From Commitment to Tangible Results – Driving Ocean Conservation for Long-Term Health and Sustainability

In the second year of its ocean commitment, Novotel has turned its dedication into measurable results. The brand has continued to develop its operational approaches, food service offerings, staff capacity building, guest engagement initiatives, and support for marine conservation projects across its network of more than 600 hotels worldwide.

Novotel’s Ocean Positive Impact Plan- Continuing the Wave of Change

In June 2024, Novotel began a three-year partnership with WWF France, aimed at reducing its impact on the ocean through concrete operational measures. The collaboration establishes both short- and long-term frameworks under the four pillars of the Positive Impact Plan.

Progress can be seen across the hotel network. 92% of Novotel hotels comply with Accor’s single-use plastic reduction policy*, and 73% have received external environmental certifications. This demonstrates how day-to-day hotel operations can help reduce environmental pressure on the ocean.

On the sustainable food strategy front, Novotel continues to promote a plant-forward approach. By the end of 2025, half of Novotel hotels worldwide offered plant-based options making up at least 25% of their menu items, with a target to expand this proportion to all hotels by the end of 2026.

In terms of sustainable seafood, 41% of Novotel hotels have eliminated the use of more than 350 vulnerable marine species, following WWF guidelines. This has been accompanied by enhanced traceability and responsible sourcing practices. Additionally, as of mid-May 2026, over 1,600 chefs and kitchen staff have completed WWF Sustainable Seafood Training, helping to integrate sustainability principles into daily operations.

Awareness-building remains a key component of the program. As of mid-May 2026, over 3,200 hotel staff have completed Novotel’s Ocean Awareness Training, developed in partnership with AXA Climate, to deepen understanding of the challenges facing marine ecosystems. Meanwhile, guest engagement activities such as World Ocean Month play an important role in raising awareness and inspiring ocean conservation among staff, guests, and the wider community.

Novotel Oceans Impact Report

To inspire younger generations, Novotel has launched a learning game for children and families, developed in partnership with WWF, to promote understanding of endangered marine species in an accessible and fun way. As a hotel brand popular with traveling families worldwide, Novotel believes that sustainable change is not achieved through operational improvements alone, but also requires a genuine understanding of the importance of ocean conservation and the growing challenges facing marine life today.

The international partnership between Novotel and WWF France continues to play a vital role in supporting marine conservation projects across the globe. Over the past year, steady progress has been made. These projects range from protecting marine habitats and supporting scientific research, to promoting community engagement and expanding knowledge-sharing, while also extending operations to new areas.

Novotel’s commitment to ocean conservation has also been recognized on the global stage through its participation in the United Nations Ocean Conference (UNOC) in Nice, France, in June 2025. There, the brand shared ideas on sustainable tourism, marine biodiversity, sustainable seafood, and the role of the hotel industry in supporting ocean conservation.

Novotel ocean conservation report

This progress has been made possible by a growing network of hotel owners and partners who share Novotel’s vision for responsible hospitality, through investment and operational change that translates brand commitment into measurable, tangible results.

Looking at the overall picture of the past year’s operations, it is clear that Novotel has made significant strides in advancing its ocean mission. While there is still more work ahead, the goal remains unchanged: to support the long-term health and sustainability of the ocean.

*Unless otherwise stated, all referenced data is for fiscal year 2025 and is based on Accor’s annual sustainability reporting.

Key Figures at a Glance

• 92% of Novotel hotels comply with single-use plastic reduction policy

• 73% of Novotel hotels have received external environmental certifications

• 50% of Novotel hotels offer Plant-Based menus (at least 25% of items)

• 41% of Novotel hotels have eliminated use of vulnerable marine species (350+ species)

• 1,600+ chefs and kitchen staff trained in WWF Sustainable Seafood Training

• 3,200+ hotel staff trained in Ocean Awareness Training

• 1 family learning game developed with WWF to promote ocean conservation

The post Novotel Oceans Impact Report: Executive Summary appeared first on Asian Itinerary.

Fusion will mark Global Wellness Day on June 13 and the International Day of Yoga on June 21 with a series of healthy and holistic promotions at its resorts and hotels across Vietnam.

The Vietnam-based wellness brand offers a unique “all-spa inclusive” and “breakfast anywhere, anytime” concept, and has city hotels in Saigon as well as beachfront villa resorts along the coastline and wellness-focused resorts among the mountains and springs of central Vietnam.

Fusion Hotels Vietnam wellness events 2026

Getaways are even more rewarding with exclusive Fusionlife member benefits, offering up to 25% off on room bookings, spa treatments and dining. More details can be found here: https://fusionhotelgroup.com/fusionlife/.

Embracing a philosophy of balance, self-care, and inner harmony, Fusion Resort & Villas Da Nang presents a thoughtfully curated wellness journey dedicated to nurturing both body and mind on June 13, 2026, when guests are invited to reconnect and rejuvenate through a full day of mindful experiences, including Walking Meditation, Surfing Activities, Eight Limbs of Yoga, Balance and Flow, Body and Energy Healing, and Floating Sound Healing. This central Vietnamese resort will also host a Global Wellness Weekend by Sophie and Sanjay Rawat from 12 to 14 June, a serene 3-day, 2-night retreat, which includes a two-night stay in an Ocean View Suite, nourishing daily meals, one 30-minute Redwell therapy session, and one 50-minute spa treatment per person per day, along with access to wellness facilities such as the seasalt heated pool, infrared sauna, and herbal steam. This wellness journey is further enriched with a Nutrition Workshop, gathering and sharing circles, a bonfire ritual, cacao ceremony, and guided meditation experience.

Yoga sessions at Fusion

Recently recognized as “Best Destination Spa” at a worldwide level at the 2026 Haute Grandeur Global Spa Awards, Fusion Resort Cam Ranh invites guests to celebrate Global Wellness Day with peaceful wellness and mindful activities surrounded by the beauty of nature. The resort yoga instructors await you in a tranquil garden hidden deep within Maia Spa, surrounded by a stunning water lily pond. Here, guests are guided through gentle introductions to Tai Chi and yoga. Every session is thoughtfully designed for beginners, featuring everything from Sun Salutations to deep-stretch and sleep-enhancement practices paired with sound therapy. Beyond the mat, the Maia Natural Lab welcomes guests to handcraft their own organic body scrubs using all-natural ingredients.

