Hospitality Think Tank

Involving the local community and having a positive impacting is the topic of this 7th edition of Coffee Break with the Hospitality Think Tank, where members shares their experience and learnings from working with communities around the world.

Our members discussed the impact of hospitality and tourism on local communities, with a focus on job creation, economic stability, and conservation efforts. They emphasized the potential benefits of tourism when approached mindfully, highlighting the need for fair wages, job stability, and opportunities for career advancement. The discussion also addressed the importance of training and education programs to empower local populations, both in resort destinations and urban environments. Additionally, they underscored the delicate balance between community development and potential negative impacts, emphasizing the need for responsible and sustainable practices in the hospitality and tourism industry.

The conversation also delved into the repercussions of tourism development, particularly the shift from local accommodations to foreign investment and its impact on the local economy. The speakers emphasized the negative consequences, including rising real estate prices, low wages, and the outflow of revenues from the area. They also touched upon the concept of “leakage in tourism,” stressing the importance of keeping money within the local economy. The discussion raised questions about the sustainability and long-term effects of such developments on the communities involved.

Our members also explored the effects of tourism on local communities, particularly in remote areas. The conversation delved into the potential economic benefits and drawbacks of hotel developments, emphasizing the importance of ensuring that tourism revenue positively impacts the local population. Speakers shared insights on initiatives aimed at directing tourism spending towards local businesses, and they discussed the challenges of balancing economic growth with preserving the traditional way of life for local residents, with concrete examples from countries. The discussion also touched on the complexities of gaining community buy-in for tourism-related developments and the potential inflationary effects on local economies.

Full conversation here:

With the participation of Brandy Collins (Independent Consultant), Hylton Lipkin (Banyan Tree), Chalana Perera (RETRACE Hospitality), Celine Vadam (WE(i) Think) and Charline Catteeuw (Studio Côte)