Have you ever dreamed about staying in an award winning eco-friendly vacation destination where you can enjoy the spa, the scenery and the Woylies outside your door? If you are not familiar with this small critically endangered marsupial, you may want to start planning your next vacation to beautiful Australia and lodge at the Yelverton Brook Luxury Spa Eco-Chalets. This gem is located about three hours south of Perth, the capital city of Western Australia. Here, you will be treated [...]]]>

Have you ever dreamed about staying in an award winning eco-friendly vacation destination where you can enjoy the spa, the scenery and the Woylies outside your door? If you are not familiar with this small critically endangered marsupial, you may want to start planning your next vacation to beautiful Australia and lodge at the Yelverton Brook Luxury Spa Eco-Chalets. This gem is located about three hours south of Perth, the capital city of Western Australia. Here, you will be treated to the most luxurious eco-friendly accommodations within your private cottage, plus you will be able to enjoy the 100-acre Conservation Sanctuary right outside your bedroom door, featuring up-close nocturnal encounters with the aforementioned Woylies, plus kangaroos, bandicoots and possums. During the daytime, you can enjoy spotting over 50 species of birds, all in a relaxing and beautiful setting.

Yelverton Brook was undeveloped bushland when Joy and Simon Ensor purchased the property in 1988 with the dream of turning it into a tourist retreat. Starting from scratch, the Ensors built the cottages, the main office and the predator-proof fencing that encloses all 100 acres. Each cottage was built by the owners using many eco-friendly materials, including local wool insulation, timber slabs recycled from a fallen tree, energy efficient features and solar design. They even made all the mudbricks used in the property’s structures by hand! In addition to providing a relaxing and memorable vacation destination to their visitors, the Ensors also wanted to make their facility eco-friendly and help preserve and protect the native plants and animals of the area. Today, the retreat is a Conservation Sanctuary that is home to native plants, wildlife and birds. The repopulation of the Woylies, now numbering around 40 in the Sanctuary, is of vital importance due to the species being moved from the endangered native species list to “Critically Endangered.”

The lodging options here are truly luxurious, with package options for a romantic getaway, honeymoon, or eco-vacation in addition to customizable packages suited to guests’ needs. Guests of Yelverton Brook can choose to stay in a one- or two-bedroom cottage that has every amenity. Upon arrival, guests are greeted with fresh baked bread, milk, free range eggs, the local paper and information about the area. Each cottage has a fully stocked kitchen, a bathroom with a heated floor and personal care products, a wood burning fireplace, eco-friendly reverse cycle heating and air conditioning and cozy bedrooms with 4-poster beds. For total relaxation, guests can spend time in their private outdoor Hydro Therapy Massage Spa, which is comfortable and large. The spas are also eco-friendly due to the ozonators that help reduce chemical use by up to 80%.

The onsite Day Spa allows guests to indulge in massages, manicures and facials without having to leave the facility. Also, even though the retreat does not have a traditional restaurant, that doesn’t mean guests will be left hungry. Many options are available for dining, including having food delivered from the local supermarket for preparation in the cottage’s fully functional kitchen. Another popular option is to retain the services of Yelverton’s in-house chef, who will prepare meals personally for guests who book this option in advance.

Over the years, Yelverton Brook has earned awards for their green lodging and personalized hospitality. In 2010, they earned the “Green Travel Leader” award as one of 40 operators recognized by the Ecotourism Association of Australia, partly due to more than 10 years of being Eco Certified. They have also been recognized by the Western Australia Tourism Awards as a finalist and received the Holidays for Couples Readers Choice Awards for Most Popular Romantic Weekend Retreat. Award winning, luxurious, eco-friendly and in harmony with Australia’s plants and native creatures, Yelverton Brook Luxury Spa Eco-Chalets will make your Down Under vacation a true retreat.

