As we wrap up our 10-month anniversary series celebrating DERTOUR Foundation’s decade of impactful collaborations, we are thrilled to spotlight a truly inspiring partner - Smiling Gecko. This Swiss 🇨🇭 aid organization is making profound strides in rural development in Cambodia 🇰🇭, and we couldn’t be prouder to share their story. 𝐄𝐦𝐩𝐨𝐰𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐥𝐨𝐜𝐚𝐥 𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐮𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐞𝐬 𝐭𝐡𝐫𝐨𝐮𝐠𝐡 𝐬𝐤𝐢𝐥𝐥 𝐝𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐥𝐨𝐩𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 Founded by Swiss social entrepreneur Hannes Schmid, Smiling Gecko is transforming lives in the communities around Phnom Penh. Spanning over a 150-hectare site, the project utilizes a holistic approach, providing vital opportunities and resources to uplift socially disadvantaged Cambodians. Hannes' journey began with a life-altering encounter in Cambodia, which inspired him to create Smiling Gecko with the mission of empowering thousands to escape poverty and build sustainable lives. Since 2019, the DERTOUR Foundation has proudly supported the Smiling Gecko Farmhouse Resort & Spa, facilitating training for young locals in service, kitchen housekeeping, and tourism. These programs equip them with the skills needed to become self-sufficient. Since 2020, our tour operators have included visits to this and similar projects in their itineraries, offering tourists a first-hand view of the meaningful work being done. Amidst the stories of resilience, one narrative stands out—the remarkable journey of Mariya Un Noun, now the head chef at Smiling Gecko Farmhouse. From being sold as a maid at twelve to becoming the head chef at Smiling Gecko Farmhouse, her journey is a testament to resilience and determination. Smiling Gecko became her sanctuary, where she discovered her passion for cooking. 👩🍳 "I found my love for cooking at Smiling Gecko," shares Mariya. Her culinary talents presented opportunities to study in Switzerland and work alongside Michelin-star chefs. Now, Mariya trains others, using visuals to overcome language barriers: "Education is about understanding people, not just skills," she emphasizes. 👏 Looking ahead, Mariya dreams of promoting Cambodian cuisine globally and achieving fine dining recognition. Her vision extends beyond personal achievement to signify collective progress with her dedicated team. "From humble beginnings to fine dining, we've come a long way," Mariya says. "The support from DERTOUR Foundation has been a game-changer, offering opportunities beyond the kitchen. Together, we're shaping a legacy for Cambodian cuisine." 🙌 All 10 partner stories are now available on the anniversary subpage of the DERTOUR Foundation website https://lnkd.in/eXtnHMGZ
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𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗣𝗼𝘄𝗲𝗿 𝗼𝗳 𝗖𝗼𝗺𝗺𝘂𝗻𝗶𝘁𝘆: 𝗛𝗼𝘄 𝗛𝗼𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗹𝘀 𝗙𝗼𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗿 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝗻𝗲𝗰𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗕𝗲𝗹𝗼𝗻𝗴𝗶𝗻𝗴 MANDALUYONG CITY, PHILIPPINES - Hostels have long been synonymous with budget travel. However, they offer far more than just affordable accommodation. They are vibrant social hubs that foster connections between people from all walks of life. At Crossroads Hostel Manila, we believe in creating a space where travelers can not only rest but also connect and grow. Our shared spaces encourage interaction, fostering a sense of community among our guests. 