National Geographic launches hotel collection

National Geographic Society has recently forayed into world-class travel experiences; 'National Geographic Unique Lodges of the World'

Written by FHW Staff-Mumbai

January 8, 2015 17:29 IST

National Geographic Society has recently forayed into world-class travel experiences; ‘National Geographic Unique Lodges of the World’, a collection of boutique hotels in extraordinary places around the world with a demonstrated commitment to sustainability, authenticity and excellence.

Selected through a rigorous evaluation process, each lodge offers an outstanding guest experience while supporting the protection of cultural and natural heritage and embracing sustainable tourism practices. The initial collection- numbering 24 properties on six continents- further builds National Geographic’s travel portfolio, which includes National Geographic Expeditions, Traveler magazine, travel books, photography courses and the @NatGeoTravel digital and photography community.

Richard Bailey, chairman and CEO of Pacific Beachcomber, owner of The Brando said, “We are proud to work with National Geographic and be a founding member of Unique Lodges of the World. Sustainable development and tourism is core to our mission and guides everything we do. The Brando provides our guests a luxurious, authentic, and enriching travel experience, in an environmentally sensitive, sustainable and culturally rich manner.”

As part of a comprehensive vetting process, every lodge in the collection was judged on the following criteria:

The Property- The design and character are unique and authentic and the property provides guests with a true sense of place by celebrating the surrounding landscape and cultural heritage.

Guest experience and quality of service- Guests are offered top-quality service and exceptional and inspiring experiences- from activities that enable them to engage with local people to wildlife encounters with seasoned naturalists.

Sustainable tourism best practices- The property demonstrates a commitment to conservation and green operations; it actively supports the protection of cultural heritage; and it provides tangible benefits to local communities.

National Geographic deployed experts to each site to evaluate operations, meet staff at all levels, scrutinise the lodge’s impact on the local environment and community and ensure that these criteria were met.

Lynn Cutter, executive vice president for travel, National Geographic said, “The National Geographic brand is universally recognised for its commitment to exploring and protecting the planet, so we are uniquely positioned to unite and promote these exceptional properties and to set a new standard for tourism. These lodges share the Society’s vision of preserving the planet for future generations and they demonstrate that sustainability and a world-class guest experience can go hand-in-hand.”

National Geographic Unique Lodges of the World charter members are;

Fogo Island Inn, Canada

Grootbos Private Nature Reserve, South Africa

Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel, Peru

Kapari Natural Resort, Greece

Kasbah du Toubkal, Morocco

Lapa Rios Eco Lodge, Costa Rica

Lizard Island, Australia

Longitude 131°, Australia

Mashpi Lodge, Ecuador

Nimmo Bay Wilderness Resort, Canada

Pacuare Lodge, Costa Rica