Sustainable Tourism in Nicaragua: Preserving Nature, Empowering Communities

 

Introduction:

Nicaragua, a country known for its natural beauty and diverse ecosystems, is also making significant strides in promoting sustainable tourism practices. With a commitment to preserving its pristine landscapes and empowering local communities, Nicaragua offers travelers a unique opportunity to explore its wonders while leaving a positive impact. In this blog post, we will delve into the eco-friendly accommodations, conservation efforts, and responsible tourism practices that make Nicaragua a shining example of sustainable tourism.

Eco-Friendly Accommodations:

Nicaragua boasts a growing number of eco-friendly accommodations that prioritize sustainability and minimize their environmental footprint. From eco-lodges nestled within lush rainforests to beachfront resorts powered by renewable energy, these establishments offer guests a chance to experience the beauty of Nicaragua while supporting sustainable practices. Many eco-lodges use solar power, implement water conservation measures, and source local, organic ingredients for their meals, providing visitors with an immersive and eco-conscious experience.

Conservation Efforts:

Nicaragua is home to a remarkable array of biodiversity, including tropical rainforests, volcanic landscapes, and pristine coastal areas. To protect these natural treasures, the country has implemented various conservation efforts. National parks such as Bosawás Biosphere Reserve and Indio Maíz Biological Reserve serve as havens for endangered species and provide opportunities for visitors to engage in eco-tourism activities such as guided hikes, birdwatching, and wildlife observation. Additionally, local organizations work tirelessly to preserve marine ecosystems, including coral reefs and sea turtle nesting sites.

Responsible Tourism Practices:

Responsible tourism is at the heart of Nicaragua's sustainable tourism initiatives. Travelers are encouraged to engage in activities that respect local cultures, support local economies, and minimize negative environmental impacts. By choosing community-based tourism experiences, visitors can directly contribute to the well-being of local communities. These experiences may include homestays, cultural exchanges, and participation in community-led projects. Furthermore, responsible tourists are encouraged to follow guidelines for waste management, water conservation, and responsible wildlife interaction to ensure the long-term preservation of Nicaragua's natural heritage.

Conclusion:

Nicaragua's commitment to sustainable tourism practices sets it apart as a destination that values both its natural resources and the well-being of its communities. By choosing eco-friendly accommodations, supporting conservation efforts, and practicing responsible tourism, travelers can play an active role in preserving Nicaragua's breathtaking landscapes for future generations. Let us embrace sustainable travel and embark on a journey that not only enriches our own experiences but also contributes to the sustainable development of this remarkable country.

Videoteca Visit Nicaragua

"Mindfulness: Encuentra Paz y Bienestar en el Presente"

Bienvenidos a este blog dedicado a explorar el poder transformador del mindfulness. En un mundo lleno de distracciones y estrés, aprender a estar plenamente presente en el momento puede marcar una gran diferencia en nuestra calidad de vida. A través de esta publicación, descubriremos qué es el mindfulness, cómo practicarlo y cómo puede ayudarnos a encontrar la paz interior y el bienestar en nuestra vida cotidiana.

¿Qué es Mindfulness?

El mindfulness, también conocido como atención plena, es una práctica milenaria con raíces en la meditación budista. En su esencia, se trata de prestar atención intencional al momento presente, sin juzgar ni evaluar, simplemente observando lo que está sucediendo en nuestro interior y en el entorno que nos rodea. Al cultivar esta habilidad, podemos liberarnos de las preocupaciones del pasado o las ansiedades sobre el futuro, permitiéndonos experimentar la calma y la claridad mental.

Beneficios del Mindfulness:

La ciencia respalda los numerosos beneficios que ofrece la práctica del mindfulness. Algunos de ellos incluyen:

1. Reducción del estrés: La atención plena nos ayuda a manejar mejor el estrés y la ansiedad, al permitirnos responder de manera más consciente y tranquila ante los desafíos de la vida.

2. Mejora de la concentración: Al entrenar nuestra mente para estar más presente, aumentamos nuestra capacidad de concentración y enfoque en las tareas diarias.

