With once-pristine destinations such as the Phillipines’ Boracay, and Koh Phi Phi’s Maya Beach having to be closed to halt environmental damage due to tourism, there’s no better time than now rethink how our wanderlust affects Mother Earth.
But that doesn’t mean we have to give up travel altogether, just travel responsibly. Luckily for us, these luxury resorts take barefoot travel seriously. Here are six tried-and-trusted stays in breathtaking locations which champion eco-sustainability without sacrificing luxury.
Yes, we know, travelling sustainably means you have to shell out a bit more – but think of it as conscience relieving, or better yet, world saving. With Earth Day 2018’s mission to End Plastic Pollution, you can do your part while on holiday!
Read also: Everything You Should Know About Eco-Sustainable Tourism
Song Saa Private Island, Koh Rong Archipelago, Cambodia
Sustainability Suss: From rehabilitation of the islands and their surroundings to establishing the Koh Ouen Marine Reserve (Cambodia’s first!), then building with sustainable, upcycled and recycled materials, eco-practices at Song Saa were part of the master plan from inception. The resort has also pioneered farming projects and waste management systems in a nearby island village of Prek Svay, which we learnt about on the Resort’s Sala Song Sa tour. The bonus was meeting the locals and seeing the positive effects firsthand.
Luxe Loves: Whether overwater, by the beach or in the jungle, villas here have been designed in harmony with nature, allowing guests to make the most of the spectacularly lush surroundings. Private plunge pools, deep bathtubs and timber decks made from salvaged driftwood make excellent sundowner spots, while meals highlighting Khmer ingredients and recipes are executed to perfection under a blanket of stars.
At the heart: Locally known as ‘The Sweethearts’, the islands of Koh Ouen and Koh Bong were acquired by Australian couple Rory and Melita Hunter in 2006. They set about rehabilitating the area (it was overfished and polluted), and also took it upon themselves to set a benchmark with regards to conservation and sustainable development in the surrounding area. The journey took them six years to the opening of the resort in 2012.
Pay it forward: Today, the Hong Kong-based couple’s Song Saa Foundation is committed to preserving the marine life in Cambodia, improving the lives of the local communities through multiple educational and health initiatives, and the conservation and restoration of land in the Koh Rong Archipelago. Be a part of it here.
Soneva Kiri, Koh Kood, Thailand
Sustainability Suss: The site was monitored before and during construction to ensure wildlife corridors were not disturbed and the flora and fauna were protected. And in established Soneva fashion, a majority of the food is locally sourced, there are the Eco Centro and Waste-to-Wealth programs to handle recyclables and food waste (they even crush old glass, then melt and blow it into works of art). Electric buggies are used to minimise sound pollution, there are no single-use plastics, and oh the list just goes on!
Luxe Loves: The balance between luxury and treading responsibility here is inimitable. You arrive by private plane and never once do you feel like your luxury experience is compromised, in fact, it wows at every turn. “No news, no shoes” is the tagline – Soneva doesn’t tell you to get off your digital distractions rather gently coaxes you off them with distractions of a different kind. Magnificent views while dining in one of their Tree Pods suspended high in the rainforest, the hum of the Himalayan singing bowl during your Six Senses spa treatment, the birdsong when you open your villa doors in the morning.
At the heart: Husband and wife duo Sonu and Eva Shivdasani are the owners and driving force behind the Soneva brand. They pioneered barefoot luxury with the opening of Soneva Fushi in the Maldives in 1995 with their uncompromising green code, which encompasses using sustainable practices and materials, supporting the local community and serving wholesome and organic cuisine. Icons of the ‘SLOWLIFE’ (Sustainable, Local, Organic, Wellness, Learning, Inspiring, Fun, Experiences) movement, it’s no wonder Soneva is still looked upon as the inspiration.
Pay it forward: Take the kids along not just to set a good example but because Soneva Kiri’s Eco Den (under 5s), and manta ray-shaped Children’s Den have the reputation of being the best children’s ‘clubs’ in the world.
Alila Villas Uluwatu, Bali, Indonesia
Sustainability Suss: First looks at this sleek resort would have one thinking about design more than environmental sustainability, but Alila’s roots run pretty deep with these responsibilities. This resort was designed to EarthCheck standards, protecting and encouraging the endemic flora and fauna of the Bukit Peninsula, and building materials were all locally sourced. Then there is the energy and water conservation efforts, and our personal favourite, the “Zero Waste to Landfill” project – addressing the very real problem of Bali’s overflowing landfills.
