrols, wildlife monitoring, and habitat restoration. They work closely with local communities to protect wildlife and preserve natural resources.
Community Empowerment: Wilderness Safaris prioritizes employing local people and providing them with training and development opportunities. They also support community-based tourism initiatives and ensure that local communities benefit directly from tourism revenue.
Low-Impact Operations: Wilderness Safaris operates its lodges with a focus on sustainability, utilizing renewable energy sources, minimizing waste, and conserving water. They strive to minimize their environmental footprint and protect the natural beauty of the areas where they operate.
Wilderness Safaris demonstrates the power of tourism to drive conservation and community development. Their commitment to protecting Africa's wild places makes them a truly exceptional brand.
4. andBeyond: Luxury Travel with Purpose
andBeyond offers luxury travel experiences with a strong emphasis on conservation and community development. Their portfolio of lodges and tours showcases some of the world's most breathtaking destinations, while their commitment to responsible tourism ensures that these destinations are protected for future generations.
What sets them apart:
Impactful Experiences: andBeyond designs travel experiences that are not only luxurious but also meaningful. Guests have the opportunity to participate in conservation activities, learn about local cultures, and contribute to community development projects.
Community Partnerships: andBeyond works closely with local communities to develop sustainable tourism initiatives that benefit both the communities and the environment. They provide training, support, and investment to ensure that local communities can thrive.
Environmental Stewardship: andBeyond is committed to minimizing its environmental impact through responsible resource management, waste reduction, and conservation efforts. They are constantly seeking new ways to improve their sustainability practices.
andBeyond exemplifies that luxury travel can be a force for good. Their commitment to conservation, community, and responsible tourism makes them a leader in the industry.
5. Alila Hotels & Resorts: Sustainable Design and Cultural Immersion
Alila Hotels & Resorts, part of Hyatt, are known for their stunning design, commitment to sustainability, and focus on cultural immersion. Their properties are designed to blend seamlessly with their surroundings and reflect the unique character of each destination. Alila emphasizes minimizing their environmental impact and supporting local communities.
Their key features are:
Sustainable Design: Alila properties are designed with sustainability in mind, utilizing eco-friendly materials, energy-efficient technologies, and water conservation measures.
Cultural Experiences: Alila offers a range of cultural experiences that allow guests to connect with the local community and learn about the traditions and customs of the region.
Community Engagement: Alila actively supports local communities through various initiatives, including employment opportunities, sourcing of local products, and funding for community development projects.
Alila Hotels & Resorts demonstrates that sustainable design and cultural immersion can create a truly enriching and responsible travel experience. Their commitment to protecting the environment and supporting local communities makes them a standout brand.
6. Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group: Responsible Luxury and Social Impact
The Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group is renowned for its exceptional service and luxurious accommodations, but they are also increasingly recognized for their commitment to responsible luxury and social impact. The group is focused on minimising their environmental footprint and creating positive change in the communities where they operate.
Their main strengths are:
Sustainability Initiatives: Mandarin Oriental implements various sustainability initiatives across its properties, including energy and water conservation, waste reduction, and responsible sourcing.
Community Engagement: They actively support local communities through various programs, including education, health, and environmental conservation.
Ethical Practices: Mandarin Oriental is committed to ethical business practices and responsible supply chain management.
Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group showcases that luxury can and should be responsible. Their growing commitment to sustainability and social impact makes them a positive force in the hotel industry.
