We will change the way you think about eco-tourism. Wander through rice fields & food forests. Trek in the jungle, or up the mountain. Frolic under our waterfall, swim in the stream.
On an island of beautiful locations, we stand out, as one of the most beautiful. The views are breathtaking, a Balinese paradise. If you don’t do any activities, you’ll still have a great time. Our focus is on sustainability. Spring water, local timbers, hydro-electricity, non-chemical housekeeping, proper waste management, organic rice, fruit and vegetables, active social programs & environment projects. We are just a few, modern, timber bungalows, set in a panoramic landscape, nestled in a gentler climate, in central Bali. It is Balinese graciousness, and fabulous villa standards, in a gorgeous setting, with environmental care and a social conscience.
Yes, you can have it all…
Special things to do and see here.
We have seven stunning walks that showcase this beautiful area, through the rice paddy’s, up into the forest, along magical streams, through traditional villages, along secluded tracks, guided or unguided its up to you!
There is a fantastic bike ride available that meanders through rice paddy’s and villages that ends up at the coast, it is breathtaking! (4 hours). Our Head Chef Mini has had years of experience teaching visitors how to prepare Balinese Cuisine. We have a purpose built kitchen designed for cooking classes.
We have carving workshops, traditional basket making, kite making and flying, natural rock pools for swimming, fishing in local ponds and streams, Balinese massage, planting and harvesting organic rice on our property (seasonal),making traditional coconut oil for massage, making Balinese decorations in the village, join our weekly children’s Balinese dance and gamelan class, join our twice weekly classes and help the locals speak English, join our twice weekly silat class (traditional Balinese martial art), we also have a children’s play area for under 10’s.
Our eco bungalows in Bali are located on the Southern slopes of Mt. Batukaru (2200 m), Bali’s second highest mountain. Approximately 2 hours from Ubud and Kuta. You will see rice paddies and the southern coastline from your bungalow.
How this holiday makes a difference
Diversifying the local economy We provide free internet access to locals.(24/7) We create small business opportunities for locals, such as car hire, workshop facilitators, and bamboo shingle production. We also support the local banjar (village council) with regular donations. We recently donated Rp 2 million to the village gamelon group to purchase new uniforms. We pay for a teacher to instruct local kids on Silat (traditional martial art) and purchase their uniforms. We teach locals English, twice a week for one hour. We support out side charities like The Sea Shepard Conservation Society, The Tasmania Wilderness Society and Tabo Monastery (Tibetan Buddhism) with yearly donations totaling $750. We have literature on the virtues of these organisations in our library and John is nearly always wearing a Sea Shepard tee shirt. Guests are encouraged to partake in the many activities we have on offer which invariably involve one or more of the villagers in some way. Whether it be guiding, driving, instructing, cooking or gardening. The local community is the main stay of our business. There is no public transport in our area so all transport is provided by the villagers, unless of course, punters have there own transport. Environment Our Eco Stay operations comply with international guidelines for sustainability. We have on site hydro electricity (pelaton wheel). Light bulbs are 1 watt at the most 5 watt. All our refrigerators and freezers are the latest Sanyo Energy efficient models, on site treatment and disposal of sewerage and waste water (septic system) – we have showers only and half flush toilets and we have a grey water recycling system… Every second day, bottom sheet is cleaned, top moved to bottom, clean on top. Towels are air dried in the sun on racks, unless placed in basket in bathroom for washing. We also have on site organic food production, and non toxic pest control and house keeping (we use local Bali Astli products, throughout the property). We practice sustainable landscaping and land management – no forest trees were used for construction, only local farm grown timbers used. We have a system of sorting composting and recycling. Composting: after clearing unproductive chocolate trees for food garden development, we are allowing the carbon rich chocolate (slow to decompose) compost anaerobically in piles with cow manure and rice husk. We had a lot of material to work with and insufficient energy to do this any other way. We look forward to composting aerobically in the near future. Grey water: (wash water) We use the stretch filter treatment technique, the aim is to remove large particles and fibres to protect the subsequent infiltration pipes from clogging, and transferring it as soon as possible for treatment into a biologically active, aerobic soil zone environment where both macro and micro organisms can thrive. We practice: – recycling; organic waste, glass, metal, paper. – eco stay is reintroducing native fruiting trees – we have several ponds that we are preparing for aquaculture. (creating a habitat). – we have numerous areas throughout the property where natural vegetation is allowed to flourish. – our office is as paper free as possible. – we only travel away from home to collect guests and do the shopping and of course go to ceremony’s. Our Eco bungalows are creating a safe haven for native birds and animals We are increasing environmental awareness in the local community. – firstly by being here and showing the locals that outsiders are very concerned for our planet. – providing a rubbish collection and recycling service. – educating the locals on the benefits of growing your own vegetables.(they grow there own fruit) – reintroducing traditional organic rice farming techniques. We have an ongoing commitment to the sustainable management of The Kupe Kupe River System. We are set to implement a study of the river system to ascertain its water quality and viability to villagers who can access the system. Community All our staff (11 full time & 10 part time) are from local villages, either Kanciana, Kumetug, Gump Pinis or Sarinbuana Village. The construction of Our eco bungalows has been carried out entirely by local villagers, from the head contractor, down. Staff are trained in hospitality principles and permaculture practices. As many goods and services as possible are sourced locally and regularly by and from the same people, when ever possible.
