In honour of International Women’s Day on March 8, Preferred Travel Group, is highlighting some of the exceptional initiatives implemented by member hotels globally that align with this year’s theme of #AccelerateAction. From Sweden to India and beyond, these hotels are deeply committed to empowering women—both within their local communities and further afield— driving meaningful change through inspiring programs and advocacy.
“At Preferred Travel Group, we believe that meaningful change begins with action. This International Women’s Day, we are proud to support and celebrate the impactful initiatives of our member hotels that empower women, uplift communities, and create lasting positive change. This day serves as a timely reminder that together we can build a more inclusive and equitable world,” said Lindsey Ueberroth, CEO of Preferred Travel Group.
Virgin Hotels Edinburgh (Edinburgh, United Kingdom) – Preferred Hotels & Resorts L.V.X. Collection
Virgin Hotels Edinburgh has collaborated with Lālla, a sustainable, women-led rug company to outfit their chambers and suites with unique, handmade Moroccan rugs. The London-based brand sources its rugs through female weaving cooperatives in Morocco’s Atlas Mountains, supporting local artisans and telling their stories through each piece. The partnership with Virgin Hotels involved creating fully bespoke designs, employing 215 women for the project. The process took around 18 months, with every rug reflecting the personal craftsmanship of the weavers. Lālla’s founders, driven by their passion for travel and female empowerment, have transformed their love for Moroccan artistry into a meaningful business that blends sustainability with storytelling.
ATELIER Playa Mujeres (Cancun, Mexico) – Preferred Hotels & Resorts L.V.X. Collection
ATELIER Playa Mujeres’ “Painting Smiles” program, in partnership with the Ciudad de la Alegría Foundation, supports various “Homes with a Cause,” including the Home of Women. This initiative focuses on supporting and extending a helping hand to women who have experienced violence or abandonment. Guests at the resort contribute through a nominal nightly donation, directly aiding these transformative programs. Additionally, hotel staff, known as Arteleros, engage in volunteer efforts, dedicating time and care to the community’s wellbeing.
Nordic Light Hotel (Stockholm, Sweden) – Preferred Hotels & Resorts Lifestyle Collection
Nordic Light Hotel works in partnership with Talita, a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting women leaving prostitution and human trafficking. Recognizing the challenges these women face, the hotel offers financial contributions, work training opportunities, and actively raises guest awareness about the issue. Every room features a door hanger on the pillows with information about Talita and ways for guests to support the cause—ensuring the message reaches everyone and clearly signalling the hotel’s commitment to this issue.
The Leela Palaces, Hotels and Resorts (India) – Preferred Hotels & Resorts Legend Collection and Beyond Green
In its commitment to sustainability, social responsibility, and women’s empowerment, The Leela Palaces, Hotels and Resorts has partnered with Phool to upcycle florals adorning its properties into charcoal-free incense sticks and cones infused with Tishya by The Leela, the brand’s signature fragrance. These incense products burn cleanly, releasing no harmful toxins, while also reducing waste and minimizing pollution. Beyond environmental impact, this initiative fosters social inclusion by empowering women entrepreneurs, who are meticulously trained to handcraft these sustainable products, playing a crucial role in The Leela’s journey toward conscious luxury.
SCP Corcovado Wilderness Lodge (Bahia Drake, Costa Rica) – Preferred Hotels & Resorts L.V.X. Collection and Beyond Green
SCP Corcovado Wilderness Lodge is an active member of the RED SOFIA international program, certifying the lodge as a safe destination for solo female travellers. Their dedication is also reflected in a partnership with Del Silencio a la Libertad, a local NGO working to combat sexual abuse through therapy, education, and advocacy. Additional support for women-led initiatives includes La Flor de Boruca, an organization founded by women from the indigenous Boruca tribe who are working to preserve traditional crafts and generating income through ecotourism. Through these efforts, the property not only uplifts women locally but also contributes to lasting cultural and societal change.
