New Year, New Perspective | International Glamping Business | January 2024

l ping m G INTERNATIONAL

BUSINESS

Issue 41 January 2024

New Year NEW PERSPECTIVE

WORKING WITH FAMILY AND FRIENDS IS IT WISE?

EXPLORE NORWAY’S AWARD WINNING GLAMPING SITE

GLAMPING IN BRAZIL GATHERS PACE

ENVI

OUTDOOR HOSPITALITY GOES GLOBAL

INSPIRATION AND INFORMATION FOR GLAMPING OPERATORS

l mping G INTERNATIONAL

Welcome to

Happy new year! Welcome to our first issue of 2024 – I hope you’re all raring to go for the season ahead and I wish you all success for your upcoming endeavours.

We have some exciting news in regards to expanding Glamping Business magazine’s borders to a new part of the world, and later this year we will be co-publishing a book with our good friend, Todd Wynne-Parry – our contributor for Glamping Business Americas and the go-to man for any hospitality industry advice. So keep your eyes peeled!

In this issue, we speak to Erik Berglihn and Gro Furset, owners of Brokkestøylen, a natural glamping facility in the mountains of Norway. We ask about their commitment to the environment through wellness experiences and nutrition in their very own glass restaurant. We also spoke to Gonzalo Rodriguez from Grupo Presidente about their current glamping resorts and upcoming projects in Mexico.

Kerry Roy is back as a contributor for this issue – with congratulations from us all following the birth of her first child – on mixing business with pleasure. We also have a contribution from Gerden E. on the Brazilian glamping industry.

Kelda Bassett, CEO of TruDomes, takes you through the different ways to avoid planning permission delays in the UK and Rachael Shah from Linen Connect advises on the little touches that can make your guests’ stay more memorable.

We’re always interested in hearing from glamping sites with a unique story to tell, so if you have something to share, don’t hesitate to get in touch with me at media@upgradepublishing. com to be considered for future issues.

As always, happy glamping!

Annie

Editor, International Glamping Business

BUSINESS

Contents 05 10 12 17 22 25 28 30 33 34 37 INDUSTRY NEWS

TENTHOUSE STRUCTURES

INTERVIEW WITH BROKKESTØYLEN

KERRY ROY: MIXING BUSINESS WITH PLEASURE INTERVIEW WITH GRUPO PRESIDENTE GLAMPING IN BRAZIL

TRUDOMES: AVOID PLANNING DELAYS INTERVIEW WITH ENVI

LINEN CONNECT: MAKE YOUR GUESTS FEEL VALUED MAURITIUS AWAITS

PRODUCT NEWS

International Glamping Business is published by: Upgrade Publishing. Registered address: 47 Oliver Close, London W4 3RL Publisher: Upgrade Publishing, Steph Curtis-Raleigh. e: steph@upgradepublishing.com Design: Dean Coulter, Design on Tap. www.designontap.co.uk www.glampingbusiness.com Instagram @thisisglamping Facebook @thisisglamping Other Events: The Glamping Show w: www.glampingshow.com e: dan.w@swanevents.co.uk Glamping Show Americas w: www.glampingshow.us e: david@glampingshow.us Eco Resort Network w: www.ecoresort.network e: steph@ecoresort.network © 2024 Upgrade Publishing Ltd. International Glamping Business is published 6 times a year.

No reproduction of any part of the magazine is permitted, nor storage in a retrieval system without prior consent of the publisher. No commercial exploitation is permitted. No warranty is implied in respect of any product or trader mentioned herewith.

Advertising Sales: Kathryn Kelly t: +44 (0) 7575 408580 e: kath@upgradepublishing.com Paula Worswick t: +44 (0) 7360 041486 e: paula@upgradepublishing.com Digital Media Manager: Annabelle Hilton e: media@upgradepublishing.com

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NEWS

CANOPY & STARS

EXPAND CONSULTANCY OFFERING WITH ACQUISITION OF

CROWN & CANOPY

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he Sawday’s group of travel brands, comprising Sawday’s, Canopy & Stars, and Paws & Stay, is pleased to announce the acquisition of Crown & Canopy. This move will strengthen the consultancy services offered by Canopy & Stars, a leader in glamping and outdoor holidays.

Crown & Canopy, a leading glamping consultancy renowned for its expertise in the development, planning, and delivery of bespoke glamping spaces across the UK, has been a long-standing partner of Canopy & Stars. The collaboration, spanning over five years, has played a pivotal role in the development of the UK glamping industry.

As part of the Sawday’s group’s plan for growth and development, integrating Crown & Canopy into the business represents a natural and strategic progression.

Canopy & Stars, recognised as one of the leading UK experts in glamping, has been supporting new and existing owners for over 10 years to provide guests with the most special holiday experiences and places to stay in nature, translating into highly profitable businesses for the property owners.

The purchase and strategic investment in Crown & Canopy is set to elevate the standards of consulting services available to glamping owners across the UK. Drawing on data and insights from Canopy & Stars’ extensive collection of nearly 900 spaces and leveraging the company’s wealth of experience, Crown & Canopy is uniquely positioned to offer unrivalled creativity and leadership to the sector.

As part of the Sawday’s group, they will work alongside Canopy & Stars to strengthen and expand the consultancy offering, including advising owners on funding routes, and extending the RIBA architect design services to develop innovative and sustainable build projects.

Mike Bevens, Managing Directorat the Sawday’s Group says: “We have a longstanding partnership with Ed and his team at Crown & Canopy, and we’re really excited to see how by joining forces we can strengthen our consultancy offering and build a bright and sustainable future for glamping in the UK & beyond.”

Crown & Canopy, while remaining a limited company, will now be under the ownership of the Sawday’s group.

The Sawday’s group boasts a pioneering ownership structure, with 52% being employee-owned, 24% owned by the Sawday’s Trust, a charitable trust dedicated to supporting responsible travel and environmental causes, and the remaining 24% owned by the Sawday’s family.

Speaking of the partnership, Ed Busby, co-founder of Crown & Canopy says: ‘We are excited about the future, and we look forward to working with the Canopy & Stars team to develop the glamping industry in the UK. We are committed to building a more sustainable future, both in terms of the landscapes and communities we work within, design and how our spaces operate, and being part of a company that cares deeply about their impact and ethics is hugely important to us.”

Ed and his team of architects and planners will move into the Sawday’s group headquarters in Bristol, alongside the Canopy & Stars team.

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NEWS

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ga Kor Ming, Minister of Housing and Local Government said the moratorium period for existing operators of glamping sites who do not meet development conditions is until the end of 2025, while existing campsite operators’ moratorium period is until the end of 2026.

Nga said enforcement action could be taken on operators who fail to submit applications during the moratorium period.

Citing standard operating procedures, Nga said the authorities would carry out an assessment on campsites half a year before the end of the permit period and will give operators half a year’s time to improve the campsite if they do not meet the standards set.

Local news surce Sin Chew Daily quoted Nga, saying, “According to the standard operating procedures, the Ministry will review a campsite half a year before its permit expires. If the site does not meet the

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round-breaking UK glamping site Secret Garden Glamping secured investment and incredible marketing potential thanks to an appearance on the popular Dragons’ Den TV programme on the BBC this month.

Derry Green, the founder of Secret Garden Glamping, expressed enthusiasm about

GLAMPING SITES IN MALAYSIA HAVE UNTIL THE END OF 2025 TO MEET DEVELOPMENT REGULATIONS, OR THEY COULD FACE LEGAL ACTION requirements, we will give them the last six months to make any changes necessary.”

Nga said it would be perfectly reasonable

for the government to shut down a campsite if the technical report considered the area “dangerous”.

the opportunity to present the company to the Dragons. “This is a momentous occasion for us. Dragons’ Den is the perfect platform to showcase the magic we’ve created here at The Secret Garden Glamping.”

entertained and how – once he started to promote it to guests in 2020 – he has been fully booked for up to two years. Initially, he did all the work on the site himself despite having no formal training.. The site is located in Skelmersdale in West Lancashire.

