As we begin to cautiously plan travel again, travelers look at accommodation choices with a fresh perspective. They want to travel more responsibly and be more aware. No longer are they looking for a cookie-cutter hotel with just a room and bed. Indeed, a recent study by GreenKey found travelers are increasingly conscious of the environmental impact of their travels.
GreenKey reported 68% of travelers confirmed they are more likely to consider a hotel if it was eco-friendly.
On our radar are properties which incorporate the landscape and its natural materials. Furthermore, resorts where culture and community are infused into design. The recently reopened Hamanasi Adventure & Dive Resort is the ultimate example of a Belizean property doing just this. Here all the design details we are loving this eco-resort.
Infusing a True Sense of Place
Nestled in Southern Belize, between the lush Maya Mountains and the turquoise Caribbean Sea, Hamanasi is a special place. Designed and built to be sustainable from the ground up, it is a resort within nature. Not a resort that removed nature. This award-winning property has made it their mission to integrate both the environment and local craftsmanship into design and operation.
Here the natural environment influences design
Firstly, they were recognized by the Belize Tourism Board for being the first beach resort in Belize to be Green Globe Certified. In order to gain this status they have implemented many practices. These include habitat protection, sustainable design and green purchasing.
The Hamanasi Green Team in action
Furthermore, each element throughout the resort has been carefully thought out to incorporate its surrounds. Sandy paths guide you through the resort, the infinity pool is freshwater and the Great House is decorated with local crafts.
Sleep Above the Jungle Canopy or to the Sound of the Sea
Rooms here blend elegance with the environment. For example, when they decided to expand, instead of cutting down trees, they built amidst them. Their Treehouse rooms allow guests to fulfill their childhood dreams, sleeping amidst a jungle canopy. Alternatively, guests can enjoy the breathtaking ocean views from a beachfront room. Stately four poster beds are made of Belizean hardwood, each with a sustainable organic Savvy Rest mattress. Furthermore, furniture is hand-made on-site by the local carpenter. And local art envelops the rooms.
Indulge in a private treehouse. Photo via Jaron Johns/Hamanasi
Of course, both encourage al fresco living and sleeping. Whilst the treehouses feature a wrap-around balcony and Jacuzzi, beachfront rooms boast hammocks with views of the Caribbean Sea.
Preserving Paradise
Indeed all the above sounds incredible, however there is more to what makes this resort so special. Hamanasi believes in responsible, natural and cultural based eco-tourism. For example, all their rainforest and reef adventures are led by experienced local guides.
Furthermore, the resort boasts a Green Team and are very active within their community. Finally, Hamanasi also encourage guests to do their part to support. For example, prior to arrival they tell guests about Pack for a Purpose.
This initiative encourages guests to use some of their luggage space for school supplies. Furthermore, they educate guests on all their initiatives and their benefits when on property. These range from informative educational sessions to encouraging the use of reef friendly sunblock.
From design to operations, it is clear Hamanasi are true champions of sustainability within the Belizean hospitality environment. To learn more on their sustainable practices or to book Hamanasi for your upcoming Belize vacation, visit their website. All photos courtesy of Hamanasi Adventure & Dive Resort.
