Island Wildfires: The Ecological Toll of Irresponsible Travel

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Published on September 25, 2023

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Wildfires are currently devastating Tenerife, a Spanish island in the Canary Islands, a popular tourist spot. Forbes termed these wildfires the "most complicated fire in 40 years" in the Canary Islands. Over the weekend, more than 26,000 people were evacuated from Tenerife, just a month after wildfires had badly affected La Palma, another Canary Island, leading to the evacuation of about 4,000 residents.

Unlike the tragic loss of life experienced on Hawaii's Maui Island, where 114 people have sadly died, Tenerife has not reported any fatalities due to these wildfires. In Maui, the situation is grim, with officials estimating that up to 1,000 people may still be missing. However, the reasons behind these wildfires on both Tenerife and Maui share common elements: a harmful mix of climate change and excessive tourism.

Climate change is the primary cause of the worsening impact of wildfires worldwide, and islands are especially at risk. In recent years, the Greek islands, the Canary Islands, and Hawaii have all faced more droughts and rising temperatures. In Hawaii, for instance, rainfall and streamflow have significantly decreased over the past three decades, with 90% of the state now receiving less rainfall than a century ago.

One of the unique factors contributing to wildfires on islands is wind patterns. Wind tends to blow more strongly over the ocean than over land, creating a smoother flow. Land features like hills, mountains, and forests can slow or direct the wind, making it more likely to cause and spread wildfires. Strong winds were a significant factor in the devastating wildfires on Hawaiian, Greek, and Spanish islands. In Maui, wind speeds exceeding 100 kilometers per hour were recorded, potentially causing power poles to fall and ignite wildfires.

Limited infrastructure on islands exacerbates their vulnerability to wildfires, particularly in remote areas. When wildfires grow uncontrollable, external support from other parts of the country becomes necessary. For example, the Greek wildfires in July required assistance from other European Union member states, including 500 firefighters, 100 vehicles, and seven planes from ten different countries. Similarly, the Canary Islands sought help to combat the wildfire on Tenerife.

Excessive tourism significantly increases the wildfire risk on these islands. The high number of tourists strains limited resources, such as water. Inhabited Greek islands often face severe water shortages due to small catchment areas, low rainfall, and overuse of aquifer resources, which worsens during the summer tourist season. Moreover, the majority of wildfires are human-caused, with humans responsible for about 85% of all wildfires in the United States, according to the National Park Service.

While the exact cause of the wildfires on Maui is uncertain, those in the Canary Islands and Greece were known to be ignited by human activity. Unfortunately, these wildfires often result from negligence or intentional actions. For instance, the regional president of the Canary Islands confirmed that the Tenerife wildfire was deliberately started by humans.

Island ecosystems are particularly delicate, with many indigenous species isolated for thousands of years. The introduction of invasive plant species by settlers in recent centuries has significantly disrupted these ecosystems, making them more vulnerable to wildfires. Invasive, fire-adapted grasses now cover a significant portion of Hawaii, fueling wildfires.

To combat these wildfires effectively, experts are turning to traditional indigenous methods that emphasize preventive measures rather than reacting to wildfires once they start. These methods have been used for centuries but have been largely marginalized due to colonization and persecution of indigenous communities.

The devastating wildfires on islands like Tenerife, Maui, and Greek islands result from climate change and are worsened by excessive tourism. Islands face unique challenges due to their vulnerability to wind patterns, limited infrastructure, and fragile ecosystems. Responsible tourism, support for local communities, and the integration of indigenous fire management practices into policies are essential steps in mitigating these destructive wildfires. By making thoughtful choices in how we travel, we can help protect these beautiful destinations from turning into disaster zones.

The Evolution and Philosophy of the Modern Butler

By Shreenidhi Jagannathan

Published on September 11, 2024

In today's world, where bespoke services are in demand more than ever, businesses and individuals alike seek service providers who can transform ordinary moments into extraordinary ones. These providers must be quick thinkers, brand ambassadors, detail-oriented professionals with a deep understanding of etiquette and protocol, and experts in personalization who deliver impeccable service. In short, they must possess the qualities of a butler. These are the hallmarks of outstanding service.

The Timeless Profession of the Butler

One of the oldest professions, the term "Butler" is derived from the French word "Bouteiller," meaning one who cares for bottles. Historically, butlers were responsible for the wine cellar, fining and bottling wines before serving them in the evenings. The first recorded mention of butlers dates back to the 11th century. At that time, they were only responsible for wines; stewards were in charge of managing the household. Eventually, butlers took on household duties and gradually became heads of households. Today, butlers are employed across various settings, including hotels, resorts, yachts, cruise ships, private banks, and corporate offices, where they maintain the values aligned with traditional butling, albeit with differing responsibilities.

