October 8, 2009 | Posted by costaricamodernecoliving
Gourmet slow food from Thomas Keller's French Laundry
Much of the 20th and 21st century have been devoted to making our lives faster: fast communication, fast transportation and fast food. But in the quest to live as efficiently as possible, the little luxuries enjoyed in slower times began to fall by the wayside. The art of letter writing, storytelling around a hearth and preparing a feast from scratch are fading into obscurity with each passing decade.
Recognizing the environmental and health dangers in promoting fast, cheap food, the Slow Food Movement was founded to celebrate and nurture the concept of eco-gastronomy – the connections between plate and planet.
What Exactly Is The Slow Food Movement?
The Slow Food Movement places a focus on sustainable eating and farming. Organic fruits and vegetables, free-range, grass fed livestock and locally sourced food are hallmarks of the Slow Food Movement. It has been proven that non-organic fruits and vegetables have less vitamins and minerals than their organic counterparts, and certain studies have pointed to the prevalence of antibiotics and hormones in poultry and livestock as the precursor to many human diseases, as well as resistance to antibiotics.
What Makes Slow Food Superior?
Slow food is organic, natural and full of flavor. The time it takes to prepare a fine gourmet meal is anything but fast, which is why the slow food movement is today associated with the finest in gastronomic achievement – top restaurants, the finest quality ingredients and out of this world dishes. Since the opening of its New York-based outpost in 2000, the Slow Food Movement has gained notoriety with adoption of the philosophy by America’s leading chefs.
Who Makes Slow Food?
Thomas Keller, world-renowned restaurateur and owner of two Michelin-starred restaurants including Napa’s The French Laundry and Manhattan’s Per Se, procures almost all the fresh, organic ingredients for his famous French Laundry fare in the backyard of the restaurant; the perfect definition of the Slow Food Movement. At $275 per plate, Keller’s meals have won the hearts and stomachs of everyone from food critics to Wall Street barons, proving that Slow Food is indeed a luxury worth waiting for.
October 7, 2009 | Posted by costaricamodernecoliving
Costa Rica’s Pacific coast is a haven of activity and excitement for adventure-seeking travelers. Between luxury zip-lining tours hundreds of feet above the jungle and serious yoga retreats, Nosara is a veritable hot bed of fun and leisure. If taking to the ocean with a longboard in hand is your idea of the ultimate day, Nosara’s beaches are the ideal spot to hit the surf in Costa Rica.
Surfing in Nosara, Costa Rica
Nosara has a handful of great surfing beaches, including Playa Guiones, Playa Negra, Playa Grande, Witch’s Rock, Ollie’s Point, Mal Pais, Jaco Beach and Playa Hermosa. Playa Guiones is arguably the best-known surfing beach in Nosara, and offers 2-6 foot surfs with long rides, safe enough for beginners but still enough of a thrill for dedicated surfer guys and girls. Windy days can bring the big waves, and with them come some of the most perfect barrels to take for a ride.
The waters are filled with a good mix of local Ticos and Ticas (Costa Rican men and women), sun-bronzed ex-pats living out their endless summer and eager tourists looking for a surfing thrill. Everyone is friendly and out there to have a good time, so beginners need not worry about the intimidation factor. For novice surfers who want to learn the basics, consider taking lessons from one of the two popular surf schools in the area: Safari Surf School and Coconut Harry’s Surf Shop. All this can be enjoyed just minutes away from Kalia’s luxury eco-villages Ruby Skky, Emerald Woods and Black Beauty.
October 6, 2009 | Posted by costaricamodernecoliving
Solar panel on a recently landscaped roof of a Kalia home.
Most of us live our lives enjoying the benefits of the sun without really thinking about the star’s massive benefits. Without the sun there would be no daylight, no plants or flowers, no natural warmth and no seasons. It’s safe to say that without the presence of the sun, our earth as we know it would cease to exist. The sun’s heat has already shaped our world and the lives of those in it, but harnessing the power of solar energy has the potential for just as important of an impact.
What Is Solar Energy?
