World's first non-profit luxury eco-resort announced
Update: 16/01/2009
The first non-profit and luxury eco-resort community to commit 100 percent of operating profits to environmental protection and social improvements will be built on a 124-acre private island in the Calamianes archipelago, at the northernmost tip of the Palawan Biosphere Reserve in the Philippines.
The property, named Cacao Pearl, will occupy an entire private island, with 124 acres of lush rainforest and towering coconut trees fringed with over a mile of pristine beaches, according to its operator, Cacao Resorts. This new approach to resort-communities is nestled within the eco-tourism destination of Palawan - Philippines, a stunning eco preservation area within sailing distance of two UNESCO World heritage sites & four marine reserves. The Cacao Pearl is an eco-chic low-density boutique resort concept promising sustainable development and sustainable enjoyment ˜ designer homes with zero carbon cost, 5 stars service, an infinity pool, wreck & reef diving, a secluded destination spa, organic gardens & bar, restaurant, private media rooms and enough delicious design details to delight the most discerning guest.
"Forget old luxury, welcome green luxury!" said Joel Cere, CEO of Cacao Resorts." Cacao Resorts is offering eco-aware urban escapees the luxury of private island home ownership with the launch of a truly guilt-free investment: The Cacao Pearl, Palawan."
He added: "In a world of homogenous, over-developed concrete destinations, disinterested developers, fake themes and over-priced mini-bars, token green gestures and disenfranchised communities, Cacao Resorts provide an authentic experience for the grown-up backpacker, a guilt-free option for the traveler with conscience, a breath of fresh tropical air for sophisticated urban escapees."
Designed exclusively for Cacao Resorts by former film art director, Antonio Calvo ("Love Actually", "Alexander", "Pride & Prejudice".) 60 off-plan private residences await discriminating investors, who want to own a truly chic eco-home with a conscience and investment-grade security with an option to buy, re-sell or rent.
Cacao Resorts operates a "greenprint" for operations and, with development partners Barefoot Investments and Abode Management, benefit from sustainable construction methods employed, ethical management practice observed, and ecologically responsible operations as standard. That means 100 percent renewable energy, and for the first time in the hospitality industry, 100 percent of the resort's net operating profits will be used to support local environmental and social programs.
According to Cacao Resorts, priority is given to buyers with more than just a financial interest in the adventure. "We are now accepting interested buyers for our guilt-free residences in South East Asia," Cere said.