𝗪𝗵𝘆 𝗰𝗵𝗼𝗼𝘀𝗲 𝗮 𝗵𝗼𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗹? 💬 𝗖𝗼𝘀𝘁-𝗲𝗳𝗳𝗲𝗰𝘁𝗶𝘃𝗲: Hostels offer budget-friendly accommodations, allowing travelers to allocate more funds to experiences. 💬 𝗦𝗼𝗰𝗶𝗮𝗹 𝗢𝗽𝗽𝗼𝗿𝘁𝘂𝗻𝗶𝘁𝗶𝗲𝘀: Meet people from around the world and build lasting friendships. 💬 𝗟𝗼𝗰𝗮𝗹 𝗜𝗺𝗺𝗲𝗿𝘀𝗶𝗼𝗻: Hostels often provide insider tips and recommendations for exploring local culture and cuisine. 💬 𝗦𝘂𝘀𝘁𝗮𝗶𝗻𝗮𝗯𝗹𝗲 𝗧𝗿𝗮𝘃𝗲𝗹: Many hostels prioritize eco-friendly practices, reducing their environmental impact. By choosing to stay in a hostel, you're not just saving money; you're investing in a unique and enriching travel experience. #𝗵𝗼𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗹𝗹𝗶𝗳𝗲 #𝘁𝗿𝗮𝘃𝗲𝗹 #𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗺𝘂𝗻𝗶𝘁𝘆 #𝘀𝘂𝘀𝘁𝗮𝗶𝗻𝗮𝗯𝗶𝗹𝗶𝘁𝘆 #𝗖𝗿𝗼𝘀𝘀𝗿𝗼𝗮𝗱𝘀𝗛𝗼𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗹𝗠𝗮𝗻𝗶𝗹𝗮
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𝗗𝗮𝗻𝗷𝘂𝗴𝗮𝗻 𝗜𝘀𝗹𝗮𝗻𝗱: 𝗪𝗵𝗲𝗻 𝗦𝘂𝘀𝘁𝗮𝗶𝗻𝗮𝗯𝗹𝗲 𝗧𝗼𝘂𝗿𝗶𝘀𝗺 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗶𝗰𝗶𝘁𝘆 𝗖𝗼𝗺𝗲 𝗧𝗼𝗴𝗲𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗿 What happens when an iconic brand like Don Papa Rum partners with a hidden gem like Danjugan Island? A CSR project that truly makes an impact – and invites us all to take a closer look. No crowds, no unnecessary luxury. Instead: pure nature, solar power, lagoons waiting to be explored by kayak, and a genuine Robinson Crusoe feeling. Danjugan Island isn’t your typical tourist spot. It's a place for those who want to reconnect with nature and experience something real. With the support of Don Papa, sustainability on Danjugan isn’t just a buzzword – it’s a lived reality. Don Papa’s involvement demonstrates that CSR can be more than just a box to tick in an annual report; it can be a vision for a better future. What makes this partnership so powerful: Don Papa, a brand rooted in the Philippines, is actively supporting the conservation of its local environment, creating a travel experience that’s both exclusive and meaningful. This isn't about "business as usual"; it's about protecting and promoting values that matter. At TWEED Magazin we believe these are the stories worth telling to spark real change. More and more people are seeking authentic experiences, a break from the hustle of everyday life, and a way to travel consciously. I loved the concept and the outstanding expierence. #tourism #csr #donpapa #travel #hotel #rum #philippines Diageo, Jonathan Holden, Audrey Gustilo, Kate Athanasi, Patrick Seidel, Heiko Tagawa, Julie Bramham, Carina C. Grendel
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What does Finnish hospitality have to do with us in America, you might ask? I think a huge part of innovation in your business comes from what you can observe in the world at large. What I’m drawn to when I read about Finland is how they leverage the experiences unique to their local communities, which is why I’m such a huge proponent of taking part in the development of our own. What natural attractions do you have in your local area? Is there an interesting geological structure with an associated hike? Is there historical significance to the land that your community is built on? What are your local artisans producing? If you want people to stay with you, what makes you special? #Innovation #Community #Hospitality
