Latest news with #ecoTourism
Arab News
11 hours ago
- Business
- Arab News
Shifting tourism from preservation to regeneration
Since COVID-19 restrictions were lifted, tourism has rebounded rapidly. According to the World Travel and Tourism Council, it is expected to hit record levels in 2025. But this growth demands an urgent reassessment of how tourism impacts the natural world. This is especially critical in coastal regions, which attract nearly half of all international travelers and are home to some of the planet's most vulnerable ecosystems, including coral reefs, mangroves, and seagrass beds. A new model is emerging: regenerative tourism. Rather than focusing solely on preservation, it aims to restore and enhance these ecosystems. Rooted in science, innovation and careful planning, regenerative tourism offers a new relationship between people and place — one that strengthens biodiversity, supports communities, and creates lasting value. At Red Sea Global, this approach is applied across every stage of development, using data, design and ecological insight to show how tourism can contribute to long-term environmental recovery. Regeneration begins not with restoration, but with rethinking how we design and build from the start. The Red Sea and AMAALA, two of our flagship destinations, are developed with this question in mind: How can we leave a place healthier than we found it? In Al-Wajh Lagoon, for example, development is limited to just 22 of more than 90 islands, with nine designated as conservation areas. At AMAALA, development is capped to accommodate no more than 500,000 guests per year to protect delicate habitats from overuse. At Shebara, overwater villas were built directly above the sea, avoiding sensitive beach zones and using marine-safe materials. The Desert Rock resort was carefully integrated into the landscape, preserving the natural contours of the mountains while minimizing disruption to the surrounding environment. And at AMAALA's organic farms, sustainable food production operates entirely off-grid, powered by solar energy and integrated into the local ecosystem. Together, these projects reflect our broader goal of delivering a 30 percent net conservation benefit across The Red Sea and AMAALA by 2040. Our environmental restoration programs go beyond conservation — they aim to rebuild ecosystems at scale and boost their long-term resilience. We have launched an extensive seagrass restoration initiative, recognizing the critical role these underwater meadows play in nurturing marine biodiversity, from dugongs to sea turtles. Seagrasses also improve water quality and act as efficient carbon sinks. At the same time, our coral gardening program has transplanted more than 100,000 corals across the Red Sea, achieving survival rates that exceed global benchmarks. These efforts help reestablish reef habitats that support a wide range of marine life. Perhaps most ambitious is our mangrove regeneration program. Supported by a nursery of 1 million sq. meters, we have planted more than 3 million mangrove trees across our destinations. These trees stabilize coastlines, support fisheries, filter pollutants and store significantly more carbon than tropical rainforests. Rooted in science, innovation and careful planning, regenerative tourism offers a new relationship between people and place. Rashid Alhatilah To ensure long-term impact, we have partnered with the National Center for Vegetation Cover and other stakeholders to protect and expand these efforts. At Red Sea Global, technology is a core part of the infrastructure for regeneration. From real-time marine sensors to nature-based solutions, innovation helps us make smarter, faster decisions and expand our impact across sectors. Our marine environments are monitored using AI-powered sensors that track water quality, biodiversity and environmental changes in real time. This enables rapid response, reduces reliance on human divers and improves data accuracy. We also invest in technologies that mimic or enhance natural systems — often called nature-based solutions. These span construction, clean energy, agriculture and water treatment, offering practical ways to cut costs, boost efficiency and restore ecosystems. This approach redefines how we value the natural world. Ecosystems are no longer seen as passive scenery or extractable assets, but as active participants in a regenerative economy. The Corallium Marine Life Institute lies at the heart of our regenerative approach. As both a research center and visitor experience hub, Corallium enables marine species to reproduce in controlled environments that replicate the Red Sea's natural conditions. These 'living laboratories' allow us to test and refine ecological interventions before applying them in the wild. Collaboration is key to our progress. We