Costa Maya beach accommodation in Mexico
How this holiday makes a difference
Environment
Xcalak is a small community of fishers in a natural protected area with spectacular natural attractions that are well-conserved.
We are in a protected environment here and there are rangers that help us protect the fishing in the sea. All species of fish are protected. The entire Xcalak area is within a natural preserve, so wildlife and ocean life abound. So far, a community initiative resulted in the establishment of a national park, the Parque Nacional Arrecifies de Xcalak. The goal of reserve is to protect the natural resources of the reserve.
The natural resources are threatened by local fishing, tourists visiting the area and the increase in population.
The Xcalak fishing cooperative sought a protected marine area, enabling them not only to manage the fishery but also to develop their own haven of sustainable tourism. "This is one of the first examples where the community itself asks for the creation of a Natural Protected Area.
In addition to extensive coastal, reef, mangrove and selva flora and fauna resources in the Protected Zone, there are seven known archeological sites between Punta Gavilán and Xcalak. They were called by the residents near them Punta Gavilán, La Curva, Siete Cocos, Laguna Xcalak, Xcalak, Xcalak Cementerio and Necax. These sites are known only to locals and they have neither been explored by archeologist nor opened to the public.
All of the activities have been developed not just with an eye toward fun, but also taking safety and environmental conservation into consideration. Everywhere, tourists can learn about the natural wonders they are visiting.
Community
We conserve water here at Casa de Suenos. We provide buckets so that water can be recycled. We are solar powered and conserve energy providing information to guests about use of equipment eg hairdryers and curling irons are not allowed. Other cleaning products where possible are eco friendly. The water heating system uses solar panels and all the bulbs in the house are energy saving.
Food trucks come by regularly with locals where we buy fresh produce and support the community. Local children also come by selling freshly made taco's ect agin we and our guests are encouraged to buy from them.
We only change towels and sheets on request to reduce water usage.
We encourage guests to turn off lights and appliances when not in use.
All service providers are locals.
We seek out local fishermen and guides for trips, we can recommend where to eat, where to shop for food and gifts from locals. Casa de Suenos tries to educate our local community about the importance of sustainability. We try to be an inspiration with other hotels and services in the town Xcalak.
We want our guests to relax and enjoy the natural beauty but also understand the area and its limited resources by doing one's best to support local conservation by staying at accommodation that strives to be 'green'
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