Viva con Agua's Unconventional Venture: A "Social" Hotel
Breaking convention, the philanthropic organization, Viva con Agua, has unveiled a unique endeavor: a hotel smack-dab in the heart of Hamburg. This new venture aims to fund future drinking water projects. Celebrities such as Jan Delay and Bela B. (Die Ärzte) are among the 19 private social investors who have pumped at least 250,000 euros each into this long-term project. The city of Hamburg waived roughly 70% of the land purchasing costs for the charitable association, and other partners chipped in by partially or fully waiving payments.
With commitment from all parties, this vision became a reality in just two and a half years. The result? A 138-room hotel catering to all budgets, complete with a restaurant, conference rooms, and a rooftop bar, all situated near the station. Project planner Leon Roloff mirrored the sentiment, stating, "This project is charged with commitment from all parties involved. Otherwise it would have been completely unrealistic." Approximately 36 million euros were invested in this ambitious project.
The private social investors, totaling 19, have put up 5.5 million euros for at least 15 years. They possess no option to sell their shares before that time, and upon the expiration of 15 years, Viva con Agua retains the right of first refusal. During the subsequent 20 years, the hotel's income, projected to attract around 100,000 guests per annum, will primarily serve to repay the loan.
However, profits from the restaurant are expected to surpass operational expenses as early as the next year. At least 40% of the profits flow directly to Viva con Agua's drinking water projects. Speaking of which, the organization views this hotel as an opportunity to substantially contribute to its cause in East Africa and Asia.
Aesthetically conversant and inviting, the 12-story hotel distributes flair via fun, colorful designs from numerous artists. Even Barbara Schöneberger and Jan Delay have added their creative touch. The rooms range from budget-friendly options to high-end suites, with the most premium suite costing around 300 euros.
Affectionately called "Villa Viva," the hotel will kick off on Thursday, and 80% of the rooms were already booked for the opening weekend. Viva con Agua, a Hamburg-based organization, endeavors to provide clean drinking water to communities in East Africa and Asia through these projects.
Support for Viva con Agua's construction project extends beyond stars and private investors. The benefits derived from this hotel's operations immensely contribute to staying true to Viva con Agua's mission, which relies heavily on community engagement and sustainable practices devoted to clean drinking water's advancement.
[1] Tripadvisor,
[3] Viva con Agua,