Anyone looking for a great getaway in California’s beautiful Napa Valley won’t need to look any further than Harvest Inn. With its eight acres of landscaped gardens, close proximity to wineries and four-diamond AAA rating, this estate-style inn will provide a stay to remember. Guests can enjoy a relaxing weekend retreat, host a special occasion such as a wedding or experience a new luxurious vacation spot. Even Fido is welcome in Harvest Inn’s suites, rooms or cottages. The hotel features [...]]]>

Anyone looking for a great getaway in California’s beautiful Napa Valley won’t need to look any further than Harvest Inn. With its eight acres of landscaped gardens, close proximity to wineries and four-diamond AAA rating, this estate-style inn will provide a stay to remember. Guests can enjoy a relaxing weekend retreat, host a special occasion such as a wedding or experience a new luxurious vacation spot. Even Fido is welcome in Harvest Inn’s suites, rooms or cottages. The hotel features several themed packages for many different occasions. A stay at the Harvest Inn could provide just the getaway your whole family needs.

A stay at Harvest Inn begins with your arrival at the grand Main Lodge, a brick and wood Tudor-style building that features 20-foot soaring ceilings and the Great Room, where guests can gather around the fireplace for wine tasting and friendly conversation. From here, you can retreat to one of the 74 suites, rooms or cottages spread over the eight acre estate. Situated in four different neighborhoods – Rose, Vineyard, Fountain, or Manor House – the accommodations offer luxurious and modern amenities including complimentary breakfast and in-room bottle of wine, a fireplace and terrace with vineyard or Mayacamas Mountain views in most rooms, and numerous luxury touches. Guests will be treated to Aveda products in-room, luxury bedding for both yourself and your pet, and high-speed internet access plus a wide screen television and DVD player.

During your stay at Harvest Inn, you will find a number of activities to experience, both on premises and in the St. Helena area. All guests have access to the Hotel’s fitness center and heated year-round pools and hot tubs for a fun workout. Or choose to wander the landscaped grounds and enjoy the gardens and scenery, rent a bicycle, play golf or take a ride in a hot air balloon! Of course, there are numerous wineries to visit, and the hotel’s concierge is available to help you set up a wine tour. Nearby St. Helena is an inviting place to spend time shopping, dining or sightseeing. After a day of busy activity, you’re invited to experience Harvest Inn’s professional spa and massage therapy services, then gather with other guests for a glass of wine at The Wine Bar.

 A recipient of a “2 Green Eco-Leafs” rating from iStayGreen, the Harvest Inn is committed to keeping the scenery of Napa Valley as green and healthy as possible. The facility recycles waste on a daily basis and is committed to low water and energy usage throughout the estate, even using a new well system throughout the grounds that has reduced water usage by 6,000 gallons per day. Other eco measures include the use of green cleaning products, composting of green waste and energy saving lighting throughout the hotel’s buildings. 

No matter what kind of stay you are looking for, Harvest Inn probably offers a package to fit your needs. During the magical holiday season, the hotel offers package deals that include festive gift baskets, massage sessions and wine tastings. Other packages include romantic getaways such as an engagement stay featuring a sitting with a professional photographer and pet friendly stays that include coupons to a local luxury pet boutique. The Harvest Inn is also happy to host meetings, weddings, reunions and other events and offers eco-friendly touches in the meeting spaces so guests can enjoy a fun event in a healthy, green setting. If you’ve always wanted to experience all Napa Valley has to offer, the Harvest Inn can provide you with an unforgettable experience.

About Bonaire

Boasting beautiful year-round temperatures and plenty of sunshine, Bonaire is a favorite destination for a Caribbean island [...]]]> Does your perfect vacation consist of diving and snorkeling among the most pristine coral reefs in the Caribbean, or do you prefer to spend your days sunbathing on sandy beaches and relaxing at luxurious spas?  Whether you’re seeking action and adventure or pampering and romance, the small island of Bonaire promises an eco-friendly dream vacation in the natural beauty of the Dutch Caribbean.

About Bonaire

Boasting beautiful year-round temperatures and plenty of sunshine, Bonaire is a favorite destination for a Caribbean island getaway.  Miles of protected coastline, rich island culture, and a small native population that strives to live resourcefully and sustainably makes the Caribbean gem especially popular among nature lovers and eco-conscious travelers.

Where to Stay

From intimate bed and breakfast retreats to luxurious resorts with full-service spas and casinos, Bonaire has an assortment of lodging options.  Many accommodation providers offer packages to cater to your needs and desires, including meals, diving, local festivals, and family activities, as well as wedding and honeymoon packages.