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𝗧𝗶𝘁𝗹𝗲: 𝗙𝗼𝗿 𝗼𝗻𝗰𝗲 𝗶𝗻 𝗹𝗶𝗳𝗲, 𝗮𝘀 𝗮 𝘁𝗼𝘂𝗿𝗶𝘀𝘁, 𝘀𝘁𝗮𝘆 𝗮𝘁 𝗮 𝗵𝗼𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗹. Staying in a hostel? Best. Decision. Ever.💯 Seriously, it was like crossing off a dream on my bucket list✅️ – one I didn't even know existed until YouTube introduced me to the world of vacation hostels. I was hooked. Fast forward to my trip to #Georgia, where I took the plunge and booked a hostel. Sure, I had my doubts about cramped spaces and questionable cleanliness😕, but boy, was I wrong! 𝐓𝐮𝐫𝐧𝐬 𝐨𝐮𝐭, 𝐦𝐲 𝐡𝐨𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐥 𝐰𝐚𝐬 𝐚 𝐭𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐮𝐫𝐞 𝐭𝐫𝐨𝐯𝐞 𝐨𝐟 𝐮𝐧𝐞𝐱𝐩𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐞𝐝 𝐚𝐰𝐞𝐬𝐨𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐞𝐬𝐬: • 𝑨𝒅𝒗𝒆𝒏𝒕𝒖𝒓𝒆 𝒐𝒏 𝒕𝒂𝒑: Every day brought new faces and conversations, sparking spontaneous explorations. • 𝑬𝒄𝒐-𝒘𝒂𝒓𝒓𝒊𝒐𝒓 𝒗𝒊𝒃𝒆𝒔: My hostel was all about recycling and reusable everything – a lesson in sustainable living. • 𝑮𝒓𝒐𝒖𝒑 𝒃𝒐𝒏𝒅𝒊𝒏𝒈: Cooking classes and walking tours became instant friend-making sessions. • 𝑪𝒖𝒍𝒕𝒖𝒓𝒂𝒍 𝒌𝒂𝒍𝒆𝒊𝒅𝒐𝒔𝒄𝒐𝒑𝒆: I swapped stories and laughs with people from a dozen different corners of the world. •𝑴𝒊𝒏𝒅-𝒆𝒙𝒑𝒂𝒏𝒅𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒎𝒐𝒎𝒆𝒏𝒕𝒔: Discovering the quirks and commonalities of different cultures was pure magic. • 𝑰𝒏𝒔𝒊𝒅𝒆𝒓 𝒊𝒏𝒕𝒆𝒍: The hostel staff became my personal travel gurus, leading me to hidden gems I'd have never found on my own. Honestly, I could wax poetic about this experience for days, but some memories are best kept secret. 😉 So, here's the deal: if you're all about five-star luxury and solitude, hostels might not be your jam. But if you crave a dash of adventure, a sprinkle of cultural immersion, and a whole lot of new connections, then don't hesitate to dive into the world of hostels💯. Now, tell me, have you ever taken the leap? #travel #content #marketing
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Aloha LinkedIn 'ohana! 🌺 As a seasoned expert in the tourism industry, I couldn't resist sharing my insights on a fascinating article that highlights the essence of the Hawaiian luau experience. 🌴 The luau, a cherished tradition deeply rooted in Hawaiian culture, offers a captivating blend of delectable cuisine, mesmerizing performances, and warm hospitality. 🍽️🎭 It's no wonder that luaus have become a must-do activity for visitors to the islands. What sets the luau apart is its ability to immerse guests in the rich tapestry of Hawaiian culture. From the moment you're greeted with a fragrant lei to the final notes of the ukulele, every aspect of the luau is designed to showcase the islands' unique heritage. 🌸🎶 As the tourism industry continues to evolve, it's crucial that we preserve and celebrate authentic cultural experiences like the luau. By offering visitors a chance to connect with the heart and soul of Hawaii, we not only create unforgettable memories but also foster a deeper appreciation for the islands' history and traditions. 🌈 However, it's equally important that we approach these experiences with respect and mindfulness. As industry professionals, we must ensure that luaus are conducted in a manner that honors the host culture and avoids cultural appropriation. 🙏 I believe that by striking the right balance between authenticity, entertainment, and cultural sensitivity, we can create sustainable and meaningful experiences that benefit both visitors and local communities. 🤝 I'd love to hear your thoughts on this topic! How do you think we can continue to showcase the beauty of Hawaiian culture while ensuring its preservation for future generations? 💬 Let's keep the conversation going and work together to shape the future of tourism in Hawaii! 🌺🌴 #HawaiianLuau #CulturalTourism #SustainableTourism #TourismIndustry