Luxe Loves: Aside from those sumptuous villas which harness the natural light and breeze, spirit and culture of Bali are imbued throughout the property, from design accents and artisanal crafts to cuisine (that sate lilit!) and spa and of course that legendary Balinese warmth.
At the heart: Led by CEO Frederic Flageat-Simon, Alila’s commitment to sustainability encompasses not just protecting the environment that they build and operate in, but also protecting and positively impacting the communities in the environs. It’s a very evident passion and respect that runs throughout the company, not just in their work but also their personal lives.
Pay it forward: The resort’s ‘Journeys’ are crafted to show guests the many facets of Bali and their operations. We specifically liked ‘Journey to the Community’ which takes guests on a visit to the Bali Life Foundation orphanage, while the ‘Journey to the Environment’ shows the environmental and social sustainability aspects, enabling guests to get involved.
Nihi Sumba, Sumba, Indonesia
Sustainability Suss: Arriving at Nihi the vegetation is lush. The tropical rainforest is very real nearly creeping into the villa (built by local craftsmen from sustainable materials). The surf is beating at your bay. 90% of the team are locals and the food is primarily seafood, caught this morning, cooked with local ingredients and organic vegetables grown onsite.There are also intelligent water and waste recycling programs.
Luxe Loves: It’s not hard to see why Nihi Sumba has won ‘best everything’ awards since its inception. The remote setup is castaway, the digs are tropical chic, the scenery is Mother Nature, raw and wild. Combine that with the host of activities that keeps the adrenalin on high – from waterfall trekking, to surfing, horse riding or even the high one gets from contributing positively, well it’s the perfect recipe for the getaway of a lifetime.
At the heart: Owner Chris Burch (founder of Tory Burch) bought the property in 2012 together with South African hotelier James McBride, who has led iconic hotel brands such as The Carlye in New York. The duo set to work building the world’s best resort and opened in 2015 – and have since won that accolade by Travel + Leisure two years in a row.
Pay it forward: The Sumba Foundation provides educational opportunities, creates access to clean water, and works on lessening malaria on Sumba. In tandem, it focuses on preserving the cultures and traditions of the Sumbanese people.
Bawah Island, Kepulauan Riau, Indonesia
Sustainability Suss: From using enzyme-based laundry cleaners, to faster drying Turkish peshtemal towels, making their own soap bars onsite and Bawah branded bamboo straws – this resort is set on getting it right, and their Eco Committee is constantly looking at ways to do better. The also sort waste onsite and have a permaculture garden and a plan in place to teach and support locals to grow organic.
Luxe Loves: On the top of the travel IT lists at the moment, Bawah is making responsible travel chic as influencers the world over tag it on their posts. A 3.5-hour door-to-door transfer from Singapore (including seaplane!) takes you to crystal clear waters, powder sand, luxuriant vegetation, and sexy tented safari-style beach suites.
At the heart: Founder Tim Hartnell has always been an advocate of sustainability and conservation so when the opportunity to open Bawah came up, he knew an eco-luxury resort with a handful of villas was the only way to go. Tim wanted guests to explore, experience and appreciate the nature which exists there, believing that the most enriching and memorable holidays are the ones that provide the most authentic experiences and while treading responsibly on the environment.
Pay it forward: While Bawah is still in the process of setting up its foundation, we say go there and enjoy the pristine nature with friends and family, and help spread the message and appreciations for responsible tourism.
Bonus: Nay Palad Hideaway, Siargo, Phillipines, (opening soon)
What was formerly Dedon Island is set to reopen as Nay Palad Hideaway, an idyllic, all-inclusive retreat designed to bring guests back to nature with its low-impact luxury philosophy.
The Philippines powder-soft sand, captivating isles and warm personality set the tone here, where guests can immerse themselves in outdoor activities, or simply relax and take in the beautiful surroundings. Founded by Carolin Dekeyser, Nay Palad’s social projects include the relocation of some 500 scavengers from Cebu dumpsite to a purpose-built sustainable rainforest village.
Every journey starts with a small step. Find your next step at The Luxe Nomad.
