Posts Tagged ‘ Philippines ’

 
Wednesday, August 5th, 2009

cacao-pearl2

The Cacao Pearl, Palawan: the world’s first non-profit and luxury eco-resort community to commit 100 per cent of operating profits to environmental protection and social improvements will be built on a 124 acre private island in the Calamianes archipelago, at the northernmost tip of the Palawan Biosphere Reserve in the Philippines.

The Cacao Pearl will occupy an entire private island, with 124 acres of lush rainforest and towering coconut trees fringed with over a mile of pristine beaches, according to its operator, Cacao Resorts.  This new approach to resort-communities is nestled within the eco-tourism destination of Palawan – Philippines, a stunning eco preservation area within sailing distance of two UNESCO World heritage sites & four marine reserves.  The Cacao Pearl is an eco-chic low-density boutique resort concept promising sustainable development and sustainable enjoyment — designer homes with zero carbon cost, 5 stars service, an infinity pool, wreck & reef diving, a secluded destination spa, organic gardens & bar, restaurant, private media rooms and enough delicious design details to delight the most discerning guest.

“Forget old luxury, welcome green luxury!” said Joel Cere, CEO of Cacao Resorts.” Cacao Resorts is offering eco-aware urban escapees the luxury of private island home ownership with the launch of a truly guilt-free investment: The Cacao Pearl, Palawan.”  “In a world of homogenous, over-developed concrete destinations, disinterested developers, fake themes and over-priced mini-bars, token green gestures and disenfranchised communities, Cacao Resorts provide an authentic experience for the grown-up backpacker, a guilt-free option for the traveler with conscience, a breath of fresh tropical air for sophisticated urban escapees.”

Designed exclusively for Cacao Resorts by former film art director, Antonio Calvo (Love Actually, Alexander, “Pride & Prejudice”.) 60 off-plan private residences await discriminating investors, who want to own a truly chic eco-home with a conscience and investment-grade security with an option to buy, re-sell or rent.

Cacao Resorts operates a “greenprint” for operations and, with development partners Barefoot Investments and Abode Management, benefit from sustainable construction methods employed, ethical management practice observed, and ecologically responsible operations as standard. That means 100% renewable energy, and for the first time in the hospitality industry, 100% of the resort’s net operating profits will be used to support local environmental and social programs. You can now own a truly chic eco-home with a conscience and investment-grade security.

Priority is given to buyers with more than just a financial interest in the adventure. “We are now accepting interested buyers for our guilt-free residences in South East Asia,” added Cere.


About Cacao Resorts & the Cacao Pearl

Cacao Resorts manages and markets eco-chic resorts, retreats and communities in some of the most beautiful places on Earth. Each Cacao Resorts community is inspired by a stunning location and its unique history; crafted by a team drawn from media and film, architecture and environment, property and finance. Cacao Resorts is offering eco-aware urban escapees the luxury of private island home ownership with the launch of a truly guilt-free investment. 100% of the resort’s net operating profits will be used to support local environmental and social programs. For more information, please visit www.barefootsophistication.com.

 
 
Monday, March 30th, 2009

3209857028_bfd4808319Photo of St. Paul Subterranean River, Palawan Philippines by Storm Crypt

What is Eco Tourism and how does it different from regular travel?

Obviously the “eco” part of the phrase gives you a clue that the trip will be focused on traveling to places that allow you to enjoy the planet.  But it is much more than that.

According to the definition and principles of ecotourism established by The International Ecotourism Society (TIES) in 1990, ecotourism is “Responsible travel to natural areas that conserves the environment and improves the well-being of local people.” (TIES, 1990).

This means traveling with the least possible environmental impact, and visiting places where you can enjoy yourself in an ethical, sustainable way. Believe it or not, there are a lot of amazing options for eco-tourists which do not include living in a tent and going without a shower for two weeks.

Every continent has options for individuals looking to explore without leaving a huge footprint.  The focus on eco-tourism is often as much about experiencing local culture as it is getting a spa treatment.

Ecotourism is growing more rapidly than any other aspect of the tourism industry with an annual growth rate of 5%.  Those who love to explore the planet are absolutely thrilled at the prospect of being able to do so without destroying it at the same time.  Here are some excellent resources for learning more about eco-tourism:

The International Ecotourism Society

The Nature Conservancy’s Eco Tourism Page

The Ecotourism Portal

Institute of Eco Tourism