Butlers are often romanticized in films, where their virtues of selfless service, professionalism, and discretion are showcased. At its core, the philosophy of a butler is about managing a household and attending to the needs of their employer and guests with the utmost attention to detail, courtesy, and respect. In earlier days, they served royals and aristocrats. Now, in the realm of private service, butlers are in demand among ultra-high-net-worth families, Hollywood A-list celebrities, embassies, royal palaces, and stately homes. Female butlers, known as "Butleress," are also in demand today, highlighting that this profession applies to all genders.

My Journey: From Burghley House to the World of High Net Worth Clients

I had the privilege of working as an interim head butler at Burghley House in Stamford, England, before moving on to serve high-net-worth entrepreneurs in the United Kingdom.

The Rise of Hotel Butler Services

With the advent of air travel, butler services found their way into hotels. In London, the Lanesborough Hotel was the first to introduce a dedicated butler service in Europe in 1990, although Taj Hotels in India had offered such services much earlier. The butler's role in a hotel is akin to a conductor coordinating different services to cater to their guests' needs. A butler service manager at the Royal Mansour in Morocco, Antoine Berche, explains, "Butlers perform many jobs simultaneously: head waiter, sommelier, cook, housekeeper, receptionist, concierge, security guard, and personal assistant." A butler is prepared for all kinds of requests—from packing suitcases and arranging romantic dinners to organizing marriage proposals. Their service is invaluable due to their ability to anticipate needs with efficiency and discretion. As Mohamed Fadil, a butler at Royal Mansour, states, "Before the arrival of the guest, I prepare myself for all types of requests I might receive." This foresight is what makes a butler indispensable.

The Butler’s Code of Ethics

The code of ethics that butlers live by is built on a foundation of trust, professionalism, and discretion:

Confidentiality: A butler keeps all information about their employer's personal life and affairs confidential.
Professionalism: Trained in social grace and household management, a butler is always professional and concerned with the welfare of their staff.
Loyalty: A butler acts in the best interest of their employer.
Discretion: A butler respects privacy and never shares confidential information.
Attention to Detail: Duties are performed to the highest standard.
Respect: All guests and staff are treated with respect and courtesy, regardless of their background or position.
Responsibility: A butler ensures the smooth running and upkeep of the household or suite they are responsible for, taking a flexible approach to care for their employer's welfare and possessions.

The Modern Butler: Balancing Tradition and Innovation

While certain duties remain consistent, a butler's role today varies greatly depending on the household, the culture of the family, and other factors. Experienced butlers often want to know the nature of the household they will serve—whether it is a formal, traditional household or an informal, "nouveau riche" one. This distinction helps butlers assess whether the household suits their personality and style.

Traditional vs. Nouveau Riche Households

Elegance vs. Excess: Traditional households emphasize simplicity and understated luxury, while the new rich often prefer opulence.
Formality vs. Informality: Traditional households adhere to fixed etiquette and schedules, while informal households are more spontaneous.
Customary vs. Trendy: Butlers in traditional households may stick to time-honored traditions, while those serving the new rich must be ready for last-minute changes.
Respect for Hierarchy vs. Personal Freedom: Traditional butlers navigate a structured hierarchy, whereas modern butlers may deal with self-made individuals with different priorities.
The Art of Discretion: Traditional butlers often keep family secrets, while modern butlers may handle more public-facing clients.

The Role of Education: Training Butlers for the 21st Century

Today’s butler training programs have evolved to meet the changing demands of clients. Modern training includes teaching the use of technology for organizing and administering household tasks. Butlers must have an excellent organizational mind, knowledge of protocol and etiquette, and the resilience to adapt to varying environments.

Mr. Prem Anand, Founder of The London Butler Academy® Switzerland, authored this article.

About the Author: Prem Anand is the Founder of The London Butler Academy® in Switzerland and has been serving five-star hotels, cruise ships, and high-net-worth families for over 30 years. He is currently dedicated to training and coaching butlers internationally, with a mission to make private service education accessible and affordable to all. For any inquiries or further insights, please contact Prem Anand at India@butlercoachprem.com.

The Ultimate Raksha Bandhan Gift Guide: Unique Ideas to Cherish Your Sibling this Year

By Nishang Narayan

Published on August 14, 2024

Raksha Bandhan is just around the corner, and if you're on the hunt for the perfect gift for your sister, look no further! This year, why not choose a gift that truly speaks to the heart? Whether it’s a stunning piece of customized jewelry or a personalized photo album, the essence of Raksha Bandhan lies in the thought and love you put into selecting the perfect gift. Here are some unique ideas to help you make this special day one to remember.

Vaum Tonics: For a gift that's both unique and thoughtful, consider Vaum Tonics. This brand is all about bringing people together over delicious and refreshing beverages, perfect for sharing special moments. Vaum Tonics offers diverse flavors made with high-quality, all-natural ingredients. Their tonic water is quinine-free, low in sugar, low in calories, and gluten-free, making it a great way to show your sister you care about her health and happiness.