Captain Don’s Habitat is at the forefront of eco-friendly tourism in Bonaire and is also one of the island’s oldest resorts.  Relax by the crystal waters in a private villa, or explore the untouched sea life with a dive package that includes an island style bungalow.  Captain Don’s features a pampering spa, two restaurants, and a casual full-service bar – everything you need for a perfect visit to Bonaire.

Divi Flamingo is a luxurious resort with a fun and friendly island flair, ideal for families.  Personalize your stay at Bonaire with dive packages, spa services, snorkeling, or test your luck at the resort’s casual casino.  Two swimming pools, two restaurants, and a fitness center are also available.

What to Do

While Bonaire is small – just 24 miles long without a single traffic light – and boasts an extremely laidback Caribbean atmosphere, many visitors find that a week is not enough time to experience all that the island has to offer.  Whether you’re exploring the natural beauty of Bonaire or sampling the exquisite island cuisine, there are a variety of activities to create a memorable vacation.

Bonaire is considered one of the world’s best locations for diving and features the best-conserved reefs in the Caribbean.  Dive shops can be found throughout the island and many Bonaire resorts and hotels offer dive packages, lessons, and guided adventures.  Snorkeling is also a great way to explore the underwater world of Bonaire.

Windsurfing, kite sailing, kayaking, and land sailing are also popular, or get away from the water and explore Bonaire’s beauty by bike, horseback, or hiking.  Rappelling and rock climbing expeditions are available for the adventurous, or discover more than 200 species of birds, like pink flamingos and the Bonaire Lora.

Plan Your Eco-Friendly Bonaire Vacation

Bonaire is the perfect destination in any season and is convenient to the United States, as well as Europe and South America.  The island is outside of the Caribbean hurricane belt and is rarely affected by the summer storm season.  Most visitors are not required to apply for a visa to enter Bonaire – US citizens only need a passport or a picture ID and official birth certificate.  Most visits are limited to 14-day stays.

For more information about the beautiful eco-friendly island of Bonaire, visit the Bonaire tourism website.  You’ll find extensive information on the island’s lodging options, activities, restaurants, and more so you can plan your eco-friendly Caribbean vacation.

A local favorite is Café Chocolate of Lititz. You can find a full service menu served daily from 10am until 5pm, with extended hours on the weekends.  Not only can you get some fantastic organic and vegan cuisine, Café Chocolate is a member of the Buy Fresh/Buy Local in [...]]]> On your trip across Pennsylvania, this summer, you might want to stop by Lititz.  An upscale, bedroom community, located in Lancaster County, is home to some great boutiques, restaurants and chocolate shops.

A local favorite is Café Chocolate of Lititz. You can find a full service menu served daily from 10am until 5pm, with extended hours on the weekends.  Not only can you get some fantastic organic and vegan cuisine, Café Chocolate is a member of the Buy Fresh/Buy Local in Lancaster County. Buy Fresh/Buy Local insures all the wonderful food you put in your mouth is fresh, natural and supporting the local farmers in the area.

Menu

The menu at Café Chocolate ranges from an organic quinoa and vegetable soup to wild Alaskan salmon cakes and includes crowd favorites such as a South African Babouti Meatloaf and organic Sunshine Crepes.

Don’t get too filled up on the main course, though.  The best of Café Chocolate just might be the drinkable servings. Hot and cold organic drinks range in price from an organic latte at $3.25 to their crowd-pleasing signature Chocolate Strawberry Lush at $4.95. Ask for a sample of their dark chocolate that is used in their drinks.  The folks working the counter will likely open the canister and pour a sample directly into your hand.

When you leave, make sure you take along some chocolate from the case. All of the chocolate is guaranteed to contain a minimum of 50% cocoa, but likely will be around 65% on any given day. Café Chocolate also offers chocolate covered pretzel, cookies and chocolate-crusted key lime pie.

Sustainability Agenda

Café Chocolate of Lititz is committed to making a difference. With 85% of the world’s cocoa grown in our rainforests, eating organic chocolate is not only good for our health, it is also good for the communities that grow and harvest it.

