In a time when faceless corporations loom everywhere, finding a global corporation that really cares seems unlikely. We thought so too until we stumbled upon the Kauai Marriott Resort and Beach Club in Kauai, Hawaii. The Kauai Marriott strives to offer an authentic Hawaiian experience - from employees and design, to the food they serve and the intoxicating island music.

In 1994 when Marriott bought the hotel, formerly known as the Westin Hotel, Kauai was battling through an environmental and economic downfall; Hurricane Iniki had devastated the island, and unemployment was at a whopping 14 percent. Local islanders saw this as their opportunity to rebuild, but initially didn't trust the intentions of this mega corporation. The Marriott wisely wasted no time in investing in the cultural values and practices of the community in order to make sure that there was a solid relationship between the native residents and the hotel. Thus, rather than throwing a Grand Opening affair, the Marriott decided that they would rather spend the money by investing it into the community.

Mayor Maryanne Kusaka suggested that they donate the funds to the Kauai Food Bank, a local resource that was feeding 20 percent of the islands population. This act proved to the locals that Marriott was there for better or worse, and was fully intent on making Kauai a better place. From there, the Marriott continually worked with the Food Bank, eventually employing the bank as their food supplier. This created more jobs (in addition to the 90 percent of islanders employed by the new resort) and provided the Marriott with the fresh, authentic taste they needed in order to be an authentic, Hawaiian oasis. Marriott is on trend with Kauai. A recent report by the Travel Industry Association found that consumers are demanding travel experiences where they feel that their presence helps the community. This allows them to not only be part of the local community experience, but to feel like they're also adding value. Kauai Marriott shows that the travel industry has opportunities to build cultural capitol while at the same time generating increased revenue and word of mouth advertising.