Secret Retreats’ Commitment to Local Communities
At Secret Retreats, sustainability is more than just a concept—it is a way of life, deeply rooted in the connection between our properties and the communities they call home. True sustainability does not require grand gestures; sometimes, the smallest acts of kindness can create the most meaningful change.
Our members continuously find ways to support their local communities, whether by creating jobs, sourcing locally, or nurturing the next generation through education and care.
At the beginning of this year, the Bohemian Residence visited a temple school and orphanage in Northern Thailand, bringing snacks, beverages, and essential supplies for the children and novices. The joy on their faces was a reminder that even the simplest gestures can bring warmth and hope.
Beyond just providing necessities, this visit was an opportunity to connect with the children, share laughter, and let them know they are seen and valued. The monks and caretakers expressed their heartfelt gratitude, emphasizing how these small acts of kindness make a meaningful difference in their daily lives. For many of the children, who come from underprivileged backgrounds, moments like these bring a sense of belonging and encouragement, reinforcing their belief in a brighter future.
Such initiatives go beyond charity; they embody the spirit of community and shared humanity. By taking the time to give, listen, and engage, the Bohemian Residence continues to uphold the values of responsible hospitality—where sustainability is not just about preserving the environment, but also about uplifting the people who are an integral part of it.
In Thailand, it is a tradition for families to celebrate their children’s graduation from middle to high school with bouquets of flowers and necklaces made of banknotes. While students from well-off families receive generous gifts, those from underprivileged backgrounds often go without any recognition, as their parents cannot afford even a small token of encouragement.
One of our member properties, decided to change that. Just a few kilometers from their doorstep, they brought joy to a local rural school by gifting each graduating student a balloon and a banknote necklace worth 100 to 200 baht (approximately $4 to $7). A small gesture, yet one that left a lasting impact. Teachers, moved to tears, shared that it was the first time these students had ever received anything for their graduation.
By supporting their dreams, even in the simplest of ways, we reaffirm the belief that sustainability is not just about preserving the environment but also about uplifting the people who make up the heart of our communities.
Every act of kindness, no matter how small, has the power to brighten someone’s future. And that is what true hospitality is all about.