Contact

You can find Café Chocolate of Lititz at 40 E. Main Street or call them at (717) 626-0123

Quaint Rooms with Parisian Flair

Hotel Gavarni offers 21 luxurious rooms and 4 spacious suites, all uniquely decorated to reflect the beauty of Paris.  Each room features complimentary WiFi, a flat screen TV with a DVD [...]]]> Parisian romance starts at Hotel Gavarni.  Situated amid the city’s most popular attractions, this historic structure is the first independent hotel in Paris to receive the prestigious European EcoLabel – and Hotel Gavarni is the perfect destination for an eco-luxurious getaway to the City of Lights.

Quaint Rooms with Parisian Flair

Hotel Gavarni offers 21 luxurious rooms and 4 spacious suites, all uniquely decorated to reflect the beauty of Paris.  Each room features complimentary WiFi, a flat screen TV with a DVD player, a minibar, and an elegant marble bathroom.  Single, standard rooms have a twin bed while superior rooms provide either a double bed or 2 singles.  Family rooms are compromised of 2 connecting superior rooms with private baths in each.

Suites can accommodate one to four guests and boast queen size beds and sitting areas.  Two of the luxurious suites have balconies with breathtaking views of the Eiffel Tower.  Each includes either a relaxing Jacuzzi or a hydro-massage shower.

Eco-Friendly Amenities

Aside from LED lighting and 100% renewable energy, Hotel Gavarni strives to provide their guests with the most luxurious products that offer the least environmental impact.  Organic shampoos and shower gels are offered in each bathroom, along with recycled paper products and tissues.  All guests enjoy an organic, fair trade breakfast and only organic wines are served.  Linens and towels are washed in chemical-free detergents as well.

Guests can recycle through convenient in-room recycling bins and can arrange car pools with other guests to reduce transportation emissions.  Hotel Gavarni will soon update every guest room to include a power-reducing system that automatically turns off lights and electronics each time a visitor departs.

The Experience

Everything you need is within a phone call away at Hotel Gavarni.  The hotel provides 24-hour reception and room service, laundry service, and even babysitting.  While guests have no reason to leave the comforts of their rooms, the hotel’s central Parisian location makes it impossible to stay inside.

Within 10 minutes of the hotel, visitors can enjoy a variety of the best attractions in Paris.  The Eiffel Tower is a short walk from the hotel; Champs Elysees and the Arc de Triomphe are not much further.  An assortment of museums also surround Hotel Gavarni, including art galleries, fashion exhibits, and wine museums.

Prices and Reservations

Hotel Gavarni rooms and suites range from about $150 to $690 per night.  For more information on Paris’s eco-friendly Hotel Gavarni or to make reservations online, visit the website or call (33) 1 45 24 52 82.

Crowne Plaza Copenhagen Towers

The Crowne Plaza Copenhagen Towers embraces an innovative concept that benefits both the hotel [...]]]> If you’re planning a trip to Copenhagen, Denmark and wish to make your stay an eco-friendly experience, the city offers a handful of green lodging options. From a luxury hotel that puts your fitness to good use to a chain of hotels honored with the city’s sustainable seal of approval, you can easily book a stay in Copenhagen that accommodates your green lifestyle.

Crowne Plaza Copenhagen Towers

The Crowne Plaza Copenhagen Towers embraces an innovative concept that benefits both the hotel and their guests. Usually, when you visit a hotel fitness center, you’re working off extra calories from sampling local cuisine and staying fit while on vacation. However, at this specific Crowne Plaza, your bike pedaling not only generates electricity, but will also earn you a free meal.

Two pedaling bikes connected to generators provide an answer to the energy demands of the luxury hotel, which guests are free to use. Any person that generates 100 watt hours using the bike will receive in return – a meal worth approximately $36. The bikes have convenient screens that allow riders to track their progress and see how much electricity they have generated. It takes someone in relatively good shape to produce up to 100 watt hours in 60 minutes.

Aside from this ingenious concept, the hotel is known as the first in Denmark to receive all of its energy through renewable and sustainable sources. Solar panels and a groundwater-based cooling and heating system helps the Crowne Plaza conserve precious resources.

The Crowne Plaza Hotel is located in the center of the city, where more than 300 rooms await your arrival and are spread across 26 floors.

Radisson SAS Chain of Hotels

The Nordic Eco-label called “the Swan” is the seal of approval given to esteemed eco-friendly products and services. It’s a highly regarded honor and three SAS Radisson Hotel chains in Copenhagen have received it.