Derry told the Dragons about how he started his glamping site during the lockdown as a project to keep his children

Derry asked for an investment sum of £100,000 – offering a 5% stake in his business in return and the Dragons were universally positive and even moved to tears by Derry’s story. Despite receiving 3 offers of investment, Derry finally chose Deborah Meaden, who has a background in the hospitality industry. She believed that the flat rate that he charges of £245 per night is too low for the quality of the glamping experience he offers.

SECRET GARDEN CATCHES A DRAGON

The Secret Garden Glamping has successfully redefined the glamping experience by combining the tranquillity of nature with the comfort of luxurious amenities. The glamping sites boast spacious and beautifully decorated units, private outdoor spaces, and a range of thoughtful touches that create an unforgettable escape. The Secret Garden Glamping is already the UK’s most viewed, most followed, and most booked glamping site, according to Derry.

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NEWS

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www.glampingbusiness.com

NEWS ÖÖD MIRROR HOUSE ANNOUNCES ITALIAN PARTNERSHIP

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ÖD Mirror House recently announced their latest partnership in the quaint municipality of Bagnone in Tuscany, Italy.

Perfectly situated just over an hour from Florence, Parma, and Bologna, ÖÖD at Bagnone will be a haven for both nature and adventure lovers alike, boasting world class mountain bike routes, fantastic wild

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s of 10 January 2024, travelers can glamp on KAYAK, a travel search engine, through its latest partnership with GlampingHub, a global booking platform for unique accommodations in nature. From tree houses nestled in lush forests to luxury safari tents near Yellowstone, GlampingHub has a wide variety of accommodations that are now discoverable on KAYAK.com and its portfolio of brands including momondo, Cheapflights and Hotelscombined.

With more and more travelers seeking memorable vacations inspired by the photos they see online, this partnership provides adventure-seekers and glampers alike with more choices in one place for easy travel planning.

“We live in an ever-increasing connected lifestyle, which elevates one’s nature deficit” says CJ Wolf, GlampingHub’s CEO. Glamping getaways enable people to unplug and reconnect with nature. GlampingHub’s luxury accommodations provide travelers with access to the great outdoors while still feeling safe and being pampered with modern comforts. Whether the guest is spending time hiking, fishing or just roasting s’mores, these recreational activities are a great way to reconnect with the environment and enjoy the simpler pleasures in life.

pools, waterfalls & lagoons for swimming, kayaking, horse riding, hiking and so much more!

It will offer 3 ÖÖD Mirror Houses each with their own private sauna and plunge pool, offering complete privacy and incredible views – the perfect place for both tourists and urban dwellers to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and immerse in a unique setting.

“At KAYAK, we’re committed to providing travelers with a wide variety of travel options all in one place, said Paul Jacobs, GM & VP of North America for KAYAK. “With tons of unique accommodations for travelers to choose from, our goal is to continue giving travelers even more choices, and teaming up with GlampingHub introduces a new variety of accommodations to our already diverse offerings – something our users have been explicitly searching for more recently.”

According to KAYAK’s data, there has been a significant increase in search interest for alternative accommodations. Luxury tents, for example, have experienced a 28% year-over-year increase in search demand.

ÖÖD Mirror House has a solid track record in the Nordics, having designed, manufactured and shipped close to 50 Houses across the north of Europe, including Finland, Norway, Iceland, Denmark, Sweden & the United Kingdom. According to a LinkedIn post, they ‘cannot be more pleased to make [their] way down south.’

As well as their expansion into Italy, ÖÖD also announced their new Partnership Program. They are actively seeking ‘GÖÖD’ partners who own picturesque, remote properties and wish to explore additional income opportunities through a “lowinvestment” approach.

In essence, their partners provide the land and oversee the houses’ operation, while ÖÖD presents a range of partnership models tailored to your specific requirements.

Additionally, interest in unique lodging options like Riads, Ranches, Farmstays and boats have soared by up to 85 percent year over year indicating this is exactly what users are looking for.

“We are incredibly excited about our partnership with KAYAK. It’s a natural fit that aligns with our vision of providing unique experiences to travelers around the world,” said CJ Wolf.

“This collaboration will make it easier than ever for individuals and families to discover and book one-of-a-kind glamping experiences, whether they’re looking for a serene mountain retreat or an exciting adventure in national parks.”

GLAMPINGHUB AND KAYAK TEAM UP TO MAKE GLAMPING MORE ACCESSIBLE

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TENTHOUSE STRUCTURES

Ready for adventure

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t Tenthouse Structures, we draw inspiration from nature to create innovative tensile structural solutions that invite guests to immerse themselves in the great outdoors.

Expedition Camps Our Expedition Camps range is an elegant glamping solution, providing versatility, and sustainability. Crafted with precision, these structures blend seamlessly into various terrains, offering a unique and engaging experience for guests.

Beyond the visual appeal, a Tenthouse Structure prioritises comfort, durability, and performance. Drawing from the trend in

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luxury resort and lodge design, Expedition Camps responds to the rising demand for high-performance tented structures in the realm of upscale experiential travel.

Introducing the Expedition Camps Hard-shell Option Our latest innovation, the Expedition Camps “hard-shell”, introduces a new approach to the classic glamping tent.

Integrating hardened surfaces into a tensile structure, we take cues from nature’s adaptability and shielding forms, seeking to emulate the same balance and resilience in our designs. This innovative offering not only reflects our commitment to sustainability it also enhances the nature retreat experience, encouraging more

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individuals to venture outdoors and embrace the beauty of the natural world all year round.

Offering en-suite accommodation with a fully insulated hard body, architectural PVC roof membrane, and single- or doubleglazed windows and doors, the hard-shell option brings the comfort and privacy of a traditional cabin with the allure and additional exterior coverage of a tent, transforming the outdoor experience. While our traditional Expedition Camps soft-shell remains ideal for seasonal and semipermanent camps, the hard-shell caters to bold camp and resort operators wanting to operate year-round, embracing the wonders of every season.

The Expedition Camps Experience Nature-inspired and innovation-driven our Expedition Camps range provides: Comfort: Tenthouse climate control design, and ultra-lightweight structural technologies ensure optimal comfort. Expertly crafted our design offers a luxurious experience allowing guests to enjoy the benefits of adventure stays without sacrificing the comfort and amenities associated with upscale accommodations.

Since late 2022, we have been following the internationally recognized IStructE guidance, which considers carbon emissions throughout the product life cycle.

Currently, based on the SCORS rating (Structural Carbon Rating Scheme), the Expedition Camps tent achieve ratings up to ‘A’ with emissions of 136 kgCO/m2.

This is well above the average global target to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050.

Durability and Weather Resistance: Our high-performance constructions are engineered to withstand diverse weather conditions, from heavy rain, strong winds and snowfall within a wide range of extreme temperatures. This durability provides an extended design life and enhances the safety and well-being of guests.

Versatility: Expedition Camps can be adapted for optimal performance to suit various environments and terrains.

Whether as a plug in to your existing operation or full turnkey, in a beachfront location, a desert, mountainous area, or a forested landscape our tent structures provide a seamless integration with the natural environment.

Sustainability and Eco-Friendliness: Designed and engineered to embody sustainability from the outset, we incorporate eco-friendly materials and construction practices which aligns with the growing preference for environmentally conscious travel.

Aesthetic Appeal: Expedition Camps stylish and visually appealing design reinvents the romance of safari tents. This aesthetic charm contributes to the overall ambiance of a resort or camp, creating a unique and memorable atmosphere.

Unique Guest Experience: Staying in a beautifully designed tented structure provides guests with a distinctive experience. The blend of outdoor adventure with the comfort of a well-designed structure is unique and enveloping, fostering a connection between guests and the natural surroundings.

