83 www.womanthismonth.com October 2013 July 2013 CREE VILLAGE ECO LODGE, NORTHERN ONTARIO One of the first eco lodges in the northern hemisphere, Cree Village in Northern Ontario promises a unique experience of the native culture and the beauty of its craggy terrain. Situated on Moose Factory Island, it is the first aboriginal owned and operated eco lodge in the USA or Canada. Adhering to its principles of ‘living lightly’ on the earth and sharing profits with the local community, the resort possesses an ingenious architecture and energy-efficient design. This is particularly important in the cold climate. The place might look calm and tranquil, but there’s no dearth of activity here. One can kayak along the picturesque Moose River or even hunt for fossils. If the season allows, one can snowshoe or cross-country ski. There are beluga whale and sealwatching tours. You even have a possibility to end each day under the breathtaking Northern Lights. Green expectations Based on a traditional blue print, the lodge is built using natural and non-toxic materials with a number of energy-efficient and water-saving features. It maximises natural wind flow with low noise ceiling fans and north-facing windows. Best time to visit This trip to the Arctic can be taken for most part of the year, albeit for different reasons. To experience the crisp air and myriad colours of the Canadian summer, visit between June and September. If you are game to brave the mighty tundra experience, arrive during winter to be part of one of the toughest ecosystems on the planet. CHUMBE ISLAND CORAL PARK, TANZANIA Allow this award-winning private nature reserve to envelop you in its pristine landscape, balmy beaches and crude architectural beauty. The resort was developed for the conservation and sustainable management of the uninhabited Chumbe Island, one of the last untouched coral islands in the region. Located just south of Zanzibar, the park is Tanzania’s first marine-protected area and one of the world’s most diverse reefs. The fully protected coral reef sanctuary and forest reserve harbours rare and endangered species of animals and plants. It supports the local community by using their produce and providing jobs. The picturesque venue has a complete set of activities like snorkelling, trekking and a lighthouse. Your stay on this island paradise is as low an impact on the environment as it is unforgettable. Green expectations Reduce your own carbon footprint at the resort’s seven self-sustaining bungalows that use solar energy for lighting. The natural passive cooling technique is employed to keep the temperatures in check along with grey water recycling, composting toilets and ‘eco-showers’ of the harvested rainwater. Best time to visit June to October is considered the best time to visit Chumbe Island. As the days are dry with ample sun, animals are easier to spot. The waters are crystal clear during this time, which makes it perfect for snorkelling. There are far less mosquitoes due to the lack of rain.
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