LIVEBLOGGING THE WORLD SAVERS CONGRESS
Some favorite quotes we jotted down from our World Savers Award winners:
Frank Rainieri, CEO, Grupo Puntacana, winner for educational programs
“Forty years ago, when we began Puntacana, responsible
tourism was basically unheard of. Unconsciously, and based solely on what we
found to be right, we implemented responsible tourism practices.”
Marilu Hernandez, co-owner of the Haciendas, winner for poverty alleviation
“Tourism is a way out of poverty--if you do it right. It’s
a serious investment and commitment for the future of a community.”
Gap Adventures CEO Bruce Poon Tip, tour operator overall winner
“It’s easy for Gap Adventures to do good because it’s in the fabric of
our business model. The real pioneers are the larger companies…Condé Nast Traveler has been very brave to walk the fine line of luxury and responsibility, especially in the past three years.”
Niki Leondakis, COO of Kimpton Hotels, winner for environmental/cultural preservation
Years ago, Kimpton decided to replace traditional cleaning products
with non-toxic cleaners. Once they finally found a supplier, though,
the housekeepers refused to use it.
“They didn’t like it because it didn’t foam and they didn’t think it
was effectively cleaning the rooms. We created an 'eco road show' around
the country hosting training sessions in multiple languages on the
value of using non-toxic cleaners. We got their buy in when the ladies
stopped having rashes and other skin conditions.”
Alex Pasquariello is a senior assistant editor at Condé Nast Traveler covering news, politics, and environmental issues. He is fond of almost any pursuit that requires a helmet and his favorite ecosystem is high alpine tundra in late June.
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