Marketing Advantage: Promoting highperformance tented structures can be a strong marketing point for a resort or camp as the trend towards experiential travel and unique accommodations continues to grow. Highlighting the high-performance features of an expertly designed wilderness dwelling in marketing materials can attract a broader audience seeking a more upscale glamping experience.

Meticulously crafted, made for the wild, our solutions invite guests to experience nature in true comfort.

Expedition Camps. Ready for adventure. tenthousestructures.com

in shepherd’s huts and yurts.

Combine your British kiln dried logs with our revolutionary KindleFlamers natural firelighters, now available in a loose/re-fill tub option, especially if your goals is to reduce packaging.

BE DIFFERENT TAILOR YOUR OFFERING TO YOUR CUSTOMER NEEDS

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anuary is the perfect time for glamping and campsites to focus on the new season ahead, be it exciting new improvements or the annual repair and maintenance jobs. This is also a good time to think about your firewood offering. If you have been experiencing inconsistent quality or have been processing your own logs and finding its taking up too much of your valuable time, you might want to consider Certainly Wood’s campsite range.

We have been tailoring our campsite offering, adding two new lines last year to our range, the Outdoor Cooking Box and the Dinkies Small Logs. Following our customers’ feedback, both are packed in cardboard boxes and the cooking box even includes a tested and tried wood fired recipe for cooking on a campfire or firepit, enabling sites to stock relevant ingredients in their shops and increase sales further. Our dinkies include shorter logs and are designed especially for small wood burners, such as the ones you find

Apart from offering Ready to burn, sustainable, British firewood products, did you know about the other ways CW can support you and your business?

How to light your fire guides – step by step instructions making firelighting simple for your guests and taking the pressure off you. Print them out and include in your welcome packs.

Point of Sale – we can send you posters, signs etc for your on-site shop.

Social engagement – Our marketing team loves to see what your site is up to, have you won an award, been featured on TV or have an amazing photo to share.

If so, tag in Certainly Wood and we will share to our followers.

Find out more at certainlywood.co.uk

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PRESENCE and

PASSION Erik Berglihn & Gro Furset

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e catch up with Erik Berglihn from Brokkestoylen Norway to find out more about how he and his wife have created their awardwinning glamping offer and what they have learned along the way.

Tell us about Brokkestoylen – how was the idea born? Who are the team behind it?

For many years we have been in the ‘how to make ideas come to life?’ business. We make a great team – my wife Gro Furset, who is a very creative person and the very best Chef.

She is trained as a tailor, registered nurse and a nutritionist. She has also her own small

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business making the very best probiotics for gut and brain health that helps a lot of clients.

She has developed her own design businesses, started cafes, and together we did the island project.

As for me (Erik Berglihn) I was born in the woods and spent most of my childhood outdoors. I later developed a company to help less fortunate kids, and I have worked in adventure travel and for the last 15 years, as well as working on how to inspire and help people to make consistent changes and how to develop and run profitable businesses.

Together we have a strong focus on natural health, nature and sustainability and we have been married since 1993.

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One of our earlier projects was on a deserted island near the town of Kristiansand, where we restored five very old buildings (ruins almost) and made a small boutique hotel with ecological gourmet food. In the beginning we did not have running water or electricity, so planning, use and reuse was key.

It was a great success and we got high-end customers from all over the world. However, the island was owned by the Kristiansand City and after 10 years and a lot of work, the city terminated our lease and gave it to the Norwegian Royal family as their new summer vacation resort. (The Royal family asked us to rent it, but we had turned them down earlier).

So we decided that if we should do a new

project, we would look for a place that we could own and develop in peace ourselves again – where there would be fish in the river, clean water, where we could grow our veggies, have our own eggs, and hunt when needed.

Then we found Brokkestoylen! For a few years I worked as a lecturer on how to develop sustainable tourism (for the local university) and every year, I got groups of students and travel the nearby the valley of Setesdal. The farm was up there and abandoned for many years. I started out to borrow it from the previous owner, and just used it as a venue where students could discuss ideas. Here, we would teach them how to get involved, and how to develop projects from scratch to running businesses.

In the beginning, we decided that we would spend the summer in the mountains of Brokkestoylen. For many years, Gro and I have worked part time to develop better solutions for troubled kids and youth, so we thought it might be a solution to offer a few of them jobs at a small mountain café.

Possibly to change their perspectives and inspire them.

We then just started the mountain cafe and got happy customers by serving coffee and Waffles. Soon we dreamed about better food, sustainable living, wild game and more. We The Islita could see the opportunity to go skiing in the mountains and snowshoeing in the forest.

A better and more healthy lifestyle both for us and our guests. Our project moved very quickly in this direction.

How important is sustainability to Brokkestoylen?

Very! As we know quite a bit about nutrition, environment and how it all comes together both in your body and in nature, we work to inspire our guests to become healthy, happy and strong. We aim to use and reuse everything.

We grow what we need and have made the decision to only buy local food. We have invested quite a bit in our garden and use/ reuse whatever we can also here.

We put organic eggshells, coffee grounds and living probiotics in our soil as fertilization. A new greenhouse (for 2024) is made from local logs and mostly reused glass.

When we restored all the buildings, we wanted to use local materials (wood) so all

our buildings are made of about 90% reused materials, wood, insulation and more. Our dome tents are placed above ground, they are made from reused plastics and have more than 15 years lifespan. They are placed on top of rocks or steel anchors that can be taken away if changes need to be done. We try to leave the earth almost untouched.

We grow what we need and have made the decision to only buy local food. We have invested quite a bit in our garden and use/reuse whatever we can also here.

What, if any, regulations are there in Norway for eco hotels or glamping sites like yours?

Firstly, the property has to regulated for the right use. Private or business. This takes about one year and is done locally, where also politicians have a say, so it can be a long process. It took us nearly a year and ahalf to get all the permissions before starting out.

Next you have to apply for permits for infrastructure like water, and electricity in the ground, and what you want to build. That’s also about a year’s process.

New regulations this year would prohibit development in wetlands, swamp and areas that hold a lot of CO2, so using steel ground screws/earth spikes would be a good solution.

Why did you decide to offer geodesic domes, rather than tents or cabins, for example?

We thought that the domes had a nice feel to them, because of the height inside the room and you get so close to nature because of the big window in the front. They are easy to build and affordable (until you put in doors, windows, running water, toilets, expensive beds and the rest!) We have reinforced them for extra strength (as we could get 2 metres of snow) Our domes are now insulated, and the flooring as well. The domes are placed on steel ground screws/earth spikes, a frame is built on top. This leaves almost no mark on the ground. We do not destroy anything, do not pollute, and if we take it all away, within a year you would see no trace in nature.

What came first: the accommodation, the guest experiences or your restaurant?

Was the plan always to combine these offerings, or did you add more as you went on?

We thought that if the project should be sustainable and economical. We needed to have both accommodation and provide excellent food in the farm restaurant and glasshouse.

We always planned a combo as the domes are

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like a luxurious hotel room, and do not have kitchen and cooking facilities.

Our customers soon wanted more. Like storytelling, walks in nature, a bit of bushcraft and over the last year we did several Wim Hof Norway adventures. For the year to come, we will do more Wim Hof adventures in Norway together with British instructors. Also we will provide several natural and healthy beauty and wellness weeks (biohacking weekends) and personal development courses.

You won the LuxLife Hotel & Restaurant award in 2023 – how did it feel to have your hard work recognised?

It´s great. We are very thankful for this award and it has helped us to be recognised both locally and abroad.

Our guests have also given us the very best feedback on booking.com and TripAdvisor.

We are very proud and thankful for all the nice reviews, and it gives us a kick to continue to do our best and welcome guests in the future!

Who is your typical guest; are they largely locals or tourists, or a healthy mixture of both?

It’s a healthy mix, but we do get more and more guests from abroad, both on our retreats and for an ordinary stay. This year, groups from abroad have already been booking Wim Hof retreats and our natural health, beauty and wellness weeks.

Since you first opened, to how you operate now, what are the main differences and/or learnings you discovered along the way?

