Bangkok Post – JW Marriott Khao Lak unveils JW Garden Sanctuary

JW Marriott Khao Lak introduces JW Garden, a pioneering model for sustainability and holistic wellbeing, with immersive nature experiences and ethical sourcing.

JW Marriott Khao Lak is proud to introduce the JW Garden, a pioneering venture dedicated to holistic wellness, sustainability, conservation and immersive nature encounters.

The JW Garden covers 27 hectares and functions as a full-fledged farm and retreat, with a strong emphasis on ethical sourcing. The site features more than 200 species of native plants, fruits and herbs and offers guests guided tours to explore the rich vegetation and learn about organic farming practices. Free-range chickens and ducks in the garden provide fresh eggs daily, further enhancing the resort’s commitment to ethical and sustainable food sourcing.

These organic ingredients are carefully harvested and find their way into the resort’s kitchens, enriching the flavors of the cuisine and supporting the culinary creations at JW Marriott Khao Lak’s esteemed restaurants. Working to eliminate waste is a key objective of the hotel and the composting facility in the JW Garden reuses all viable waste from the resort’s kitchens and dining rooms. This complete, farm-to-table approach ensures freshness, quality and superior nutritional benefits, fostering a deeper connection to the land and promoting sustainable eating experiences.

Guests can fully immerse themselves in the vibrant world of the JW Garden through daily tours led by local environmentalists, offering insight into sustainable initiatives and conservation. They will encounter beloved farm animals such as water buffalo, goats, free-range chickens and ducks, along with butterflies and honeybees, which provide organic honey for breakfast at the resort. At the Environment School, children receive valuable knowledge through engaging sessions, empowering them to become the changemakers of tomorrow, committed to preserving the natural world for future generations.

JW Garden’s signature initiative includes the reintroduction of the Nipa Palm, or Mangrove Palm, a Thai native species locally known as ‘chak’. This palm has enormous ecological and economic significance and uniquely thrives in mangrove forests. With versatile applications from thatched roofs to sugar production, it enriches biodiversity and promotes sustainability by reforesting land previously used as shrimp farms. Additionally, this initiative will serve as an educational center for local schoolchildren and the community, promoting awareness of ecological restoration and sustainable practices.

In addition to farm tours and educational opportunities, guests can participate in a variety of engaging activities, from peaceful birdwatching and scenic kayaking on a private lagoon to hands-on experiences such as planting and harvesting herbs and produce. A newly constructed running track provides an invigorating way to experience the biodiversity of the landscape while incorporating fitness routines. It includes a freshwater lake surrounded by tropical swamps and scrubland teeming with wildlife, while the Yoga Shala and Lagoon Escape provide a serene space for guests to reconnect with nature.

Reflecting on this milestone, Abhimanyu Singh, General Manager of JW Marriott Khao Lak, commented: “At our core, we are committed to sustainability, innovation and holistic well-being. The JW Garden embodies this commitment and demonstrates our passion for nurturing the earth and our guests. We seamlessly integrate our farm-to-table philosophy into every aspect of the resort experience, from recreation to spa pampering, with an emphasis on our proudly sourced ingredients. We strive to promote mindfulness and connection to the present moment, inspiring a deeper appreciation for nature and well-being that continues beyond our guests’ departure.”

The JW Garden builds on the success of the Bamboo Shark Nursery and Conservation Center, which was inaugurated last year as the first of its kind within Marriott International’s Asia Pacific portfolio. This special marine reserve, developed in collaboration with the Oceans For All Foundation (OFA), protects the endangered bamboo sharks of the Andaman Sea. Through Good Travel with Marriott Bonvoy, guests can actively contribute to the conservation of the local maritime environment while enjoying an exceptional experience.

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