ECOTOURISM

Ecotourist Background

Ecotourists as a group are often referred to as “ educated travelers” , not because the trips they take have educational components but because they themselves have higher overall education levels than the population at large. Nearly 1 in 5 reports to have 7 or more years of post-secondary education. It is plausible that the critical variable is advanced education, which correlates with higher incomes and professional occupations.

This may be one reason that people with high education enjoy the merits of education and hence are attracted to the learning dimension of ecotourism as well. Such individuals may be more attuned to and knowledgeable and curious about the natural environment and the dangers it faces.

The Ecotourists are primarily within the affluent segments and are very important to the tourism sector as they tend to be better educated, well traveled, have the means to travel and are often looking for new experiences. The affluent sub-markets account for over one-quarter of all travelers.

Ecotourist Profile

Ecotourists are looking for travel experiences that involve areas or attractions of natural beauty. Some level of interaction with the environment, information and learning. They value personalized service coupled with high quality natural resources and aspects of social values. Ecotourism appeals to ecologically and socially conscious individuals. Generally speaking, it focuses on volunteering, personal growth and learning new ways to live on the planet. It typically involves travel to destinations where flora, fauna, and cultural heritage are the primary attractions.

Ecotourism is a conceptual experience, enriching those who delve into researching and understanding the environment around them. It gives us insight into our impacts as human beings and also a greater appreciation of our own natural habitat.

Responsible ecotourism includes programs that minimize the negative aspects of conventional tourism on the environment and enhance the cultural integrity of local people. Therefore, in addition to evaluating environmental and cultural factors, an integral part of ecotourism is the promotion of recycling, energy efficiency, water conservation and creation of economic opportunities for the local communities.

Market Trends

One of the main trends is that the ecotourism market is growing beyond the initial definition of “ adventure” and is now supported by clients seeking amenities, a higher level of service and requiring a lower level of “ activity.” This fits well with our proposed “ eco-residences and resort-style amenities.”

As alternative choices for “ green” products become available this market segment shows the highest rate of growth relative to market share. There may even exist larger demand for this niche market due to the fact that so few options really exist, thus the “ build it and they will come” paradigm.

Another important factor is the trend to smaller more manageable homes and lifestyles. The 1990s saw the proliferation of McMansions. The next decade is expected to see lower density developments in smaller areas centering more on community aspects of living. Altos Escondidos is dedicated to maintaining exclusive private residences (average of on hectare green buffer per lot) which also revolve around community experiences and nature. This greatly sets us apart from our competitors in Panama.

GREEN BUILDING

Altos Escondidos is Panama’s first 100% sustainable luxury community, designed to integrate the comforts of modern life with nature’s luxuries: Pure mountain air, water drawn from our own aquifer, cooling breezes, tropical sunshine, stunning views, organic food and wine, the outdoors at your doorstep.

“It’s about climate, context and creativity” Dr. Raj Barr-Kumar, Master Architect

The entire Altos Escondidos community -- from its 75 luxury homes to the boutique resort hotel, holistic spa, organic wine bar, pool and organic fruit and veggie snack bar -- is designed to protect and preserve the natural environment, while creating an environment of luxury, beauty and convenience for residents and guests.

As we build the roads, homes, and amenities at Altos Escondidos, we are constantly aware of our impact upon the environment, and take steps to minimize it. Rocks moved to make way for the access road, for example, were crushed to surface the road. The few trees that had to be removed now provide wood for community buildings, and more trees were planted to replace them.

The luxury homes at Altos Escondidos enable us to inhabit this beautiful mountain setting, while protecting its rainforest, meadows and clear mountain streams.

Altos Escondidos luxury homes are designed by one of the world’s leading architects in environmentally sustainable design, Dr. Raj Barr Kumar, to meet the LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) standards of the U.S. Green Business Council.

Green-design home and community features include: Endorsements, Certifications and Memberships: