HEARTLIST
Honoring excellence that is led by heart.
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HEARTLIST defines the new global standard for places that move – not just through perfection, but through purpose. It is the first global honoring initiative for the world’s leading travel, gourmet, and lifestyle experiences – recognizing not just perfection in design, quality, or service, but above all the deeper values and the full story behind each space and experience: passion, purpose, and authenticity.
VISION
This unique honoring is the foundation of an ecosystem that creates real economic value for its selected members – while allowing HEARTLIST itself to give back a meaningful share and support causes that create lasting impact.
We are the first to establish such a system across industries and experience formats, under one unified brand – setting a new global benchmark for meaningful excellence.
Heartlist is on its way to becoming the new global standard for travel, gourmet, and lifestyle experiences defined by values, soul, and emotional depth – far beyond conventional categories of quality.
Because when excellence meets intention, something truly meaningful happens.
Unlike conventional marketing awards, vanity labels, or pay-to-play listings, Heartlist is built on integrity. Each experience is carefully curated, independently evaluated, and honored based on deep values — not transactions. Every recognition is earned — through substance, emotion, and meaningful impact — making it a distinction of true and lasting value.
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What exactly is Heartlist?Heartlist is a global honoring program that recognizes travel, gourmet, and lifestyle experiences not only for excellence in quality and service — but for the deeper values they embody: passion, purpose, and authenticity.
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Who can apply for Heartlist Honoring?Any operator of a travel, culinary, or lifestyle experience that aligns with Heartlist’s values can apply — including hotels, villas, lodges, retreats, restaurants, producers, or curated experiences.
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How can I apply for Heartlist?You can submit your application directly via our online form. Simply choose whether you’re applying on behalf of your own experience or recommending someone else. Every submission begins the official review process.
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Does an application guarantee inclusion?No. Every application is carefully reviewed by the Heartlist Council. Only those that fully meet the criteria will be honored and accepted as members.
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What are the evaluation criteria?Heartlist looks at five key aspects: Excellence, Passion, Purpose, Authenticity, and Emotional Impact. These are defined in detail in the public statutes (Satzung).
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Is there a cost to become a Heartlist member?Yes. Membership includes an annual fee, which covers the use of the Heartlist seal, visibility, storytelling, and ongoing review. The exact fee will be communicated before confirming your inclusion.
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What happens after acceptance?You will receive the official designation “World’s Leading [Category] – Honored by Heartlist”, access to digital and physical award materials, and all benefits of Heartlist membership.
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Can someone recommend me for Heartlist?Yes. Experiences can be recommended by third parties or scouted directly by Heartlist. However, every case goes through the same formal review process.
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How long does the review process take?Initial review typically takes 2–4 weeks. In some cases, additional follow-up or background checks may be needed. You’ll be kept informed throughout the process.
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Who is the Heartlist Council?The Heartlist Council is an independent board of internal and external experts who evaluate each application. They ensure that only experiences aligned with Heartlist’s values of excellence, passion, purpose, and authenticity are honored. The founders of Heartlist are permanent members of the Council, anchoring its vision and integrity. To maintain independence and avoid static perspectives, additional internal and external experts are flexibly appointed for each evaluation cycle — ensuring fresh insights, no conflicts of interest, and the highest curatorial standards.
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Can I use the Heartlist seal everywhere?Yes – within the approved scope. Members may use the seal online, in print, and on-site, following the official brand guidelines. Misuse may result in removal.
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What if I’m not accepted?If your experience does not currently meet the criteria, we will let you know why. Reapplication is possible at a later time, especially after improvements or updates.