(EMAILWIRE.COM, February 24, 2010 ) TRUCKEE, Calif. -- Known as the “pioneers in philanthropic travel”, Journeys Within has taken their passion for philanthropic travel to a whole new level by creating this resource for travelers who want to find accommodation based not just on the usual – amenities, service and location, but also on what they’re doing to give back to local communities or help the environment.
“We feel that travelers now want the opportunity to make informed decisions when it comes to where their money is being spent,” said Andrea Ross, Journeys Within founder. “We have created a way for our guests to choose hotels not just based on what it offers them, but also what it is offering the world and the community. It follows in the footsteps of Fair Trade, that if you give consumers the information and the options they can make informed and consciencious choices.”
To find a hotel in Southeast Asia with a “Good Karma” rating, travelers can simply visit www.journeys-within.com/hotel-reviews.html and look for the “Good Karma” symbol to know that those hotels are using travel as a force for positive change. The rating system, based on measurable factors is as follows:
Nirvana: These are the hotels that have found a project or projects, to support and then do so in a sustainable and consistent manner. Nirvana hotels take this support one step further and help enlighten and inspire others by getting guests involved. Whether through donations, environmental practices, or time, these hotels are talking the talk and letting their guests walk the walk with them.
Enlightened: Enlightened hotels are committed to their communities and the environment beyond just the usual lip service. They find and support projects that help to change lives or save the planet and they do it above and beyond the bottom line benefits. They haven't yet gotten their guests involved, but they are on their way!
Novice: Like a Novice monk still learning to chant, these hotels have the right attitude, but haven't taken it to the next level. They “hire local” and give guests the option not to change their sheets and towels, but they don't go above and beyond. They might point guests in the right direction, but they aren't yet leading by example.
Non-believer: Though often lovely properties, these hotels aren't yet seeing the light and supporting their communities or the environment. These are also the hotels that didn't respond when asked about best practices.