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📢 Today, we officially unveil our new name: the World Sustainable Hospitality Alliance! Announced on stage at the Future Hospitality Summit, the #rebrand supports our collective #vision and #mission, underlining our organisation’s #globalpresence and commitment to addressing #sustainabilityissues around the world. In our organisation’s 30-year history, it has evolved into a #globalcharity which includes the entire #hospitality value chain. Since 2020, when we became an independent #charity with 14 members, the Alliance has grown its membership by over 270%. Now, with more than 50 members, the Alliance represents over 55,000 #hotelproperties and 7 million #hotelrooms globally. Aligned with over 50 major industry #partners, including the World Travel & Tourism Council, UN Tourism, the GBTA | Global Business Travel Association, and the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC), the rebrand reflects our comprehensive approach to #environmentalsustainability and #socialresponsibility. This #collaboration spans continents and cultures, emphasising the Alliance's dedication to driving #innovation, advancing global tools, and #training, and fostering #bestpractices through its Accelerator programmes. Glenn Mandziuk, #CEO of the World Sustainable Hospitality Alliance, said: "Our name change reflects our journey towards #inclusivity and the global expansion of our mission. The Alliance has transformed into a worldwide movement, fostering collaboration, and addressing the #tangiblechanges in #internationalpolicy, #criteria and #businesspractices. Our vision of Net Positive Hospitality, where the industry contributes more than it consumes, is now closer than ever." Find out more about this pivotal update: https://lnkd.in/e-DMRisi #WorldSustainableHospitalityAlliance #SustainabilityNetwork #HospitalityNetwork #GlobalNetwork #WorldAlliance #NetPositive #NetPositiveHospitality #CollaborationforChange #CollaborationforaBetterWorld
World Sustainable Hospitality Alliance: leading the charge for a Net Positive future in global hospitality – World Sustainable Hospitality Alliance
sustainablehospitalityalliance.org
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Here's an idea I've been thinking about for enhancing tourism in Victoria: what if we leaned into rural tourism to bring a new level of experience to visitors while supporting our nearby rural communities? Imagine creating curated day trips from downtown Victoria that take guests out to explore local farms, vineyards, and artisan workshops. Visitors could try hands-on activities like berry picking, cooking classes using farm-fresh ingredients, or tastings at local wineries—all of which would highlight the region’s agricultural heritage. To make it even more accessible, we could organize seasonal "Rural Market Days" right in downtown Victoria. On these days, local farmers and artisans could set up pop-up booths, giving travelers a taste of the countryside without having to leave the city. Not only would this provide tourists with unique, authentic experiences, but it would also give rural businesses and artists new opportunities to connect with a broader audience. It’s a way of blending Victoria’s charm with the richness of our surrounding communities and creating something truly special for everyone.