We have learned more about the importance of being prepared, to get good systems in place and good planning in general.

We changed from being a campsite for everyone, to become an eco-luxury glamping site for adults only.

We do not have a large menu anymore. With the very best raw ingredients, we focus on clean, pure quality food and drinks. We serve a 3-5 course meal and you can choose vegan, fish or meat with wine or a non-alcoholic pairing. We forage a lot of foods from the woods too. It tastes divine and it´s easy to make something lovely from it.

We want our guests´ stay to be magical, silent and fulfilling with the natural sounds from the woods and streams. We aim to be comfortable, close to nature and focused on slow, healthy adventures which reduces stress levels.

We want our guests´ stay to be magical, silent and fulfilling with the natural sounds from the woods and streams. We aim to be comfortable, close to nature and focused on slow, healthy adventures which reduces stress levels.

What are your plans and goals for the future?

The plan is to have a consistent number of guests from May to November. We plan to provide inspirational events and run our glamping site close to 100% sustainable. We would like to grow more in our garden and develop our health, beauty and probiotic products.

And finally, if you could give one piece of advice to other glampsite operators, what would it be?

Find your own concept. Don’t copy what all the others are doing. Look for what you have next door and what solutions you can provide for your customers.

‘Read’ the nature and the site, and be passionate about what different things that you offer. If not, just drop it and change to something else.

Remember: People can always feel your presence and passion.

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By Kerry Roy Founder of Camp Katúr & Cerchio del Desiderio

MIXING BUSINESS

With Pleasure

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e have all heard the saying, “Don’t mix business with pleasure”. But in this industry we often do.

The desire to open a Glamping site often lures people in, with the idea that they can work alongside family members in a bid to increase quality time together and be the masters of their own entrepreneurial success as a collective. But is it really ‘quality’ time?

In many European countries, the majority of independent businesses operate as a familycontrolled operation. Italy, where I have my glamping site, has one of the highest rates of family business ownership at 80%. While according to Fortune.com the USA has over 87% that are family owned or controlled by family members.

The UK has seen a decline over the past few decades but with more and more people

having a desire to leave the corporate rat race, it is slowly increasing again. Glamping is one of those types of businesses where family members can easily get roped in to help out and husbands and wives can see a way of sharing the workload front and back of house.

However, those in glamping and hospitality in general work long hours often across 24/7 operational periods, in case any guest

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19-21 September 2024 • NAEC Stoneleigh Park

Older family members may be more ‘stuck’ in their ways which can lead them to resist change or try to pull rank.

isn’t the first or last time that arguments happen within families it can also be easier for all to promptly forgive, forget and move on like nothing was ever said or ‘shouted’!

Older family members may be more ‘stuck’ in their ways which can lead them to resist change or try to pull rank. I’ve seen this often with the Italian business family models whereby the business just ticks along stagnating while the younger family members feel trapped inside it, because they can’t drive the business forward. The soul of the business becomes stale.

Sometimes, unfortunately, there will be some family members you just have to try and keep from from ‘helping’ or interfering, although they often have the best intentions. Otherwise it can become a hindrance to your business functions as well as damaging to the team morael if the a certain family member does not respect you as the owner along with your decisions.

Like everything in life, working with your family has its pros and cons!

Then there’s kiddiewinks! When you add your children to the mix you need to be able to adopt a more flexible approach to the business as the needs and responsibilities of your little ones can be unpredictable. You will find yourself some moments been torn between who to respond to first; your guests or your child! Both can be demanding when they need your attention!.

problems arise. Finding the right balance of ‘quality’ time is not always as easy as it seems, especially as there is more to glamping businesses than just making beds, cleaning and checking in guests. Some families and couples relish being a tag team all day, every day but others can often find it a strain.

The Family Business Working alongside various family members whether it be husband, wife, parents, cousins, aunts, uncles or children can be beneficial if all members have the same vested interest and potential financial gain or shares within the business.

The plus is that you can often trust family members with the finances and decisionmaking side of the business because their heart is in it with you. They share a common goal with you and do not just take a wage. They

are willing to make financial sacrifices in order to benefit the future of the business. It can make for a more relaxed working environment with more flexibility. You can leave one another in charge to go on holidays, have days off without worrying if they are capable.

They can make decisions without needing to contact you frequently. Ultimately, they are fully ‘invested’ into the core of the business, unlike some employees.

The minus is that fewer boundaries between family members can lead to huge rows, where there is little held back and historical grievances come into play. When this happens, as it inevitably does from time to time, there is nowhere to escape and work/ life descends into misery on both sides. The problem can be that we know each other all too well and employment laws tend to go out of the window. But given that it probably

It’s a juggling task, especially as hospitality comes with many unplanned issues that can happen any time of the day. So having a screaming baby and needing to solve an issue with the guests at the same time is going to make you anxious. Therefore, you need a good support team around you in business and in the duties of babysitting. Sending an email that used to take a minute can take several minutes or longer, with a child around.

The Couples Business Working with your spouse might seem like the dream – and while it can be extremely rewarding –it also comes with many challenges. As a couple, you have to remember to separate work life and pleasure, otherwise your work life will soon take over any pleasure time. Even when you take time out for romance conversions of business can soon creep back in.

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It’s like having kids, if you’re not conscious you can spend 95% of the time only talking and focusing on the kids. Business as a couple can end up in the same rut if you’re both not careful, therefore it is important to set boundaries with each other to protect your relationship alongside yourselves independently to protect your individualism.

Relationships in general need nurturing, respect and understanding to be successful.

In fact, the same key values need to be applied also as business partners, otherwise you will be in for a rough ride on what is a rollercoaster of challenges and emotions anyway.

Personal issues are easily carried into the work environment, and work issues may be carried back into the home life. This can lead to family problems that impact the company and the other workers. It can be testing but fundamentally it is essential to remember you are both aiming towards the same shared goals.

The Friendship Partnership Some may say that their friendship is too valuable to put it to the test of working together. But many people can think of

nothing better than building a business from childhood dreams shared with a best friend.

Partnerships with friends can be fun, exciting and very rewarding but they are risky and can destroy your friendships if you’re not careful.

It’s imperative to set clear boundaries, roles and expectations from the beginning, to include a pact not to discuss your feelings about each-other in the work environment with other close mutual friends.

A formal legal contract of shareholdings, including exit clauses should be drawn up at the beginning of any partnership to ensure you are both protected should one partner decide to leave the business or be unable to continue.

Relationships in general need nurturing, respect and understanding to be successful.

In fact, the same key values need to be applied also as business partners, otherwise you will be in for a rough ride on what is a rollercoaster of challenges and emotions anyway.

even more sweet when shared with a friend.

Communication in any friendship partnership is key. It’s important you discuss openly and calmly your feelings with one another to maintain a positive connection for your friendship together with the managing of the business.

It’s worth remembering however that outsiders employed by the business may find it difficult to speak openly about any issues they have working alongside your close family member or friend. It may make it a delicate situation if some staff who are family members are hindering or not pulling their weight, causing frustration for outsider team members.

Often going into business with friends increases positivity, motivation and job satisfaction as you spur each other on and offer constructive criticism. Success tastes

However, with established boundaries, defined roles and a mutual respect, mixing business with pleasure can be a fulfilling and lead to a generational heirloom.

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Modern

MEXICO

Images: Grupo Presidente Can you give us the background to how you have become interested in the glamping/sustainable tourism sector?

Grupo Presidente has been a benchmark in Mexico’s hospitality industry. For more than 50 years, it has been consolidated in the market as a leading investor, co-investor of franchises, and operator of international hotel, restaurant, and retirement assistance franchises, being the master franchiser of Intercontinental in the country and an approved operator of IHG, Marriott, Hyatt, Accor, and other independent brands.

In recent years, a very important part of our CEO (Braulio Arsuaga)’s vision has been to consolidate our leadership position far beyond traditional hospitality and begin to venture into emerging segments with great potential and also prepare for the future of lodging by getting much closer to the new generations of travelers.

