July 22
Exploring Ecotourism and Sustainable Travel at Wa Ale Resort
In the realm of ecotourism and sustainable travel, few destinations stand out like Wa Ale Resort. Nestled in the pristine waters of the Myeik Archipelago of Myanmar, Wa Ale Resort offers a unique blend of luxury and environmental stewardship, making it an ideal destination for conscientious travelers.
One of the key highlights of a stay at Wa Ale Resort is in discovering the work of the Lampi Foundation, founded to help fund social welfare and conservation projects in and around the Lampi Island Marine National Park. Wa Ale founder Chris Kingsley created Wa Ale Resort to fund the foundation. Wa Ale Resort annually donates 20% of net profits and 3% of room revenue from the Wa Ale Tented Camp to the Lampi Foundation. The Lampi foundation is also supported by other contributing partners, including: Global Medical Volunteers, The Wildlife Conservation Society and Istituto OIKOS.
The Essence of Ecotourism at Wa Ale Resort
Ecotourism is all about traveling responsibly, conserving the environment, and improving the well-being of the local people that make the places you visit so special. Wa Ale Resort places these principles at the heart of everything we do; by prioritizing sustainability in every aspect of our operations. From eco-friendly accommodations to community-driven projects, the resort ensures that its footprint on the environment is minimal and that any guest stay also helps to enrich the lives of out staff and the local community in the surrounding areas.
Wa Ale Resort is constructed using sustainable materials and operates with a zero-waste philosophy.
Solar power is utilized extensively, reducing reliance on non-renewable energy sources. The resort also practises rainwater harvesting and has an advanced waste management system in place. These efforts reflect the resort’s commitment to ecotourism and its role in promoting sustainable travel.
Prior to landing in the Lampi Marine National Park, of which Wa Ale is a part, there had been unabated wildlife poaching. Due to the presence of Wa Ale Resort, much of our 20 different mammal species have been protected, including (but not limited to) the Green and Leather Back turtles, which can now nest without any risk of losing eggs to human or animal predators. Monkey life and other species are thriving in the ASEAN Marine Park due to our presence.
Sustainable Travel Initiatives at Wa Ale Resort
Sustainable travel goes beyond just protecting the environment; it encompasses efforts to benefit local communities and preserve cultural heritage. Wa Ale Resort supports several initiatives aimed supporting local residents and promoting sustainable practices, including:
1. Community Engagement: Wa Ale Resort collaborates with nearby villages to support local artisans and businesses. Guests are encouraged to explore local markets and purchase handmade crafts, contributing directly to the local economy.
2. Education and Awareness: The resort organizes educational programs for both guests and local communities, focusing on the importance of conservation and sustainable living. These programs foster a deeper understanding of environmental issues and encourage proactive participation in eco-friendly practices.
Supporting the Lampi Foundation
At the heart of Wa Ale Resort’s ecotourism and sustainable travel efforts is its support for the Lampi Foundation. This foundation is dedicated to the conservation of Lampi Marine National Park, a haven of biodiversity in the Myeik Archipelago. The park is home to a wide range of species, including endangered sea turtles, dugongs, and vibrant coral reefs.
The Lampi Foundation’s initiatives include:
Introducing the Turtle Hatchery: One of the Foundation’s most significant projects was the development of the first turtle hatchery in the Lampi Marine National Park to help provide a safe environment for the Green, Hawksbill and Leatherback Turtles that nest on the island of Wa Ale.
Supporting local schools: The Lampi Foundation has continually provided supplies and equipment to the village schools in both the villages of Salet Galet and Ma Kyone Galet.
Providing vital medical facilities: We worked directly with Dr. Gerald Zelikovsky of the Global Medical Volunteers to build a medical clinic in the village of Ma Kyone Galet and provide training by visiting doctors from the United States.
Wa Ale Resort contributes significantly to the Lampi Foundation through financial support and active participation in conservation projects. Guests at the resort have the opportunity to engage with these initiatives, whether it’s by participating in wildlife monitoring programs or contributing to beach clean-up activities.
Experience the Harmony of Luxury and Sustainability
Wa Ale Resort offers a unique blend of luxury and sustainability, providing guests with an unforgettable experience that aligns with the principles of ecotourism and sustainable travel. The resort’s luxurious accommodations, gourmet dining, and pristine natural surroundings create a perfect setting for relaxation and adventure.
Guests can enjoy activities such as snorkeling, kayaking, and guided nature walks, all designed to showcase the natural beauty of the region while minimizing environmental impact. The resort’s commitment to sustainability ensures that future generations can continue to experience the wonders of the Myeik Archipelago.
Plan Your Eco-Friendly Getaway
Choosing Wa Ale Resort for your next vacation means embracing ecotourism and sustainable travel. It’s an opportunity to immerse yourself in barefoot luxury, embrace nature, support vital conservation efforts, and contribute to the well-being of local communities. By supporting the Lampi Foundation, Wa Ale Resort not only offers an exceptional travel experience but also plays a crucial role in preserving the natural treasures of Myanmar.
Book your stay at Wa Ale Resort and embark on a journey that harmonizes luxury with sustainability, making a positive impact on the planet and its people.
