Where do “revenge tourism” and responsible recreation meet?
Solidly anchored on ecotourism, the first Eco Hotel—Cabins, in Tagaytay—was established in 2015 by the entrepreneurial tandem of Alessandra Atienza and Don Ramon Bagatsing.Early on, the Cabins by Eco Hotel business and design blueprints bore the imprint of green service, along with solar energy use, biophilic design, a strong framework for the local community’s participation and development, and the “the 6 Rs”: refuse, reduce, reuse, recycle, renew, redesign.
“For instance, all our properties maximize the use of solar power, along with energy-efficient lighting fixtures, and energy-efficient appliances. However, the rooms themselves are designed in such a way as to maximize available daytime light, and allow effective cross-ventilation…we’ve had guests who’ve described it as ‘parang naka-aircon kahit hindi’,” recalls Alessandra.
“This has resulted in our low electricity consumption since the beginning, considering the branches are on commercial rate,” shares Alessandra. “Just as important, we train them not only to serve but educate others on the value of our environment and sustainable practices, even as they’re working hard to reach their individual KPIs. So essentially, they are not just hotel employees, they also evolve into Eco Warriors who practice what they preach, cast members who embody in them the principles of ecotourism and sustainability, while helping spur community development in the larger context.