So thrilled we made it to the Eco Resort Network Summit in Thailand! Run by our dear friend, publisher of Glamping Business Magazine & director of The Glamping Show, the incredible Steph Curtis-Raleigh, we knew this annual outdoor hospitality conference would be top-notch and extra fabulous in Chiang Mai.
Holding true to the @ecoresortnetwork name, this intimate event was held at @aleentaretreatchiangmai— century-old teak dwellings turned Michelin Key and National Geographic Traveller “Best Wellness Haven.” Better yet, our group of 60 hospitality experts had this fab hotel all to ourselves, sharing dawn meditation, leisurely lunches, and pool parties late into the night for extra quality time.
While ERN26 hosted formal talks and panel discussions, it was more of a rolling forum on using travel as a force for good. I loved this question posed by Guy Heywood, former COO for both Six Senses & Alila, “If your hotel disappeared tomorrow, would the destination be better or worse for it?” There was a real call to action to move from sustainability to regeneration…to do more than donate to local communities but empower them to thrive…to create guest experiences that go beyond luxury and foster healing and human connection. “If we get this right, we don't just build hotels…we improve people’s lives.”
Over the three days, we dove deep into the new frontier of regenerative travel, covering everything from wellness to design, community development, and building brands with integrity. By night, we had plenty to celebrate! We took Chiang Mai by storm, riding in tricked-out vans through the walled city to cocktail parties in historic mansions and live music at riverside bars. When it was time to say goodbye, our newfound friend circle lingered by the pool, made plans to further explore the city, and promised to find each other again in the world. Until next time, EcoResortNetwork friends!
See our gallery from this inspiring event and the charming Chiang Mai. https://www.instagram.com/p/DY2HSGBkoZy/?utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=tumblr
