Kallichoron Hotel Presents its Sustainable Tourism Model for Astypalea

Astypalea, Cyclades. Photo Source: @Kallichoron

The Kallichoron Art Boutique Hotel, located on the island of Astypalea, presented its sustainable tourism model during the SASM Forum, an event that took place recently in Athens by the Alumni Association of Moraitis School (SASM).

Held under the theme “Tourism and New Horizons”, the forum hosted state officials including Tourism Minister Harry Theoharis and Greek National Tourism Organization President Angela Gerekou, as well as senior tourism executives and media representatives.

Kallichoron’s co-founder and hotel manager, Carolina Alkalai, participated in a workshop titled “Sustainable development and Greek tourism” and presented the hotel’s case study on sustainable development.

Kallichoron’s Maria Mavroudi and Carolina Alkalai (left)

Since its establishment, Kallichoron has been actively contributing to the progress and prosperity of the local community by highlighting Astypalea’s culture, history and traditions.

“Our aim is to build a responsible tourism unit, which will contribute to Astypalea’s economic prosperity, social integration, peace and understanding, cultural and environmental goals. This is the only way to change our world for the better,” said Alkalai, who is also an auditor certified by the German Sustainable Building Council.

Kallichoron Art Boutique Hotel

Kallichoron’s operation is based on the principles of sustainability and green development. Apart from the international awards it has received over the years, Kallichoron is the only hotel in the wider area of the Dodecanese certified with the “Green Key EcoLabel” for its environmental policy and the social responsibility initiatives it has undertaken for the island’s children and young people.

In addition, its “Kallichoron Goes Green” program aims to save natural resources by incorporating green practices to the hotel’s operation.

Other issues discussed during the two-day forum were the new trends and challenges in Greek tourism and the establishment of a sustainability model that would promote Greece’s natural beauties, support the local economy and highlight culture, history and tradition.

The SASM Forum was held under the auspices of the Greek National Tourism Organization.