For more information: Bali Eco Stay
Red Mangrove proudly presents: DELIGHTFUL ECUADOR
/in Eco Lodges and Conservation sites/by Lise TyrrellRed Mangrove Galapagos & Ecuador Lodges introduces a superb 8 days / 7 nights program: Delightful Ecuador. This is an exotic fusion of the warm and colorful Costal Lowlands with the majestic and beautiful Andean Highlands. A mixture that will take your breath away!
We choose the most comfortable and secure facilities for this adventure through Ecuador because we want our guests to live an enjoyable experience that will last in their memories forever.
Our guests will discover amazing destinations such as Guayaquil, called the Pearl of the Pacific, for its beauty and dynamism. Our guests will also embark upon a journey through la Ruta del Sol to taste its essence through pristine beaches, fishermen villages and exciting activities – A la Carte -.
At the Highlands guests will enjoy of World Heritage Cities, indigenous markets, the unique Avenue of the Volcanoes and an exciting rail road trip in the heart of Ecuadorian Andes: The Train to Nariz del Diablo (Devil’s Nose). This program runs all year around and includes accommodations, most meals, all ground, air and water transportation plus activities, guides and airport transfers.
It suits perfectly from one person to a party of 12 people. Families, honeymooners, seniors, all will be captured by the refinement of a program that truly shows how Delightful Ecuador is!. Families, honeymooners, seniors, all will be capture by the refinement of a program that truly shows how Delightful Ecuador can be.
A special introductory price of $1590 USD, will be applied per person in double occupancy for early bookings.
Contact us now at [email protected] or visit our site: Red
Mangrove Galapagos
Bali Eco Stay’s Responsible Travel Information
/in Eco Lodges and Conservation sites/by Lise TyrrellWe will change the way you think about eco-tourism. Wander through rice fields & food forests. Trek in the jungle, or up the mountain. Frolic under our waterfall, swim in the stream.
On an island of beautiful locations, we stand out, as one of the most beautiful. The views are breathtaking, a Balinese paradise. If you don’t do any activities, you’ll still have a great time. Our focus is on sustainability. Spring water, local timbers, hydro-electricity, non-chemical housekeeping, proper waste management, organic rice, fruit and vegetables, active social programs & environment projects. We are just a few, modern, timber bungalows, set in a panoramic landscape, nestled in a gentler climate, in central Bali. It is Balinese graciousness, and fabulous villa standards, in a gorgeous setting, with environmental care and a social conscience.
Yes, you can have it all…
Special things to do and see here.
We have seven stunning walks that showcase this beautiful area, through the rice paddy’s, up into the forest, along magical streams, through traditional villages, along secluded tracks, guided or unguided its up to you!
There is a fantastic bike ride available that meanders through rice paddy’s and villages that ends up at the coast, it is breathtaking! (4 hours). Our Head Chef Mini has had years of experience teaching visitors how to prepare Balinese Cuisine. We have a purpose built kitchen designed for cooking classes.
We have carving workshops, traditional basket making, kite making and flying, natural rock pools for swimming, fishing in local ponds and streams, Balinese massage, planting and harvesting organic rice on our property (seasonal),making traditional coconut oil for massage, making Balinese decorations in the village, join our weekly children’s Balinese dance and gamelan class, join our twice weekly classes and help the locals speak English, join our twice weekly silat class (traditional Balinese martial art), we also have a children’s play area for under 10’s.
Our eco bungalows in Bali are located on the Southern slopes of Mt. Batukaru (2200 m), Bali’s second highest mountain. Approximately 2 hours from Ubud and Kuta. You will see rice paddies and the southern coastline from your bungalow.
