Hotels do not live in a vacuum. They are surrounded and supported by the communities and ecosystems around them. And the best hotels, these days, are doing more to support those communities right back, by co-creating immersive experiences for guests that help sustain traditions and regenerate the natural environment. Here are five examples across Southeast Asia of positive impact hotel experiences that prove sometimes it is better to leave more than footprints behind.
GOING PLASTIC FREE AND and championing recycling simply doesn’t cut it with today’s eco-conscious travellers, who are seeking much more from their trips. Thankfully, many resorts are ahead of the game, delivering memorable experiences that benefit both the environment and surrounding communities.
“We’re seeing a trend in guests caring more about sustainability. People are starting to be more alert about climate change and environmental protection,” said Thepsuda Loyjiw, sustainability manager at Banyan Tree Krabi, on why the hospitality group is weaving local experiences that embrace communities and environmental awareness in its offerings.
Today’s serious sustainability heavyweights are tapping into nature and tuning into their surroundings, so guests can embark on authentic adventures that have an impact while getting a true taste of local life. We’ve already seen a rise in farm resort culture – look no further than Vietnam’s largest resort farm at Fusion Resort Cam Ranh. Here are some other meaningful, positive-impact vacation moments from hotels across the region.
Make traditional handicrafts with veteran artisans
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Ban Koh Klang
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Model Longtail Boat by local artisan at Ban Koh Klang
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Craft of batik art from veteran
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Craft of batik art from veteran
Banyan Tree Krabi has designed the perfect program to soak up Southern Thai culture. As part of Banyan Tree Group’s ‘Stay for Good’ packages, guests can join a weekly jaunt by long-tail boat to the fishing town of Ban Koh Klang, on a small island in Krabi River. The village is famed for its craftsmanship and guests can learn from the very best using techniques that have been passed down generations. Join super-skilled artisans who spend their days carving wooden models of long-tail boats that are sold as souvenirs in Krabi, and learn about the intricate craft of batik art from veterans.
www.banyantree.com/thailand/krabi
BOOK YOUR STAY AT BANYAN TREE KRABI BOOKING.COM
Tap into nature at a bamboo forest
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Images courtesy of Avana Retreat (2)
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In July, Avana Retreat, on the sleepy slopes of Vietnam’s Mai Chau valley, introduced a bamboo forest as part of its reforestation efforts – it’s already planted 10,000 trees and counting. The Bamboo Forest is a nature sanctuary for peacocks, deer, goats, rabbits, ducks, chickens and pigs. There’s even an on-site animal ‘whisperer’ who’s built a special bond with each. Guests can learn about animal welfare and other environmental issues. There’s also the chance to delve deep into the traditions of the local Hmong ethnic minority through various cultural initiatives.
BOOK YOUR STAY AT AVANA RETREAT VIA BOOKING.COM
Give villagers a helping hand
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GDR clinic
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Kids at Sambour Village
Shinta Mani Hotels places giving back to communities at its heart. Evidence sits in the Shinta Mani Foundation, which has been supporting underprivileged communities in Cambodia’s Siem Reap province since 2004. Embark on a village visit to see newly built homes and water wells that have been dug, while interacting with residents. Ewan Taylor, GM of Shinta Mani Angkor and Bensley Collection Pool Villas, says, “We want guests to have personalised and unique experiences, immersing themselves in local culture to establish positive memories and an emotional connection with Cambodia.”
BOOK YOUR STAY AT SHINTA MANI WILD VIA TRAVEL+LEISURE EXPERIENCES
BOOK YOUR STAY AT SHINTA MANI ANGKOR VIA TRAVEL+LEISURE EXPERIENCES
Produce an army of mini eco-warriors
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Nature Play Day - Beach Clean Up
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Fun Farm Day - picking organic herbs for a pizza-making class
This is one just for the little ones! Six Senses Yao Noi in Thailand offers a fun-filled three-day Junior Eco Warrior program that aims to nurture eco-warriors of the future – while also giving frazzled parents a bit of quiet time. Kids can collect eggs, help muck out, and sow seeds at the farm before heading to the beach to transform collected trash into treasures. There’s also the chance to help build nests for the resident hornbills before heading into the mangroves for some wildlife spotting.
www.sixsenses.com/en/resorts/yao-noi
BOOK YOUR STAY AT SIX SENSES YAO NOI VIA BOOKING.COM
Plant corals for future generations
Located on a dreamy stretch of coastline, Meliá Bali has a mission to ensure the area remains idyllic – and guests can give a helping hand. The resort has teamed up with Nusa Dua Reef Foundation to plant coral at a nearby reef. Guests can pay for new coral through the resort, or for the ultimate hands-on experience, on special request, you can roll up your sleeves and plant coral while learning about marine conservation.
www.melia.com/en/hotels/indonesia/bali/melia-bali
BOOK YOUR STAY AT MELIA BALI VIA AGODA.COM
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