From June 1- 30, Alba Wellness Valley by Fusion invites guests to embrace a month-long journey of wellbeing through three signature experiences celebrating mindfulness, gentle movement, and the restorative energy of nature. Global Wellness Day will be marked on June 13 under the theme “Joy Magenta,” featuring Qi Gong, yoga, mindful hot spring immersion, and soothing sound healing sessions. On 21 June, International Yoga Day offers a peaceful opportunity to reconnect body and mind through chakra meditation and sunrise yoga amidst the serene forest landscape of Hue. The celebration concludes on 22 June with International Bathing Day, highlighted by a calming water meditation experience in Alba’s natural hot springs, complemented by a singing bowl session for deep relaxation and renewal. Alba Wellness Valley by Fusion was recently awarded Wellness in Travel & Tourism (WITT) Certification, receiving an outstanding overall score of 97%, another prestigious accolade for this highly recognized wellness resort.

In celebration of World Environment Day (June 5) and World Oceans Day (June 8), Fusion Suites Vung Tau is gifting complimentary plant seeds to guests, inviting them to grow their own greenery. This small yet meaningful gesture aims to spread awareness and inspire environmental protection. Additionally, on the morning of June 10, the hotel will host a beachfront Tai Chi session for employees, guests and locals alike, promoting health and wellness for the whole community.

At Fusion spas, therapists offer caring, down-to-earth service

Fusion Suites Sai Gon invites travelers to a gentle celebration of wellbeing, starting on June 14 with mindful movements, guided breathing, and restorative treatments crafted to renew body and mind. At its spa, therapists offer caring, down-to-earth service: calming facials, soothing hot-stone therapy, and mindful stretch sessions. Book any payable spa treatment and enjoy an extra complimentary 30 minutes.

Meanwhile, in the business district in the outskirts of Ho Chi Minh City, HIIVE by Fusion Binh Duong has announced the opening of the new Cham’s Spa. Inspired by Vietnamese wellness traditions, Cham’s Spa offers a calming retreat designed to help guests restore energy, relax the body, and rebalance the mind with 11 specialized treatments, including Swedish, deep tissue, and hot stone massages, facial care, and herbal remedies. Signature facials feature deep cleansing and gemstone massages for total renewal. Immersive combination packages (100–150 mins) start at VND 639,000.

For more details, visit: https://fusionhotelgroup.com/.

The post FUSION RESORTS IN VIETNAM UNVEIL OFFERS FOR GLOBAL WELLNESS DAY 2026 appeared first on Asian Itinerary.

Wyndham Grand Phuket Kalim Bay, a premier destination for luxury honeymoon, has launched its first fully electric vehicle (EV) dedicated to in-house guest transfers to reduce the property’s carbon footprint and fuel consumption, while ensuring a noise-free experience for guests.

Situated high on a hillside overlooking the Andaman Sea, the upscale resort is spread out over a significant parcel of land, meaning that shuttle services are often required to connect guests travelling between the 132 pool villas and suites and facilities including the lobby, gym, main pool, restaurants, spa and onsite orchard. The average transfer distance is between 500 metres and one kilometre.

With 9,000 to 10,000 internal transfers recorded monthly, the resort’s gradual shift from traditional combustion engines to zero-emission vehicles is expected to make a measurable impact on energy efficiency and noise reduction across the property. Annual CO₂ savings from switching to zero-emission EVs are estimated to range from 12.15 to 27 metric tonnes.

Wyndham Phuket Kalim Bay

“This initiative marks a significant step forward in our sustainability journey and commitment to environmentally conscious hospitality. By replacing noisy traditional engines with clean electric transport, we’re helping create a more sustainable future for our community and a more peaceful experience for our guests, many of whom are couples seeking relaxation,” said Dominic Egger, General Manager of Wyndham Grand Phuket Kalim Bay and Director of Operations Thailand at Travel + Leisure Co.

Guests can easily book internal transfers through the resort’s Wyndham Grand app – which they are informed about during check-in – or via Kalim, the resort’s multilingual AI guide available on the resort’s website.

Wyndham electric vehicle

The EV shuttle is a factor in the resort’s 5-star Sustainable Tourism Acceleration Rating (STAR) from the Tourism Authority of Thailand. It complements the property’s existing sustainability initiatives, like its onsite organic orchard supporting an “Orchard-to-Table” concept for dining and spa treatments, a composting program that upcycles food waste into fertiliser, energy-efficient smart villas, and the total elimination of single-use plastics.

In line with Phuket’s growing emphasis on eco-tourism, Wyndham Grand Phuket Kalim Bay also offers an EV charging station for guests who travel with electric vehicles themselves.

This initiative and others implemented by the resort’s Travel Green team ensure the property meets the criteria of the government initiative “Green Hotel Plus Phuket Sandbox,” which aims to certify 600 hotels on the island to global green standards this year to prepare for a surge in eco-conscious travellers. The island will host the Global Sustainable Tourism Conference (GSTC2026) in May 2026, an event which will serve as a major milestone for these environmental goals.

The post Wyndham Grand Phuket Kalim Bay First Fully Electric Shuttle appeared first on Asian Itinerary.

Wyndham Grand Phuket Kalim Bay, a leader in sustainable luxury hospitality, has launched its “Stingless Bee” project at its organic orchard, completing the resort’s self-sustaining ecosystem and supporting farm-to-table dining experiences.

Wyndham Grand Phuket Kalim Bay organic garden

Developed in collaboration with regeneration experts 99Hives, the project introduces colonies of stingless bees – safe and highly efficient pollinators that help improve the yield and quality of fruits, herbs, and edible flowers grown on property. These bees also produce a rare and prized honey known as pot-honey.

“The Stingless Bee project marks a significant step in our sustainability journey by improving pollination in our orchard and ensuring a more consistent, abundant, and higher-quality harvest. Our guests benefit by enjoying the freshest possible ingredients, including fruits, herbs, edible flowers, and vegetables,” said Dominic Egger, Director of Operations Thailand at Travel + Leisure Co., and General Manager of Wyndham Grand Phuket Kalim Bay.

The resort already uses stingless bee honey in its gourmet dishes, desserts, and craft cocktails across its food and beverage outlets. The honey is known for its unique flavour and purported health benefits, including being rich in antioxidants, soothing sore throats and coughs, and supporting digestive health.

Wyndham Phuket stingless bee project

Spanning 6,000 square metres, the resort’s organic orchard produces a wide variety of fruits such as pineapples, bananas, papayas, and passionfruit, alongside herbs and spices including lime, lemongrass, ginger, turmeric, and citronella. Organic chickens provide farm-fresh eggs, while food scraps are composted and returned to the soil, nourishing the orchard and herb garden and completing the sustainability loop.

Enhanced pollination also supports the growth of herbs and flowers used in the resort’s farm-to-spa treatments at ZANA Spa.

Stingless beehive at the orchard

Guests are invited to participate in the orchard experience by booking cooking classes with the resort’s chef, which include tours of the orchard and the opportunity to pick fresh herbs and spices for Thai dishes they prepare.