How this holiday makes a difference
Diversifying the local economy We provide free internet access to locals.(24/7) We create small business opportunities for locals, such as car hire, workshop facilitators, and bamboo shingle production. We also support the local banjar (village council) with regular donations. We recently donated Rp 2 million to the village gamelon group to purchase new uniforms. We pay for a teacher to instruct local kids on Silat (traditional martial art) and purchase their uniforms. We teach locals English, twice a week for one hour. We support out side charities like The Sea Shepard Conservation Society, The Tasmania Wilderness Society and Tabo Monastery (Tibetan Buddhism) with yearly donations totaling $750. We have literature on the virtues of these organisations in our library and John is nearly always wearing a Sea Shepard tee shirt. Guests are encouraged to partake in the many activities we have on offer which invariably involve one or more of the villagers in some way. Whether it be guiding, driving, instructing, cooking or gardening. The local community is the main stay of our business. There is no public transport in our area so all transport is provided by the villagers, unless of course, punters have there own transport. Environment Our Eco Stay operations comply with international guidelines for sustainability. We have on site hydro electricity (pelaton wheel). Light bulbs are 1 watt at the most 5 watt. All our refrigerators and freezers are the latest Sanyo Energy efficient models, on site treatment and disposal of sewerage and waste water (septic system) – we have showers only and half flush toilets and we have a grey water recycling system… Every second day, bottom sheet is cleaned, top moved to bottom, clean on top. Towels are air dried in the sun on racks, unless placed in basket in bathroom for washing. We also have on site organic food production, and non toxic pest control and house keeping (we use local Bali Astli products, throughout the property). We practice sustainable landscaping and land management – no forest trees were used for construction, only local farm grown timbers used. We have a system of sorting composting and recycling. Composting: after clearing unproductive chocolate trees for food garden development, we are allowing the carbon rich chocolate (slow to decompose) compost anaerobically in piles with cow manure and rice husk. We had a lot of material to work with and insufficient energy to do this any other way. We look forward to composting aerobically in the near future. Grey water: (wash water) We use the stretch filter treatment technique, the aim is to remove large particles and fibres to protect the subsequent infiltration pipes from clogging, and transferring it as soon as possible for treatment into a biologically active, aerobic soil zone environment where both macro and micro organisms can thrive. We practice: – recycling; organic waste, glass, metal, paper. – eco stay is reintroducing native fruiting trees – we have several ponds that we are preparing for aquaculture. (creating a habitat). – we have numerous areas throughout the property where natural vegetation is allowed to flourish. – our office is as paper free as possible. – we only travel away from home to collect guests and do the shopping and of course go to ceremony’s. Our Eco bungalows are creating a safe haven for native birds and animals We are increasing environmental awareness in the local community. – firstly by being here and showing the locals that outsiders are very concerned for our planet. – providing a rubbish collection and recycling service. – educating the locals on the benefits of growing your own vegetables.(they grow there own fruit) – reintroducing traditional organic rice farming techniques. We have an ongoing commitment to the sustainable management of The Kupe Kupe River System. We are set to implement a study of the river system to ascertain its water quality and viability to villagers who can access the system. Community All our staff (11 full time & 10 part time) are from local villages, either Kanciana, Kumetug, Gump Pinis or Sarinbuana Village. The construction of Our eco bungalows has been carried out entirely by local villagers, from the head contractor, down. Staff are trained in hospitality principles and permaculture practices. As many goods and services as possible are sourced locally and regularly by and from the same people, when ever possible.
For more information: Bali Eco Stay
Special Promotion to discover Galapagos and the rest of Ecuador
/in Eco Lodges and Conservation sites/by Lise TyrrellRed Mangrove Galapagos and Ecuador Lodges, announces a 15 day/14-night program, Ecuador Four Worlds, that reveals Ecuador’s historical nooks and cultural and botanical/biological quadrants spanning the Equator.
In the Galapagos our guests will stay in three of its five multi-island lodges. In other locations guests will enjoy the hospitality of boutique hotels and eco-lodges, their colorful hosts and the area’s most popular activities. All have been meticulously sourced by Red Mangrove Galapagos and Ecuador Lodges.
The four distinct worlds of Ecuador are explored, including the Andean Highlands with the World Heritage capital city Quito, the Equatorial Monument, historic Cuenca, and the best-preserved Inca complex in the country, Ingapirca.
The second quadrant takes in the bio-diversity in and around the Galapagos Islands with snorkeling with sea lions, a visit to a private preserve where giant Galapagos tortoises freely roam, exploring pirate lore and legend on Floreana, hiking in the caldera and visiting lava caves on Isabela.
The third quadrant includes the Amazon Basin where guests stay at a remote jungle lodge accessed by dugout canoe with hikes to a native village and a canopy tower adventure.
Quadrant number four encompasses the Coastal Lowlands and includes tours of historic Guayaquil, Ecuador’s largest commercial center, a yacht tour along the Guayas River and shopping at artisan markets.
The tour can be enjoyed as a solo traveler, couple, family or in small, private groups of up to 12 and is offered twelve months a year. It includes accommodations, most meals, all ground, air and water transportation between island and mainland locations, plus activities, guides and airport transfers.
A special fixed departure is set for April 12 and will have 50% discount on the domestic flight to and from Galapagos.
Contact us to request information: [email protected]
Red Mangrove Galapagos
“It was my greatest adventure in my life!” review of Turneffe Flats green hotel in Belize
/in Ecotourism/by Lise TyrrellThe most active my past vacations have been are touring churches, towns, restaurants and wineries throughout Italy. When my husband told me he had enough and it was time for “his” type of vacation, well, I was pretty disappointed. He came home one night and said we are going to Turneffe Flats on the Turneffe Atoll in Belize. No discussion. I pouted for two months after this announcement, until I started to do research on the country and the resort. My mood changed to eager anticipation, but I wasn’t a diver nor a fishing addict, so I thought I’d be laying on the beach every day reading, while he fly fished. Not my idea of a great vacation. I couldn’t have been more wrong! I signed up for the Atoll Adventure and it was the best adventure of my life! I spent 6 days with Abelino Coe- the creator and guide for the package, and everyday was a blast. Abel taught me how to snorkel – please note, I have fear of being over my head in water!! He started me out in the shallow flats looking at amazing coral beds with over the top tropical fish. Every day Abel took me to another location with different offerings, getting a little deeper each time. One day 4, we traveled with the divers to the Blue Hole – and Abel and I snorkeled our way to the edge with the coral reefs. That was an amazing time – and definitely one for the bucket list! Visiting Half Moon Caye that same day to view the Red Footed Boobies and to snorkel the island was another great adventure. During that week, Abel and I traveled to different parts of the Atoll and sought out manatees, sand/shore creatures, crocs, birds, butterflies, flora and fauna. Visiting Half Moon Caye for the Red Footed Boobies and to snorkel the island was another great adventure.