work closely with the King Abdullah University of Science and Technology, the Coral Research and Development Accelerator Platform, and innovation platforms such as WAVE — an initiative launched by Princess Reema bint Bandar — to support ocean-positive solutions. These partnerships bring together researchers, entrepreneurs, policymakers and conservationists to align innovation with environmental impact. Looking ahead, global platforms such as The Ocean Race 2027, which will celebrate its Grand Finale at AMAALA, will bring international attention to the urgent need to protect ocean health. Through sport, science and storytelling, such events help catalyze public engagement and drive meaningful change. At Red Sea Global, we are building destinations where guests play an active role in regeneration. Through education, immersive experiences and hands-on restoration efforts, tourism becomes a practical tool for protecting natural systems. There is growing recognition that environmental health and economic resilience are deeply connected. Regenerative tourism offers a realistic way to align development with long-term ecological and social value. The path forward depends on collective commitment, thoughtful design and a willingness to rethink how development, nature and people coexist. The opportunity is clear: to make regeneration the baseline — setting a new standard for tourism to build smarter, travel better, and help restore what has been lost. • Rashid Alhatilah is the group head of environment at Red Sea Global
Associated Press
17 hours ago
- Business
- Associated Press
Unique Place to Stay in Texas Creates Family Friendly Exotic Animal Petting Zoo Experience in Fredericksburg Texas
Unique Place to Stay in Texas Creates Family Friendly Exotic Animal Petting Zoo Experience in Fredericksburg Texas 'best things to do in Fredericksburg Texas for kids'— best things to do in Fredericksburg Texas for kids DALLAS, TX, UNITED STATES, June 27, 2025 / / -- Avery Ridge Ranch Pioneers Sustainable Luxury in Fredericksburg, Texas, Redefining Eco-Tourism and Event Venues Amid Economic Shifts As economic pressures reshape travel trends, Avery Ridge Ranch, home to The Best Bed and Breakfast in Fredericksburg Texas and The Best Bed and Breakfast in Texas, is leading the charge in Texas Hill Country hospitality. By blending sustainable tiny home accommodations, immersive eco-tourism, and a premier event venue, this innovative ranch is redefining what it means to find the best places to stay in Fredericksburg, Texas. Facing rising costs and evolving consumer preferences, Avery Ridge Ranch delivers unparalleled value, making it a top choice for family-friendly vacations, pet-friendly getaways, romantic escapes, and unforgettable events near Austin and San Antonio. Tackling Economic Challenges with Visionary Solutions The hospitality sector is grappling with significant headwinds, with a 2025 U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis report highlighting a 15% annual increase in operational costs—spanning labor, services, property taxes, hospitality taxes, and maintenance—since 2020. Regulatory complexities and development expenses further erode profit margins. Meanwhile, American travelers face financial strain, with household debt reaching $18.3 trillion in Q1 2025 (Federal Reserve) and personal savings rates plummeting to 2.7% from 8.1% in 2019. A 2024 Skift Research study notes a 22% decline in luxury vacation spending as consumers prioritize value-driven experiences. Avery Ridge Ranch counters these challenges with a groundbreaking approach, transforming shipping containers into eco-friendly tiny homes that blend affordability with high-end luxury. These sustainable accommodations feature gourmet kitchens, spa-like bathrooms, plush queen beds, and four private patios showcasing breathtaking Hill Country sunsets. Designed for diverse travelers—families, couples, and pet owners—these properties rank among the top BnBs in Texas, offering unique lodging in Fredericksburg, Texas, that competes with hotels, Airbnbs, cabins, and resorts near wineries and historic Main Street. Eco-Tourism That Captivates and Sustains At the heart of Avery Ridge Ranch lies a vibrant eco-tourism experience, setting it apart as one of the best places to stay in Texas Hill Country. Guests can interact with Nigerian dwarf goats, Longhorn cattle, peacocks, Indian Black Bucks, guinea hens, African geese, ornamental ducks, heritage turkeys, and even playful kittens and puppies. Nature trails, arrowhead hunts, and stargazing under Fredericksburg's International Dark Sky Community skies create lasting memories. These offerings make the ranch a top pick for family-friendly BnBs, dog-friendly Airbnbs, and cat-friendly cabins in Texas, appealing to those searching for unique vacation rentals near