G
LOBAL WARMING IS A PRESSING
issue worldwide and more travellers
are recognising the importance of
environmental conservation to help
minimise damage to Earth. With this
growing interest, more hoteliers are
creating sustainable tourism programmes
to help the environment, preserve local
culture and support the country’s economy.
Eco-friendly and green hotels that are
committed to conservation also have the
added value of cultural sensitivity, privacy,
style and exclusive activities. Here are our
preferred choices for a unique vacation
home that offers superior amenities and
one that commits to a healthier planet. PHOTOGRAPHS: SONG SAA RESORT CHARITY PROJECTS BY MOTT VISUALS
WHAT IS THE OUTSTANDING GREEN
FACTOR? Located in Song Saa is the first
marine reserve in Cambodia. Established in
2006, the resort has worked closely with the
foundation to support coral reef restoration
and fishing ground developments across its
archipelago home. Its newest project includes
protecting one of the planet’s rarest marine
ecosystems: sea grass. In 2011, Song Saa and
the local community established the first
island-based solid waste management system
in Cambodia. There are also nurseries to
support the reforestation of damaged
mangroves and rainforests within the country.
The foundation also pioneered “Boat of Hope”- a vessel that travels between the Cambodian
islands to provide educational, medical and
livelihood support to the villages it visits.
STYLE BONUS? Song Saa Private Island
features 27 intimate and imposing villas, each
designed to reflect the simple beauty of the
natural environment. Expect to find recycled
timber from disused fishing boats, furniture
made from driftwood collected from local
beaches and coves and floors made from
timber salvaged from old factories and
warehouses within your expansive villa.
Throughout the resort, visitors will also notice
the consistent use of colours and textures that
represent Cambodia’s fishing traditions. Most
importantly, guests are pampered in the lap of
luxury with plush Ploh Linen beddings, grand
oversized bathtubs, private decks and pools,
and tailored bespoke service.RATE: US$840++ per nightsongsaa.com- SONG SAA
PRIVATE
ISLAND
Cambodia