I really enjoyed meeting others from around the world. Sharing breakfast and dinners was great fun – and the food was excellent every single day. The chefs in the kitchen, and the wait staff, received standing applauses on our last evening. I even bought the TF cook book and the special Belizean spice mix so that I could keep reliving my great Belizean adventure at home.
I wasn’t prepared to snorkel so I came with nothing and used the resorts’ equipment. I came home with a long sleeved “skin” that I bought in the TF gift shop- which was the best buy of my vacation. Saved my back from getting burnt while snorkeling in the water. I ended up wearing white ankle socks with my fins, as I couldn’t stop snorkeling!
The resort only accommodates a small number of guests so getting to mingle with everyone was a real bonus. And each staff member was most accommodating, most respectful and genuinely pleased that we selected Turneffe Flats for our vacation. Sharing meals with the staff was a bonus, as I learned more about the Belizean culture.
Our room was very comfortable – the bathroom plush actually – and who can beat an ocean / sunrise view?
Snorkeling (and fishing) is great right off the pier, as the coral reef runs right out in front of the resort. So you can continue the adventure on your own in the late afternoon. Also drinking Pantie Rippers and Beliken Beers under the thatched deck in the late afternoon is pretty good too.
And I just learned that Turneffe Flat is putting in an Infinity Pool at the water’s edge. This will be of great use after you come home from your adventure in the late afternoon, and evening as well, especially under clear starry and moonlight nights. How romantic!
Additional information:
The country/culture is so diverse, so plan to add several days before or after Turneffe Atoll. Guides can take you to the Mayan ruins and into the jungle areas – so worth it. Tubing down Stann Creek while visiting Cockscomb Jaguar Preserve was great fun. In my next trip I’ll visit San Igancio and Ambergis Caye. And I plan to come home with more Belize Rum and Guatemalan coffee!
To visit Turneffe Flats website: Turneffe
Flats
Matava wins AON Fiji Excellence in Tourism Award 2010
/in Eco Lodges and Conservation sites, Ecotourism/by Lise TyrrellMatava has been awarded the Environment/Local Sustainability Award at the AON Fiji Excellence in Tourism Awards.
KADAVU, FIJI ISLANDS – 26th February 2011 – Matava – Fiji’s Premier Eco-Adventure Resort is proud to be announced as the winner of the Environment/Local Sustainability Award at the AON Fiji Excellence in Tourism Awards 2010 for its policies on environmental sustainability and the environment.
The annual Fiji Excellence in Tourism Awards night sponsored by AON was held at the The Warwick Resort and Spa on the Coral Coast on Friday 26th February 2011, and attended by Matava Director, Stuart Gow. Many local tourism operators and business people attended the evening presentations. This year there were over a thousand nominees in the 12 categories. This glamourous event was Red Sea Rig & Cocktail theme, welcoming guests with a 3 course dinner, an awards ceremony & fantastic live entertainment with a turn out of over 400 guests
Matava was proud to be nominated in 3 categories, and was chosen as a finalist in all nominated categories at this year’s AON Fiji Excellence in Tourism Awards. Bite Me Gamefishing Charters and Mad Fish Dive Centre were recognised as finalist in the Fiji Experience Award, and Matava – Fiji’s Premier Eco Adventure Resort was a finalist in the Quality Accommodation Award as well as winning the Environment/Local Sustainability Award.
“We are extremely proud to win this award. We have been lucky to win overseas and global awards for our environmental policy in the past year, but it is especially gratifying to be recognised at home by our colleagues in Fiji.” said Mr Stuart Gow, one of Matava’s Directors.
Richard Akhtar, Managing Director of Matava – Fiji’s Premier Eco Adventure Resort said “At Matava, we are of course both happy and proud to receive this prestigious award. We find it even more important that the industry, by rewarding environmental efforts, choose to take a stand for the environment we depend on. We also see it as an important continuing signal to the community which at the same time can serve to inspire the numerous individuals and companies who have been doing so much, and continue to do even more in the field of environmental enlightenment and conservation. This award has highlighted Fiji’s leading role and efforts in this regard especially.”