Austin or San Antonio. The ranch's eco-tourism model funds animal care, with annual costs exceeding $14,000 per small herd, per a 2025 Texas A&M AgriLife Extension study. Agricultural exemptions reduce expenses, enabling competitive pricing for travelers seeking affordable luxury lodging in Fredericksburg, Texas. A partnership with Rhodesian Ridgebacks ( ) supports this ecosystem by finding homes for male and female Rhodesian Ridgeback puppies, blending ethical breeding with sustainable revenue to enhance guest experiences. Luxury Transportation for Seamless Exploration Enhancing its appeal, Avery Ridge Ranch partners with LimoHive ( ) to offer premium transportation options, including Fredericksburg limo rentals, party bus rentals, shuttles, sedans, SUVs, and antique vehicles. These services cater to Texas Wine Trail tours, brewery visits, weddings, anniversaries, quinceañeras, corporate retreats, and music festivals. Guests can explore top attractions like Enchanted Rock State Natural Area or Fredericksburg's German-inspired Main Street effortlessly, making the ranch a standout for those searching 'luxury BnBs near wineries' or 'family-friendly vacation rentals in Texas Hill Country.' AI-Powered Marketing for Global Reach To dominate search rankings, Avery Ridge Ranch collaborates with DIQSEO ( ), a leader in AI-driven digital marketing. Using advanced SEO, SGE (Search Generative Experience), and AIO (AI Optimization) strategies, DIQSEO targets high-intent keywords like 'best BnBs in Fredericksburg Texas,' 'pet-friendly hotels near Austin,' and 'romantic cabins in Texas Hill Country.' Custom journey automation personalizes the booking process, boosting occupancy rates and ensuring the ranch appears at the top of SERPs for travelers seeking unique, affordable, and high-end accommodations. Sustainable Growth Through Local Partnerships Avery Ridge Ranch thrives within a dynamic business ecosystem, partnering with a local general contracting and land clearing company ( ). These partners provide critical services—land clearing, cedar mulching, fire abatement, road building, erosion control, pond digging, landscaping, and metal building construction—supporting the ranch's expansion and animal habitats. Plumbing, electrical, insulation, and site prep services pave the way for new eco-tourism facilities, ensuring scalability while maintaining affordability for guests seeking the best places to stay in Texas. Avery Ridge Ranch: A World-Class Event Venue Avery Ridge Ranch is also a rising star among Fredericksburg event venues, hosting weddings, family reunions, birthdays, quinceañeras, and music festivals on its 31-acre property. With ponds, nature trails, and exotic animals as a backdrop, the ranch offers a rustic yet luxurious setting that rivals top wedding venues in Texas Hill Country. Its all-in-one ecosystem—combining sustainable lodging, eco-tourism, premium transportation, AI marketing, and infrastructure support—creates a unique destination that balances profitability with exceptional guest experiences. This is what makes The best bed and breakfast in Fredericksburg Texas one of the best places to stay in Texas, providing things to do for kids in Fredericksburg Texas, and adds up to create one of the best airbnb experience in Fredericksburg Texas. Discover Fredericksburg, Texas: A Traveler's Paradise Fredericksburg, Texas, is a must-visit destination, consistently ranked among the best places to stay in Texas. Historic Main Street buzzes with boutique shops, German restaurants, and cultural festivals, while the Texas Wine Trail, with over 50 wineries, attracts wine enthusiasts. Outdoor adventurers explore Enchanted Rock for hiking and stargazing, while families and pet owners flock to Avery Ridge Ranch for animal encounters and arrowhead hunts. Whether seeking romantic BnBs, family-friendly Airbnbs, or pet-friendly cabins near Austin and San Antonio, Fredericksburg delivers unmatched charm, affordability, and adventure. For bookings or event inquiries, visit Experience why Avery Ridge Ranch is a top destination for sustainable luxury and unforgettable memories in Texas Hill Country. Contact: Media Relations Avery Ridge Ranch Email: [email protected] Website: Sources: U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis, 2025: Hospitality Cost Trends Federal Reserve, Q1 2025: Household Debt Statistics Skift Research, 2024: Travel Spending Trends erik avery email us here Visit us on social media: LinkedIn Instagram Facebook YouTube TikTok Other Legal Disclaimer: EIN Presswire provides this news content 'as is' without warranty of any kind. We do not accept any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information contained in this article. If you have any complaints or copyright issues related to this article, kindly contact the author above.