Beyond dining and wellness, the orchard also serves as a unique venue for curated events like “Stargazing Night & Local Bites,” offering guests a deeper connection to nature and local flavours with the relaxing view of Kalim Bay.

Nestled on a cliff overlooking the Andaman Sea, Wyndham Grand Phuket Kalim Bay features 194 elegant non-smoking rooms and villas, many with private infinity pools offering sweeping sea views. The resort boasts a full-service spa and wellness centre, gym, and multiple dining options. It is also part of Asia’s premier vacation club, Club Wyndham Asia, developed by Travel + Leisure Co., a leading leisure travel company providing more than six million holidays per year.

The post Wyndham Grand Phuket Kalim Bay Launches Stingless Bee Project appeared first on Asian Itinerary.

The Hari Hong Kong has achieved ‘EarthCheck Silver status’ in recognition of its broad spectrum of sustainability initiatives, placing the Wan Chai hotel among the globe’s most eco-friendly travel and tourism operators. To achieve and maintain Silver Certified accreditation with EarthCheck, the world’s leading scientific benchmarking, certification and advisory group, the hotel must be independently audited annually and meet stringent requirements across key performance areas.

The hotel’s potable water consumption for the audited year of 2024 was 204.2L per guest night. That figure is just over half of the regional average of 361L per guest night, and below what EarthCheck deems the “regional leader” level – meaning exemplary standard of performance for the type and location of an operation – at 253L per guest night.

The Hari Hong Kong’s energy consumption per guest night was 101.15 MJ for 2024, almost half the regional average of 180.3 MJ per guest night and also below the regional leader level of 126MJ per guest night. During the same timeframe, the hotel sent 3.37L of waste to landfill per guest night, just over a third of the regional average of 9.01L per guest night and almost half of the regional leader level of 6.31L per guest night.

The hotel’s greenhouse gas emissions for the audited year of 2024 were 18.33kg CO2-e per guest night, sitting right at the regional leader level and under the regional average of 25kg CO2-e per guest night.

Other performance highlights during the audited year include, due to the hotel’s ban on single use plastics, the avoidance of an estimated 109,878 500ml plastic bottles and 47,767 30ml bathroom amenities bottles.

The Hari Hong Kong, which opened in December 2020 in the heart of Wan Chai, was established through sustainable design and construction which sought to reduce negative impacts on the environment. The hotel is also a LEED (Silver), BEAM Plus (Silver) and BEEO certified hotel in recognition for its sustainable design, construction and energy efficiency performance.

“We are continually striving to improve our performance in environmental and social sustainability across everything we do, ranging from our energy and water conservation efforts to responsible purchasing, local employment and community support,” said the hotel’s General Manager Edward E. Snoeks.

The hotel works with Green Island Cement on its ShellCem Project to collect and upcycle oyster shells and other seashells such as mussel and scallop shells into cement.

A green wall on the facade of the hotel’s second floor terrace, that stretches three stories high, contributes positively to the environment by helping to reduce the temperature of surrounding areas.

For more information about The Hari Hong Kong, visit https://www.thehari.com/hong-kong/ email askme@thehari.com or call +852 2129 0388.

The post The Hari Hong Kong Secures ‘EarthCheck Silver Status’ appeared first on Asian Itinerary.

In a significant acknowledgment of eco-conscious innovation, Ronald Akili, the visionary founder of Desa Potato Head Bali, has been named to TIME’s prestigious TIME100 Climate Leaders list for 2025. This recognition highlights his trailblazing efforts to transform hospitality into a powerful force for environmental sustainability.

Akili’s “good times do good” philosophy underpins his approach to responsible tourism. His flagship property, Desa Potato Head Bali, located in the vibrant Seminyak area, exemplifies a sustainable resort that champions circular economy principles. Remarkably, the resort diverts 99.5% of its waste from landfills, repurposing much of it into designer homeware, thus blending luxury with eco-awareness seamlessly.

Leading the Way in Sustainable Hospitality

Bali sustainable tourism

In 2024, Akili expanded his impact with the launch of the Community Waste Project, a 23,000-square-foot waste processing facility situated near Bali’s overwhelmed Suwung landfill. This innovative project has already processed over 3.3 million pounds of waste, transforming Bali’s waste management landscape. It provides a scalable model for sustainable tourism, inspiring destinations worldwide to adopt similar practices.

Akili’s work aligns with Bali’s growing reputation as a hub for eco-friendly travel. His efforts not only help preserve the island’s natural beauty but also demonstrate how sustainable practices can be integrated into luxury tourism, creating positive social and environmental impacts.

About Desa Potato Head Bali and Potato Head Brand

Founded in 2010, Potato Head is an Indonesian brand where creativity, culture, and environmental care converge. Desa Potato Head Bali, designed by architectural firms OMA and Andra Matin, is more than a hotel; it’s a cultural hub. Spread across 225 suites and studios, it features a variety of social spaces, including bars, restaurants, sculpture gardens, outdoor amphitheaters, wellness facilities rooted in local culture, a beach club, and an underground Hi-Fi nightclub.

Recognized among the World’s 50 Best Hotels in 2023 and 2024, Desa Potato Head Bali is also B-Corp certified, reflecting its commitment to social and environmental responsibility. The resort’s achievement of a 0.5% waste-to-landfill rate exemplifies the “Good Times Do Good™” ethos, proving that luxury and sustainability can go hand-in-hand.

Why Sustainable Tourism Matters

As travelers increasingly seek authentic and eco-friendly experiences, Bali continues to lead by example. The innovative initiatives led by figures like Ronald Akili show that responsible tourism is not only necessary but also profitable and enriching for local communities. Visitors can indulge in Bali’s beauty while supporting projects that protect its environment.

For those interested in exploring Bali’s sustainable side, consider visiting Desa Potato Head Bali or supporting local eco-initiatives. To learn more about Akili’s work and Bali’s green tourism efforts, visit the official website: Seminyak.potatohead.co.

The post Ronald Akili: A Pioneering Climate Leader appeared first on Asian Itinerary.

In a bold step towards sustainability, Alma Resort Cam Ranh is nearing completion of what is set to become Vietnam’s most significant solar power project in the hospitality sector.

Spanning 30 hectares of pristine beachfront, Alma is installing 4,476 solar panels across the rooftops of its 196 pavilions, two iconic V-shaped towers with 384 suites, the lobby lounge, and utility buildings. Covering 23,290 square meters, the panels will generate up to 2,462 kilowatts peak — providing between 25% and 30% of the resort’s total energy needs, depending on seasonal occupancy.

