Issue link: http://read.uberflip.com/i/1010018
Hot Idea (TOP LEFT) ILLUSTRATION: GETTY IMAGES 10 JUL-AUG 2018 MEETINGS & CONVENTIONS MCMAG-ASIA.COM Few resorts in Phuket can oer both the benet of pristine tracts of nature such as tropical gardens, freshwater ponds and natural preserved coastal wetlands backed by a strong sustainability and community focus. At JW Marriott Phuket Resort & Spa, planners have access to breathtaking venues across its sprawling 27 acres, but more crucially, a wide range of team building activities for groups that ensure an immersive and authentic experience. The resort's longstanding partnership with the International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN) has introduced initiatives that support village communities and underpriviledged women, mangrove reforestation and sustainable farming practices. For its eorts with IUCN, the resort has garnered the "Best CSR - Social Impact Partnership" at the 2017 Rockefeller Social Impact Awards. Rustic village charm Whether it's embarking on a 'songthaew' trail through the Mai Khao Gypsy Village or a jungle ATV adventure, the resort spotlights Phuket's natural environment and local community in relevant and fun ways. Have delegates experience life as a local with the resort's specialist programmes ranging from two-hour- long activities to a half-day itinerary. At the Mai Khao Gypsy Village, delegates can pitch in alongside local shermen to build wooden squid traps and get a fresh perspective on sustainably- sourced seafood being supplied to the resort's kitchens, or head to Pru Jae San Lake, Phuket's last national wetland, to help build an 'eco-shelter'. Nature's wonders Tiny yet majestic, endangered leatherback turtles are among the inhabitants who nest on Mai Khao beach. Back to basics WORDS NAOMI NEOH JW Marriott Phuket Resort & Spa makes sustainability and community tourism authentic, and above all, fun for delegates. Now under conservation eorts by the Mai Khao Marine Turtle Foundation, delegates can learn about the ve turtles living at the shelter and take part in the annual release of rehabilitated turtles into nature during the April Songkran festivities and its 'mini' marathon activities in October. Paying it forward Inspire groups to pay it forward for worthy causes such as road safety for local Thai children. Join the eorts of a nationwide 7% helmet campaign by getting involved in activities such as decorating helmets for local children, painting road signs and installing road safety banners, with the option to include your group's corporate logo. Learn from local fishermen on sustainable farming practices ON LOCATION: + 265 guestrooms, suites and villa LARGEST VENUE + 600 sqm Mai Khao Ballroom for 400 guests TEAM BUILDING INCLUSIONS: + English-speaking facilitators, a master of ceremonies, relevant equipment, insurance, transfers, health and safety briefings and event photos will be catered for as part of the corporate team building programme. Back into the wild: the annual turtle release on Mai Khao Beach "Delegates can "Delegates can help build an 'eco-shelter' at Pru Jae San Lake, Phuket's last national wetland." national wetland."