Zen Namkhan Boutique Resort

This accommodation provider has taken action to address one or more issues (whether environmental, social or cultural) which will contribute positively to the long term viability of the destination and hence their site displays a Caring for the destination rating.

Main area of focus in Caring for the Destination:

Commitment to Ecotourism and Sustainable Development

Detailed description of the Caring for the Destination Initiative:
Zen Nam Khan Boutique Resort believes in the principles of ecotourism and endeavors to uphold the United Nations Ecotourism definition of being traveler, nature and community friendly. The UN defines ecotourism as "a form of responsible tourism in natural areas, which protects nature and contributes to the welfare of local communities".

Zen Nam Khan Boutique Resort contributes to ecotourism through:

Principle #1: Traveler Friendly - providing enjoyable experiences for travelers who appreciate nature and local cultures by having a unique and picturesque location, surrounded by nature together with high quality facilities and access to local communities through trekking. Zen Nam Khan Boutique Resort encourages guests to visit the village, including the local temple which is an important way of life for the locals. One guest donated money for a fan to be installed in the temple.

Principle #2: Nature Friendly - The resort was designed and now managed in a way that reduces negative environmental impact and enhances environmental conservation. This is done through a number of methods including separating garbage into 3 sections to be composted, recycled or burned as well as providing garbage bins to local villages and trying to support them regarding the environment.

Principle #3: Community Friendly - Zen Nam Khan Boutique Resort attempts to contribute to the welfare of the local people and enhance the local culture by creating a foundation to support the education of local staff and community as well as the environment. Donations are given and in the past have been used to build a meeting hall in the local village. Guests are encouraged to visit the local school and donate where they can.

Together with upholding Ecotourism principles, Zen Nam Khan Boutique Resort is committed to Sustainable Development, which is defined by the UN as "as a process of development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of the future generations to meet their own needs".

Zen Nam Khan Boutique Resort contributes to sustainable development through a commitment to the people of Laos and Xian Lom village.

A percentage of the income of the resort is returned to the population for environmental and educational support. For example, when the resort was being constructed, an amount of US$6,500 was given to Xian Lom village to help them build a community hall and to purchase waste baskets.

The resort has also contributed to the increase in water tanks in the village; an essential item for regular and reliable water, and the improvement of roads in the village. A composting facility for organic waste and the recycling of plastics are examples of initiatives take by Zen Nam Khan.

Management educates employees on the need to protect the environment and helps to develop their education and employability by encouraging them to learn English.