the sea w
Indian Ocean getaways are about more than relaxing at the water’s edge – guests want to explore and protect what is beneath the surface, finds Isobel Turner
hen dreaming up an idyllic Indian Ocean scene, the first thing that comes to mind is the glistening
water, which seamlessly blends turquoise, emerald and teal into a breathtaking shade of blue. Overwater villas and beachfront hotels offer
all-important ocean views, but with a growing focus on sustainability, visitors want to know more about what’s going on beneath the surface. As more travellers become conscious of the
environment – Skyscanner’s 2024 Travel Trends survey found 64% of travellers believe sustainable travel is important – these regenerative activities are soaring in popularity. On Sri Lanka’s south coast, more than half of
guests at The Fortress Resort & Spa take part in turtle conservation, according to the resort’s turtle ranger, Lucky Laksiri. He says: “Many enjoy participating in conservation activities because they want to feel they are making a difference. Guests can learn about the different species of turtles that nest on our beach, their life cycles and the threats they face.” In Mauritius, Attitude Hotels is also on a mission to connect guests with the ocean, having brought more than 20,000 visitors to its Marine Discovery Centre since it was established in 2010. “It aims to boost knowledge of the marine and coastal environment among the local community and hotel guests, and contributes to critical scientific research,”
explains scientific programme manager Nina Svensson Dubois.
So, when it comes to an Indian Ocean
getaway, relaxing at a glamorous sun-soaked resort is only part of the picture – travellers are also helping to preserve the region’s marine life and fragile ecosystems by picking properties that put conservation first.
PATINA MALDIVES, THE MALDIVES Flanked by golden beaches, this resort boasts 90 villas with beach and ocean views, plus 20 secluded studios set among tropical foliage. Younger guests will love the Footprints kids’ club
and Fab Lab for four to 11-year-olds, where budding eco-warriors can turn recycled ocean plastic into models using 3D printing and laser-cutting technology. Guests of all ages can get creative at a free ceramics and coral conservation workshop led by the resort’s marine biologist, who can explain how clay structures aid the restoration of local reefs. Patina Maldives’ sustainability initiatives aren’t just for guests, either – the resort offers free Padi dive certifications to local children to encourage awareness
of the ocean environment among the next generation. Book it: Mercury Holidays offers seven nights’ bed and breakfast from £2,195, including transfers and flights departing May 29, 2024.
mercuryholidays.co.uk
²
travelweekly.co.uk 30 NOVEMBER 2023 69
DESTINATIONS MARINE CONSERVATION | INDIAN OCEAN
PICTURE: ?
PICTURE: Jake Wilton
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