Zawya
3 days ago
- Zawya
Egypt launches eco-tourism project to transform Bedouin village in Sharm El-Sheikh
Egypt's Environment Minister Yasmine Fouad inaugurated a major eco-tourism development project in the village of El-Gharqana, located within the Nabq Protected Area in Sharm El-Sheikh. The initiative is part of the country's 'Green Sharm' program, in collaboration with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), aiming to transform the Red Sea resort into a model of sustainable tourism. The inauguration ceremony was attended by South Sinai Governor Major General Khaled Mubarak, UNDP Resident Representative Alessandro Fracassetti, tribal leaders, tourism sector representatives, members of parliament, and local media. Fouad described the project as a milestone in Egypt's environmental agenda, highlighting its integrated approach to sustainable development. 'This initiative aims to enhance the livelihoods of local residents by integrating them into eco-tourism activities, while also preserving the natural resources of Nabq,' she said. The village was redeveloped using eco-friendly architecture and sustainable construction techniques that respect the cultural identity of the Bedouin community, creating an authentic and environmentally sensitive tourist destination. Governor Mubarak praised the strategic partnership with the UNDP, noting that the project reflects Egypt's broader vision of balanced development — one that harmonizes environmental conservation with the needs of local communities. The event included a tour of newly developed housing units, the opening of a handicraft workshop and a local NGO office, and the screening of a documentary chronicling the project's implementation. A panel discussion followed, bringing together government officials, civil society, and private sector stakeholders to explore the future of eco-tourism in Egypt. The El-Gharqana project is seen as a model for replicable sustainable development across other regions, as Egypt seeks to align its tourism and environmental policies with global sustainability goals.
Times
15-06-2025
- Times
Me, my son and the gap year I crashed: what's working (and what's not)
It's an early start today in Brisbane, on my gap-year-in-a-week alongside my 18-year-old son, Rider, and we have a plane to catch. I give him an alarm call, but in the room next door he's (unexpectedly) way ahead of me. There's no time for breakfast so the stylish Crystalbrook Vincent hotel sorts us coffee and croissants to go. Shame. I would have happily stayed in bed until 11am staring at the extraordinary view of Brisbane Bridge. By 9.30am, after a Qantas flight from Brisbane's domestic terminal ('My first plane with propellers!' Rider says), we're at Hervey Bay, on the Sunshine Coast 180 miles north of Brisbane. From the nearby SeaLink terminal at River Heads it's a 50-minute ferry ride across the Great Sandy Strait to the Kingfisher Bay eco-tourism resort on K'Gari, the world's largest sand island. Formerly known as Fraser Island, K'Gari (the 'K' is silent) is famous for its beach-dwelling dingoes and Top Gear-inspired 4×4 safaris. Despite its popularity as a holiday destination, here nature retains the upper hand: there's a metre-long reptile cruising the tables for lunch leftovers (known colloquially as a tree goanna, though technically it's a lace monitor lizard). Rider is wary: 'Uncle Jonny [my Aussie 'little' brother] says they're the only Aussie creature he's still scared of.' Tree goannas have notoriously poor oral hygiene and a nip can send you to hospital, so we leave this one to his chips. For those who aren't driving a high-clearance 4×4, it's worth joining an all-day tour on the resort's custom-built super-bouncy coaches. We set off the following morning with a driver who is seriously multitasking: combining a nonstop running commentary on the flora and fauna while towing another coach out of a sticky spot. When traffic backs up on a two-way sandy 'road' the width of an English country lane, we stop again to hoick a stranded car out of a rut. Our driver says many people hire suboptimal 4x4s that can't hack the terrain, with inevitable wheel-spinning results. Back on the 'road', we meander through Pile Valley's extraordinary subtropical rainforest, admiring the ancient Satinay trees and giant palms. On the return leg some of us take a short walk through the forest, spotting a tiny baby Carpet Python curled around a stick, happily nonvenomous. After a lunch break we head to 75 Mile beach, where we're lucky to spot a lone dingo ambling against the backdrop of the Pacific. This is not a swimming spot — currents and sharks see to that — but it's popular for beach fishing, barbies, camping and taking selfies against the rusted wreck of the SS Maheno or while floating down the freshwater Eli Creek in rubber rings. • 35 of the best things to do in Australia Eventually we arrive inland for tea and swimming at the gorgeous Lake McKenzie, with its extra-fine white silica sand and mild water. I fall into conversation with a British family. The mum (a doctor), dad (in finance) and their two young kids had moved to Australia a few years back but returned to the UK shortly after lockdown. They've pulled the kids out of their school for an extended Easter break back in Oz and, this time, plan to stay. 