Tourism Western Australia and responsibletravel.com are creating an insider’s guide to Western Australia (WA), including the best sustainable tours and places to stay and travel secrets from locals. They are also searching for the best travel tips and photos from anyone who has traveled in Western Australia to be part of this online guide.

The best tip or photo will win a place in the guide and a signed print of their choice from world renowned wildlife photographer Andy Rouse, who had his first taste of Western Australia earlier this year. His tips on visiting Western Australia’s Ningaloo Reef will also be part of the guide. The runner up will win a signed copy of Andy’s Living Landscapes book.

Western Australia is Australia’s largest state, taking up almost a third of the country – and in many ways it is also the most undiscovered. Geographers are still mapping islands off the northwest coast; scientists are still discovering new species of flora and fauna and traditionally tourists headed east. This means its 12,500km of pearly-white coastline, rugged outback and lush forests teaming with rare wildlife are unspoiled and travelers can often experience the extraordinary scenery all to themselves.

The insider’s guide, which will launch on November 9, highlights the best natural and cultural experiences in Western Australia, from camping in national parks and swimming with turtles at Ningaloo Reef to learning more about the aboriginal heritage which surrounds the ochre and black stripped domes of the Bungle Bungles. It goes beyond a normal guide with video and podcasts featuring insider tips from locals on where to go and what to do.

All accommodation and tours featured are selected on the basis of a rigorous responsible travel policy and ability to offer a distinctive travel experience that benefits the local community, while sustaining the area’s natural and cultural heritage.

Christie Lord, Tourism Western Australia’s UK Marketing Manager added: “Tourists increasingly want more authentic and locally distinctive holiday experiences. We want to bring together insider knowledge from locals with advice from other travelers to help tourists to discover Western Australia’s best experiences. Whether it’s the best snorkeling spot on Ningaloo Reef or an amazing local restaurant, it’s about having an unforgettable experience which also benefits local communities and supports conservation.”

To enter, got to the competition page on IKnowAGreatPlace.com, add your tips and insider knowledge or upload your favorite snaps. When choosing tags, make sure you include Western Australia competition under ‘Select activities’. If you are not already a member, registering is free and easy. Closing date for competition is midnight this Friday November 5. Entries will be judged on originality and insight.

The worlds first non-profit and luxury eco-resort community, which will commit 100 per cent of operating profits to environmental protection and social improvements, is set to be built on a 124 acre private island in the Calamianes archipelago, at the northernmost tip of the Palawan Biosphere Reserve in the Philippines.

The Cacao Pearl will occupy an entire private island, with 124 acres of lush rainforest and towering coconut trees fringed with over a mile of pristine beaches, according to its operator, Cacao Resorts. This new approach to resort-communities is nestled within the eco-tourism destination of Palawan, Philippines, a stunning eco preservation area within sailing distance of two UNESCO World heritage sites & four marine reserves.

An eco-chic low-density boutique resort concept, The Cacao Pearl is promising sustainable development and sustainable enjoyment – designer homes with zero carbon cost, five star service, an infinity pool, wreck and reef diving, a secluded destination spa, organic gardens and bar, restaurant, private media rooms and designer details.

“Forget old luxury, welcome green luxury!” said Joel Cere, CEO of Cacao Resorts. “Cacao Resorts is offering eco-aware urban escapees the luxury of private island home ownership with the launch of a truly guilt-free investment: The Cacao Pearl, Palawan.”

“In a world of homogenous, over-developed concrete destinations, disinterested developers, fake themes and over-priced mini-bars, token green gestures and disenfranchised communities, Cacao Resorts provide an authentic experience for the grown-up backpacker, a guilt-free option for the traveler with conscience, a breath of fresh tropical air for sophisticated urban escapees.” Designed exclusively for Cacao Resorts by former film art director, Antonio Calvo (“Love Actually,” “Alexander”, “Pride & Prejudice”.) 60 off-plan private residences are available to investors, who want to own a chic eco-home with a conscience and investment-grade security with an option to buy, re-sell or rent.

Cacao Resorts operates a “greenprint” for operations and, with development partners Barefoot Investments and Abode Management, benefit from sustainable construction methods employed, ethical management practice observed, and ecologically responsible operations as standard.

That means 100% renewable energy, and for the first time in the hospitality industry, 100% of the resorts net operating profits will be used to support local environmental and social programs.

Priority is given to buyers with more than just a financial interest in the adventure: “We are now accepting interested buyers for our guilt-free residences in South East Asia,” added Cere.

Ocean and Vine, Loews Santa Monica Hotel, Santa Monica

A COMPLETE EXPERIENCE Its undeniable the postcard view from this must-visit restaurant is a major draw card for hotel guests and locals alike. Sunset, surf and sand aside, its whats inside Ocean and Vine that truly makes dining here so special. Arrive early to cozy up on the plush donut-shaped lounge that encircles a roaring fire pit-but not without a signature raspberry mojito in hand.

FRESH, FABULOUS FARE Service here is impeccable, as are the meals that boast farmers market-fresh ingredients-and fabulous flavors that linger long after dinner is over. Start your culinary journey with the roasted garlic chipotle hummus with herb and Parmesan encrusted flat bread; followed by the tender roasted eggplant with Israeli couscous and tofu, a dish prepared especially for vegans. Sides of broccoli rabe with roasted garlic and risotto, asparagus tips and shaved Parmesan is a vegetarian favorite. Feast on fresh berries for dessert before retreating back to where it all began: fireside overlooking the lights of Santa Monicas famous pier.

TIP Ocean and Vine is the perfect spot for a romance-infused double date, or to celebrate special events with the entire family.
1700 Ocean Avenue, Santa Monica, 90401.
Phone (310) 576-3180 santamonicaloewshotel.com