A Major Step in Sustainable Energy

Alma is currently installing 4476 solar panels totalling 23,290 square metres

The project is projected to save Alma Resort USD 7.2 million in electricity costs over the next 25 years, while reducing carbon dioxide emissions by 65,000 tonnes in the same period. Managing Director Herbert Laubichler-Pichler describes it as a landmark initiative for Vietnam’s luxury hotel sector, highlighting Cam Ranh’s 300+ sunny days a year as the perfect environment for solar energy.

Vietnam’s Solar Power Leader

Vietnam has rapidly become Southeast Asia’s solar powerhouse, thanks to favorable government incentives and strong private investment. Alma’s project underscores how luxury resorts can integrate renewable energy while setting an example for sustainable tourism in the region.

Beyond Solar: Alma’s Green Commitments

With a capacity of 2462 kilowatts peak, the solar power system will fuel between a quarter to almost 30 per cent Alma’s energy needs

The solar power initiative is only one part of Alma’s broader environmental mission. The resort operates a series of eco-friendly programs, including:

• Onsite Herb and Nursery Gardens and a Chicken Farm, providing fresh organic produce and eggs for its restaurants.

• A reverse osmosis water treatment plant that supplies 70,000 liters of drinking water and ice weekly, cutting reliance on plastic bottles.

• A recycling-focused garbage room that processes around 250 kg of waste daily, including composting and reselling used cooking oil for recycling.

• A fleet of 36 electric buggies powered at a dedicated charging station, promoting cleaner in-resort transport.

Staff engagement in sustainability efforts is central, ensuring that Alma’s eco-initiatives extend well beyond infrastructure.

The Future of Green Hospitality in Vietnam

It’s estimated Alma Resort Cam Ranh solar project will save Alma up to USD 7.2 million (VND 178 billion) in electricity bills over the next 25 years.

As Vietnam positions itself as a leading solar energy hub in Southeast Asia, Alma Resort Cam Ranh’s pioneering efforts represent the future of responsible tourism. By investing in renewable energy and eco-conscious practices, the resort not only reduces its footprint but also inspires others in the hospitality industry to follow suit.

For more information or to make a booking, visit alma-resort.com, call +84 258 399 1666 or email info@alma-resort.com

The post ‘Vietnam’s Most Ambitious’ Hotel Solar Power Project appeared first on Asian Itinerary.

Zenmaya Oceanfront Phuket, Trademark Collection by Wyndham is proud to announce the completion of the first phase of its solar panel installation, which will meet around 30% of its power needs immediately.

Zenmaya Oceanfront Phuket Poolside

The project involves the installation of 188 high-efficiency solar modules with a power output capacity of up to 120 kWp. By harnessing solar energy, Zenmaya Oceanfront Phuket expects to make substantial savings alongside its significant reduction in carbon emissions.

Phase one of the installation was completed in September, and the second and final phase is set for completion within the last quarter of 2024—just in time for the high season. This will further advance the resort’s renewable energy capabilities, reducing reliance on non-renewable sources.

“Investing in solar energy has proven to be a smart, sustainable choice, not only for long-term cost savings but also for advancing our environmental goals. We’ve always championed solar power, and this is just the beginning,” said Dominic Egger, Director of Operations Thailand, Travel + Leisure Co.

Aerial view of Zenmaya Oceanfront Phuket with the solar panels

“This solar project represents a significant step toward reducing the carbon footprint of Zenmaya Oceanfront Zenmaya Oceanfront Phuket’s solar panel installation to advance the resort’s renewable energy capabilities and make significant reduction in carbon emissions. and the properties we manage in Thailand, aligning with our global objectives to be sustainable for the benefit of the communities where we operate,” he added.

Zenmaya Oceanfront Phuket continues to prioritise energy efficiency and plans to expand its sustainability initiatives in 2025 by installing an electric vehicle charging station to cater to the growing number of eco-conscious travellers.

Zenmaya Oceanfront Phuket

Nestled on Phuket’s idyllic west coast, Zenmaya Oceanfront Phuket offers the vibrant atmosphere of a beach club with five infinity pools – including one main swimming pool and four shared pools accessible by select rooms and suites – a fitness centre, and an onsite restaurant and bar.

Zenmaya Oceanfront Phuket is managed by Travel + Leisure Co., the world’s leading membership and leisure travel company.

The post Zenmaya Oceanfront Phuket Solar Panel Installation appeared first on Asian Itinerary.

TIME magazine is hailing Meliá Hotels International as the most sustainable company in the tourism sector, designating the Spanish hotel group a number-one pick in the ‘World’s Most Sustainable Companies of 2024’.

INNSiDE Yogyakarta – INNSiDE Room Merapi View Twin

The inaugural list includes 500 leading companies from more than 30 countries. Meliá Hotels International obtained the highest score in the tourism sector worldwide and occupies 114th place in the global ranking among all industries. The hotel group has also positioned itself in eighth place among the 25 Spanish companies that appear in the ranking.

The TIME announcement comes at the same time that Meliá secured its commitment to sustainability through Ecostars, an internationally recognised certification that evaluates and rewards sustainable practices in the hotel industry.

Twenty-seven hotels in Asia have already achieved ratings ranging from certified to Silver level. The highest-ranked hotels within the region are Meliá Bali and Meliá Purosani Yogyakarta, both in Indonesia. Meliá Makassar and INNSiDE Yogyakarta, also in Indonesia, achieved a Bronze rating, along with Meliá Vinpearl Hue and Meliá Vinpearl Phu Ly in Vietnam and Meliá Koh Samui in Thailand.

Melia Vinpearl Hue – Zenith Sky Bar

The globally-recognized Ecostars standard evaluates the sustainability of hotels, considering factors related to environmental management and energy efficiency, such as energy consumption, use of green energy, water management, waste management, carbon emissions and sustainable purchasing.

“Having an assessment as solid as Ecostars across our entire portfolio in ownership, rental and management, not only strengthens our reputation, but also directly enhances our business results, since, as a recent study conducted by Booking.com shows, a visible positioning in sustainability is valued by customers and translates into an increase in bookings,” said Gabriel Escarrer, president and CEO of Meliá Hotels International.

Melia Purosani – Presidential Suite Bed Room

For Meliá Hotels International, another strong point of the Ecostars certification is its global nature, as it is used and recognised all over the world. The portfolio assessed by Ecostars is distributed geographically as follows: 160 hotels in Europe, 60 in the Americas, 40 in Asia and 10 in Africa.

Earlier this year the group was recognized as one of the top-performing hotel companies globally according to the latest Sustainability Yearbook by S&P Global. The leading financial ratings and market analysis provider ranked Meliá in third place and the first European-origin hotel company in the ranking. The Sustainability Yearbook 2024 was based on the 2023 Corporate Sustainability Assessment, an annual evaluation of companies’ sustainability practices, which covers over 9,400 companies from around the world.

