Paradores
Revitalising catalyst One of the fundamental pillars of Paradores’ mission is to revitalise the areas where they operate. This contribution is particularly significant in smaller towns where all events held at Paradores in some way contribute to the development and growth of the local community. Paradores promote the hiring of local suppliers based on criteria of sustainability and they prioritise collaboration with social entities.
The Spanish Paradores organisation maintains strategic alliances with nationally and internationally renowned entities, including the Spanish Network of the UN Global Compact, Forética, EUROPARC-Spain, the World Heritage Cities Group, the Oceanogràfic Foundation of Valencia, the Global Nature Foundation and the Spanish Red Cross, among others. All collaborations help to advance environmental, social and cultural objectives.
Promoting responsible travel Paradores put great emphasis on planning responsible travel, encouraging companies and attendees to prioritise public transport whenever possible. Access can of course, be limited, and in such cases the recommendation is for carpooling or the use of lowemission vehicles.
The Paradores network supports these practices by providing information on the different transport options and the availability of charging points for electric vehicles at many of its establishments. In addition, Paradores clients are provided with an Event Carbon Footprint Calculator, which allows them to simulate journeys and estimate
CO 2 emissions based on the means of transport used.
Socialising environment Paradores facilitate socialising in a relaxed environment and can incorporate activities for attendees, such as walks, or cultural visits. There is a Paradores programme of nature experiences to tap into called‘ Nature for the Senses’.
“ As a South African event management company working with international incentive and conference groups, we’ ve seen strong interest in destinations that offer authenticity and a sense of place,” says Stephanie Moss, director of Solutions Event Group.
“ Spain’ s Paradores deliver exactly that. Their unique combination of heritage architecture, regional gastronomy, and dramatic locations makes them especially appealing for incentive and business or group leisure travellers seeking memorable, story rich experiences.
“ I have found Paradores ideal for leadership strategic sessions and smaller incentive groups.
“ For example, the Parador de Santo Estevo in Galicia offered a remarkable setting for a strategy focused incentive, its monastic courtyards and canyon views are so different to African experiences and it was very well received.
“ The same for Parador de Carmona near Seville which blended charm and exclusivity and outstanding cuisine.
“ For our market we feel the touch points and cultural angles resonate strongly with our guests and delegates.” The choice is the hard part, as the Paradores collection is broad and varied. But, if your clients want bragging rights, impact, put sustainability high on their agenda, and are looking for something with plenty of heritage and somewhere off the hotel chain beaten track, then, provided your event is not for hundreds of attendees, the Paradores option could be one to explore. n
n More information, visit www. paradores. es
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