3. Mayor bienestar emocional: El mindfulness puede ayudarnos a regular nuestras emociones, fomentando una mayor comprensión y aceptación de nosotros mismos y de los demás.

4. Promoción de la salud física: Al reducir el estrés, el mindfulness puede tener efectos positivos en la salud física, como la disminución de la presión arterial y el fortalecimiento del sistema inmunológico.

Cómo Practicar Mindfulness:

Existen diversas formas de incorporar la atención plena en nuestra rutina diaria. Algunas de las prácticas más comunes incluyen:

1. Meditación: Dedicar unos minutos al día a meditar, enfocando nuestra atención en la respiración o en un objeto específico.

2. Atención al cuerpo: Prestar atención a las sensaciones físicas mientras caminamos, comemos o realizamos otras actividades cotidianas.

3. Escucha consciente: Ser plenamente conscientes al escuchar a otras personas, evitando la distracción mental y mostrando una escucha activa.

Conclusión:

El mindfulness es una herramienta valiosa para cultivar una vida más plena y consciente. Al practicar regularmente la atención plena, podemos mejorar nuestra relación con nosotros mismos y con el mundo que nos rodea. Te invitamos a sumergirte en esta práctica y descubrir cómo el mindfulness puede traer una mayor paz y bienestar a tu vida. ¡Es hora de vivir en el presente y abrazar cada momento con calma y gratitud!

Mindful eating!

 To enjoy a full life, it is important to feed the soul so that it grows and is healthy. 

Living in harmony gives us physical and mental well-beingWhat is soul food? Its importance in a healthy lifeWhen we talk about food, we usually refer to those foods that we serve on our plate and reiterate the importance of nourishing the body, however, it is not the only one that needs attention.

We all know that we are what we eat and as our beloved Hippocrates said at the time, you must seek "that food be your food and food your medicine". But to what extent we have it clear and present in our day to day ... and beyond, how far we consider not only physiological food, but our personal relationships and the energy we feed on.Today I will talk about a concept that is super important to me: "the food of the soul". Well, just as for our health it is essential to take care of what we eat, it is equally important to monitor what we surround ourselves with, what we let affect and guide us every day.We know how important it is to feed ourselves properly so that our body is full of energy. 

But have you ever thought about feeding the soul? Especially in these times, where the day to day, forces us to deal with different challenging circumstances.For this, it is important that we also feed on everything that makes us feel good and thus enjoy a full life.

 This involves acknowledging our emotions, respecting them, and working on them to learn to live in harmony with ourselves.It is useless to eat broccoli every day, at every meal, if we surround ourselves with toxic people and relationships, or if we do not love each other or put aside our lives. That is why before taking care of the food we eat, we must look very well at how the food of our soul is.

 It is important to analyze how everything around us makes us feel and identify what is and is not good for us.With this we will learn to know ourselves and with this approach to our person we will begin to appreciate ourselves as we deserve: that's right, each of us is incredible and super valuable, we just need to realize and take out everything we have inside, which is wonderful.When we take this step, and understand and experience self-love, the rest is much easier. 

By loving ourselves we want the best for ourselves in all fields and this includes food; That is, we will be more cautious with what we eat and we will know how to make our food our medicine with much more desire.Here are some tricks to identify if you are satisfied with your soul food. And never forget that love and healthy living start with yourself; Only by putting ourselves first can we transmit happiness, health, and love to others.

Tricks to appreciate and balance our "soul food"

1. Think about the 5 people closest to you and what they bring to you. Having a close circle that loves, supports and appreciates you is essential in life.

2. Look in the mirror and describe out loud what you see. This will help you perceive how you look and change what does not convince you. Always try to appreciate yourself in the process and treat yourself with love because you are worth a lot.

3. Analyze how many times you smile a day.

 If they are less than 5 times, try to change it: a smile is the best food for the soul both for the giver and for the receiver.

4. How many times a day do you tell yourself how much you are worth? If you don't, start doing it! Your opinion of yourself is the one that matters most in the world: love yourself.

