A luxury holiday that makes all the difference /

Treat yourself to a luxurious tropical vacation or share the wealth and do good for people and the planet? Guests in one of Indonesia’s most idyllic destinations don’t have to choose between these options. At Wakatobi Resort, they enjoy five-star service, gourmet dining, iconic accommodations and exclusive access to some of the world’s most pristine coral reefs. And while they enjoy the relaxation of their stay, the business they generate for the resort works behind the scenes to protect marine life and provide income and social benefits to local communities.

Let’s talk about the luxury side of the equation first. Wakatobi sits on a small, quaint island that is far from crowds, city lights, and other reminders of the outside world. But distance is not an issue as guests enjoy a direct connection via charter flight from Bali. Along the way, Wakatobi offers expedited international arrivals, concierge baggage and layover assistance, and access to a private airport lounge for departures to the resort.

Upon arrival at Wakatobi, guests are greeted by a staff who pride themselves on providing warm personal service and excel at anticipating needs before speaking of a request. Relaxation comes easy in traditionally styled bungalows nestled in a coconut tree on the beach. Each of these private homes has been handcrafted by local artisans from native stone and local wood, then equipped with all the expected modern conveniences.

Even more memorable stays await at the resort’s oceanfront villas, which up the “wow factor” with panoramic waterfront terraces with sunset views, Asian-style outdoor showers, and plunge pools. Villa guests are also spoiled with additional perks such as personalized butler services, private boats for diving and snorkeling, on-site spa treatments, private guides and more.

Meals are an often-cited highlight of a Wakatobi vacation. The oceanfront restaurant showcases the talents of an internationally trained culinary team, set against a backdrop of the sea and rustling palms. Daily creations include a tempting assortment of signature regional cuisines and international favourites, with an emphasis on fresh and locally sourced foods. The team can also cater for a wide range of bespoke menus and special dietary requirements.

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Without highlighting the accolades, it’s clear that Wakatobi Resort deserves a place on the shortlist of the world’s iconic and luxurious tropical escapes. This brings us to the other half of the equation: doing good for people and the planet.

Wakatobi Resort is renowned in diving and snorkelling circles as it is considered one of the best coral sanctuaries in the world. The reefs that surround the resort are home to thousands of species of unique marine life and over 400 species of colorful coral growth. Marine biologists have referred to it as a haven for marine biodiversity.

The resort’s founders understood the vital need to protect and preserve this pristine environment and set in motion a new plan even before opening its doors nearly three decades ago. In return for honoring a “no-take” agreement on the newly created marine reserve and refraining from destructive fishing practices, members of the local community would receive a direct monthly income and other benefits from Wakatobi. Money for these payments would be generated by the resort’s revenue.

This initiative, known as the Collaborative Reef Conservation Program, is now in its 27th year and is internationally recognized as a pioneering private sector conservation model.

Today, funded by Wakatobi revenue, the marine reserve protects more than 20 kilometers of prime coral reef, serves as a source of income for 17 villages in the area, and provides a range of additional environmental and social benefits to the region. The resort sponsors reef and beach cleaning, installs moorings in harbors to minimize anchor damage, provides clean water and electricity to a neighboring village, donates educational materials to local schools, and creates programs that benefit village widows and small-scale local communities. businesses.

The contributions made possible by Wakatobi guests have significantly increased the economic security and quality of life of surrounding communities. And perhaps more importantly, the program creates awareness and changes attitudes. Groups that traditionally viewed coral reefs as a resource to be arbitrarily exploited are now seeing the benefits of stewardship and sustainable harvesting practices. Area anglers understand that the no-take zones serve as nurseries that boost fish populations in areas adjacent to the reserve. This evolution towards a sustainable harvesting model has made these same fishermen some of the strongest proponents of reef conservation.

The Wakatobi Conservation Program is a true success story in the marine conservation world. And every guest of the resort contributes to this social and environmental good simply by showing up and enjoying their vacation.

Disclosure: This post is sponsored by Wakatobi Resort.