The Ritz-Carlton's chainwide "Give Back Getaways," billed as a first for a hotel company, will offer guests "a chance to partner with us in making a difference," says Sue Stephenson, the Ritz "social responsibility" chief who proposed the program and is overseeing it.

"Voluntourism" is now a travel buzzword, and "even the luxury consumer is philanthropic," she says. "It gives them the opportunity to feel they've done something … touched the community where they're staying, and have the pampering and luxury, too."

Ritz knows the idea is controversial: Some might say that doing good between massages and piña coladas served poolside is like Marie Antoinette playing peasant for a day at Versailles.

"The guests will be doing something (significant), and it has to be a positive experience for the recipients," Stephenson says. "I think this will increase interest in volunteering (at home) and will contribute to the common good." Ritz staffers will participate, too.

Most programs last a half-day and run $50-$100 to cover transportation and a donation to the charity or group.

Guests at The Ritz-Carlton, Tysons Corner near Washington, D.C., can aid the Rainbow Center riding program that serves psychologically or physically challenged children.

"We spent a lot of time" debating whether it would be good to have a stream of Ritz guests dropping in to assist riders, Rainbow Center executive director Debi Alexander said Tuesday as she watched a 6-year-old autistic girl happily bond with a docile quarter horse named Amigo in Haymarket, Va. "But spreading that awareness to the public (of programs like Rainbow and the need for volunteers) is important."

All 70 Ritz-Carltons worldwide will have at least one volunteer option. Most are environmental, such as aiding in the conservation of palm trees in Chile and helping protect endangered blue iguanas on Grand Cayman Island. Volunteers also can work at orphanages, food kitchens and the like. A list of offerings is due on ritzcarlton.com April 1.

Volunteering for a day "can cause disruption," and there are "potential pitfalls," such as guests viewing it as "a zoo experience," says David Clemmons, founder of VolunTourism.org, a clearinghouse for volunteer vacations. Ritz may be criticized, he says. But Stephenson has consulted him, and "I am pleased with the approach they're taking.

"I feel what they've created can stand up to the scrutiny and do good."

Enlarge By Patrick Broderick New pal: Nesta Broderick greets a blue iguana on Grand Cayman Island.

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