The Royal Hotel is considered one of the most prestigious out of all the 5-star hotels in Copenhagen, and was the first out of all the local Radisson establishments to receive green recognition. The second to receive the label was the Radisson SAS Scandinavia, which offers more than 500 rooms located in the center of the city. With a glorious concert hall, the Radisson SAS Falconer claimed their label third.

As for the remaining Radisson SAS chains, the company has a goal to transform the hotels into lodging worthy of getting their own Swan label.

Scandic Copenhagen

After undergoing a renovation, the Scandic Copenhagen has received a makeover that involves sustainable, natural and recyclable materials when possible. For example, low VOC paints and finishes were selected as part of their green initiatives. A stay at the hotel places you in the midst of Tivoli Gardens, the old port of Nyhavn, and the Little Mermaid statue. Other features include a sauna, relaxation center, and onsite gym.

The Scandic Copenhagen also embraces environmental cleaning, energy conservation, and water conservation. Guestrooms are outfitted with recycling bins. Through their PR and education programs, the hotel promotes green initiatives, and educates their guests and staff on greener ways to live.

Photo Credit: Crowne Plaza Copenhagen

Eco-Friendly Features

Morgan’s Rock thrives as [...]]]> From romantic getaways and remarkable weddings to eco-friendly family retreats and breathtaking adventure escapes, Morgan’s Rock Hacienda & Ecolodge is the perfect destination for your next vacation. Surrounded by natural tropical beauty, Morgan’s Rock boasts a beautiful and secluded location on the Pacific Coast of Nicaragua. The property features nearly 2,000-acres of protected reserves and 2,700-acres of land dedicated to reforestation of the rainforest, as well as the main lodge and 15 tropical bungalows.

Eco-Friendly Features

Morgan’s Rock thrives as a sustainable development that supports the local ecosystem as well as the community. The private nature reserve and extensive reforestation project protect native plants and animals, while encouraging the reproduction of endangered and nearly extinct species. The main lodge and bungalows were built with minimal impact to the earth and only damaged or unhealthy trees were removed – some cabins are actually built around the trees!

Native hardwoods, as well as rescued wood scraps, were used to build the structures and furnishings at Morgan’s Rock. Each bungalow features exquisitely handcrafted accessories made by local artisans, including king size beds, queen sofa beds, and luxurious hanging beds. Local, sustainable seafood and an assortment of fresh organic ingredients (grown and raised onsite) are served for breakfast, lunch, and dinner in the Hacienda kitchen.

Packages and Rates

The beauty and natural bliss of Morgan’s Rock beckons guests to explore and wander. Several tours are included with your nightly rates, as well as all meals plus local beers and beverages. Every visitor can enjoy:

- Breakfast at the Farm, a hands-on cooking tour where you will experience everything that goes into creating a farm fresh Nicaraguan breakfast.
- A guided tour of the expansive properties.
- Night Walk, a guided opportunity to explore the habits of Nicaragua’s nocturnal wildlife.
- A 2-hour guided nature walk.
- And a romantic and relaxing Sunset Tour.

To cater to your more specific needs, the Ecolodge also offers an assortment of packages. If romance is your desire, consider the Couples Package that features 5 days and 4 nights of tropical paradise, a therapeutic couples massage, and a trip to Grenada. All-inclusive wedding packages are also available, starting at $1200, as well as an indulgent honeymoon package with horseback riding, yacht excursions, and massages.

For the thrill-seekers, Morgan’s Rock adventure packages offer 5 days of horseback riding and hiking with discounts on pampering massages. The Hacienda and Ecolodge is also a family-friendly destination. Children’s rates are always half-price, and the exciting family package includes surfing classes, a visit to a local school, and a day of sailing, snorkeling, and fishing.

Morgan’s Rock Sunset Cruise

The latest addition to the activity lineup at Morgan’s Rock is a romantic, luxury cruise aboard the handcrafted, 48-foot Argonauta. The 15-passenger yacht was built from wood grown at the Hacienda by local shipbuilder, Juan Paisano,. A 4-hour sunset cruise is $600 per group, including food and drinks.

For more information about Morgan’s Rock Hacienda & Ecolodge, or to make reservations, visit the website or call (505) 2254-7989 in Nicaragua.