The post Meliá Hotels Recognized Globally For Environmental Efforts appeared first on Asian Itinerary.

While guests at the 5-star resort of Banyan Tree Samui enjoy exquisite dining and fine wines at its award-winning signature restaurant, Saffron,  they may yet be unaware of the current of care that flows beneath the surface, ensuring that maximum effort is made to prepare all dishes using ingredients sourced through the most rigorous sustainability guidelines.

Several years back, Banyan Tree Samui was recognised as a flagship of sustainability and eco-friendliness in Thailand when it was awarded the highest level of certification by global watchdog EarthCheck, the first hotel in the country to achieve this award.

And in 2024, the luxury resort — often better known for its pool villas with infinity pools and spectacular views — announced a series of initiatives that keep the sustainability ball moving forward.

Cage-Free Eggs

In January 2024, just 2.75 percent of all eggs purchased by Banyan Tree Samui were classified as “cage-free”, indicating that they were sourced from free-range farms, as opposed to caged chickens. By May this year, that figure had leapt to more than two-thirds of the 17,402 eggs bought. Eggs from hens remain the most popular item in this category while the sourcing of cage-free quail eggs and duck eggs remains “a work in progress”, said Chef Rainer Roersch, the hotel’s Director of F&B and Cuisine.

Sustainable Seafood

Thailand’s fishing industry has undergone a radical rethink since it was issued a “yellow card” by the European Union in 2015, a warning that sanctions could be applied if the country did not sufficiently tackle illegal and unregulated fishing. To protect biodiversity and support a sustainable supply chain, Banyan Tree Samui has now introduced a policy to purchase only sustainable seafood that is certified by the Marine Stewardship Council and Aquaculture Sustainability Council. Both these standards are monitored by Bureau Veritas, the recognised world leader in testing, inspection and certification services.

While almost all seafood and fish are purchased locally on the tropical island, Banyan Tree Samui imports items such as salmon and snow fish. All 100 kilogrammes of salmon purchased on a monthly basis meet the requirements of the international agencies overseeing sustainable seafood practices.

Coffee Granules & Capsules

Guests at a 5-star hotel like Banyan Tree Samui expect nothing but the best, and the same goes for having a modern coffee machine in their rooms. All 88 pool villas at the resort are equipped with Nespresso machines, which means that housekeepers are constantly refilling and disposing of thousands of coffee capsules and the used granules. In collaboration with Nespresso, in October 2023 Banyan Tree Samui began recycling and upcycling the discarded coffee capsules. The aluminium is upcycled into everyday products such as bicycles, chairs, pens and window frames, as well as recycled coffee capsules. As for the coffee grains, they are recycled as compost fertiliser and renewable energy such as biofuel.

Banyan Global Foundation

In addition to ongoing “plastic-free” initiatives — phasing out the use of plastic bottles, straws, cutlery and garbage bags, for example— and providing its food waste to a local pig farm, this eco-friendly hotel is also involved in a plethora of local community projects on Koh Samui. It has provided scholarships to local children; funded the reconstruction of a nearby school damaged by a storm; held annual blood drives; and, during the pandemic, offered complimentary one-night stays to all local health workers. Much of the finance for these benevolent programmes comes from the Banyan Tree Global Foundation.

The Banyan Group has a longstanding commitment to sustainable practices, including numerous projects around the world concerning: waste management; water conservation; biodiversity; and a Climate Change project focused on green energy and waste-to-energy projects.

In 2019, the Banyan Tree Group (now the Banyan Group) implemented a Code of Conduct for suppliers to map a transparent supply chain for all its ingredients, and to promote socio-environmental practice. To date, more than 900 suppliers have registered worldwide.

For more information about sustainable practices at Banyan Tree Samui, go to: https://www.banyantree.com/thailand/samui/sustainability

The post Banyan Tree Samui Rolls Out Sustainable Food Initiatives appeared first on Asian Itinerary.

The Cu Lao Cham Biosphere Reserve, located in Quang Nam Province, Vietnam, is an enchanting archipelago of eight islands renowned for its incredible biodiversity and rich cultural heritage. Recognized by UNESCO as a biosphere reserve in 2009, Cu Lao Cham is a testament to the harmonious coexistence of nature and human communities.

World Network of Island and Coastal Biosphere Reserves – Cu Lao Cham

The islands boast a pristine natural environment that includes lush tropical forests and vibrant coral reefs. These ecosystems are home to an impressive array of over 950 aquatic species, including various fish, coral, and mollusks. This makes Cu Lao Cham a top destination for snorkeling and diving enthusiasts who are eager to explore its underwater wonders. The clarity of the water and the health of the coral reefs provide an exceptional experience for marine explorers.

On land, the reserve supports a diverse range of flora and fauna, with dense forests that offer sanctuary to several endangered species. Birdwatchers and nature lovers will find the islands’ rich birdlife particularly fascinating. The forested areas are crisscrossed with hiking trails, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the island’s natural beauty and tranquility.

Cu Lao Cham UNESCO world biosphere reserve

In addition to its natural riches, Cu Lao Cham holds significant cultural value. Archaeological findings suggest that the islands have been inhabited for centuries, with evidence of ancient Cham civilization. Today, the local community continues to practice sustainable fishing and farming methods, reflecting a deep respect for their environment. This sustainable lifestyle not only preserves the ecological balance but also supports the local economy.

Tourists visiting Cu Lao Cham can engage in various eco-tourism activities. Exploring the marine ecosystem through snorkeling and diving, hiking through the forest trails, and learning about the local culture and history are just a few of the enriching experiences on offer.

Cham Island (Cu Lao Cham)

The reserve’s management places a strong emphasis on environmental education and sustainable tourism practices. Visitors are encouraged to respect the natural habitat and contribute to conservation efforts, ensuring that the beauty and diversity of Cu Lao Cham are preserved for future generations.

In summary, Cu Lao Cham Biosphere Reserve is a remarkable destination that offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage. Its commitment to sustainability and conservation makes it a model for eco-tourism, providing visitors with an opportunity to experience the wonders of nature while supporting the preservation of this extraordinary environment.

The post Cu Lao Cham: A Biodiversity Haven in Central Vietnam appeared first on Asian Itinerary.

Meliá Chiang Mai has joined forces with a new sustainable and chemical-free farm to source the likes of rare, local greens, cage-free eggs and sterilised fresh milk, expanding its ‘360° Cuisine’ program.

In a bid to work closely with local farmers to help them improve sustainability and encourage ethical production to ultimately make the overall food system more resilient, the hotel has formed a partnership with organic gourmet farm Rong Khum in San Pa Tong.