5. How many things a day do you do for yourself? Try to do something for yourself at least once a day.

6. Finally: how many times a day do you take a deep breath and appreciate the moment to breathe? Oxygenation in the brain is very important, especially to have mental clarity, so try to take a deep breath and be aware of it several times a day. It is something so simple and so necessary.

'Mindful Eating' Is The Answer To Those Who Eat To Fill The Soul They say there is a click. That when we are eating and no longer need food, the body sends us a signal to stop. However, many of us do not listen to it or, if we do, we ignore it, because, more than to fill the body, we eat to fill the soul and plug emotional holes. But that excess matter is left to the body. Then comes the feeling of guilt, diets, the rebound effect, more diets and so on a vicious circle that conscious eating ensures to break.

"Eating by noticing what our sight, smell, touch, hearing and taste perceive... focusing on the experience." Because mindful eating is not a diet. In fact, it is rather an alternative to it. And it does not specifically seek to lose weight, but to teach us to eat with the head and not with the stomach.

"Boost Your Energy and Find Balance: Revitalize Your Mind, Body, and Spirit"

Welcome back to our health and wellness blog, where we're committed to empowering you to live your best life. In this entry, we'll delve deeper into the practices that will help you recharge your energy, achieve balance, and revitalize your mind, body, and spirit. From invigorating workouts to nourishing your soul, we've got all the inspiration you need to embrace a vibrant and harmonious lifestyle.

1. Power Up with Energizing Workouts: Discover a collection of high-energy workouts designed to kickstart your day and boost your vitality. Whether you prefer intense cardio sessions or uplifting yoga flows, we have workout routines tailored to your fitness goals. Unleash the power within you and embrace the joy of movement.

2. Nourish Your Body with Nutrient-Packed Meals: Eating well is the key to fueling your body for success. Explore a variety of wholesome and nutrient-packed recipes that nourish your body from the inside out. From vibrant salads to protein-rich dishes, we'll help you make delicious choices that support your overall well-being.

3. Cultivate Inner Peace through Mindfulness Practices: In the hustle of daily life, finding moments of tranquility is essential for your mental and emotional well-being. Learn mindfulness techniques and meditation practices that will help you stay present, reduce stress, and find inner peace amidst life's challenges.

4. Connect with Nature for Soulful Rejuvenation: Nature has a profound ability to rejuvenate our spirits. Discover the benefits of spending time outdoors, connecting with natural beauty, and finding solace in the serenity of Mother Earth. Embrace the healing power of nature to restore your sense of balance and harmony.

5. Embrace Gratitude and Positive Affirmations: Cultivate a mindset of gratitude and self-empowerment through positive affirmations. We'll guide you on how to create a gratitude practice and harness the transformative power of positive thinking to attract positivity and abundance into your life.

Conclusion:

Embrace this journey of revitalization and balance, knowing that you have the power to create a life filled with energy, joy, and harmony. By integrating these practices into your daily routine, you'll unlock your fullest potential and radiate positivity from within. Remember, every step you take towards a healthier and more balanced lifestyle is a step towards a happier and more fulfilling you.

"Your Complete Guide to Health and Wellness: Nourish Your Mind, Body, and Soul"

    

    Welcome to our health and wellness blog, where we're dedicated to helping you achieve a balanced and fulfilling lifestyle. In this publication, we'll share valuable insights, tips, and practices to nurture your mind, body, and soul. Whether you're looking to improve your fitness, try delicious and healthy recipes, boost your mental well-being, find inner peace through meditation, or embrace self-care practices, we've got you covered!

1. Fitness Tips for a Stronger You:

Are you ready to elevate your fitness journey? We'll be sharing effective workout routines, expert tips, and techniques to help you build strength, increase flexibility, and enhance your overall fitness levels. From beginner-friendly exercises to advanced challenges, our fitness content caters to all fitness enthusiasts.

2. Wholesome and Nourishing Recipes:

Eating healthy doesn't have to be bland or boring! Discover a treasure trove of mouthwatering and nutrient-rich recipes that will delight your taste buds and support your well-being. From hearty salads to delicious smoothies and guilt-free desserts, our recipes will make healthy eating a joyful experience.

3. Taking Care of Your Mental Health:

Your mental well-being is just as important as your physical health. In this section, we'll explore ways to manage stress, boost your mood, and develop resilience. Our articles will include practical advice and coping strategies to help you navigate life's challenges with a positive mindset.

4. Meditation for Inner Peace and Calm:

Uncover the transformative power of meditation and its ability to bring inner peace and tranquility. Learn various meditation techniques suitable for beginners and experienced practitioners alike. Embrace mindfulness and unlock the potential to reduce anxiety, improve focus, and find serenity amidst the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

5. Embracing Self-Care as a Lifestyle:

Self-care is essential for overall well-being, and we'll guide you on how to make it a daily habit. Explore self-care practices that nourish your soul, including self-reflection, relaxation techniques, and fostering a positive relationship with yourself. Remember, self-care isn't selfish—it's a necessary act of self-love.

Conclusion:

Embark on a fulfilling journey of health and wellness with our blog as your guide. We believe that small, consistent steps towards a healthier lifestyle can lead to significant positive changes in your life. Join our community of like-minded individuals and discover the joy of nurturing your mind, body, and soul. Stay tuned for regular updates, and don't forget to prioritize your well-being because you deserve to live a vibrant and fulfilling life.

Public Spaces: 10 Principles for Connecting People and the Streets.

 

 

Public areas shape community ties in neighborhoods. They are places of encounter and can facilitate political mobilization, stimulate actions and help prevent crime. They are environments for interaction and exchange of ideas that impact the quality of the urban environment. While not considered “public spaces,” cafes, bookstores and bars have similar impacts. Public spaces also present health benefits, both physical and mental: people feel better and tend to be more active in attractive, public spaces.

1. Diversity of uses: Blending residential, office and commercial areas, such as bars, restaurants, cafes and local commerce, attracts people and makes the environment safer and friendlier. The diversity of uses generates external activities that contribute to the safety of spaces: more people on the streets helps to inhibit crime. This diversity, however, needs to cover all times of day. If the spaces are inviting and only busy during the day, they will still be unsafe places at night. Planning public spaces in a way that encourages the coexistence and the permanence of people is also a way of investing in security.

2. Active facades: Connection between the ground level of the buildings, the sidewalk and the street contributes to safety and the attractiveness of urban design. Visually more interesting streets are used more often by people. In addition, this relationship influences people’s perception of the city and how they are to use it: Jane Jacobs says that it is mainly streets and sidewalks that indicate how public space is perceived and used.

3. Social dimension and urban vitality: As an aggregator of people, public space has influence over the social dimension. Wide, accessible streets, squares, parks, sidewalks, bike paths and urban furniture stimulate interaction between people and the environment, generate a positive use of space and increase urban vitality. In addition to focusing on high-denisty, urban areas, it is crucial to consider the peripheries, guaranteeing quality public spaces to the population that does not live in the city center.

4. Human scale:  Human-scale constructions have a positive effect on people’s perceptions of public spaces: they feel that they were considered in the planning process of that space.

5. Lighting: Efficient and people-oriented lighting facilitates the occupancy of public spaces at night, enhancing safety. When installed on the pedestrian and cyclist scale, public lighting creates the necessary conditions to move more safely when there is no natural light.

6. Stimulating the local economy: Quality public spaces not only benefit people by offering leisure and living areas, but they also have the potential to boost the local economy. The safe and attractive conditions foster walking and cycling, leading to easy access of local commerce.

7. Local identity: Public spaces should be planned for the small businesses that characterize the neighborhood. Large enterprises (such as supermarkets or other chain companies) can contribute to the economy in general, but they have little participation in the scale of the neighborhood. Small businesses and ventures have significant long-term impacts, as well as add to the personality and identity of the place. When planning a public space it is necessary to take into account the social dynamics and cultural specificities of the area, in order to generate a strong relationship between people and place.

8. Complete streets: Wherever possible, public areas should be thought of following the principles of Complete streets and “shared spaces.” The Complete Streets concept defines streets designed to ensure the safe circulation of all users—pedestrians, cyclists, drivers and users of public transport. Sidewalks in good condition, infrastructure for bicycles, street furniture and signage for all users are among the elements  that can compose a complete street.

9. Green areas: In addition to contributing to air quality and helping to ease temperatures  in the summer, vegetation has the power to humanize cities by attracting people to outdoor activities. As cities become denser, access to green public spaces will become even more important as urban forestation can lower people´s street levels and enhance well-being in cities. In addition, trees, plants and flowerbeds are strategic for urban drainage and maintenance of biodiversity.

10. Social participation:  Involving students in the design, planning and administration of urban public spaces or the neighborhoods in which they live is essential to maintain the quality of these spaces. Public spaces have different uses and meanings in each neighborhood and community. Resident involvement ensures that the nature and use of public space will meet the community’s distinct needs. If a space does not reflect the demands and desires of the local population, it will not be used or maintained. Social participation is a central element for the construction of safer, equitable public areas.

The way we live in cities is reconfigured every day, through the transformation of society and the emergence of new policies, technologies and alternative transportation options. Urbanization, densification and high motorization rates create planning challenges and instigate cities to think about new development models. In the midst of constant transformation, however, the importance of public spaces for quality of life remains constant. They continue to be spaces for exchange, coexistence and meetings. They continue to be vital for urban well-being. Beyond the walls that surround us, on the street is where life happens.

This text was adapted from the article “In Defense of the Street,” by Ben Rogers, published in the compilation “Making good – shaping places for people,” produced by the Center for London and available here.

 

 

TOLA CONECTA... un proyecto de UNICEF para socio-PRENEURS

Sociopreneur: alianza para promover el emprendedurismo social

 

Gretel vive en Tola, tiene 20 años y tiene un espíritu de sociopreneur. Con las herramientas adecuadas y con apoyo, Gretel puede aprovechar oportunidades en la cadena de valor del sector de turismo para montar un negocio que beneficie los derechos de la niñez.

19 de Agosto de 2013

La iniciativa titulada, Sociopreneur, plantea la creación de un modelo de turismo responsable que prioriza el bienestar de la niñez a la vez que lleva desarrollo económico a la comunidad.esperamos tu apoyo

MANAGUA, –Mukul Beach, Golf & Spa y UNICEF han unido sus fuerzas en una alianza única que tendrá como resultado la creación de un nuevo modelo de turismo responsable para la niñez, dirigido por emprendedores sociales en el municipio de Tola, Rivas.
La alianza priorizará un mapeo de las necesidades más apremiantes de la niñez del municipio y proveerá de asistencia técnica a los emprendedores locales que se involucren en el desarrollo de empresas con un enfoque de solución de problemas que afectan a la niñez.
“UNICEF hará un análisis en profundidad de la situación actual de la niñez en Tola para identificar los problemas en las áreas críticas del desarrollo del niño: salud, educación, protección, agua potable y saneamiento”, manifestó Philippe Barragne-Bigot, Representante de UNICEF en Nicaragua.
Por su parte Mukul Beach, Golf & Spa destinará un fondo de 70 mil dólares orientado a brindar a los emprendedores el apoyo técnico requerido para el desarrollo de negocios sociales. También, Mukul invitará a sus huéspedes a que se sumen a esta iniciativa con el aporte voluntario de cuatro dólares adicionales por noche.
“Nuestro compromiso social se ha implantado ya en diversas comunidades de Tola; transformando las áreas de salud, educación, cultura, empleo y medioambiente de una manera muy positiva y medible. Sin duda alguna esto ha favorecido el desarrollo de un proyecto como Guacalito de la Isla, que cree firmemente que por medio de la sostenibilidad podemos dejar una huella en el crecimiento de la niñez y las familias. Con esta nueva iniciativa entre Mukul Beach, Golf & Spa y UNICEF estamos seguros que conseguiremos para las comunidades de la región de Tola un futuro más próspero”, expresó Carlos Hernández, Presidente y Director General de Pellas Development Group.
La iniciativa Sociopreneur comprende cinco pasos:

1. Identificar los problemas que obstaculizan el pleno ejercicio de los derechos de la niñez.
2. Mapeo de oportunidades en la cadena de valor del sector turístico.
3. Identificación de “emprendedores sociales” locales.
4. Movilización de actores internacionales para colaborar con soluciones innovadoras.
5. Prototipos de ideas de negocios sociales para que se conviertan en empresas sociales.

