Tourism in these times goes hand in hand with the word sustainability. In a nutshell, sustainability is the balance between our environment, equity (making sure that all people have rights and opportunities and the basic needs to maintain an acceptable quality of life) and the economy.

Mövenpick Boracay is located in the luxurious expanse of white beach in what is called Station Zero. It is also Boracay’s inaugural Green Globe Certified hotel which was officially recognized last 14 November 2023. This certification positions Mövenpick at the forefront of the island’s sustainable hospitality.

We were fortunate enough to experience Mövenpick Boracay’s wonderful services and accommodations, the peaceful and unhurried ambiance, and to learn about how this property values the people and the environment.

The trip from Manila was a breeze, with the resort’s airport transfers being so easy and convenient. Once at the property, we were amazed at how easy it was to get around. Walking at the spacious paths of the property, we noticed names and information about the plants and trees that surrounded the property. It is a great way to educate children and their families on how to balance the beauty of nature and the comforts of a resort.

Mövenpick Resort and Spa Boracay’s general manager, Franck Merot, expressed immense pride in spearheading the goal and then achieving the Green Globe Certification. It is a first in this island paradise.

He states, “Receiving the Green Globe Certification is a testament to our collective dedication to sustainability. It reflects not only the hard work of our team but also the commitment of our guests to creating a greener future. Each visit to Mövenpick is a personal contribution to nurturing a sustainable tomorrow.

“In the realm of environmental sustainability, we understand that even small actions can make a substantial impact when consistently applied. Over the past year, we have achieved various milestones, such as establishing our water treatment and bottling facility and resolutely phasing out single-use plastics in favor of eco-friendly alternatives in guest areas.

“We are unwavering in our commitment to monitor and make our tropical paradise greener. Our green initiatives, including hydroponics, compost pits, herb gardens and a greenhouse, are all championed by our dedicated team members. To reduce emissions, we carefully select equipment and engage suppliers who share our sustainability advocacy.”

Indeed, sitting down and having coffee with GM Franck and his team brings to light primarily on how he values the environment and the people. What follows are more deep conversations on what he plans for a more comfortable and enjoyable stay for guests.

Station zero rediscovered

It is a wonderful feeling of visiting a resort that cares for the environment, especially with what the island of Boracay went through in the past few years. Everything just felt right with the balance of luxury and carbon neutrality. Mövenpick staff planted trees in the property to help achieve this and will continue to do so, filling the paths with greenery and information about them.

After a quick processing time during check in, we were ushered to our spacious superior king room which provided a much-needed rest from an early morning flight and the hubbub of airport crowds.

Signature chocolate hour

The resort’s chocolate hour happens every 3 p.m. at The Café. This daily event features on-the-house chocolate creations for all guests to indulge in. This is Mövenpick’s way of introducing a way to engage with the guests on a daily basis and to offer a sweet treat for their afternoon tea or coffee. We truly enjoyed our daily visits to the café.

Sunset picnic

A wonderful way to enjoy the sunset is to have a picnic at Sol Marina Beach Club Garden. We savored our favorite Japanese food while we waited for the sunset. A picnic by the beach plus the beautiful sunset of Boracay is truly an amazing experience.

Culinary delights

The next day finds us on our way to The Market for our early morning buffet breakfast. This all-day dining restaurant serves an international breakfast buffet and an extensive à la carte lunch and dinner menu.

Along with a cup of java, our daily breakfast meals consist of cereals, breads and the local favorite, garlic rice with beef or bacon. They also offer assorted maki rolls and tamago sushi to prepare the taste buds for more good food during lunch and dinner. There’s also assorted desserts and juices available for everyone.

After our morning time at Punta Bunga beach right in front of the resort, we had our lunch at Brezza which serves authentic Italian cuisine prepared using fresh and sustainable ingredients to make the finest rustic dishes. Their fresh out-of-the-oven pizzas are their specialty and is best enjoyed while overlooking the beach.

Sagay Spa

In the afternoon, guests like us can relax and enjoy the massage and treatments at the resort’s spa. The name Sagay came from the crushed seashells formed by the forceful waves into powdery white sand. We had their signature regenerating ritual which was a 90-minute massage which incorporates richness in calcium that is absorbed by the body leaving the skin relaxed and moisturized.

Mövenpick Boracay makes you want to stay on the island forever. And once you leave, you would want to return and discover more of what it has to offer. It’s time to rediscover and visit this part of the island.