In:ha Wellness: This Rakshabandhan, gift your sister the serenity of self-care and bonding. Instead of traditional physical gifts, help her unwind and release life & work stress and tension in a calming and soothing environment. Give your sister the gift of relaxation, mindfulness, and quality time together. Nurture the bond of love and protection with a Heart Chakra crystal layout, Mood board, and Color therapy, followed by a soothing Tea ceremony meditation experience, perfect for Raksha Bandhan

The Pantry-Guilt free Goodness (Cloud Kitchen): Celebrate Raksha Bandhan by treating your siblings to delicious and healthy food from The Pantry. Show them how much you appreciate them while helping them stay on track with their health goals. The Pantry offers fresh salads, hearty wraps, and yummy smoothies, making it a wholesome alternative to greasy fast food. You can order through Zomato or Swiggy, or even DM them on Instagram for a personalized experience.

Amazonia, BKC: For an unforgettable Raksha Bandhan, take your sibling to Amazonia, a rainforest-themed luxury Pan-Asian restaurant in BKC. Their Monsoon Festival: Couture & Culinary Monsoon is not just a dining experience but an adventure where flavors and style collide. The monsoon-inspired menu, served beneath a transparent umbrella, includes small plates like Soup-er Broccoli and Potato Mille-Feuille, followed by farm-fresh chicken pot rice and smoky BBQ jackfruit. A visit to Amazonia with your sibling promises to be a truly memorable experience.

OBLU Resorts: Atmosphere Core’s Commitment to Green Travel in the Maldives

By Shreenidhi Jagannathan

Published on June 5, 2024

Atmosphere Core, a renowned international hospitality company, continues to make significant strides in sustainability across its eight Green-Globe-certified resorts. Through initiatives focused on the community, operations, resources, and the environment, Atmosphere Core exemplifies an environment-conscious approach that benefits both the natural world and the local communities.

Sustainability Achievements Across Four Pillars

Atmosphere Core’s dedication to sustainability is evident through impactful initiatives such as renewable energy infrastructure and water-saving technology. Each resort contributes uniquely, with pilot projects like the vertical hydroponic garden at OZEN LIFE MAADHOO and the in-house biogas setup at OBLU SELECT Sangeli showcasing innovation and commitment.

Operations and Resource Management

The company’s ethos of reusing, reducing, and recycling is reflected in practices such as a paperless app-based booking and check-in system and the maintenance of kitchen gardens across all resorts. “Sustainability isn't an option; it's our ethos,” comments Shrikant Dash, Deputy Managing Director for Corporate at Atmosphere Core. This commitment ensures eco-friendly choices that contribute to preserving the natural beauty of the Maldives.

Driving Positive Community Impact

Recognizing the importance of community, Atmosphere Core supports charities and drives impact through the Atmosphere Foundation. This non-profit organization has built a high-quality training kitchen for special needs students, run reading programs for over 7,000 youngsters, and supported health screening programs for nearly 600 senior citizens.

The Bamboo for Climate Change Mitigation project stands out, with Atmosphere Foundation donating over 4,000 germinated seedlings and introducing saplings to 27 islands. This initiative is pivotal in making the Maldives a carbon-free destination, thanks to bamboo’s exceptional carbon absorption rate.

Harnessing Solar Power

Atmosphere Core is at the forefront of the solar revolution in the Maldives. Since installing a marine and rooftop solar system at OZEN LIFE MAADHOO in 2019, the company has expanded solar energy production across its resorts. As of May 2024, 8,890 solar panels installed across seven resorts have produced 16,500 MWh of clean energy, significantly reducing diesel use and CO2 emissions.

Commitment to Coral Conservation

Coral conservation is a key focus, with seven out of nine resorts actively managing coral conservation programs. In 2023 alone, 279 coral frames were installed, with 13,436 coral fragments contributing to vibrant marine life. Continuous monitoring and maintenance ensure the success of these conservation efforts, attracting diverse marine species and fostering a thriving underwater ecosystem.

Green Globe Certification

All Atmosphere Core resorts have received Green Globe Certification, with OZEN RESERVE BOLIFUSHI and OBLU NATURE Helengeli by SENTIDO earning gold certifications. This recognition underscores the company’s commitment to environmental sustainability.

Atmosphere Core’s comprehensive approach to sustainability sets a benchmark in the hospitality industry. Through innovative projects and a steadfast commitment to the environment and community, the company not only enhances the guest experience but also contributes to a greener, more sustainable future.

About Atmosphere Core

Atmosphere Core operates nine resorts in the Maldives and has a robust pipeline of future projects, including one resort in Sri Lanka and ten hotels and resorts across India. Each property is distinguished by unique design, an authentic sense of place, and exceptional service, making Atmosphere Core a leader in sustainable hospitality.

Media Contacts:

India: THE OZEN COLLECTION, COLOURS OF OBLU, Atmosphere Hotels & Resorts
- Dennis Taraporewala | Criesse Communications
- Email: dennis@criesse.com

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