Vacations tend to be selfish, and there’s absolutely nothing wrong with that. But if you’re eager to make your next vacation more meaningful, to leave your resort and really get to know the locals, and to depart not just feeling rested, but renewed, volunteer a few hours, a day, or even an entire week within the community you visit.
These resorts in two beautiful destinations embrace and honor the heritage of the people who live there. They seek to educate visitors on local needs and spur you on to action. One thing’s for sure – this won’t just be your standard vacation.
Let’s delve into two beautiful destinations that embrace and honor local heritage while encouraging visitors to take action beyond the typical vacation experience:
- Casa Cayuco Eco-Adventure Lodge, Bocas del Toro, Panama:
- Located on the idyllic island of Bocas del Toro, just a short 45-minute flight from Panama City, Casa Cayuco nestles into the jungle. It’s a tropical paradise where you can truly commune with nature—not the manufactured version found in most resorts, but the authentic kind.
- At Casa Cayuco, you’ll have the chance to engage with indigenous people and immerse yourself in local traditions. The nearby village of Quebrada De Sal (Salt Creek) is home to the Ngäbe-Buglé community, the largest in the Archipelago of Bocas Del Toro.
- Casa Cayuco’s commitment to supporting Salt Creek began 20 years ago. They’ve built school facilities, set up electricity, and provided clean water for students. Now, they’re establishing a medical clinic in partnership with Floating Doctors. This two-story structure will offer routine and preventative care, emergency services, health education, and empowerment.
- How can you contribute? By staying at Casa Cayuco, you’re already making a difference—part of each stay supports ongoing village projects. For a more hands-on approach, consider bringing donations (like school supplies, first aid items, or outdoor toys) in your luggage. Financial support is also crucial for completing the medical clinic.
- Rosewood San Miguel de Allende, Mexico:
- San Miguel de Allende is a vibrant city filled with colorful buildings, papel picado (decorative paper banners), art galleries, incredible cuisine, tequila, rich history, and warm-hearted locals. It’s a place you’ll want to revisit time and again.
Stay at Rosewood San Miguel de Allende, Mexico: A Sustainable Adventure
San Miguel de Allende, Mexico, captivates with its vibrant colors, papel picado-adorned cobblestone streets, and rich cultural tapestry. From art galleries to tequila tastings, this city offers an unforgettable experience—one you’ll want to return to time and again.
But here’s the twist: You can elevate your vacation by immersing yourself in sustainability and learning practical farming techniques. Start by making Rosewood San Miguel de Allende your base—the stunning heart of this remarkable city. Beyond exceptional guest service, Rosewood extends its commitment to something greater.
Via Organica: This 35-acre demonstration school and ranch champions a local, healthy lifestyle through organic agriculture, waste reduction, and environmental protection. When you visit, you’ll meet Rosana Alvarez, who will guide you through the operation. Your family can interact with goats, chickens, and cows while learning how to create self-sustaining gardens and communities. Via Organica not only encourages locals to stay in San Miguel de Allende but also educates visitors about native plants, ancestral planting methods, and organic practices. You’ll discover the art of composting and how to minimize food waste, savoring the flavor of garden-fresh veggies compared to store-bought produce. And don’t skip lunch at the onsite restaurant—every dish originates right there on the farm.
Aromatic Herb Garden: Via Organica even planted the aromatic herb garden at Rosewood San Miguel de Allende. As a guest, you can participate in cooking classes that emphasize fresh, healthful ingredients. Volunteering as a family allows you to reconnect with nature and introduce your kids to the healing power of soil.
So, combine luxury with purpose—explore, learn, and savor the beauty of San Miguel de Allende!
Source: Forbes
