PurposeThe study investigates the relationship between quality of work life (QWL), work–life balance (WLB) and quality of life (QoL), with reference to corporate social responsibility (CSR) approaches used at the Shangri-La, B&B and Rui hotel companies.Design/methodology/approachThe study draws on the literature and on comparative case study analysis of three very different companies.Findings The findings indicate that CSR practices have a positive impact on QoL, regardless of company size, location or type of initiative, and that they underline the importance of education as a key to success.Originality/valueThis article concentrates on the concept of QoL and explores different applications of the idea in various environments.