About Matava – Fiji’s Premier Eco Adventure Resort
Matava – Fiji’s Premier Eco Adventure Resort, is an eco adventure getaway offering you a fun and unique blend of cultural experiences and adventure activities in the environmentally pristine and remote island of Kadavu in the Fiji Islands. Matava – Fiji Premier Eco Adventure Resort is a PADI Dive Resort as well as a Project AWARE GoEco Operator. With more than 12 years experience in the Fiji Islands, Matava is recognized as a leading educational dive centre. Matava offers accommodation for up to 22 guests in lush tropical surroundings in traditional thatched Fijian ‘bures’ with hardwood polished floors, louvre windows and private decks offering privacy, comfort and superb ocean views.
For interviews, images or further information please contact Stuart Gow, [email protected], t: 679-997-5416
About AON Fiji Excellence in Tourism Awards:
The awards which have been in existence for 14 years, honour those who have made a significant input to Fiji’s most important industry. The prestigious awards are given to individuals, groups and companies in a broad range of categories; covering accommodation, restaurant and dining, tours and transportation, environmental and local sustainability. Winners were chosen as part of a nomination process which began late last year and closed in January. Recipients of the various awards have proven dedication, active participation and innovation in their fields of speciality, and have thus merited the esteem of the industry. Over the years, the AON Excellence in Tourism Awards has grown in prestige and now not only bestows recognition but serves as an incentive for individuals and companies to aspire to greatness in the sector.
Contact:
Stuart Gow
[email protected]
+679 997 5416
Matava
Cayuga Sustainable Hospitality offers honeymoon specials for its Costa Rican and Nicaragua Green Hotels
/in Ecotourism/by Lise TyrrellFeb 23, 2011, San José, Costa Rica – With the average wedding costing more than $24,000, it’s no secret that tying the knot can be an expensive affair. Before putting that dream honeymoon on the chopping block, consider sacrificing the wedding dress for one with a few less rhinestones and head to Costa Rica – your marriage will thank you.
Cayuga Sustainable Hospitality manages five high-end, Earth-friendly resorts, hotels and ecolodges in Costa Rica: Latitude 10 Beach Resort, Lapa Rios Ecolodge, Finca Rosa Blanca Coffee Plantation & Inn, Arenas Del Mar Beachfront & Rainforest Resort, and Harmony Hotel. And with honeymoon season right around the corner, the award-winning hospitality group has launched honeymoon specials for each of its locations:
• Latitude 10 Resort: After taking the plunge, spend a few days with your new sweetie at the private, tropical Latitude 10 Resort. Enjoy the peace of your open-air window secluded bungalow and the deserted white sand beaches of Playa Santa Teresa. Latitude 10’s honeymoon special runs April 25 through Nov. 20, 2011: stay five nights in the master suite and pay for only four and enjoy a complimentary private, romantic dinner. For more information, visit Latitued 10 Resort, call (506) 2640-0396 or email [email protected].
• Lapa Rios Ecolodge: If you love nature as much as your main squeeze, consider Lapa Rios for that dream honeymoon. An oceanfront bungalow serves as your headquarters, complete with a private wooden deck and an open-air shower. Wander through one of many rainforest trails and listen to the natural music of the local wildlife. Lapa Rios’ honeymoon special runs April 25 through Nov. 20, 2011: book the Honeymoon Package and receive an additional night for free. For more information, visit Lapa Rios Ecolodge, call (506) 2735-5130 or email [email protected].
• Finca Rosa Blanca Coffee Plantation & Inn: Pamper yourselves by soaking in an organic coffee, clove and citrus bath or sit under the cascading waterfall of Finca Rosa Blanca’s sweet water infinity pool. After a dinner featuring local ingredients, settle into your bed’s soft bamboo linens and airy sheets and dream of a long future with your new love. Finca Rosa Blanca’s honeymoon special runs April 25 through Nov. 20, 2011: stay three nights and pay for only two and receive a complimentary bottle of sparkling wine. For more information, visit www.fincarosablanca.com, call (506) 2269-9392 or email [email protected].
• Arenas Del Mar Beachfront & Rainforest Resort: Stressed out from all that wedding planning? Chill out at Arenas del Mar, the ideal location for couples needing to decompress and reconnect. Surrounded by rainforest, this spot includes beautiful private suites, two full-service dining areas, spa, access to miles of pristine beaches and private swimming pools. Arenas Del Mar’s honeymoon special runs April 25 through Nov. 20, 2011: stay five nights in the ocean view premium suite and pay for only four and receive a complimentary romantic beach dinner and a tour of Manuel Antonio National Park. For more information, visit Arenas Del Mar Beach and Nature Resort, call (506) 2777-2777 or email [email protected].
• The Harmony Hotel: A labor of love in itself, Harmony is a magical place designed to help its guests find balance through love and nature. And with nothing but Mother Nature as a distraction, this hotel is a dreamy, secluded setting for an unforgettable experience. Harmony’s honeymoon special runs April 25 though Nov. 20, 2011: stay five nights in a bungalow and pay for only four and receive a complimentary romantic dinner. For more information, visit The Harmony Hotel, call (506) 2682-4114 or email [email protected].
“At the end of the day, it’s not the mile-high cake or elaborate table centerpieces the bride and groom remember most – it’s those first few days spent in the marriage afterglow,” said Hans Pfister, CEO and principle of Cayuga Sustainable Hospitality. “When staying at one of our earth-friendly ecolodges and resorts in Costa Rica and Nicaragua, surrounded by private rainforests and beaches, new couples are offered the much-needed peace and tranquility to relax and reconnect after the big day.”