'It's a difficult decision but the quality of life here is just so …' Dad tails off, as the kids call for him to come into the lake. 'Have a lovely life!' I shout after him as he rejoins his family. I'm momentarily wistful for those holiday moments with young kids; we never appreciate how precious and fleeting they are until they're gone. We've had a fun day, however a coach tour is never the go-to for an 18-year-old. In truth it wouldn't be mine either, so when I catch Rider eyeing-up a convoy of 4x4s full of teenagers exuding gap-year-party vibes I ask him if he's really OK doing this stuff with his 61-year-old mum? 'One hundred per cent. I just really want to come back here sometime, with my mates,' he says. That evening we eat at the resort's very good Asian fusion restaurant, Dune, before heading to watch Illumina, a 30-minute alfresco immersive light, lasers and music show. It's beautiful — and surprisingly moving. Woven with dramatic First Australian dreamtime imagery and mythology, it's also the perfect way to end our day. If you've been watching the hit BBC1 series Race Across the World you'll have followed the emotional/physical journey of the winners — fellow sixtysomething mum, Caroline, and her 21-year-old son, Tom. Though it remains strong, the mother-son bond I have with Rider has also been tested since the sudden, accidental death of his older brother in September 2023. Unlike RATW's Tom, however, Rider was never an only child. Losing Jackson has completely reshaped the family dynamic because, even in his absence, his presence remains huge and it always will. Rider's own strength has been inspiring, yet I know that navigating my loss and keeping other relationships intact and my head above metaphorical waters is the hardest work of what's left of my lifetime. So I'd purposefully left it five months before joining Rider in Australia. We both needed space to deal with ourselves without having to accommodate each other: Rider deserved to find a route for his future that wasn't defined by being the charismatic Jackson's 'little brother', while I needed to build a different life around the unanticipated void my eldest son's death had now created. Waking very early the next morning, I watched the sunrise from my balcony, hoping these magical shared experiences would provide enough glue to help me and Rider through a future that will, inevitably, be spent further Flett is spending a month travelling in Australia, and crashing her son's gap year. Read more at She was a guest of Tourism and Events Queensland (
Zawya
10-06-2025
- Climate
- Zawya
Oman: Khareef rains may land in Dhofar on Saturday
Salalah: Early signs of the khareef season have begun to emerge over southern Oman, with climate models and satellite imagery indicating the likely arrival of rain-bearing clouds across Dhofar Governorate starting next Saturday. The announcement, made by noted weather researcher Mohammed al Barami, points to a possible early onset of the monsoon, bringing welcome news for tourism operators and local residents alike. Al Barami stated that atmospheric activity is intensifying over the Arabian Sea, with initial cumulus cloud formations observed near Salalah and adjacent coastal zones. He added: 'The monsoon winds are expected to become active off the coast of Dhofar, leading to cloud build-up that may result in seasonal khareef rainfall, interspersed with convective formations capable of producing showers of varying intensity.' Satellite imagery supports these forecasts, showing cloud accumulation along the Dhofar coastline, especially around Salalah, Rakhyout, and the nearby highlands. These developments are being closely watched as indicators of the approaching seasonal shift. The khareef, or monsoon season, typically spans from June to September, bringing cool temperatures, light drizzles and dense fog to the region — a striking climatic transformation that turns Dhofar's barren mountains into green pastures. This unique weather phenomenon, rare in the Arabian Peninsula, makes Salalah and its surroundings a prime destination for eco-tourism and domestic travel. Last year, the season attracted over 830,000 visitors, according to the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism, with peak arrivals recorded during July and August. Hoteliers and tourism operators across Salalah, Taqah and Mirbat have already begun scaling up preparations, including promotional offers, facility upgrades and coordination with local authorities. Officials expect this year's khareef to witness an even greater influx of travellers, particularly if the rains arrive early. The ministry has emphasised its efforts to enhance visitor services, digital booking platforms, and emergency response systems in coordination with the Royal Oman Police and the Civil Aviation Authority. The Oman Meteorology Department is expected to issue further updates later this week as models are refined. As Dhofar prepares to enter one of its most celebrated seasons, residents and tourists alike are watching the skies with anticipation — and optimism that the coming weeks will mark the return of nature's greenest show in the Sultanate of Oman.
