As the world readies to honor the wonders of Indigenous culture, tradition, and heritage on August 9 – also known as International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples – Beyond Green, a curated portfolio of planet Earth’s most sustainable hotels, is reaffirming the brand’s pledge to support the social and economic wellbeing of local people. Recognizing the potential of travel to safeguard age-old traditions, foster cultural awareness, and ignite a profound sense of pride, each of Beyond Green’s member properties go beyond eco-conscious to also embrace fundamental principles such as fair wages, gender equality, and the preservation of indigenous, 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. As such, it is required that members be able to showcase their work with local communities to protect the cultural treasures travelers seek to experience and enjoy.
From restoring historic buildings and protecting archaeological sites to embracing living cultural heritage through music, dance, art, and handicrafts, the member hotels outlined below ensure the preservation of cultural heritage around the world for generations to come through the following initiatives:
- Hidden India Mahavan (Kanha National Park, India): Nestled deep within the Indian jungle, Hidden India Mahavan offers an extraordinary sustainable luxury glamping experience, where ancient cultures coexist with untouched nature, creating a unique carbon-negative retreat. For over 16 years, the hotel has actively engaged with the local community, organizing health camps for 56 villages and providing essential resources like computers, uniforms, desks, televisions, and electricity for nearby schools. Collaborating with the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), the property developed environmentally friendly charcoal briquettes, replacing illegally sourced fuel, which benefits both the environment and local livelihoods. Working closely with Gond artists and local youth, the hotel facilitates a cultural exchange that documents the region’s heritage through art and encourages creative expression. Hidden India Mahavan also supports the production and sale of tribal jewelry in a unique collaboration with park rangers, contributing to the economic well-being and preservation of traditional craftsmanship.
- The Parkside Hotel & Spa (Victoria, Canada): In the vibrant heart of Victoria, The Parkside Hotel & Spa offers a serene retreat that 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 (MOR), the hotel solidified their commitment as Friends of the Songhees. Engaging an elder, they learn how to bridge modern times and traditional customs, preserving sacred sites and age-old traditions to support the well-being of the community. This collaborative approach safeguards key characteristics and the profound cultural significance for generations to come. Guests are invited to connect with the ləkʷəŋən peoples through guided tours, fostering the preservation of the region’s essence and sense of place.
- Arenas Del Mar (Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica): Arenas Del Mar, an eco-friendly resort and Manuel Antonio’s exclusive luxury beachfront destination, is rooted in its commitment to the local community. Its all-Costa Rican staff not only provides exceptional service but also benefits from training, growth opportunities, and access to healthcare, eliminating the need for locals to relocate to urban areas for such opportunities. The Dock to Dish program fosters connections between fishermen and chefs for fresh, sustainable seafood while bolstering local fishing communities. Arenas Del Mar’s dedication to preserving Costa Rica’s natural wonders and cultural heritage is evident through its support of the local schools, nurturing environmental education among the youth. The property also organizes visits for rural children who have never experienced the ocean, providing them with a chance to connect with their country’s beautiful coastline and develop a deeper appreciation for their natural surroundings.
- andBeyond Mnemba Island (Zanzibar, Tanzania): andBeyond Mnemba Island, an exclusive barefoot island paradise, goes beyond its tranquil beauty to make a meaningful impact on the local community. Partnering with Africa Foundation, a longstanding community and conservation development organization, the resort collaborates on various community-led programs, including education, healthcare, small business development, and conservation. A notable achievement of this partnership is the completion of essential washing facilities, enabling the opening of the Kigomani Clinic on Zanzibar’s northeastern coast, providing access to much-needed healthcare for approximately 11,000 people from surrounding villages. Nearly 80 percent of the staff hail from Zanzibar communities, and tours in Zanzibar City with knowledgeable local guides offer guests opportunities to support small businesses, fostering a strong sense of community and cultural preservation.
- Turtle Inn (Placencia, Belize): Nestled in a serene Caribbean fishing village, Turtle Inn actively preserves Mayan heritage, offering guests immersive experiences with tours of archaeological sites and enlightening demonstrations on traditional weaving and the use of medicinal plants. The resort supports the community through backing a local health clinic, providing academic scholarships for local youth, and encouraging guests to engage in local volunteering and contribute to the Pack for a Purpose initiative by contributing essential school items. Celebrating Belize’s vibrant culture, Turtle Inn sources seafood and produce locally, supporting nearby fishers and farmers while ensuring fresh ingredients for guests. Employing local artists and musicians from nearby villages, the resort creates an authentic and enriching experience, paying homage to the region’s traditions and crafts.
- Bentwood Inn (Wilson, United States): Constructed with 200-year-old reclaimed logs from Yellowstone National Park after the great fire of 1988, Bentwood Inn embodies the essence of the region’s natural and cultural heritage. Inside, guests immerse in the area’s rich tapestry through the inn’s extensive library, boasting nearly 200 titles dedicated to the captivating history and cultural legacy of the region. Guestbooks focus on the local Indigenous culture, providing a platform for guests to gain deeper insights into the ancestral traditions and wisdom of the land. 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 captivating stories with guests.
For more information on Beyond Green and any of the member properties spotlighted above, visit StayBeyondGreen.com.