And just as the wedding should be a unique affair, so should the honeymoon. Cayuga’s locations offer a range of outdoor opportunities – when the newlyweds aren’t relaxing on secluded beachfronts, enjoying gourmet eats or lounging in the private open-air bungalows. Some highlights include hiking the wild rainforest waterfalls at Lapa Rios Ecolodge, taking a surfing and stand-up paddling lesson at Harmony Hotel, horseback riding near Arenas Del Mar and touring the organic coffee plantation at Finca Rosa Blanca.
And for the newlyweds who want to go where few have gone before, consider staying at Cayuga’s sixth ecolodge, located in Nicaragua:
• Jicaro Island Ecolodge: A secluded island getaway perfect to spend those first few newlywed days. Start the day with yoga overlooking the lake or relax in your private hammock. Finish the day with a sunset kayak and a candlelight dinner on a floating dock. Jicaro’s honeymoon special runs April 25 through Nov. 20, 2011: stay three nights and pay for only two and pick from either a complimentary romantic dinner on the floating dock or a couples massage. For more information, visit Jicaro Island Ecolodge or email [email protected].
Calabash Mountain Villa in St. Lucia
/in Eco Lodges and Conservation sites/by Lise TyrrellAs owner of Calabash Mountain Villa, a new property listed on this site, it was with joy that we discovered Eco Tropical Resorts, a site that echoes our philosophy of how we should exist in our surroundings.
Developing a place for people to come and enjoy what I love about my homeland has been a dream of mine for years. That is why, years ago, when the opportunity to obtain this property for a decent price came about, I jumped on it.
Our initial plan was to develop a small village concept, with bungalows around the property. We put a formal business plan together and went shopping for investors. The concept was interesting to potential investors, but they wanted to invest in much larger projects than the one I was proposing. So the idea went on the back burner until I could find a way to make it happen. The fire to do something never died.
A few years ago, the embers still burning, I pulled out the old plans and began to look to see what I could do. I pared my vision down to something I could accomplish without major investors. I still wanted to focus on a natural setting that would allow visitors to see the inner beauty of St. Lucia and enjoy the natural settings I remembered from my childhood.
The actual story of the current concept for Calabash Mountain Villa can be found on our website, Calabash Mountain Villa in our blog, “Island Breezes.” To peak your curiosity I’ll just say it involved an architecture class at Purdue University, Indianapolis; and then a contractor in St. Lucia to incorporate local regulations, feasibility of various features given the actual terrain, and ways to provide the best experience for visitors.
The property was dense with trees, bushes and vines of all sorts. And because we are on a mountain-side, there are plenty of rocks and boulders. In clearing the way for our Villa, we only cut down the trees we really needed to, to provide a place for the structure. (I wanted to see trees all around us when it was done.) The trees we did remove were put to use as wood for part of the construction, and we used the wood to make charcoal. Our neighbors were allowed to take wood to make charcoal also. The bark from the spice trees was harvested and our neighbors were allowed to have what they wanted. Many of them took the cinnamon to market for sale. As we came across the boulders, we busted them up and saved them to use as part of the structure. Then, as we started actual construction, we made sure we did not do things to harm the surrounding area. For example, we did retaining walls to protect against erosion on our property and on the property around us.
The construction phase was a labor of love. Love for St. Lucia and a love of nature that we will share with our visitors. We even went with a solar water heating system (and yes, it will also save us money in the long run.)
We used local labor crews, most of who lived in the area around our site. We have hired staff from the local area too. A couple of them walk to work because it is that close. Some of these local crew members and staff are also related to me.
Many of our neighbors have come to tour our Villa and have promised to tell their friends and family members, who live in other parts of the island or in other countries, all about Calabash Mountain Villa.
Mambo View Point in Tanzania working to help village acquire water pumps
/in Countries in the Tropics, Eco Lodges and Conservation sites/by Lise TyrrellThe situation of the drinking water supply in Ward (community) Sunga is worrisome. Until recently only one pump out of 27 was working. Recently 9 pumps were replaced by the government but this is still way too few to fulfil the needs, so many people have to walk far for their water every day. Also many people are tapping water from open sources like small brooks or holes dug in the ground.
According to the international standards where 250 people can live from one water pump, there should be about 90 pumps, this is 10 times more then available at the moment.
Project
This project includes the establishment of the necessary pumps and water filters, initially for Ward Sunga, but potentially for a wider area where the problems are very much the same.
Idea
The idea is to provide robust pumps which can last more than 30 years. To make the project sustainable, not only the provision and installation is considered but also the utilization and maintenance.
At present water is fetched from unsafe sources.
For the maintenance it is necessary to establish a company that will install and service the pumps. Every community that wants to have a pump has to appoint a manager who is responsible for the pump and will have income from selling the water and other related items like water filters and filtered water. Every family has to pay $ 10 to $ 15 per year for the maintenance. If the money is not paid the pump will be removed again.
