By Rama Gaind.
It was Albert Einstein who said: “look deep into nature, and then you will understand everything better.” Seeking activities that bring us closer to nature and have a positive impact on the planet are very much a part of being in the present.
Mother nature’s beauty is indescribable, yet it can be taken for granted. There’s so much to admire and explore. Preserving our seas and oceans is of the utmost importance. Bringing marine conservation to life through dedicated diving experiences, there’s a free-spirited five-star resort in Thailand that allows inhouse guests to witness its environmental projects first-hand. This is done with a series of underwater excursions that integrate with the activities of the Marine Discovery Centre, including coral propagation and clownfish breeding programs.
There’s a lot more than meets the eye at SAii Phi Phi Island Village, a dream-like tropical resort on a private 800-metre stretch of pristine white sandy beach lapped by the turquoise waters of the Andaman Sea. The resort is set in 728ha of coconut palm plantations, in the privacy of Loh Ba Gao Bay on beautiful Phi Phi Island.
This Village puts sustainability first and strives to preserve its precious environment. Holidaymakers seek activities that bring them closer to nature and have a positive impact on the planet.
With this in mind, two of the resort’s facilities — the Gold Palm Dive Centre and Marine Discovery Centre — have come together to create immersive, eco-sensitive diving experiences that allow travellers to explore the vibrant underwater world in a highly responsible way.
A series of professionally-led diving excursions from the resort allow you to witness first-hand the work of the resort’s resident marine biologist who works to replenish the area’s rich and diverse ecosystems. Learn about the various projects including coral propagation, breeding and release programs for clownfish and bamboo sharks.
It’s a spectacular seascape and divers can take a trip out into the sparkling waters of Hat Nappharat Thara-Mu Ko Phi Phi National Park and see the effect these initiatives are having. Keen enthusiasts may be fortunate and see other keystone species in the area such as blacktip reef sharks, leopard sharks, green turtles, hawksbill turtles and even whale sharks further offshore.
If “colors are the smiles of nature” — according to Leigh Hunt — then you have to visit this idyllic island retreat!
DETAILS BOX
www.saiiphiphiislandvillage.com