The term ‘solar energy’ refers to the heat energy given off by the sun. When harnessed as thermal energy, solar energy can heat water and spaces; everything from a swimming pool to a country estate. However, the most exciting application is the use of solar energy as a replacement for fossil fuels to create electricity. Much of the way we live in the modern world relies on the power of electricity, which currently relies on non-renewable forms of energy such as coal, oil and natural gas.
Why Solar Energy?
Since our current forms of energy are non-renewable, there is a finite amount on earth that is being rapidly used up. Additionally, when converting the current fuels to electricity, byproducts are created that pollute the environment. Unlike non-renewable resources, solar energy is virtually unlimited and creates no pollution, providing a glimmer of hope for the sustainable future. The only drawbacks to harnessing solar energy is that the availability of sunlight depends on the day and time, and that large surface areas are necessary to collect enough solar energy for use. With the continuing advancement of solar technology this challenge should be solved in the near future.
Kalia & Solar Energy
Kalia’s commitment to sustainable luxury includes heating the water in our homes with solar energy. Each home has solar panels on the roof that help lessen the home’s burden on the environment through harnessing a renewable source of usable energy.
October 5, 2009 | Posted by costaricamodernecoliving
The Breeze Model is available for your next luxury vacation in Costa Rica starting in December.
Set high over the Costa Rica rain forest lies The Breeze, one of Kalia’s impressive new model homes. The height and openness of the Breeze give residents spectacular views of Costa Rica’s lush tropical jungles. Clean, modern lines and floor to ceiling windows characterize the sweeping silhouette of the two-story luxury home that boasts a large, open floor plan. As with all Kalia model homes, the Breeze was designed to maximize the residents’ enjoyment of Costa Rica indoor/outdoor living with a total living area of 4,844 square feet.
Playa Ostional is just minutes away from this beautiful vacation home.
The indoor open floor plan encompasses 2,691 square feet of luxury while modern outdoor decks and water features claim the remaining 2,153 square feet. Thanks to Costa Rica’s year-round mild weather and warm climate, future Breeze homeowners will appreciate the seamless integration between the indoor and outdoor design of the home, enabling them to enjoy themselves equally indoors and out.
As we’ve discussed, Kalia’s mission is the marriage of sustainability and luxury, which is why the Breeze is filled with ecofriendly appointments. Eye-catching rooftop gardens insulate and reduce storm water runoff to keep Costa Rica’s waters crystal clean and free from pollutants, soothing water features double as relaxing décor and natural cooling for the home, and sustainable furniture and building materials make the Breeze the epitome of refined eco-luxury living. Luckily, discerning travelers who want a taste of the Breeze can begin by making reservations at this expansive estate starting in December. If you are looking for a tropical paradise in which to spend the holidays, check out the Breeze and reserve your spot before it’s too late.
October 1, 2009 | Posted by costaricamodernecoliving
BRAC Grey Water Recycling Tank
Grey water recycling is an undeniably eco-savvy solution for conserving water. A grey water recycling system is also easy to install in a home, is not excessively expensive, and can reduce your home’s overall water usage by a third or more, all without impacting your life one bit.
What Is A Grey Water Recycling System?
A grey water recycling system involves a filter tank that catches the water from your shower, bath, washing machine and sinks. This tank then uses chlorination or other disinfecting methods to clean the water, and is connected to a pump that returns the water to the toilets for reuse. The resulting water is called grey water, and is perfectly suitable for use in the toilet. It smells fresh and clean, and looks just like water that originates from the tap yet it has a huge impact on a household’s amount of water use. After being reused for the toilet, the water is flushed out through the normal sewer system, just as usual. Kitchen and drinking water usage actually only comprises 10% of a household’s total water usage, which is why recycling bath, shower and sink water helps dramatically reduce wasted water. Grey Water Recycling Systems in Kalia Homes
With luxury green living as the Kalia community’s mantra, grey water recycling systems were incorporated into each and every home to reduce water usage. The luxurious showers and baths may be appointed with the finest Italian fixtures, but eco-conscious residents can rest easy knowing that their home helps reduce water waste. Kalia homes feature a top of the line BRAC grey water filtration system that reduces water usage by over 30%.
