Grootbos Private Nature Reserve - South Africa
Responsible Tourism Award 2007 - Best for Conservation of an Endangered SpeciesAlong the South African coastline west of Cape Town lies a five star luxury resort that is spectacularly situated along the fynbos and forest-clad hills overlooking the whale-watching haven of Walker Bay. Grootbos has combined three passions that have proven winning combinations: a passion for conservation of the Cape Floral Kingdom and adjacent marine ecosystems, a passion for education and empowerment of the local community, and a passion to provide world-class luxury to their guests.
In 2003, Grootbos established the Green Futures Horticultural and Life Skills College, providing annual practical based training for the unemployed in local communities while instilling a philosophy of environmental stewardship within their graduates. By staying at Grootbos, guests are directly contributing to the conservation of the reserve and surrounding areas as well as the development of sustainable livelihoods within the local community. Guests visit to ride horses, explore wine country, whale watch, dive with Great White Sharks, beach-comb, and savor the luxurious accommodations and beautiful grounds but they leave knowing that their choice has created opportunities for those yearning for the skills to make a difference.Matava Resort - Fiji
AAA Green Star Accreditation for its policies on environmental sustainabilityOn the beautiful island of Kadavu in Fiji, a boat ride over clear waters that are home to the elegant Manta Ray and many other spectacular creatures delivers visitors to the shores of Matava Resort. This eco resort is nestled in lush tropical forest where endemic barking pigeons might be seen perching near the traditional thatched Fijian bures designed to blend in with the natural environment. A walk through mangrove forest unites this secluded resort with a traditional local village as the path winds through and ends at a hidden waterfall.
The owners of Matava Resort are aware of the magic of this place, and have taken efforts to minimize their impact on the environment while promoting conservation measures within the community. The resort is 100% solar powered, and the water is solar heated as well. They have gone to great lengths to keep things local by utilizing an organic farm, providing seeds to local farmers to purchase fruit and vegetables from, planting trees to use for lumber, recycling, composting, and hiring local staff. Education is a major factor as well in the community as well as the guests. Matava has established a marine reserve that prevents fishing, shell-collecting, and reef walking. With every activity that Matava provides, environmental education is encouraged and respect for the environment is enforced.
The owners of Matava Resort are aware of the magic of this place, and have taken efforts to minimize their impact on the environment while promoting conservation measures within the community. The resort is 100% solar powered, and the water is solar heated as well. They have gone to great lengths to keep things local by utilizing an organic farm, providing seeds to local farmers to purchase fruit and vegetables from, planting trees to use for lumber, recycling, composting, and hiring local staff. Education is a major factor as well in the community as well as the guests. Matava has established a marine reserve that prevents fishing, shell-collecting, and reef walking. With every activity that Matava provides, environmental education is encouraged and respect for the environment is enforced.Expect to see more blogs featuring select resorts and tour operators worldwide, from Africa to Argentina and everywhere in between. Visit our website or contact us today if you would like more information on these or any other eco-travel packages.
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