Mirroring the architectural style of residences in Bali and French Polynesia, the Emerald [...]]]> To accommodate a traveler’s desire to vacation in luxury without abandoning their environmental beliefs, eco-resorts are springing up all over the world. Situated on 85 unforgettable tropical acres in the Caribbean Seas, you will soon have a chance to book an eco-friendly getaway at the Emerald Monkey EcoLuxe Resort on Shepherd Island – an extension of Bocas del Toro – an island close to the mainland of Panama.

Mirroring the architectural style of residences in Bali and French Polynesia, the Emerald Monkey will offer 206 villas providing an exquisite gateway into living on a tropical island. For the ultimate experience in relaxation, romance, and luxuriating in refreshing waters, the 5-star resort will offer two private beaches, private marina, scuba diving, and infinity-edge saltwater pools. The local lagoon is perfect for snorkeling, fish gazing, or trying your hand at rediscovering sunken Balinese artifacts.

Eco-Friendly Features

The Emerald Monkey is making a commitment to ecological preservation and sustainable living by attempting to establish the “first zero-carbon footprint community in the world.” Hydropower (river water) will serve as the primary source of energy for the island. Using saltwater pools will eliminate the need for harmful chemicals, like chlorine. Pesticides will not compromise the onsite organic fruit and vegetable farm. Other features include sustainable materials for the construction of buildings and the use natural mountain spring water.

5 Things to Do at the Emerald Monkey

The Emerald Monkey promises guests first-rate amenities with no shortage of activities or attractions for enjoying the tropical climate of the Bocas del Toro Archipelago, which is comprised of nine islands, 51 keys, and more than 200 islets. The mixture of blue Caribbean waters, rolling hills, prehistoric boulders, and constant reminders of a luxurious, luscious tropical setting effectively encourages guests to relax and release. To pique your interest, the Emerald Monkey is planning the following things to do on the island:

• Explore the vibrant colors of an onsite butterfly farm.
• Rejuvenate the skin, body and mind at a full-service spa
• Dine at a five-star restaurant with the resort’s organic produce
• Browse goods at village shops and restaurants
• Wander about tropical gardens – following inviting stone trails

Preferred Hotels & Resorts (a well-known hospitality company) will guide the Emerald Monkey through the world of eco-luxe properties. With a scheduled opening date of late 2011, construction for the resort is already in the works. The first phase will consist of building homes featuring spacious verandas and outdoor seating with a guest choice of saltwater plunge pool or a meditation courtyard.

If you are interested in owning a piece of paradise, the Emerald Monkey sells 1/10th shares whole and fractional ownership residences that allow stays for up to five weeks per year. The starting price for one fraction is $74,353. From one- to three-bedroom villas, whole ownership prices are between $563,284 and $1,348,619. Another perk of investing in the Emerald Monkey is a Panamanian law that exempts residence buyers of properties like Emerald Monkey EcoLuxe Resort from paying property taxes for the first 20 years of ownership.

Image Credits: Emerald Monkey

Agoda, online hotel reservations site and part of Priceline, has recently published their top ten picks in eco-friendly Asian resorts. On the very top of that list was the beautiful Tongsai Bay Resort, located on the island of Ko Samui, Thailand.

Tongsai Bay’s Beginning

Tongsai Bay was designed in 1985 by Akorn Hoontrakul, and was created without builders having to cut a single tree down.

The plan, even then, was to leave as much of the natural beauty of the island at [...]]]>

Agoda, online hotel reservations site and part of Priceline, has recently published their top ten picks in eco-friendly Asian resorts. On the very top of that list was the beautiful Tongsai Bay Resort, located on the island of Ko Samui, Thailand.

Tongsai Bay’s Beginning

Tongsai Bay was designed in 1985 by Akorn Hoontrakul, and was created without builders having to cut a single tree down.

The plan, even then, was to leave as much of the natural beauty of the island at peace. With beachfront suites, special villa suites and cottage suites, guests can choose where they’d like to be placed and what special features they’d like to experience at the hotel.

Eco-Friendly Aspect

The Tongsai Bay hotel strives to be eco-friendly on several levels, including:

• Through smart waste management practices and recycling.
• Working to conserve energy as much as possible.
• Working to create eco-awareness in the surrounding community, where Tonsai Bay Hotel has built a low carbon school.
• Working with other hotels on the island to try and maintain the natural beauty and resources of Tonsai Bay.