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How tourism can be a powerful tool for positive social change 💚🍃
This World Tourism Day, we proudly spotlight the theme "Tourism and Peace" which underscores how travel can bridge cultural divides and foster mutual understanding. A prime example of this in action is our esteemed Travel Business Member, We Travel. Responsibly ♻️. Their innovative approach exemplifies how tourism can be a powerful tool for positive social change. We Travel’s partnership with the Sumba Hospitality Foundation in Indonesia highlights the transformative impact of tourism. By donating 10% of its profits to the Foundation, We Travel not only supports the island’s unique hotel school but also contributes to: • Empowering Local Youth: The Foundation provides education, environmental awareness, and responsible tourism training to students, who become guardians of Sumbanese cultural heritage. • Fostering Cultural Exchange: Guests learn about Sumba’s rich traditions and engage directly with local communities, promoting mutual respect and understanding. • Driving Social Change: The initiative helps resolve cultural conflicts and supports human rights, evolving traditional practices towards greater alignment with contemporary values. We Travel’s approach is a testament to how tourism can build bridges and promote lasting peace. Explore more inspiring stories that showcase the impact of travel as a force for positive change in our 2023 Impact Report. Discover how our members are leading the way in aligning with this year’s theme. Read the full report here: https://lnkd.in/gysDypTc #InIt4TheLongRun #The4Cs
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🌲 Exciting news! 🌲 4VI is evolving its social enterprise model to include its tourism non-profit, a charitable giving directive, and a for-profit corporation, all forming the 4VI Group. “This is an exciting day for the 4VI Group. After successfully shifting our governance and delivery model to a social enterprise in April 2022, we continue our path towards the expansion of our services and define a new way to give back,” said Janet Docherty, Board Chair, 4VI Group. “We were also methodical in our planning for this new evolution, ensuring that we met the needs of our long-standing relationships and our future work beyond Vancouver Island. I couldn’t be more proud.” 4TVI, the long-standing regional organization, will continue to operate as a non-profit corporation that supports the needs of communities and tourism businesses through government-funded work in the Vancouver Island Region. This organization will continue to work directly with the Ministry of Tourism, Arts, Culture and Sport, Destination British Columbia, Indigenous Tourism BC, the BC Regional Tourism Secretariat, destination management organizations, and other community contributors to steward the region. Launching alongside its two partners, 4EVER Strategies Inc. is a for-profit corporation that delivers sustainability, storytelling, and strategy services for its clients. The corporation was conceived through a series of dialogues with current and potential clients, partners, First Nations, and the 4VI Group Board of Directors. 4EVER will include community clients such as Tourism Cowichan and Tourism Ucluelet in the Vancouver Island Region. As part of the 4VI Group, 4GOOD, the new charitable giving directive, further aligns to the mission of ensuring that travel remains a force for good for Vancouver Island – forever. 4GOOD will continue to build toward the 4VI Group’s 2030 goal of contributing $10 million back to the residents of the Vancouver Island Region. The directive will function to monitor, measure, and distribute contributions while increasing opportunities for partnerships and growth. Learn more at forvi.ca. #bctourism #vancouverisland Destination British Columbia Indigenous Tourism BC (ITBC) Tourism Industry Association of BC (TIABC)
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Did you know the Paphos was voted the best small town in the world? That's right! 🌟 In 2024, Paphos was voted the best small town in the world due to a combination of its rich historical heritage, vibrant cultural scene, and exceptional quality of life. The town's commitment to preserving its ancient sites and promoting cultural activities played a significant role in this recognition. Here are some of the key factors that contributed to Paphos earning this prestigious title: Historical and Cultural Heritage: Paphos is home to numerous UNESCO World Heritage sites, including the Tombs of the Kings and intricate Roman mosaics. The town's efforts to preserve and promote its historical landmarks have made it a major cultural destination. 🏰 Quality of Life: Paphos offers a high standard of living with excellent healthcare, education, and recreational facilities. The town's clean environment, low crime rate, and friendly community contribute to its residents' well-being. ☀ Tourism and Hospitality: Paphos has a well-developed tourism infrastructure, with luxury hotels, fine dining, and a variety of entertainment options. Its beautiful beaches, pleasant climate, and hospitality make it a favorite among tourists. 🏖 Community and Inclusivity: Paphos is known for its welcoming atmosphere and vibrant expatriate community. The town promotes inclusivity and offers various programs to integrate newcomers into the local culture. 👩💻 Environmental Sustainability: The local government has implemented several green initiatives, such as promoting renewable energy, protecting natural reserves, and encouraging sustainable tourism practices. 🌴 Economic Stability: Paphos has a stable economy supported by tourism, real estate, and small businesses. The town's economic health provides opportunities for both residents and investors. 💸 Awards and Recognitions: Paphos has received multiple awards over the years for its tourism and cultural efforts. These accolades have helped build its reputation as an attractive destination. 🏆 The combination of these factors, along with strategic efforts by the local government and community organizations, led to Paphos being recognized as the best small town in the world in 2024. Visit our website for more blog posts about Paphos and how to invest here: www.luxurylivingcyprus.com 🏡 #realestate #paphos #cyprus #luxuryliving #realestateagents #investment
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