This model is promoted by Fairwater and proved to be sustainable in various situations.
Budget
Every pump is about € 2.500 ($ 3,250) including transport. The pumps are paid by the supporters of fairwater and MamboViewPoint. In many cases these supporters are companies who like to sponsor a pump. Often they want to know where the pumps are placed and like to visit the place themselves.
MamboViewPoint eco lodge is a perfect place to meet these desires.
The installation including the concrete foundation has to be paid by the communities and will have a yearly cost for maintenance of about $ 300. One pump will be used by about 150 people (30 families). This means a contribution of $ 10 a family will be required.
The robust blue pump from Fairwater has to bring a sustainable water supply.
To place new pumps on places without boreholes (in most cases), the boreholes have to be drilled. Funding the necessary € 10.000,- ($ 13,000) for the drill still has to be done.
Together with the pumps, small water filters will be introduced to be used with one or 2 buckets. The idea is to sell those filters and to buy new ones from the profits. One filter will be some dollars. The selling points can sell filtered water and the filters.
For the first purchase of the filters funding organisations will be approached.
Contribution
Financial contributions for this project are most welcome on our bank account:
Account number 390450030 (Triodosbank Netherlands)
Stichting MamboSteunpunt Burgtstraat 3, 6701 DA Wageningen
SWIFT code:TRIONL2U,
IBAN: NL45 TRIO 0390 4500 30
Contributions are tax-deductible from the Dutch tax.
For more information go to:
Mambo View Point
Recognition for Matava at the Virgin Holidays Responsible Tourism Awards 2010
/in Ecotourism/by Lise TyrrellMatava has won in the Best in a Marine Environment category at this year’s Virgin Holidays Responsible Tourism Awards 2010 organised by responsibletravel.com.
The Judges said “Matava is a beacon for responsible tourism and an example to other dive sites. They maintain a strong commitment to both the conservation of the marine environment and the development of the local Fijian community. All staff and dive guides are from local villages, they have signed an agreement with local villages designating 3 established marine reserves as 100% no-take zones, across large geographic areas, and even succeeded in assisted in getting marine conservation on to the Fijian National Curriculum.”
At a ceremony hosted at World Travel Market (WTM), Docklands, London, on Wednesday 10th November, the Awards were handed out by Justin Francis, managing director of responsibletravel.com, organisers and founders of the Awards, and Amanda Wills, managing director of Virgin Holidays, headline sponsor of the Awards.
Justin Francis, founder of The Responsible Tourism Awards and managing director, responsibletravel.com, organisers of the Awards said:
“This year I have been heartened by the depth of commitment and connection our winners have shown to the local communities in their destinations. Their successes and pioneering spirits are remarkable and the very real and authentic experiences they have created, set responsible tourism apart. They also remind us that holidays can be both luxurious for visitor and enhancing for local people – helping build schools, water pumps, clinics and conserving cultural and natural heritage.”
For more information about Matava: Matava
5th Responsible Tourism Award Winners including our own Sarinbuana Ecolodge in Bali
/in Ecotourism/by Lise TyrrellSingapore, October 21, 2010 – Wild Asia announces the winners for the 5th Responsible Tourism Awards 2010 from Thailand, Indonesia and Sri Lanka at ITB Asia.
After months of short-listing the finalists and making site visits to the final six properties and tour operators, Wild Asia’s judging panel has finally selected its 2010 RT Awards winners.
Operators such as Heritance Kandalama (Sri Lanka), Sarinbuana Ecolodge (Indonesia), and Andaman Discoveries (Thailand) have surpassed judges’ expectations by scoring high against the Awards checklist and are this year’s award winners for the following categories of accommodation operators respectively – large; mid-sized to small; and tour operators.
Now in their fifth year, the Awards are part of Wild Asia’s Responsible Tourism Initiative to promote sustainable practices through tourism. With one billion tourists expected to hit the road by 2010, the tourism industry’s impact on environment and communities throughout the world is immense. This is where the RT Awards come in. The Awards showcase exemplary resorts, hotels and tour operator ventures that are committed to sustainable practices.
“The purpose of the Awards is not to give out ‘gold stars’ to candidates each year. Our intent is to share the best practices of responsible operators to a broader audience and seek out new operators engaging in innovative programmes,” says Dr Reza Azmi, Wild Asia founder and director.
This year’s awards attracted a larger and more diverse number of participants spanning all across the Asian region, from places such as India, Sri Lanka, Maldives, all the way to China, Philippines, and even Irian Jaya in Indonesia.
“We received a selection of high quality checklists and this proves to show that the network and awareness of RT is building up. Travel operators from around the region are truly striving to make a difference for a better and greener future,” says Deborah Chan, Wild Asia’s Programme Manager.
Every year the WA judging panel reviews submitted checklists (based on the UNWTO Global Sustainable Tourism Criteria) from operators throughout Asia. Two finalists for each category are shortlisted based on some of the following criteria:
• Sense of place – whether tourists understand their destinations in terms of the cultural
and ecological context better through the operators’ efforts.
• Sustainability – whether these RT efforts are long-term.
