Kenya beach house

Environmental Commitment
In addition to reducing waste in our office we are sponsoring the initiation of a printer cartridge refill service in Malindi. We work hard to minimise water use with salt water for toilet flushing system, rain water catchment for showers and drinking water (when boiled), and eliminating washing machines and baths.

Information and guidelines from the Kenyan Wildlife Service are displayed and strictly followed at all times ensuring that we cause no damage to the coral reef ecosystem which we are privileged to have access to. Whenever snorkelling, swimming or diving activities take place, marine park tickets are purchased providing a direct benefit to the parks conservation efforts. A minimal disturbance policy is in place for our surrounding ecosystem including forest habitat - home to numerous Sykes monkeys as well as the beach and marine park. This ensures that no vegetation, coral, shells or animals are removed or unduly disturbed by our actions or decisions.

Through our association with Watamu turtle watch we encourage guests to purchase fund-raising goods and adopt turtles or nests raising significant amounts of money for this organisation. Educational talks and visits are also arranged. Visits that infer either direct or indirect benefits to the environment are suggested such as trips to the snake farm (involved in anti-venom research), turtle talks, snorkelling Safari's on horseback, bikes or on foot are suggested as alternatives to vehicle safari's. When vehicle safaris are requested care is taken to book through respectful companies who obey wildlife guidelines and only drive on designated paths, don't harass or chase the animals. Clients are given information regarding suitable behaviour within national parks and reserves.

Economic Commitment
Local people are given employment opportunities in preference to outsiders when suitable candidates are available. Care is taken that locally made products and services are purchased subject to availability providing a direct economic benefit to the community. We are currently assisting the development of two new small business initiatives, an organic chicken farm and a printer ink cartridge refill service. It is hoped that both of these will be operational within a year. Local guides are employed for local tours providing direct financial gain to the host community.

Social Commitment
Pre-departure information regarding the political and social situation is provided to all clients. On arrival a more detailed information pack is issued ensuring that guests act in a respectful and socially sensitive manner and are also able to learn something of the culture of local people. Local guides are used on village trips to enhance the experience and provide an income to the hosts. All the local staff are taken on an outing to a beautiful environment twice a year (e.g. coral reefs, Arabuko Sokoke forest). Visits are suggested to projects such as the butterfly project in which people are paid to rear butterfly larvae to sell in a sustainable manner. This not only provides employment but gives the community a reason to preserve its forest habitat and an appreciation of it.