3 minute read
The Podmother: Sarah Riley
Sarah Riley has gained a worldwide following with her dulcet tones and wise words for her groundbreaking industry podcast. She tells us about the power of connection and the shared desire to make a difference.
The future looks bright as the industry continues to go from strength to strength, bringing with it a whirlwind of activity. This is demonstrated by the exciting projects being developed and the increasing numbers seeking to learn about glamping and eco-resorts.
For example, my industry podcast, The Business of Glamping And Unique Holiday Rentals has over 130,000 downloads and climbing, while The Glamping Academy has much more. For me, this has led to an exciting request to lead the new Glamping Americas podcast, further cementing the extraordinary growth of the industry around the world.
Being able to take part in Eco Resort Network has also been groundbreaking. 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.
These opportunities give me a chance to connect with likeminded souls designing one-of-a-kind projects across all continents. One such project was with Cairn Consulting who recently undertook to research the industry by talking to operators and new start-ups. The results highlighted there is still plenty of growth left in this style of outdoor hospitality for anyone wanting to get involved in the future.
This research has also been backed up by real examples from operators, such as how one resort booked out immediately after launching and generated a two-year waiting list just by using social media. While another launched a new style of floating off-grid glamping structure that seeks to sit within the heart of nature while having the least amount of impact, resulting in a rapid rise in bookings since they opened. www.inspiredcoursesvip.com
In fact, the results have continued to prove that this is still a good area of investment and having dedicated over a decade to working in this field (literally in some cases!), I’m genuinely thrilled to see it thriving so well.
Building something amazing in the wilderness that provides a gateway into nature without harming it, is difficult but it is possible. It just takes a lot of effort. This needs to be supported and I’m happy to play a small part in that through my Glamping Club, courses, workshops and podcasts.
From an environmental perspective, there’s no doubt we are in uncharted waters right now as the human race didn’t exist at a time when global temperatures were reaching such heights. We actually don’t know what’s going to happen next. This is a voyage of discovery, and like any voyage, there will be tough and difficult times ahead, as well as new beginnings.
But we can make a difference if we do it collectively and, in my humble opinion, owners of luxury outdoor hospitality are reinforcing this by revolutionising the travel industry so a larger number of people can make more sustainable choices about how they spend their leisure time.
I would even go so far to say that it’s these pioneers who will nurture future generations of earth protectors and advocates and help us move towards a more sustainable future. And I’m definitely looking forward to that!
