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Spot: The Harmony Hotel
Zone: Coastal
The Good Stuff:
Harmony Hotel is all about balancing modern comforts with integration into the natural environment. Twenty-four rooms with WiFi access and air conditioning are situated in lush gardens with easy beach access.
The pool is part of the beauty of the gardens, and it is chemical-free and energy efficient. Food at the hotel is local and organic, with vegetarian options and fresh squeezed juices. The Healing Centre offers massage, facials, and yoga to keep your body in tune with the surroundings. And we would be remiss if we didn't mention the excellent surfing at Playa Guiones, right outside the hotel's doorstep.
What We Love:
That feeling of almost being too relaxed…almost.
Green Cred:
The gardens are populated primarily by native species and other plants that do well in the climate, so only organic fertilizer and minimal watering are needed.
- Harmony has created its own recycling center to manage waste from the hotel and neighboring beaches, and to serve as an example to local businesses of best practices for reusing materials.A worm farm takes care of all the organic material produced by the kitchens and converts it into fertilizer. The worm farm is also a model for area farmers to study the practice.
- Biodegradable products are used in the guest rooms, laundry, and kitchens, so that all gray water can be used for irrigation on the property.
- Local vendors are used where possible, and the restaurants create menus that feature local products such as seafood and produce.Staff members are hired from the local community and encouraged to take advantage of training and advancement opportunities.
- Harmony is in the process of being evaluated for certification as a carbon neutral hotel.
Above and Beyond:
Harmony Hotel gives back to the community through two major initiatives. First, its Project Arribadas of the Olive Ridley Sea Turtle supports government efforts to keep the Ostional National Wildlife Refuge clean and a welcoming habitat for sea turtle nesting. The hotel provides bins and manages recycling for the refuge, and the proceeds are used to assist a local school. Staff members and guests are encouraged to volunteer on beach cleanup days and during the season when sea turtle hatchlings make their way to the water.
The hotel's second initiative is Turning Hope Into Reality, which provides educational materials and equipment to four local schools, with an emphasis on concepts of sustainability and environmental awareness as part of the curriculum.