• Involvement of guests – how much does the operators involve their guests in their RT practices?
• Internalisation – how much is sustainability part of the day-to-day operations?
• Reach – how far are these ideas and practices shared across the destination or even the
industry?
• Continual Improvement – how do the operators strive to improve their RT efforts?
Understanding and internalising the essence of responsible tourism, these operators are catalysts for positive change within their sphere of influence, inspiring others to embark on the green journey while at the same time, still affording customers with the memorable holiday experience the travel for in the first place.
Mr. Jeevaka Weerakone, general manager of Heritance Kandalama noted that “it is a great honour to receive the Awards and will continually raise the game in making Heritance Kandalama an example in Sri Lanka and to the world, at the same time a learning center for responsible tourism.”
Norm vant Hoff, owner of Sarinbuana Ecolodge, the winner of the small to mid-sized to small accommodation category expressed that, “winning the Awards has helped us increase our profile thereby bringing in more conscious travelers and increasing revenue streams for the local community.” Wild Asia would like to congratulate winners and finalists for their commendable efforts and commitment in achieving high standards of environmental protection and social responsibility that form the critical pillars of their business philosophy.
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Wild Asia’s 2010 Responsible Tourism Awards Winners:
Heritance Kandalama, Dambulla, Sri Lanka
Heritance Kandalama has a unique architectural design which blends the hotel into the natural surroundings and maximizes natural light in order to reduce energy use. The entire hotel is built on a raised platform allowing water to flow under the hotel.
It also allows the free flow of wildlife under the hotel, leaving minimum impact on the eco system.
Situated in Sri Lanka’s cultural triangle’s heartland, Heritance Kandalama is flanked by two UNESCO world heritage sites – the 1st Century BC Dambulla Cave Temple and the 5th Century AD Sigiriya Rock Fortress. The hotel is surrounded by rocky outcrops, lush forests, and overlooks the glistening Kandalama Tank. This sanctuary is teeming with biodiversity and wildlife.
For avid bird lovers and take morning walks for bird watching or visit an ancient village, Puranagama to have lunch with the locals and experience authentic village life. For more exquisite taste to your palettes, try traditional Sri Lankan dining in a cave or at an organic farm.
Sarinbuana Ecolodge, Bali, Indonesia.
Nestled in the rainforest of Mount Batukaru, in the northwest region of Bali, Sarinbuana Ecolodge offers a welcomed escape from the hustle and bustle of the tourist track, and a refreshing experience that most people do not feel when visiting this island. Sarinbuana Ecolodge, which was started ten years ago, is run by Linda and Norm vant Hoff and their extended Balinese family. The eco lodge demonstrates a clear and committed practice of responsible tourism in every aspect of its operation.
Although a small lodge, with only 4 villas, Sarinbuana Ecolodge has had an enormous positive impact on the local village. Since the arrival to the Sarinbuana village, the vant Hoff family has dedicated themselves to improving local livelihoods, establishing a good relationship with the community, and learning the local language and culture in order to truly integrate with the local community.
At Sarinbuana Ecolodge, one can embrace the cool mountain breezes, lush tropical rainforests, rich Balinese culture, and appreciate life at its purest. The eco lodge operates in a truly holistic manner, exemplifies sustainability environmentally, economically and socially, and provides comfortable and pristine surroundings for true peace of mind.
Andaman Discoveries, Phang Nga, Thailand
Andaman Discoveries (AD) previously known as North Andaman Tsunami Relief (NATR) stemmed from tsunami relief pioneered by Bodhi Garrett to serve communities he had lived with and respected. After the initial rebuilding of homes through community driven tsunami relief, it soon progressed into long-term post tsunami development programs. Participatory workshops and community meetings sparked the idea of potential tourism as a means of economic renewal. Villagers wanted to welcome tourists in a way that will not bring negative and harmful impacts like that of mass tourism.
The idea was to maximize and utilize local knowledge and local people as a means of tourism.
Villagers return empowered to set up home-stays and design a holiday experience for guests.
Now, guests can choose from six villages to stay in – mostly fishermen communities.
Accommodation is simple and clean often with a fan, mattress and mosquito net for a good night rest. Guests are assigned to different host families whom they will spend their time with. Often times, guests leave with great memories of relationships being made. Some even stay to volunteer.
Wild Asia’s 2010 Responsible Tourism Award finalists:
• Large Accommodation Operators
Frangipani Langkawi Resort and Spa, Malaysia
• Mid-sized to Small Accommodation Operators
Soneva Gili, Maldives
• Tour Operators
Pepy Tours, Cambodia
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For more information:
About Wild Asia, the RT Awards and Responsible Tourism or for high resolution photos of the
winners contact: [email protected] or visit www.wildasia.org
Also, check out our blog at www.wartanews.blogspot.com
WILD ASIA SDN BHD (CO NO.: 634446-W)
UPPER PENTHOUSE WISMA RKT
NO 2, JALAN RAJA ABDULLAH
50300 KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA
TEL: +60 3 4251 4518
EMAIL: [email protected] ???? http://www.wildasia.org