For this reason, when we saw the accelerated growth of Glamping, further catalyzed by the pandemic, this project, which had been

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inspired by African Safaris some years ago, was decided to be landed and developed professionally, not just as a test, but as the development of a new outdoor hospitality brand supported by a recognized hospitality group that could broaden GP’s customer base & diversify the portfolio, challenge our own mentality & develop a model of own brand success.

We got inspired by Millennial & Centennial hunger for experience while ensuring the level of ease, comfort, and certainty they’ve come to expect, shift the focus of travel away from the destination and toward the journey and give our traveler the tools to create their own adventure travel experience that takes you to multiple regions in just one trip.

What are your plans for this sector in Mexico?

In Mexico, as in many other parts of the world, the outdoor hospitality sector is mainly independent. Our plans include being able to grow with our own sites in destinations that offer a never-before-seen facet of the most wonderful ecosystems of our country,

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developing a solid brand that brings enough confidence in comfort and experience to the glamping sector to not only be considered as “alternative lodging,” but also to position itself as a new way to become immersed in nature and the local aspects of each site.

In addition to this, by having a solid structure and experience in the industry, we also want to affiliate Viatura with other independent brands we can help to expedite their growth so that in this way we can become a network of outdoor hospitality with different facets and unique personality at each site.

We also believe that Viatura can have enough strength to position itself not only as lodging, but in the world of experiences, boutique hotels, and other forms of travel that we are still exploring.

What kind of accommodation do you plan to offer guests and where?

Our Glamp-Siting concept provides luxury hotel-like comfort in natural surroundings through lodging circuits in various Home Bases.

Every Home Base, crafted by Mexican artists, blends contemporary style with ecosystem harmony, through: n Local materials n Simplicity n Vivid cheer n Curated technology n Sustainability In each Home Base our travelers will be able to find: n Tents designed for every Home Base n Multipurpose Tent Lounge (F&B) n Swimming pool n SPA, Other spaces ad-hoc to the region/ ecosystem How important is it for you to also work with existing operators of accommodation?

As I mentioned earlier, the ability to work and learn from other operators in the industry is a fundamental part of Viatura’s growth and positioning strategy. We are also very interested in contributing to strengthening the segment, so we are actively seeking to get involved, collaborate, and associate with other operators who share our values and vision.

How do you believe your plans will be able to extend the stay of guests in this kind of accommodation?

We can’t go with a simple protocol. We need to be known for something more than a tent and a nice jacuzzi. That’s why we created a concept that we internally call “GlampSiting,” which aims to offer lodging circuits in different Home Bases that have the comfort of a luxury hotel totally immersed in nature. This way, travelers have the option to experience multiple locations, in the same trip to live different ecosystems, try different flavors and be part of hyper-local experiences at each destination.

With the portfolio of Grupo Presidente, we also have the opportunity to offer, within the same trip, “traditional” lodging in the base cities where our travelers arrive, which will allow them to start and end this adventure in a comfortable and safe way.

How quickly do you plan to expand?

Our initial plan was to open the first site at the end of 2023. However, with the introduction of the Viatura concept, we have accelerated this timeline, and since

July, we are already operating a site on the outskirts of San Miguel de Allende. This development, created in collaboration with a commercial partner who trusted our vision, has successfully transformed an extraordinary location surrounded by vineyards, olive trees, and lavender fields into a venue where ultra-luxury African tents provide shelter for a variety of unparalleled experiences.

With this in mind, we believe Viatura’s growth will be exponential and much faster than initially anticipated. Our next location on the Yucatán Peninsula is nearing completion, and we have two more slated for 2024. Furthermore, our ongoing efforts to forge partnerships with other commercial entities are bearing fruit even as we speak, which means that by next year, Viatura is likely to have a significant and consolidated portfolio.

What research have you done into this segment of the market and what did it tell you?

As a team, we’ve done our homework, deeply studying both the international and national markets. We’ve traveled, attended international glamping shows that opened our minds, and brought on board experts in glamping and brand strategy to join us on this journey.

Our main takeaways, although we continue to learn in this dynamic market segment, were based on five macro-trends in the initial development of Viatura: n Live for Experience n Wellness & Self-Care n Purpose-Driven Consumerism n Technology that Challenges the Status Quo n Outdoor Boom We also identified different traveler segments, focusing primarily on Experience Explorers drawn to the potential of “Adventure Tourism”—a concept where the traveler steps out of their comfort zone to explore and experience remote places.

We’re aware that in recent years, glamping’s growth has surged into the triple digits, fueled by younger generations. Many operators are adapting their business basics to seize the glamping opportunity instead of coming up with new compelling concepts.

These are just some insights, but in reality, we are excited to be part of the statistics in

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We grow what we need and have made the decision to only buy local food. We have invested quite a bit in our garden and use/reuse whatever we can also here.

Mexico and to learn from the continuous feedback, evolution, and understanding of our market and travelers.

What other resorts/glamping sites are you inspired by – if any?

While we studied and stayed at many of the brands in both the national and international markets, our primary inspiration comes from the authentic experiences of African Safaris.

Their ability to elevate the surrounding fauna, combined with complete adaptability and multifunctionality tailored to what the traveler seeks, while also providing a luxury experience, we believe, makes them the original creators and master teachers of this concept.

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We respect and learn from many other concepts in the market, and we would love for many of them to join the Viatura portfolio so that together we can make history.

What sort of price per night points are you looking at?

Considering the comfort, design, and variety of experiences we offer and plan to offer at Viatura, our price point is around $500 USD per night per tent. Although this rate may vary depending on the destination and market, we aim to position ourselves midway between ultra-luxury and the basic glamping experience.

By doing so, we believe we can attract a market that is willing to get to know us while also giving us the strength to continue building a path towards a solid and aspirational positioning in our market.

How will you market your unique offer to guests?

Viatura will introduce travelers to less explored escapes from a nature-immersive

perspective, allowing them to experience the most popular destinations in a way that has never been seen before. We are redefining travel through experiential journeys and unveiling hidden wonders.

We give our travelers the tools to personalize their trip and choose their own: STAY: Viatura unveils unique, less explored natural escapes for a novel perspective on popular destinations. Travelers may experience multiple locations in the same trip.

EXPERIENCE: We craft experiences, allowing our guests to tailor their activities and customize their unique way of exploring each destination.

TASTE: Eat Local, Drink Unique.

We aim to offer a new way to travel, where side trips are not just possible; they’re the essence of the journey. We want our travelers to escape the ordinary, reignite the joy of discovery and to TRAVEL THEIR OWN PATH.

BRAZIL Goes Glamping

by Gerden E.

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he Brazilian glamping sector is steadily developing, thanks to the ever growing demand for premium leisure activities among Brazilians and improving local economics.

Glamping has been relatively slow to take off in Brazil, despite the huge potential for development with the tropical climate and the diversity of biomes – not to mention the incredible landscapes. Although the first experiential hospitality ventures of this kind have existed for some time (in the Amazon for example) – the majority

of glamping now operating has opened in recent years.

The Pandemic has certainly been one of the major drivers of glamping businesses in Brazil as figures show the number of sites has significantly increased since 2020. This growth has continued and the demand for ecotourism has been spurred on by the Brazilian Government and the regional authorities, who can see the potential. There are some serious economic problems facing the people of Brazil, such as high inflation and high fuel costs, like many other countries so tourism is a definite benefit.

Dom Luxury Glamping

Currently, there are around one thousand glamping sites throughout Brazil – so clearly there is a massive potential for the market to grow. The structures within the glamping sites are varied, from relatively simple to extremely luxurious. Most standard accommodation types are covered – treehouses, tents, chalets, cabins and more!

