HONOLULU (KHON2) — The Hawai‘i Tourism Authority launched a new platform that will help connect Hawaii-based and operating businesses with visitors.
HTA’s new “Qurator” will feature brands that reflect Hawai‘i’s people, land and culture in their values.
According to officials, businesses are certified based on six categories: environment, cultural support, equity, safety, community and guest experience.
Businesses fill out a survey answering between 150-225 questions out of 300 criteria qualifications that apply to “businesses of any size and any travel vertical.”
Qurator exemplifies HTA’s commitment to championing businesses and organizations that enrich our community as a whole. Many travelers want to make responsible choices, and with Qurator, visitors can easily identify businesses that align with their values and contribute to a more sustainable, regenerative Hawai‘i.
Daniel Nāho‘opi‘i, HTA interim president and CEO
Participating businesses can also be ranked on several tiers: Certified, Honored and Elite.
“The global standards stop at tours and accommodations. We had to create something which hadn’t previously existed: standards to cover everyone from cruise lines to surf schools,” said Jon Peahl, Kilohana quality assurance manager.
Officials said 13 businesses have been certified under the Qurator program. These businesses include Alaska Airlines, Bishop Museum, Four Seasons Resort Lāna‘i, Hāna and Beyond, Hawai‘i Forest and Trail, HI Honey Farm, Hawaiian Airlines, Holo Holo Charters, Keoki’s Paradise, Maui Chocolate Tour, Southwest Airlines, Stargazers of Hawaiʻi, and Trilogy Excursions.
For more information or to become a certified business, visit Qurator’s website.