Expert's Opinion: Carolyn Wincer on Hotels Supporting Communities

Hospitality industry's sustainable practices extend far beyond its physical footprint. By supporting local communities, creating economic opportunities, preserving cultural heritage, and fostering a sense of pride and identity hotels can enrich both guests' experiences and the overall wellbeing of the areas it serves. 

Photo credits: Pexels / Photo by Zen Chung

Today, we are asked  Carolyn Wincer, Managing Director of Travelife about hotel's role in developing communities and locations.

HC: Is receiving an international 'green' certification impactful for hotels? What sustainable efforts can contribute to a hotel's business success, while serving the community at the same time?

Carolyn Wincer, Managing Director of Travelife

CW: "Achieving Travelife certification is important for hotels as it allows for independent assessment of environmental and social impact, helps improve internal processes, and encourages long-term sustainable practices. It demonstrates compliance with international requirements, satisfies stakeholder expectations, and can provide a competitive advantage. It can also increase employee engagement and answer guest expectations.

A hotel’s success can be complemented by sharing the benefits of tourism to the area with the local community alongside the community’s experiences with guests. By engaging with the local community, forming local partnerships, and offering authentic experiences a business can enrich both the hotel, its guests and the community.

At Travelife we ask our customers to show their guests how they can help protect and respect any areas of environmental, historical or cultural importance (e.g. turtle nesting areas, reefs, historic buildings and artefacts, religious sites). How they can support local conservation and/or improvement initiatives (e.g. donations to local charities, joining a clean-up activity). Information about the local area (e.g. shops, walks, restaurants, tours), culture and heritage, and any opportunities for them to experience it themselves, respect local culture along with protecting wildlife and vulnerable people.

Overall, sustainable efforts can significantly contribute to a hotel’s business success while simultaneously serving the community."