According to Lukasz Gieranczyk, CEO of Quero Passagem, a bus ticket marketplace that serves all of Brazil, glamping in Brazil is definitely on the rise. He says, “Here in Brazil, we are not at the level of West yet, but the COVID-19 pandemic has made many Brazilians choose to spend more time in the countryside or in nature. For now, the market is expanding at a rapid pace. Although most accommodations here are not classified as luxurious, they are still in the glamping category due to the level of comfort and services offered, with excellent facilities in remote locations.”

In contrast to previous years, when the biggest demand for glamping in Brazil was observed primarily from foreign tourists, now increasing numbers of Brazilian people are choosing glamping for their vacation and leisure time.

Vanessa Mariño is a Venezuelan who has worked in the ecotourism and glamping sector in the Amazon for 25 years. In a recent

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In contrast to previous years, when the biggest demand for glamping in Brazil was observed primarily from foreign tourists, now increasing numbers of Brazilian people are choosing glamping for their vacation and leisure time.

interview with the O Globo business paper in Brazil, she noted the increase in domestic demand for glamping since the pandemic and predicted it would continue to grow.

An example is Ceará’, one of the 26 states of Brazil, located in the northeastern part of the country, on the Atlantic coast. which in recent years has become one of the major glamping destinations in Brazil.

This is also confirmed by official statistics.

According to a Yearbook of the Brazilian Luxury Travel Association (BLTA), the share of wealthy Brazilians traveling throughout Brazil currently accounts for 90.7% of the overall demand for glamping and glampsites; unlike 2019, when Brazilians represented only 59% of demand. That led to the growth of profits of most of Brazil major glampsites.

Currently there are a number of luxury glampsites being located in Ceara with the most known probably Dom Luxury Glamping, which consists of 7 geodesic domes, as well as Rancho do Peixe in Jericoacoara with up to 26 bungalows built on suspended decks, covered with carnauba straw and surrounded by coconut trees and dunes.

At present, among the major glamping destinations in Brazil are Jalapão State Park, in Tocantins, the Rio de Janeiro city of Paraty and mountainous areas of Minas Gerais, São Paulo and Rio Grande do Sul. Historically the development of glamping is observed along the Atlantic coast of the country and the Amazon river.

In recent years, the development of glamping has become one of the priorities for the authorities of many of Brazil major states.

Ceará’s Secretary of Tourism, Arialdo Pinho, says of glamping in Brazil, “It is a new market that is being established, it has a very strong appeal for ecological issues.

He added that while this market is already strong in African countries, Switzerland and Norway, its development is also ongoing in Brazil in general and the state of Ceará in particular. In case of Ceará, most of local major glampsites are located along the Atlantic coast.

In the meantime, according to the Correio Braziliense business paper, in addition to Ceará, the same plans were announced by

the authorities of the Brazil capital – Brasília.

With the highest per capita income in the country, according to experts, Brasília is fertile ground for the so-called luxury market includiing its glamping sector. This is despite its location far from most of Brazil tourism destinations and Atlantic coast.

For most of Brazilian states the development of glamping is important due to the attraction of huge income flows to regional budgets, creation of new jobs and the reduction of unemployment rate, as well as the overall improvement of economic situation in their regions.

According to local analysts, in recent years the demand for glamping has significantly increased among young Brazilians.

This has been recently confirmed by the president of the Brazil National Campers Association Nilva Rios who said, “The demand for growing was already growing, but the pandemic accelerated it. If in the past the industry was very focused on those who were retired and had more free time currently we are seeing this change for younger people and families with children. During the pandemic, this profile changed.”

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It’s fair to say that your average glamping operator is more environmentally conscious than most businesses.

Many have a commitment to sustainable practices and responsible land management while increasing numbers are opting for off-grid energy solutions.

TruDomes

HOW TO AVOID PLANNING DELAYS

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for your glamping start-up

any aspiring glamping businesses in the UK find their dreams frustrated by the seemingly endless wait for planning approval. Thankfully, certain routes are available to bypass the delay. Kelda Bassett, CEO of geodome manufacturer TruDomes, explains.

Launching a glamping business is an exciting venture and an attractive way for many farmers and landowners to create a valuable revenue stream, but one of the biggest hurdles is the hassle and delay of obtaining planning approval. Many prospective sites find themselves waiting years before they can get up and running.

Fortunately, there are some relatively straightforward ways to avoid planning obstacles. An increasing number of

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landowners are joining an exempted organisation that has the authority to approve sites without the need for planning permission or a licence. Exempted organisations can use their permissions to certify members to run sites under their banner. TruDomes work with a number of these organisations and we know that they welcome applications from glamping sites.

It’s fair to say that your average glamping operator is more environmentally conscious than most businesses. Many have a commitment to sustainable practices and responsible land management while increasing numbers are opting for off-grid energy solutions. Those are the kind of green credentials that open the door to exempted organisations like The Woodland Champions Club and The Greener Camping Club which were both founded on an eco-driven ethos.

The Woodland Champions Club formed in 2017 to help landowners create and manage woodland and open them up for members of the public to use. The club has a commitment to plant trees with the help of the woodland trust and site members. The application process typically takes between 28 days and three months, granting members certification to operate year-round sites of up to 10 pitches. Member campsites are permitted to advertise anywhere, which isn’t always the case with exempted organisations.

The Greener Camping Club was established in 2015 with the aim of providing a more environmentally-friendly style of camping experience. Their ideal setting for a campsite is a sheltered area of at least one acre in a quiet rural setting, with safe vehicle access and a water supply. They prefer sites lined by trees or hedge banks over open sites that lack

natural screening. However, sites that can benefit from tree planting or other natural screening will be considered. The Greener Camping Club requires a minimum of two touring pitches for each glamping unit and the site owner’s residence should also be on site. The club also provides start up guidance and ongoing support, with regular email updates on regulatory, health & safety and tourism matters.

Glampsites that can demonstrate their environmental commitment and land that meets the criteria of The Woodland Champions Club or The Greener Camping Club will have a ready-made customer base of members that camp on their certified sites. A number of TruDomes customers have chosen our domes, which are designed and built to support carbon reduction, to help demonstrate their green credentials and strengthen their applications to these two organisations.

The Freedom Camping Club is another fully certified and exempted organisation with the ability to license any piece of land deemed suitable for camping and caravanning to operate as a campsite. With an aim to bring diversity and flexibility to camping and caravanning, the club encourages sites to provide glamping units as part of their offering. While some exempted organisations prohibit open advertising and can only be booked by club members, The Freedom Camping Club is a non-exclusive club, giving

glampsites access to a market of around 6 million campers. To apply to be certified, prospective sites are required to submit a form and discuss the requirements with one of the club’s consultants.

Any site which considers joining an exempted organisation needs to be careful about the nature of the communal facilities it provides in support of the accommodation. Building, excavations and other works may require a planning application which disqualifies a site from certified membership.

This pitfall can be avoided with the use of moveable composting toilets, portaloos and off-grid showers. Portable structures are usually considered chattels which do not need planning approval. However, if structures are not easily movable, are attached to the ground or have fixed utility attachments, they may fall into the definition of a building. Trailermounted facilities are a potential solution providing they can be easily detached from water, waste and electricity services.

For glamping businesses that want more independence, without the rules applied by exempted organisations, operating as a temporary or ‘pop-up’ site is another way to bypass a full planning application. In the UK, permitted development rights (PDR) allow a temporary recreational campsite to operate for up to 60 days per year without needing full planning permission. Following government legislation, the previous limit

For glamping businesses that want more independence, without the rules applied by exempted organisations, operating as a temporary or ‘pop-up’ site is another way to bypass a full planning application.

of 28 days was extended in July 2023. That move was regarded as a gamechanger in the camping sector, enabling temporary sites to take bookings throughout the peak season spanning the height of the UK summer. PDR is subject to a limited number of conditions, including a maximum of 50 pitches, provision of certain on-site facilities and giving prior notification to the Local Planning Authority on an annual basis.

To make a pop-up glampsite practical to run, it’s vital to choose accommodation that’s easy to assemble and dismantle, ideally requiring no infrastructure or wooden base for installation.