The hotel sources organic Jasmine rice, cage-free eggs, fresh organic milk free of added hormones, vegetables such as betel leaves, coriander, spring onion, star gooseberry and chili, and fruits

The hotel sources organic Jasmine rice, cage-free eggs, fresh organic milk free of added hormones, vegetables such as betel leaves, coriander, spring onion, star gooseberry and chili, and fruits including longan, lychee, papaya, dragon fruit and bananas from Rong Khum for guests’ meals at Mai Restaurant & Bar, Laan Na Kitchen, MAI The Sky Bar and Ruen Kaew Lounge.

Chiang Mai University Professor Dr. Puangrat Kaewlom, who comes from a long line of farmers and is passionate about research into sustainable agriculture, established Rong Khum about two years ago. The farm joins the hotel’s network of ethical and chemical-free suppliers including gourmet farm SEED in San Sai District and Jartisann’s Original Thai Cheese, which crafts artisanal cheese made from high-quality, locally sourced raw cow’s milk.

The network is a central plank in Meliá Chiang Mai’s ‘360° Cuisine’ program, designed to reduce the hotel’s carbon footprint and promote healthy eating. Under the program, the hotel sources ‘farm to plate’ organic produce that travels only a short distance. As much of each ingredient is used – roots, leaves, stems, stalks and more – in a ‘thoughtful cooking process’ before ‘plate to farm’ food waste returns to the farms as fertilizer in a truly 360° concept. Leftover cooking oil is sent to be recycled into biodiesel.

Meliá Chiang Mai’s executive chef Suksant (Billy) Chutinthratip at organic gourmet farm Rong Khum in San Pa Tong

Since the 360° Cuisine program’s inception in 2022, the hotel has sent more than 3300kg of leftover food for compost and fertilizer to both farms and more than 660kg of cooking oil to a biodiesel producer.

“It’s no easy feat to operate a chemical-free farm and it’s more expensive to support sustainable agriculture,” said Meliá Chiang Mai’s executive chef Suksant (Billy) Chutinthratip. “Yet we believe it’s crucial to engage directly with local farmers, producers, professors and health sector professionals to create a unique connection within the community that ultimately benefits the health of our guests, our community and our environment.”

Meliá Chiang Mai also ushers guests onto SEED and Rong Khum to meet local farmers and learn more about sustainable farming and healthier eating, as part of its Journey to the Farm Package.

The hotel was recently awarded the “Chiang Mai Green Kitchen” certificate for a second year and the new “Sustainable Healthy Food Program” certificate from Thai Health Promotion Foundation and Chiang Mai University in recognition of its efforts to go above and beyond to implement sustainable practices in its kitchens and contribute to healthy food practices in Chiang Mai. The Tourism Authority of Thailand has also certified the hotel with a “Five-Star Sustainable Tourism Acceleration Rating”.

To contact Meliá Chiang Mai or to make a booking, email reservation.chiangmai@melia.com, call +66 52 090 699 or visit https://www.melia.com/en/hotels/thailand/chiang-mai/melia-chiang-mai/index.htm

The post Chiang Mai Hotel’s Organic Farming Initiative appeared first on Asian Itinerary.

Cathay has reached a milestone in its 1 Ticket, 1 Tree journey, with the planting of 30,000 mangrove trees in Southeast Asia since the initiative was launched in 2021. This includes 7,500 mangrove trees that Cathay and its partners have committed to plant in 2024, from tickets sold in Southeast Asia from a five-day campaign period in July 2023.

Now in its fourth year, 1 Ticket, 1 Tree is a Southeast Asia initiative by Cathay that underscores its commitment to support local communities, restore local habitats and drive climate resilience. It involves Cathay planting a tree in the region for every ticket purchased from Singapore, the Philippines, Thailand, Indonesia, Malaysia, Vietnam and Cambodia during a specified campaign period. To kickstart 1 Ticket, 1 Tree this year, 4,000 trees were planted in Thailand’s Bangpu Nature Education Centre in Samut Prakan on 23 March 2024. The remaining trees will be progressively planted in mangrove forests across Southeast Asia in the coming months.

Cathay continues to work with local environment and community partners to restore mangrove forests in the region. In Thailand for instance, half of the 4,000 trees were contributed by KTC (Krungthai Card), who joined Cathay’s efforts in Thailand for the first time this year. Since 2021, Cathay has worked with 13 local partners across the region to plant trees and ensure they grow and thrive.

Cathay Regional General Manager for Southeast Asia Dominic Perret said: “Cathay’s 1 Ticket, 1 Tree in Southeast Asia reinforces our aspiration to be at the forefront of sustainability leadership and to advocate for collaborative actions to go Greener Together. Giving back to the communities we serve is an important part of this endeavour, as we collaborate with our customers and business partners to protect the coastal ecosystems that many local communities in the region depend on for food, protection and income. We are extremely encouraged by the positive response we’ve received from other like-minded partners who have since joined us in this effort, or simply helped spread the word.”

1 Ticket, 1 Tree will be rolled out in Southeast Asia again this year, where Cathay invites customers to contribute to the mangrove forests when they fly, simply by booking a ticket with Cathay.

For more information on 1 Ticket, 1 Tree, please follow Cathay’s Facebook page

Greener Together: Cathay’s commitment to sustainability leadership

As one of the first airlines in Asia to set a target of 10% Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) for its total fuel consumption by 2030, Cathay fully recognises the challenges in transitioning to more sustainable energy in aviation. To address this, Cathay embraces a collaborative ethos, Greener Together, urging all stakeholders to unite in this important pursuit. Beyond SAF, we have also made important strides towards our

2050 carbon neutrality goal in other aspects of decarbonisation

Full details of Cathay’s performance and commitments in sustainable  development are available in its 2023 Sustainability Report, available here. Key highlights include committing to near-term climate improvements, accelerating the use of SAF, and moving towards more sustainable use of resources.

The post Cathay’s 1 Ticket, 1 Tree initiative appeared first on Asian Itinerary.

Eliminating Food Waste And Going Digital in Southeast Asia

Meliá Hotels International’s efforts worldwide have resulted in the hotel group being recognized as one of the top-performing hotel companies globally, according to the latest Sustainability Yearbook by S&P Global. Some examples of initiatives across Southeast Asia include Meliá Ho Tram Beach Resort’s Carbon Offset Program, where they offset guests’ travel emissions through tree planting initiatives. Hotel’s like Meliá Vinpearl Phu Quoc and INNSiDE by Meliá Yogyakarta are turning food scraps into soil nutrients and properties such as Sol by Meliá Benoa Bali and Gran Meliá Jakarta are managing extra food through an initiative that addresses food inequity and eliminates food waste. Meliá Hotels throughout the region are increasingly going paperless with necessary information and menus available via QR code at such properties as Gran Meliá Nha Trang, Meliá Phuket Mai Khao and INNSiDE by Meliá Kuala Lumpur Cheras. Eco-friendly grass straws and paper straws have become the norm and plastic bottles are increasingly a thing of the past. Meliá Makassar is the most recent convert having switched to glass bottles in December 2023.

