A Former Banker Bought an Island in Indonesia to Build a Retreat. What Happened Next Had Ripples of Positive Impact.
Initially seeking an island getaway from Singapore for his weekends, Andrew fortuitously stumbled upon the serene east coast of Bintan.
In 2004, Andrew embarked on an audacious adventure, joined by a handful of daring friends, as they set their sights on acquiring Nikoi Island.
Their shared aspiration was to create an idyllic sanctuary, a respite from the frenetic pace of Singapore, where individuals could reconnect with nature and embrace simplicity.
Although not formally trained in hospitality, Andrew possessed a deep understanding of what he desired as a discerning customer. He assumed the role of an empathetic guest to meticulously create an experience that resonated with his own heart.
What Andrew started has had a ripple of positive impact on the lives of so many including his 200-strong staff and the communities around the two islands.
Today, Nikoi Island is a Global Ecosphere Retreats®, the highest level of membership in The Long Run community, and Cempedak Island is a Fellow Member. Andrew and his team continue using The 4C Framework, centered on Community, Culture, Conservation, and Commerce as their guiding sustainability approach.
Unlocking Sustainable Travel: Slow Down, Stay Long, and Tap into Asia’s Pivotal Role
In today's fast-paced world, the allure of instant gratification often overshadows the beauty of the present moment. Slow travel, an antidote to this rush, invites us to savor the magic of a destination. It aligns perfectly with sustainability by encouraging immersive experiences over hurried checklists or bucket lists.
Tour Operators: Vanguards of Change for the Travel Sector in Times of Uncertainty
In an era where sustainability has become existentially important, the travel and tourism sector finds itself at a pivotal crossroads: innovate or stagnate, or worse yet deteriorate.
Beyond producing viral Instagram posts and Tiktok reels about dreamy destinations, tour operators can serve as industry stalwarts to orchestrate a harmony of business innovation, social responsibility, and environmental conservation.
Tour operators' ability to innovate, educate, and lead by example will shape the trajectory of travel. But some may wonder where to begin.
Sustainable Luxury: An Oxymoron or Consequential Bedfellows?
Critics argue that the very existence of the sustainable luxury concept is an oxymoron as the industry is often associated with high levels of consumption and resource use contributing to carbon emissions and ecological degradation. At the same time, many in the luxury sector believe that they can be the catalyst of change. With their significant influence and affluent clientele, these brands have the power to set trends and shape consumer behavior.