Koh Phi Phi, Thailand, August 3, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / SAii Phi Phi Island Village allows its guests to experience the resort's environmental projects firsthand. Through a range of underwater excursions integrated into the activities of the Marine Discovery Centre, they can witness coral propagation and clownfish breeding programs, among other initiatives. This five-star lifestyle resort, part of S Hotels and Resorts PCL, has always prioritized sustainability and the preservation of its precious environment. This idyllic island paradise understands that its guests, the so-called "InSAiiders," seek activities that bring them closer to nature and have a positive impact on our planet. For this reason, two of the resort's facilities – the Gold Palm Dive Centre and the Marine Discovery Centre – have joined forces to create immersive and eco-friendly diving experiences, enabling travelers to explore the fascinating underwater world responsibly.

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A range of professionally guided dive excursions from SAii Phi Phi Island Village allows guests to witness firsthand the work of the resident marine biologist, who is tirelessly dedicated to restoring the region's diverse ecosystems. After visiting the Marine Discovery Centre, where they learn about the various projects – including coral propagation and breeding and reintroduction programs for clownfish and bamboo sharks – divers can head out into the sparkling waters of Hat Nappharat Thara-Mu Ko Phi Phi National Park and see the impact of these initiatives for themselves.

While immersed in this spectacular underwater world, InnSAiiders can explore the newly established seagrass meadows, which provide an ideal habitat for small fish – including the famous clownfish, bred and released by the Marine Discovery Centre. Divers and snorkelers can also admire newly grown corals on the house reef and the vibrant marine life that depends on them. Although the bamboo shark breeding program is still in its initial stages, visitors may be lucky enough to spot other keystone species in the area, such as blacktip reef sharks, leopard sharks, green sea turtles, hawksbill turtles, and even whale sharks further out. A total of 17 bamboo sharks will be released from the Marine Discovery Centre's breeding facility in the coming weeks and months, allowing future divers to experience these elegant creatures in their natural habitat.

Divers can rest assured that the PADI-certified Gold Palm Dive Centre, which is also part of the UN's Green Fins sustainability program, has highly qualified instructors and welcomes children from the age of eight. Before diving in small, environmentally conscious groups, all visitors receive instruction on marine conservation to ensure responsible behavior.

Guests may also notice that the sea in Hat Nappharat Thara-Mu Ko Phi Phi National Park has become cleaner, thanks in part to the efforts of SAii Phi Phi Island Village. Waste disposal is always a challenge for island communities, so the "SAiiLanders" team – as SAii Resorts calls its dedicated employees – works with villagers weekly to clean up the area's beaches and coastline. Since the initiative began in 2021, 18 clean-up events have been held, collecting over 8,098 kg of waste.

To avoid unintentionally contributing to the waste problem, SAii Phi Phi Island Village participates in the Thai Hotel Association's "Plastic Free Project" and actively strives to reduce its consumption and waste volume. Single-use plastics have been eliminated, recyclables are carefully separated, the consumption of paper and printer cartridges is minimized, and organic waste is composted. The resort also recycles all of its wastewater, which is treated and used to irrigate the gardens and trees.

“At SAii Phi Phi Island Village, we are aware of our responsibility for environmental protection and its preservation for future generations. The oceans face numerous challenges today, from climate change and coral bleaching to plastic pollution and overfishing, all contributing to species decline and the loss of biodiversity. By taking concrete steps to protect the seas in our Marine Discovery Centre and directly demonstrating the positive impact of our work to our guests, we hope to inspire even more guests – especially young people – to protect our seas and oceans,” said Bart Callens, Cluster General Manager of SAii Phi Phi Island Village and SAii Laguna Phuket.

The responsible diving packages at SAii Phi Phi Island Village range from "Bubble Makers" (for children aged 8 to 10) to advanced open water dives. Beginners are accompanied by Khun Pang, the resort's experienced diving instructor, every step of the way on their diving journey – from the pool to the ocean. Prices start at 3,200 THB.

About S Hotels and Resorts Public Company Limited: S Hotels and Resorts Public Company Limited, the hotel division of Singha Estate Public Company Limited, is a rapidly growing, Thai-inspired company with an extensive international portfolio and world-class standards. S Hotels & Resorts specializes in managing and investing in high-quality hotels and resorts in sought-after destinations worldwide, creating a number of its own distinctive lifestyle brands. The company also collaborates with leading names in the hotel industry. S Hotels & Resorts aims to set new standards for leisure and lifestyle through diversified business platforms, increasing value for all stakeholders based on a philosophy of sustainable development and supporting local communities.