Painting vacation in Andalucia, Spain
How this vacation makes a difference
Environment
We recognise that the environment, the community and the culture within which we operate and our relationship with local organisations, businesses and individuals is vital to the success of our business. We operate in an area which has one of the highest unemployment rates in Europe – around 30%, particularly during the winter months as many of the jobs available are seasonal for the duration of the summer tourist season. We are very pleased therefore that we have been able to provide economic support for our local community by bringing business to the local economy during the winter months.
70% of our turnover is spent in local businesses and our clients spend money in the village as well. We use locally owned and run accommodation by preference and promote the local heritage, architecture, culture and gastronomy of our region wherever we can. We aim to where possible purchase our equipment and food from locally produced sources. We support our local farmers by using local produce in season wherever we can and use local guide services.
Community
We support local income generation and small business enterprises by supporting locally owned shops and restaurants. We have encouraged the local olive oil Co-operativa de Nuestra Senora de la Nieves to inform clients about production of virgin olive oil through guided tours of the production facility. We encourage the production of local crafts & produce by marketing to our customers – eg vino del terreno, pottery and ceramica, virgin olive oil, avocado oil products.
Our guests are given the opportunity to buy locally made gifts to take home and spend around 5,500 euros in the village per annum (based upon number of clients pa x average 55 euros per client). Money earned is ploughed back into restoring and maintaining village houses.
Our guides are steeped in local knowledge and are able to show people how not to disturb local flora & fauna.
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