A compact geodome is one of the best options to meet those requirements – it just needs a base sheet and is easily erected and taken down.

It’s also easy to store out of season.

Whether you choose to be a pop-up site or certified by an exempted organisation, these options involve some initial work in making sure you tick the right boxes to qualify.

However, that time is minimal compared to the bureaucracy and delay of a full planning application.

TruDomes

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Paje Beach

Growing Organically

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NVI was created with the concept that there is no higher luxury than being one with nature. After attending both the Eco Resort Network 2022 and 2023 events in Slovenia and Montenegro, respectively, the ENVI brand is growing organically. We caught up with Noelle Homsy, co-founder, to find out about their new developments in 2024.

You are about to break ground on your first projects. How challenging is this period in the development of ENVI? This phase represents a critical juncture in the development of ENVI, where we translate the core values of our brand into tangible

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ecolodges. It’s a time when we vividly envision and create the guest experience within a specific environment, climate, and culture, while also defining unique, sustainable experiences. We now lay the groundwork for ecolodges that will host guests for many years to come.

Yet, this phase hasn’t been without its share of unexpected challenges. We’ve come to understand that in the realm of sustainability, bridging the gap between theory and practice can be a big job. While our initial intention was to incorporate every possible sustainable system into the design and construction, we realized that sustainability is unfortunately expensive, and we need to find the right

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balance between the financial feasibility of our projects, the comfort of our guests and the lodges’ impact on the environment. This was particularly evident in locations where air conditioning is essential, especially given our lodges’ positioning in the luxury segment.

What is the planned schedule for opening of your current roster of projects?

We’ve got several exciting openings on the horizon. Towards the end of 2024 and in early 2025, you can look forward to experiencing ENVI Al Nakheel in Al Ahsa, ENVI Laguna Bay on the Red Sea, and ENVI Paje in Zanzibar. Additionally, we’re planning to unveil two ecolodges in Oman, one in

Jabal Akhdar and the other whose location is shortly to be revealed, set to welcome guests in 2025. Keep an eye out for ENVI The Islita in Costa Rica, which is projected to open by late 2025 or early 2026.

Besides, what’s particularly exciting about ecolodges is that their development phase can be relatively short, so we may have more signings in the near future that could also open around the same time.

What are you striving for when it comes to the design of an ENVI project?

During the design phase of every ENVI lodge, we prioritize several key principles that can be categorized into 2 buckets, “sustainable” and “experiential”. First and foremost, we aim to create a project that seamlessly integrates with its environment, maintaining a strong sense of place. This extends to ensuring that the project blends well with its surroundings, unlike many other projects that aim to stand out.

We’re committed to sustainability and employ sustainable, natural, and locally sourced materials. We always choose structures that have a minimal impact on the land, consciously avoiding concrete to prevent soil sealing and toxic leakage. Whenever possible,

we implement systems and use materials designed to reduce energy consumption.

Our lodges consist of individual guest units, and we aim to provide each unit with ample privacy to facilitate guest disconnection and relaxation. We also ensure the efficient utilization of the site, reserving prime spots for common facilities that all guests can enjoy. This ensures that every guest has the opportunity to experience the best that the location has to offer.

We spoke about the challenges of striving to be ever more environmentally friendly – especially in some locations where the climate makes it difficult to compromise on guest comfort.

What have you learned during the design phase that will really stand you in good stead for the future?

A key lesson has been the importance of setting realistic, achievable sustainability targets from the outset. By doing so, we prevent reaching a stage where we must resort to value engineering, which can lead to rushed decisions that compromise the guest experience.

Additionally, we’ve recognized the significant advantages of collaborating with specialists

We’re committed to sustainability and employ sustainable, natural, and locally sourced materials.

We always choose structures that have a minimal impact on the land, consciously avoiding concrete to prevent soil sealing and toxic leakage.

early in the project’s development. Their expertise enables us to identify alternatives for reducing our carbon footprint more effectively.

We’ve also come to appreciate that, in most cases, sourcing materials locally is not only budget-friendly but also eco-friendly. This approach often surpasses the environmental benefits of shipping so-called “sustainable materials” across the oceans.

We hope that these lessons will come in handy for our future projects but are also sure that we’ll experience new challenges that we’ll learn from. envilodges.com

The Islita

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LINEN CONNECT

Make your guests feel valued Tell us more about Linen Connect – what are your core values as a company?

Linen Connect is a family business since 1968. In 2000, Vikas bought out his Dad and then in 2023 his wife joined the business to lead its sustainability strategy.

As a family business, we value long-term thinking and collaboration which is how we approach every relationship we have.

Quality - From our manufacturing, to international logistics, customer service and sales – every aspect of our work is driven by quality. This is reflected by our ISO certification.

The glamping market is a broad one – how do you cater to both the higher-end luxury sites and the short-term pop up sites, for example?

Linen Connect are a full-service textile solutions company with the ability to service clients with varying product specifications.

For 5* luxury operators our products have been designed for housekeeping and commercial laundry. Maintaining pristine white bedding that is luxurious and durable.

Via our retail brand Charlotte Thomas we can provide printed and plain dye bedding bundle packs which are similar to student bedding packs we supply to accommodation operators.

linenconnect.com What are the interior essentials for a remarkable guest experience?

Little touches that help guests make their stay feel luxurious and comfortable. Additional items such as extra towels and investing in bath-sheets allow guests to wrap up warm.

Especially if its cold or you have outdoor baths. Don’t skimp on offering small towels.

Consider how guests connect with the outdoors during their stay. Providing outdoor blankets, waterproof cushions and spa robes encourage guests to enjoy fresh air in style.

Give guests the option to purchase items such as blankets, evoking memories of the stay while generating a little extra income.

What is something that owners often overlook that can elevate their accommodation?

Pillow and duvet options. If you’re operating

an all year-round site, providing options to keep guests cool in the summer and warm in the winter. Let guests know where they can find extra blankets or how to request hypoallergenic products – as not everyone is comfortable with feather filled items. Highend hotels offer pillow menus allowing guests to choose a pillow that meets different needs.

How sustainable are your products?

All of our towels are 100% cotton which is a natural fibre and biodegradable. We work with long-standing supply partners who are also investing in on-site renewable energy.

Our cushions are made in the UK, reducing carbon footprint of shipping. We also supply better cotton which invests in farming practices to reduce the footprint of growing cotton.

Textiles waste is a huge issue in the hospitality industry, so we are trialling circular models to help reduce end of life textiles going into landfill and re-purpose them into new products.

What geographical areas do you cover?

UK Based company with HQ and warehousing and distribution centre in Manchester. We ship across Europe and US. As well as being able to fulfil other international shipping destinations.

Do you offer bulk discounts for larger purchases?

We can offer competitive prices for product bulk orders. Please contact sales@ linenconnect.com or call us to discuss.

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“My experience with gatherings and networks in the traditional hospitality space was very different to what I found in Montenegro – a gathering of intensely passionate people and professionals from many walks of life that all shared this idea that nature should drive travel, choice of accommodation, and engagement with the environment and oneself. There were entrepreneurs, concept thinkers, and creators. Because the size of the event was so manageable, the experience facilitated a sense that this really was the crème de la crème of this nascent but budding industry.”

Michael Sagild, Co-Founder Cloud Collective

The Ravenala Attitude Hotel

ECO RESORT NETWORK

Mauritius awaits

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here’s no other networking event for the eco hospitality industry quite like this. Eco Resort Network is a new type of event – one that combines learning with exploring, coupled with intimate networking receptions to truly connect with likeminded leaders in your industry.

Following the success of the Eco Resort Network 2022 and 2023 events held in Slovenia and Montenegro respectively, our 2024 event is to be held in Mauritius at The Ravenala Attitude Hotel in Turtle Bay across May 18 to May 22 – consisting of a two-day conference, networking receptions, dinners and excursions to see eco resorts developed by our delegates.

