Fogo Island Inn finalist for National Geographic award

The National Geographic World Legacy Awards released its finalists in five award categories in late October, and the Fogo Island Inn is one of three contenders in the sense of place category.

The category aims to recognize "excellence in enhancing sense of place and authenticity," including protection of indigenous heritage and artistic traditions.

"Designed to celebrate the rural heritage of this remote island in Newfoundland, Fogo Island Inn works closely with local communities to celebrate cultural heritage, ranging from participating in traditional village sing-a-longs to learning about handcrafted boat building," the National Geographic said in an online release.

"During their stay, guests team up with 'community hosts' who take them around the island to experience the local way of life."

Fogo Island Inn took several years to construct, and originated in a community meeting in 2004 after the Shorefast Foundation began spearheading education initiatives on Fogo Island.

The World Legacy Awards is a partnership between National Geographic Society and ITB Berlin, a world trade show.

There were more than 150 entrants for the inaugural awards, from 56 countries.