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Two roads diverged in a wood;
I took the one less travelled,
and that has made all the difference |
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Robert Frost (1874–1963). Mountain Interval [Abridged] |
At Jungle Way, we aim to keep everything as close to nature as possible, with the idea that guests can come to us and find a peaceful and relaxing place to chill out, enjoy the beautiful surroundings and the activities that are available.
Although we are on an island that is seeing rapid change due to ever-increasing in tourism, we are based near a very traditional Thai village that retains its core values and has changed little during the recent tourist boom. This is an important part of who we are and what Jungle Way promotes. The beauty of walking or cycling to the village of Klong Son, seeing local Thai people going about everyday life gives a sense of cultural immersion. However, only a short taxi ride away, and you can be in the hub of it all on the main beaches of Koh Chang's west coast.
Jungle Way maintains an environmentally friendly policy; we build with as many natural materials as possible trying to blend into our natural surroundings. We also recycle glass, plastics and cans. Jungle Way treks focus on the basis of “leave nothing but your footprints” while visiting the interior of the island. We also recommend this wherever you visit during your stay on Koh Chang. Our treks are led by Lek and another local guide, both of whom come from the island of Koh Chang, and are therefore knowledgeable in the flora and fauna on the island. Jungle Way only leads small trekking groups so as not to smother local people in the jungle. Our trekking guides explain local customs during the trek and while visiting local ventures (including an elephant camp and a traditional rubber production facility). We ask that customers try to respect as many of the local customs and beliefs as possible. This helps to ensure that local people remain accepting of our trekking groups.
Water conservation is common practice at Jungle Way. Due to Koh Chang’s monsoonal climate, during the dry-season fresh water becomes scarce; therefore, it is out of necessity that we urge our guests to conserve water. We do this by having Thai-style water tanks used for traditional bucket showers and toilets, rather than showers and flushing toilets.
Jungle Way engages and supports all local-run groups that aim to protect and conserve the island against encroaching developments and the side-effects on the native species of the island. We also are very supportive of local-run businesses, actively encouraging our guests to shop locally, and to avoid shopping in the larger chain shops. All of Jungle Way’s food, drinks and produce are bought locally.
Jungle Way is situated close to Ban Kwan Chang Elephant camp, an elephant refuge set up in association with the Asian Elephant Foundation. All of the elephants are either ex-show or -logging elephants which have been exploited and become too old to work. As Ban Kwan Chang is a charitable organisation, we regularly include this as part of our trekking tours and also suggest that our guests visit Ban Kwan Chang independently.
All of the staff at Jungle Way are from the local village of Klong Son. The only non-locals that work at Jungle Way are therapists or teachers in yoga, meditation, reiki and massage. Jungle Way does, however, aim to include as many locals as possible in all aspects of our traditional healing techniques. Our yoga, meditation, reiki and massage retreats are an important aspect of Jungle Way. Being close to nature, and in a peaceful and quiet surroundings helps aid learning and spiritual growth during our retreats.
Our final aim at Jungle Way is to show warmth and friendliness to all who visit us, whether it is to stay, take a retreat, trekking tour or just to call in for a drink and a chat.
We look forward to seeing you! |