Matava Fiji's Premier Eco Resort is big fun on a small energy budget
Let’s be realistic. Travel usually leaves a big carbon footprint. Even among the most eco-sensitive of us, its hard to get away without wasting energy and using fuel.
But, you can vacation with a green conscience atMatava Fiji’s Premier Eco Resort. Located on Kadavu, south of the main Fiji island, Matava is a100% off-grid, solar powered resort that uses minimal electricity while providing maximum fun!
Only 22 guests at a time can be accommodated at Matava. All meals are prepared on site and served community style.
Matava offers diving, snorkeling, fishing, kayaking, boating, ocean swimming, bird watching and more. It is nestled near the beach, surrounded by tropical rain forest. Because there are no roads that reach this area of the island, everything must be brought in or out by boat – or grown locally. When I visited last week, the main attraction for the other guests was the amazing scuba diving (something I will have to take up soon!)
Day dawning at Matava Fiji's Premier Eco Resort
Matava has its own organic gardens which provide fruits, vegetables and herbs for its menu. Extra seeds are provided to families in nearby villages, too. Several times a month, recyclable materials from Matava – including plastics and paper – are picked up and hauled out by boat. No pesticides or herbicides are used at the resort.
Matava Fiji’s Premier Eco Resort has been awarded a number of honors and accolades as a result of its green practices. These include:
- Virgin Holidays Responsible Tourism Award, Marine Environment Category (World Travel Show 2010)
- Excellence in Tourism Award (Accommodation Budget 1999)
- Project Aware Marine Environmental Award
- Founder: Shark-Free Marina
Pristine, preserved environment at Matava on Kadavu, Fiji
Several important causes of Matava Fiji’s Premier Eco Resort are:
- Saving sharks
- Educating villagers about environmental preservation
- Minimizing energy use
- Working to establish and maintain marine reserves
- Coral reef education and preservation
Not only is Matava involved in education and raising awareness locally concerning environmental issues, but the resort also has resources for its guests to review.
Community outreach is a primary focus of Matava, as well. The owners believe that, by teaching young children the importance of sustainability and preservation at an early age, they will grow up with a deep understanding of and respect for natural resources.
Can you believe it – a resort that not only conserves energy and helps the environment as a result of its own practices, but also works to encourage others to do the same!
Yes, you can vacation with a green conscience at Matava Fiji’s Premier Eco Resort.
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