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LONG-LASTING PARTNERSHIPS The number of delegates eager to return for a second – or third – time goes to show that the combination of learning and exploring in a beautiful location is second to none. Our goal is that you will not only leave Mauritius

equipped with more knowledge of the sustainable and outdoor hospitality sector, but also with approaches from investors, distribution agreements and strategic partnerships. This is just the tip of the iceberg and does not include the many new

“Never before have I experienced events so full of outstanding industry professional in such amazing locations. These entrepreneurs truly want to make a difference and share their eco-resort best practice generously in the Network’s in-person annual events. There’s no doubt that if you want to launch something exceptional in hospitality then this network is worth its weight in gold.”

Sarah Riley, Founder The Glamping Academy

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“So much inspiration, with colleagues doing projects all over the world.

Friends were made and there was even the perfect sprinkling of fun to top it all off. Since then, I have had many collaborations with fellow attendees and friendships forged.”

Robyn Woodhead, Co-Founder White Desert Antarctica

friendships, referrals and recommendations which result from spending quality time among like-minded people.

Robyn Woodhead

TALK IS CHEAP We are living in frightening times, amid global conflict and environmental crisis and it is easy to feel overwhelmed. This is why it is so important to do what we can to try to bring about positive change, to listen to others who have different lived experience and to learn how to do better for those who will come after us. But our members don’t just talk – they discover, they create, they preserve, they lead by example and they inspire.

They dare to think differently, they refuse to accept that the future is bleak and they seek to transform – with resorts that protect the environment, reconnect the guest and regenerate the communities around them.

MENTORSHIP We are exploring the idea of introducing some morning mentorship sessions for those looking for guidance in their eco resort businesses. This will allow an opportunity to share a business plan with an investor, designer or supplier who could advise and guide either one on one or in small groups. Obviously, this is an invaluable opportunity for those starting out.

WHAT’S INCLUDED? Tickets include our two-day conference, networking dinners and receptions, all meals and drinks, plus your four- night hotel stay, airport transfers and entertainment. There will also be an optional third day on May 22 after the conference closes for further networking opportunities.

On May 20, we will pay a visit to the OBOĒ resort, created by Astrid Arlove, our delegate from the Slovenia 2022 event, for an evening reception. May 22 is an optional excursion to see some resorts being created

by Louis Thompson and Nomadic Resorts/Nomadic Escapes.

HOW CAN I JOIN? Tickets to join us in Mauritius are available at ecoresort.network – limited spaces are available to maintain an intimate event. We will carefully consider all applicants for suitability and will be in touch to confirm, welcome and establish the delegate’s main priorities from the event.

“We were truly inspired by the dedication and passion of all the delegates who attended the conference. The commitment to sustainable tourism and environmentally responsible practices is nothing short of admirable and it was a pleasure to be surrounded by so many like-minded individuals who share our values.”

Tenthouse Structures – Gold Event Sponsor 2024

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HEKIPIA Crafting exquisite tiny houses

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ekipia is a French company specializing in crafting exquisite tiny houses for glamping resorts. One of its standout offerings is the Roulotte, a Park Model RV that seamlessly combines functionality with aesthetic appeal.

This compact yet luxurious dwelling redefines mobile living, offering an unmatched experience for both buyers and vacationers.

For buyers, the Roulotte represents a sophisticated investment in a mobile lifestyle, while vacationers enjoy a unique retreat into nature without compromising on comfort. In essence, Hekipia’s Roulotte sets new standards for glamping, blending innovation and elegance in a compact living space.

Manufactured on trailers as Park Model RVs, these units are delivered fully equipped and can be effortlessly set up on sites, connected to water, sewage, and electricity. The efficiency of the production process in Whitehall is very well optimized to propose the best quality to each of our customers following the ANSI 119.5 standard, reflecting Hekipia’s commitment to innovation and reliability.

The Roulotte from Hekipia boasts a remarkably pleasant living space designed to cater to the needs of glamping enthusiasts.

The living area is thoughtfully equipped with a fully functional kitchen and a dining area.

Comprising two independent bedrooms,

it comfortably accommodates up to four individuals. Bedroom #1 features a luxurious queen-size bed, while bedroom #2 is fitted with bunk beds, ensuring a diverse range of sleeping arrangements. The bathroom is a testament to thoughtful design, featuring a 39”x 31” shower, a separate restroom, and external easy access to technical equipment such as the water heater and gas bottle. The kitchen is equipped with modern appliances, complemented by a dining area. The separate shower and bathroom facilitate simultaneous use, and the units meeting the standards of the RV Industry Association are insulated for year-round use, complete with air conditioning and heating capabilities.

only ensure a rapid return on investment for outdoor resorts but also position Hekipia as a leader in the design and manufacturing of innovative and reversible Park Models RVs. The Roulotte, with its blend of functionality, comfort, and aesthetic appeal, shows Hekipia’s dedication to crafting exceptional glamping experiences for travelers around the world.

If you have any interest or question, feel free to reach us at sales@hekipia.com.

Hekipia entered the U.S. market in 2019 with a goal to set up a manufacturing facility. As part of the Huttopia group, a global entity with glamping sites worldwide, including three in the Northeastern U.S. (New York, New Hampshire, and Maine), and one in Quebec, Hekipia brings a wealth of experience to the table. The initial offering from Hekipia’s Whitehall facility comprises tiny homes spanning 253 square feet, featuring two bedrooms capable of accommodating four individuals.

Hekipia America, an industrial group with 36 years of experience in the European market with over 28,000 units delivered, stands as a testament to durability and integration in its accommodation. These qualities not

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unveils groundbreaking GLAMASTAY glamping booking platform

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lamastay, a dynamic team of creative professionals, is thrilled to announce the launch of their revolutionary booking system platform dedicated exclusively to glamping sites in the UK. Dissatisfied with the aesthetics and user experience in existing glamping booking systems? Glamastay is set to redefine the glamping industry, providing a modern and visually appealing platform that promises to inspire more people to indulge in the glamping experience.

Samantha, co-founder at Glamastay, says, ”We were personally disappointed with the aesthetics and overall booking experience when planning our own glamping holidays.

As creative professionals, who have worked with glampsite hosts, we saw an opportunity to enhance the entire glamping journey, making it not just a getaway but a memorable experience from the moment of booking.”

Taking cues from the success and design principles of Airbnb, Glamastay aspires to be the ‘Airbnb of glamping’, offering a fresh and modern approach to searching and booking glamping accommodations. The platform

is carefully crafted to move away from conventional camping-oriented interfaces, providing a user-friendly experience that resonates with the unique charm of the glamping industry.

Key Features of Glamastay’s Glamping Booking Platform: n Low Commission Rates: Glamastay understands the financial challenges faced by glampsite hosts. The platform offers competitive and transparent commission rates, ensuring hosts receive maximum returns for their offerings. n Easy Client Management: Simplify the management of your glamping business with Glamastay’s user-friendly client management tools. Streamline bookings, track reservations, and manage guest details effortlessly. n In-App Messages: Foster seamless communication between hosts and guests through Glamastay’s in-app messaging system. Enhance the overall guest experience by addressing queries, providing local recommendations, and ensuring a personalized stay.

n Upcoming Mobile App: Stay ahead of the curve with Glamastay’s upcoming mobile app. Access the platform on the go, manage bookings, and connect with guests, all from the convenience of your mobile device. n Favourites and Glamping-Exclusive Listings: Allow guests to curate their dream glamping experience by marking favorites and exploring unique glamping-only listings, ensuring a personalized and tailored booking process. n Fair Review System: Glamastay believes in transparency and fairness. The review system is designed to provide honest feedback while maintaining a balanced and constructive approach, fostering trust within the glamping community.

With Glamastay, glampsite hosts can expect not just a booking platform but a partner in elevating the glamping experience for guests. As we embark on this exciting journey, we invite glamping enthusiasts to join us in shaping the future of glamping bookings.

Find out more at glamastay.co.uk.

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