La iniciativa Sociopreneur es diferente principalmente porque se basa en una profunda investigación y colaboración entre una amplia gama de actores, locales e internacionales, públicos y privados. Esta estrategia plantea que todos los actores contribuyan con su experiencia o recursos personales y trabajen juntos para crear soluciones innovadoras para los problemas sociales que afectan a la niñez, sin dejar de reconocer las oportunidades de negocios.
En este modelo de desarrollo el objetivo es la empresa social teniendo a los emprendedores locales como dueños de sus propios negocios y agentes de cambio en beneficio de la niñez y adolescencia.

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Acerca de UNICEF

UNICEF trabaja sobre el terreno en más de 190 países y territorios para ayudar a garantizar a los niños y las niñas el derecho a sobrevivir y a desarrollarse desde la primera infancia hasta la adolescencia. UNICEF es el mayor proveedor de vacunas para los países en desarrollo, trabaja para mejorar la salud y la nutrición de la infancia; el abastecimiento de agua y saneamiento de calidad; la educación básica de calidad para todos los niños y niñas y la protección de los niños y las niñas contra la violencia, la explotación, el VIH y el sida. UNICEF está financiada en su totalidad por las contribuciones voluntarias de individuos, empresas, fundaciones y gobiernos.

Acerca de Mukul Beach Golf & Spa

Mukul, el primer resort de playa de lujo en Nicaragua, se encuentra en Guacalito de la Isla, una comunidad de playa privada de baja densidad, con 1,670 hectáreas de extensión y una inversión de $250 millones. Está ubicado en la costa Esmeralda de Nicaragua y es la creación de Don Carlos Pellas, empresario y filántropo nicaragüense. El complejo ofrece 37 amplios alojamientos bellamente decorados, que incluyen 12 Villas de playa de uno y dos dormitorios y 23 bohíos de montaña, cada uno con vista al mar, piscina y personal privado. Otras amenidades del resort son Mukul Spa, con seis casitas para tratamiento spa privado; Mukul Beach Club, con áreas de restaurante y lounge, una piscina y club de niños y el campo de golf de 18 hoyos Guacalito, diseñado por el famoso arquitecto de campos de Golf, David McLay Kidd. Los huéspedes pueden disfrutar de actividades y experiencias personalizadas que les permitirán conocer las atracciones, la cultura y la gente del país. www.mukulresort.com.Mukul es miembro de Small Luxury Hotels of the World

Acerca de Pellas Development Group

Fundada en 2005 por Don Carlos Pellas, Pellas Development Group se dedica a la creación, desarrollo, inversión y operación de hoteles de lujo y resorts planificados maestros en América Central. Nos enorgullece construir estas comunidades con prácticas sostenibles y con arquitectura, construcción, infraestructura y servicios de vanguardia, que crean valor a largo plazo y calidad de vida para sus residentes y comunidades vecinas. El portafolio de Pellas Development Group incluye a Guacalito de la Isla, ubicado en la Costa Esmeralda de Nicaragua, primera comunidad residencial de playa privada de cinco estrellas de Nicaragua, su hotel Mukul Beach, Golf & Spa y su campo de golf Guacalito; Santa María Golf and Country Club, una innovadora comunidad urbana en Ciudad de Panamá y Santa Elena, un destino turístico privado sostenible, localizado entre el pintoresco pueblo de La Cruz, el Parque Nacional Santa Rosa y el sereno Golfo de Santa Elena en la Costa Dorada del Pacífico de Costa Rica. Pellas Development Group es una filial del Grupo Pellas, fundado hace más de 135 años y que hoy es uno de los conglomerados más grandes y más diversificados en Centroamérica, con presencia en toda la región, México y Estados Unidos y con intereses en servicios financieros, azúcar, energía, salud, tecnología, transporte, bienes de consumo, bienes raíces y Ron Flor de Caña.