What sets ecolodges apart from other lodging facilities is their commitment to the local community and the ecosystems nearby. Some people find this quite hard to accomplish, and either their business plan fails or their commitment to the community eventually vanishes. However, this is not the case for Kurt Holle, who decided to open a one-of-a-kind resort in the Peruvian Amazon. Holle's lodge, The Posadas Amazonas, opened around 13 years ago, and its success still amazes locals and foreigners equally. His business model is so unique that scholars at Stanford are studying it. This enterprise started as a joint venture between Holle and the indigenous Eseeja community. As part of their agreement, 60 percent of the profits go to the community until 2016, when the company will be fully owned by the community. All the employees at this lodge are locals, including the current manager who is a woman from the community learning marketing and managerial skills. Many of the current employees used to be involved in illegal activities such as mining and timber selling. By allowing these community members to be fully involved in decision-making and operations, Holle has changed the lifestyle of these people. He is not only making profit out of this business but also helping preserve the rainforest.

Kurt Holle admits without hesitation that the sole purpose of this resort is to make a profit. How does this lodge still get classified as an ecolodge?

In your opinion, what is the key to the success Holle has had so far?