22 Nov Four Seasons Whistler Honored – World Sustainable Travel & Hospitality Awards

Image by Brigitte Werner from Pixabay

Luxury Canadian property Four Seasons Resort and Residences Whistler has been recognized with the title of World’s Leading Indigenous Community Tourism Initiative 2025 by voters at the World Sustainable Travel & Hospitality Awards (WSTHA).

The prize was revealed in front of hundreds of global leaders of sustainable tourism gathered in Dubai for the World Sustainable Travel & Hospitality Awards 2025. The VIP ceremony was held at Terra, Expo City Dubai and recognized the individuals and organizations that are accelerating change in net positive tourism.

Four Seasons Resort and Residences Whistler exemplifies a values-led approach to sustainable luxury, grounded in Indigenous collaboration and cultural stewardship. Aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals—particularly Goals 10, 11, and 12—the resort prioritises equity, local resilience, and responsible consumption. Its long-standing partnerships with the Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre and Indigenous-owned Sḵwálwen Botanicals underpin its commitment to co-created cultural, culinary, and wellness experiences. 

Four Seasons Resort and Residences Whistler General Manager, Chelan Goonetilleke, said: “Every guest who visits Whistler has the opportunity to connect more deeply with the culture and spirit of this land,” says Chelan Goonetilleke, General Manager. “In working closely with our Indigenous community partners, we strive to create experiences that are not only memorable but also inspire a genuine appreciation for the rich cultural heritage that makes Whistler so special.”

Four Seasons Resort and Residences Whistler initiatives go beyond tourism, fostering genuine, trust-based relationships rooted in respect, reciprocity, and shared storytelling. The resort promotes Indigenous entrepreneurship through procurement, guest programming, and promotion—ensuring visibility and economic opportunity for local partners. 

WSTHA is run in partnership with the World Sustainable Hospitality Alliance, whose partners and members represent over 66,000 hotels, eight million rooms globally, 300 brands, and over 100 supply chain and strategic partners. 

Glenn Mandziuk, President & Chief Executive Officer, World Sustainable Hospitality Alliance, said: “We extend our congratulations to Four Seasons Resort and Residences Whistler on being honored. This achievement reflects an outstanding commitment to innovation, collaboration, and leadership in sustainable hospitality. At the World Sustainable Hospitality Alliance, we are proud to recognize organizations that are not only redefining excellence in guest experience but also demonstrating that responsible business practices and sustainability are essential to the future of our industry – a Net Positive Hospitality future.”

Justin Cooke, Executive Vice-President of the World Sustainable Travel & Hospitality Awards, said: “Our organization is dedicated to celebrating the individuals and companies setting new standards in protecting our planet for future generations – and Four Seasons Resort and Residences Whistler is a truly deserving winner. It’s a privilege to recognize the organization’s achievements at our second annual Gala Ceremony, and I wish the team continued success in the years ahead.”