Luxury and Eco-Conscious Are Not Mutually Exclusive in Tokyo

The Forbes Five-Star Palace Hotel Tokyo runs a cyclical food-waste management project dubbed ‘Eco-Palace’, which turns the property’s compostable kitchen refuse into biodegradable fertilizer for use by local farms. The resulting crops of rice and produce are then bought by the hotel for incorporation into the staff canteen’s daily menu. The early stages of this project date as far back as 1992, two decades prior to the property being razed and rebuilt from the ground-up, and at a time when the hotel was the first in its industry to repurpose organic refuse to produce compost. More recently, Palace Hotel Tokyo’s culinary team launched a collaboration with Food Loss Bank to incorporate imperfect-looking, but entirely edible and delicious produce into select menu offerings, such as the hotel’s desserts and its pastry shop’s popular veggie bread loaf.

Integrated project honours Central Vietnam’s pristine nature with eye-catching eco-initiatives

Located in a part of Vietnam renowned for its pristine nature, Laguna Lang Co prides itself on having a strong focus on sustainability. Notable green achievements include a moratorium on single-use plastics and its “edible golf course” planted with rice fields and tended by water buffalos. And the far-reaching integrated resort — which encompasses the acclaimed Sir Nick Faldo Signature golf course Laguna Golf Lang Co as well as the Banyan Tree Lang Co and Angsana Lang Co resorts— has restated its credentials as one of Vietnam’s most sustainable large-scale projects by retaining its EarthCheck “Gold Certification. Other notable sustainability initiatives, meanwhile, include a pledge to reduce meat production and consumption by introducing a minimum of one meat-free day per month at the project’s associate canteen. In addition to this, F&B outlets across the board have widened their variety of vegetarian and vegan options.

To Plant, to Raise and to Understand on Phuket

Trisara, an exclusive hideaway in Phuket’s unspoiled northwestern corner, is notable among resorts in Thailand for its sustainability philosophy. It is a creed that covers everything from the upcycled Thai antique wooden furniture in the rooms, the grey water recycling systems that keep the ground lush and green to F&B that encompasses PRU—the only Michelin-starred restaurant on Phuket—and Jampa, a zero-waste venue leading the charge for sustainable dining on the island. Locavore inclinations reach a delicious crescendo at Pru. The venue’s name – an acronym for Plant. Raise. Understand. – provides a solid clue as to its overriding creed. Jampa, meanwhile, takes Trisara’s “Dine Good, Do Good” motto to a logical conclusion with its zero-waste cuisine. The beating heart of this philosophy is Pru Jampa, Trisara’s 16,000-square-metre farm. The treasure trove of a garden is a culinary playground bursting with aromas and flavours to be utilised by award-winning chefs Jimmy Ophorst (Pru) and Rick Dingen (Jampa). Here chickens are raised for their eggs, fish is farmed sustainably, and myriad fruits, vegetables, flowers, and herbs are cultivated. All together, along with rotating their crops, this creates a sustainable ecosystem to nourish the land and to support the local economy.

Hotel Volunteers Help Restore Chiang Mai’s Biodiverse Forest Ecosystems

Meliá Chiang Mai’s staff have helped regenerate more than seven acres of seasonally dry tropical forest in Thailand’s mountainous north, planting more than 4,350 trees of species typical of the region’s natural forest ecosystems. In partnership with Chiang Mai University’s Doi Suthep Nature Centre and Forest Restoration Research Unit, the hotel’s volunteers have painstakingly conserved and restored forest within Doi Suthep-Pui National Park – Chiang Mai’s green backdrop and premier natural tourist attraction. In addition to tree-planting, Meliá Chiang Mai staff also collected tree seeds in the natural forest, raised tree seedlings in nurseries, weeded around planted trees, applied fertilizer and monitored the survival and growth of the planted trees. Activities took place at Ban Pong Yang Nai, the Huay Kaew-Wang Bua Ban Nature Study Trail, Mon Cham and Doi Suthep Research Tree Nursery. The hotel’s volunteers are planning to embark on further restoration activities in the national park throughout 2024. They started working with the university’s subsidiary units in June 2022 to regenerate forest, as part of Meliá Chiang Mai’s ongoing “Meliá Go Green” initiative.

New Sustainable Farm Feeds Mouths and Minds

With 8500sqm of its 12 beachfront hectares dedicated to cultivating an array of vegetables, fruits, herbs, and eggs for meals for guests and staff, The Anam Cam Ranh has launched a program for children to learn about sustainable farming. Chefs incorporate fresh, organic ingredients from the resort’s farm – such as morning glory, malabar spinach, corn, mustard green, wild betel leaves, and chicken and duck eggs – in meals served to Lang Viet Restaurant & Bar’s diners as well as at the staff kitchen. The farm’s variety of vegetables also include lettuce, cucumber, green onion, and cassava root. Custard apple, papaya, banana, mango, gac fruit and bitter melon are among the farm’s fruits. Herbs grown include basil, coriander, thyme, mint, imperata cylindrica, and plantago asiatica. In addition to ducks and chickens, the farm is home to an abundance of geese, rabbits, goats, guinea fowls, turkeys and peacocks. The Anam Group group general manager Laurent Myter urged young guests and their parents to visit the farm as part of a supervised program to learn about sustainable farming and interact with the friendly animals.

Cam Ranh Heats Up Major Solar Power Project

Alma is in the process of implementing what is believed to be Vietnam’s most ambitious solar power project, installing 4470 solar panels totalling 23,290 square metres on the roofs of its 196 pavilions, two V-shaped towers housing 384 suites, lobby lounge and utility building. With a capacity of 2462 kilowatts peak – the rate at which it generates energy at its peak performance on a sunny day – the solar power system will fuel between a quarter to almost 35 percent of Alma’s energy needs, depending on occupancy dictated by the low and high seasons. It’s estimated this system will save Alma millions of dollars in electricity bills over the next 25 years and significantly reduce Alma’s carbon dioxide (CO₂) emissions. Alma also has a sustainability officer to track the property’s energy use, resource conservation, recycling, pollution reduction, waste elimination, transportation, education efforts and building design. The role also involves creating sustainability programs, budgets and schedules, evaluating the success of sustainability initiatives, and managing three staff committees focused on ‘green products’, ‘innovation and solutions’ and ‘people and partnerships’.