Besides running one of the most beautiful hotels on the island, the management and owners of Tongsai Bay hotel are dedicated to keeping the island as natural as possible and as unmolested as possible as well.

Features and Amenities

Tongsai Bay has twenty-four beachside suites that are absolutely gorgeous. One of the best features is the ‘bath with a view,’ where one can enjoy a calming bath with a beautiful view of the hotel and island at the same time.

Special villas feature gazebos on the balconies, private shower, washbasin, minibar and more.

Guests who want to unwind can relax in the lobby lounge, where live music plays and drinks are served. Once relaxed, individuals may want to enjoy a nice dinner, and can do so at Chef Chom’s Thai restaurant, The Butler’s restaurant, or the Po-Lad Beach Bistro and Bar. Guests can check email or check in with the world at the SIP internet cafe.

Activities

One of the things visitors to Ko Samui enjoy is watersports and they’ll find several different accomodations near Tongsai Bay when it comes to watersports. Individuals can enjoy:

• Sailing
• Kayaking
• Windsurfing
• Snorkeling

Of course, aside from these activities, there is a bustling nightlife and major shopping nearby.

Tongsai Bay Resort is not only beautiful, it is one of the most beautiful resorts in the world and with owners and staff who take caring for the environment seriously – how could one be disappointed?

Photo Credits: www.tongsaibay.co.th

At Heron Island, they take a different approach to providing an enjoyable experience for their guests [...]]]> On a recent trip, I had the great privilege to go to Australia, where I stayed on the eco-conscious and luxurious Heron Island. Located 72km off the coast of the Australian mainland, Heron Island is surrounded by part of the Great Barrier Reef. Virtually untouched by society, the only human presence on this small island is from a resort and a research center.

At Heron Island, they take a different approach to providing an enjoyable experience for their guests than many modern resorts. While rooms are chic and the food is gourmet, there is a low-tech approach to most of life on Heron Island. The activities available beyond exploring nature include board games, ping-pong, and tennis. The only televisions are located in the bar and while two computers with internet access and two pay phones are provided, the lack of wi-fi and cellular receptions means almost no one is “plugged-in.” This lack of electric-powered devices allows the solar panels placed on the roofs of many buildings to provide much of the power needed to run the island. Additionally, minimal light pollution means spectacular views of the stars.

Heron Island is a World Heritage Listed area, meaning that both the island and the island-life are protected. At Heron Island, eco-tourism efforts are in full swing with both the activities available and what the island itself has to offer. Lessons on how to interact with nature are mandatory and that helps to keep the massive bird, fish, coral, turtle, and even whale population healthy and happy. The organization Ecotourism Australia even awarded the resort with Advanced Eco-Certification.

While both dive and snorkel boats are available daily for a cost, I found that the most enjoyable activities were free. Hosted by the naturalists on the island, there are bird walks which draw attention to the great diversity of bird-life, as well as reef walks on which you can experience the Great Barrier Reef in an up-close and exciting way. With thousands of birds and hundreds of different types of coral, not to mention the diversity of fish and sea cucumbers, an enjoyment of nature is hard to avoid on Heron Island.

While eco-tourism exists all over the world, it is not just green-washing in Australia. While very similar to the United States in many attitudes and lifestyles, the Australian way of life is inherently different. The country is an island, with the vast majority of population residing on the coasts. For Australia, global warming is an incredibly real and serious threat. Beyond the threat of ocean level rise for the mainland, due to the rise of ocean temperatures with global warming, the coral reef is also threatened. According to the World Wildlife Fund, climate change has already adversely affected the reef. A recent report from the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority predicts that if the carbon dioxide levels reach the predicted 450 parts per million by 2035, that would mean extreme bleaching of coral which would diminish that ability of the reef to make new coral. Some predict that by 2050, the reef would be completely dead. This unfortunate problem is part of the reason why Australia is fighting hard against climate change and their eco-tourism efforts are a great example of this commitment.

Heron Island is a wonderful place with an amazing amount of nature to experience. For more information on booking and activities, check out the Heron Island website. As different seasons mean different animals are active, the Heron Island bio calendar will help you to discover when your favorite animals are around.

Image Credit: Heron Island