First world legacy award goes to india

ITB and National Geographic prize won by Orange County Resorts

The five winners of the 2015 National Geographic World Legacy Awards were announced today during a colorful awards ceremony held at ITB Berlin.

More than 150 entries were received, representing 56 countries across six continents. Winners and finalists in five categories were selected by 18 international judges led by Costas Christ, editor at large for National Geographic Traveler magazine and chairman of the World Legacy Awards. An on-site inspection to document sustainable tourism practices in action was part of the judging process.

Costas Christ said: “Tourism is based on selling cultural and natural heritage experiences, whether that is a trip to see Angkor Wat or a wildlife safari in Africa. With more than a billion international tourists last year, and the number growing, we must make sure that tourism is an opportunity and not a threat to the people and places travelers want to visit. The World Legacy Awards are about helping to lead the way forward.”

The 2015 National Geographic World Legacy Awards winners and finalists are:

Earth Changers — Recognizing cutting-edge leadership in environmentally friendly business practices and green technology, from renewable energy and water conservation to zero-waste systems and carbon-emission reduction.

WINNER:Orange County Resorts, India

Finalists: The Brando, Tahiti and Nikoi Island, Indonesia

Sense of Place — Recognizing excellence in enhancing sense of place and authenticity, including support for the protection of historical monuments, archaeological sites, cultural events, indigenous heritage and artistic traditions.

WINNER: Cavallo Point Lodge, United States

Finalists: Gwaii Haanas National Reserve, Canada and Fogo Island Inn, Canada

Conserving the Natural World — Recognizing outstanding support for the preservation of nature, restoring natural habitat and protecting rare and endangered species, whether on land or in the oceans.

WINNER: Huilo Huilo Biological Reserve, Chile

Finalists: andBeyond, Conservation Ecology Centre,

Engaging Communities — Recognizing direct and tangible economic and social benefits that improve local livelihoods, including training and capacity building, fair wages and benefits, community development, health care and education.

WINNER: Tropic Journeys in Nature, Ecuador

Finalists: Feynan Ecolodge, Jordan and  Mukul Resort, Nicaragua

Destination Leadership — Recognizing destination leadership, including cities, provinces, states, countries and regions that are demonstrating environmental best practices, protection of cultural and natural heritage, benefits to local communities and educating travelers on the principles of sustainability.

WINNER: Aruba, Caribbean

Finalists: Delaware North Yosemite, United States and Val d’Aran, Spain

For more information on the World Legacy Awards and this year’s winners, go to http://nationalgeographic.com/worldlegacyawards/.

Valere Tjolle

Find out more about a practical way of creating a world beyond tourism in a wonderful Italian destination HERE