Planting Mangroves Close to Bangkok

Situated in the heart of the action in Bangkok’s On Nut neighborhood, INNSiDE by Meliá Bangkok Sukhumvit is balancing its city vibe with projects designed to protect Mother Nature. Through its GREENSiDE project, the hotel, which debuted in July 2023, has partnered with Bang Pu Nature Education Centre for tree planting activities. INNSiDE by Meliá Bangkok Sukhumvit’s volunteer staff have planted more than 100 mangrove trees so far at Bang Pu’s Recreation and Convalescene Centre. The mangrove trees will benefit the mangrove forest in various ways, such as helping to protect inland areas from flooding, purifying water by filtering diverse pollutants, and capturing surplus sediments. The hotel’s volunteer staff also recently visited the Royal Thai Navy Sea Turtle Conservation Centre to learn more about the importance of the conservation of sea turtles, marine life and ecosystems and protecting the environment via efficient waste management, and plan to assist with the release of sea turtles to the ocean.

Guests join beach and reef clean-up on Koh Samui

Banyan Tree Samui is inviting guests to roll up their sleeves on April 22nd and join in an effort to clean, not only the resort’s private beach, but also the coral reefs that flank the crescent-shaped cove. It’s all part of an annual campaign initiated by the hotel’s Sustainability Team. Banyan Tree Samui is considered a torchbearer in eco-friendliness and was the first and only hotel in Thailand to be awarded the highest ranking Platinum Certification by EarthCheck, the hospitality industry’s environmental monitor. Meanwhile, the hotel’s sister resort on the Andaman, Banyan Tree Krabi, will be conducting its own roadside clear-up campaign on Earth Day, likewise with the assistance of conscientious guests.

The post How Hotels Around Asia Are Going Green appeared first on Asian Itinerary.

Meliá Chiang Mai’s staff have helped regenerate more than seven acres of seasonally dry tropical forest in Thailand’s mountainous north, planting more than 4,350 trees of species typical of the region’s natural forest ecosystems. In partnership with Chiang Mai University’s Doi Suthep Nature Centre and Forest Restoration Research Unit, the hotel’s volunteers have painstakingly conserved and restored forest within Doi Suthep-Pui National Park – Chiang Mai’s green backdrop and premier natural tourist attraction.

In addition to tree-planting, Meliá Chiang Mai staff also collected tree seeds in the natural forest, raised tree seedlings in nurseries, weeded around planted trees, applied fertilizer and monitored the survival and growth of the planted trees. Activities took place at Ban Pong Yang Nai, the Huay Kaew-Wang Bua Ban Nature Study Trail, Mon Cham and Doi Suthep Research Tree Nursery.

“Home to more than 300 bird species and nearly 2000 species of ferns and flowering plants, Doi Suthep-Pui National Park is akin to the lungs of Chiang Mai,” said Meliá Chiang Mai’s general manager Marc Selinger. “All of these activities by our dedicated volunteers are carefully researched and planned, to ensure proper forest-ecosystem restoration, aiming to recover the structure, biodiversity and ecological functioning of Chiang Mai’s original forests.”

The restoration efforts have seen the team help raise and plant tree species characteristic of the park’s original forest ecosystems— including Adenanthera pavonina, Syzygium cumini and Terminalia bellirica.

Meliá Chiang Mai volunteers

The hotel’s volunteers are planning to embark on further restoration activities in the national park throughout 2024. They started working with the university’s subsidiary units in June 2022 to regenerate forest, as part of Meliá Chiang Mai’s ongoing “Meliá Go Green” initiative. Such activities align with the sustainability strategy of the hotel’s owner, Thailand’s leading integrated lifestyle real estate group Asset World Corp Public Company Limited (AWC). AWC’s strategy aims to raise awareness of climate change and achieve carbon neutrality, while also contributing to the community in meaningful ways.

Towering over Chiang Mai’s River Ping and bustling Night Bazaar in Thailand’s mountainous north, Meliá Chiang Mai is situated six kilometres from Chiang Mai International Airport on vibrant Charoen Prathet Road, close to a broad spectrum of tourist attractions, markets and Buddhist temples. With a design that pays tribute to Chiang Mai’s charming history and culture with a contemporary flair, the hotel comprises a striking 22-floor tower fronted by an adjoining seven-floor podium building. Its jewel in the crown is its rooftop Mai The Sky Bar – the highest in the city – sitting majestically on the 22nd floor with a glass bridge commanding 360-degree views as far as the eye can see.

To contact Meliá Chiang Mai or to make a booking, email reservation.chiangmai@melia.com, call +66 52 090 699 or visit https://www.melia.com/en/hotels/thailand/chiang-mai/melia-chiang-mai/index.htm

The post Hotel Volunteers Help Restore Chiang Mai’s Biodiverse Forest Ecosystems appeared first on Asian Itinerary.

We are thrilled to share an exciting news with our valued guests and partners. Munduk Moding Plantation Nature Resort in Bali, Indonesia, has officially been awarded the prestigious Travelife Gold Certification, a testament to our unwavering commitment to sustainable tourism.

Plastic Recycling Center And Waste Bank

An important initiative from Munduk Moding Plantation’s sustainability department is the Plastic Recycling Center and Waste Bank. MMP is collecting pla stic waste from its hotel and from local communities and brings it to its Waste Bank. Payments are made in kind through free English and dance classes as well as financially. This waste is processed in our Plastic Recycling Center to make new products from the recycled plastic as well as works of art. The final products are diverse and useful for the hotel and guests, including wardrobe hangers,  directional signs and keychains. Artists use the material to create works of art. Our plastic recycling process allows us to give a second life to plastic waste, cleaning up the environment around us, and creating a circular flow that keeps plastic out of nature.

Munduk Moding Plantation is built on a coffee plantation, and we are trying to preserve, as best as we can, the natural resources and the beautiful landscape in this area which, certainly compared to the South of the Island, has very limited international tourism. We want to embark on a journey to improve day by day and year after year our hotel’s efficiency and to reduce to the maximum extent our impact on the environment. We have chosen to become Green Globe and Travelife Sustainable Accommodation Member with this in mind. We have fully involved our staff in this decision and also provide information to our guests who are invited to participate: • Water conservation, energy conservation, reduction of pollution, and waste management information is available for guests, and they are invited to support us. • Staff is trained in environmental management issues. • MMP welcomes all suggestions on how our sustainability practices can be improved with real interest. • MMP works closely with neighbor association to improve awareness on tourism sustainability.

The post Munduk Moding Plantation Achieves Travelife Gold Certification appeared first on Asian Itinerary.