September 30, 2009 | Posted by costaricamodernecoliving
Close your eyes and imagine flying free through a tropical paradise, high above majestic rivers, vibrant flowers and surreal waterfalls. The warm air whips through your hair and your limbs dangle languorously while you take in the awe-inspiring sights all around you. Though this might seem like the ultimate fantasy for an outdoor adventure-seeker, you can actually live out this dream in the Costa Rican jungle.
An Unforgettable Bird’s Eye View
Located in Nosara on Costa Rica’s stunning Pacific Coast, Miss Sky Canopy Tours is the country’s premiere provider of zip lining tours through the lush rainforests. Adventurers and nature lovers are invited to take to the pure blue skies and sail through the air to experience a once-in-a-lifetime perspective on Costa Rica’s natural beauty. Unique amongst Costa Rica’s zip lining tour options, Miss Sky Canopy is set within a completely natural 2500 acre forest reserve on a coastal mountain range. Set out in the middle of pristine wilderness, there is little distraction to Costa Rica’s breathtaking natural beauty.
Taking a Miss Sky Canopy Tour
Miss Sky Canopy Tours offers a long daytime zip lining tour, a condensed midday zip lining tour and an enchanting nighttime zip lining tour. The tour company’s 21 zip lining runs range from 500 to 600 meters long and are perched a few hundred feet off the ground for spectacular 360 degree views of Costa Rica. At the end of the tour, adventurers zip line directly into a modern disco and bar, where they can share the exciting sights seen on their zip lining with family and friends. It’s a truly unique way to experience Costa Rica’s rainforests, and is the premiere company that provides the utmost in safety and spectacular sights.
September 29, 2009 | Posted by costaricamodernecoliving
Kalia stands for an unwavering commitment to two things: luxury and sustainability. Nestled in a tropical land, surrounded by beautiful beaches and richly forested jungles, the Kalia community honors Costa Rica’s unforgettable landscape through minimal impact and green home features that help preserve the natural environment.
Grey water recycling systems are the Kalia homes’ means for reducing water waste, while the finest Italian plumbing fixtures are the means through which the residents get to enjoy their water. Kalia embodies the belief that a commitment to sustainability and a penchant for true luxury living are not mutually exclusive. Each home is the definition of eco-luxury at its best.
The Beauty of Zuchetti Water Fixtures
Zuchetti plumbing fixtures are celebrated around the world for their commitment to the highest standards of design, luxury and quality. Originally founded in 1929 by Zuchetti Rubinetteria, the company has been family owned and operated for three generations. With each new generation the company has renewed its commitment to research, innovation and quality to create the most sophisticated water fixtures available on the market today. Zuchetti is known for their sleek, simple designs that make a statement.
The clean lines and striking chrome finish align ideally with Kalia’s luxe modern interiors, making Zuchetti the perfect match for our residences. Zuchetti’s mission statement is to make every ordinary moment a special one – from delighting in the design of a sleek curved faucet to reveling in relaxing properties of their powerful showerheads. With Kalia’s own commitment to extraordinary living, we feel it’s a perfect fit – and we think you’ll agree.
September 28, 2009 | Posted by costaricamodernecoliving
Luxury and Sustainability in hotels. Princesse Bora Lodge, Sainte Marie Island, Madagascar
We’re beginning to broaden the base of topics covered on Costa Rica Modern Eco-Living, in hopes that the same readers who enjoy topics on Costa Rica sustainability will also find interest in the fascinating sector of eco-luxury. What used to be at opposite ends of the consumer spectrum – sustainability and luxury – are slowly but surely merging as pioneering companies, brands and individuals are seeking the best of both worlds. Sustainable couture, green travel and eco-luxury are buzz words that characterize this shift, and this week we’d like to share two articles that speak to the heart of the issue. Happy Reading!
The End of “Pop Luxury“?
The Business of Fashion tackled the issue of sustainable luxury earlier this year with this interesting article. Key points include Hermes’ Executive VP, Christian Blanckaert, declaring an end to “pop luxury”; the fleeting, temporal fix with fast fashion. Instead, he proposes a shift in the focus of luxury consumers to fashion that can be considered a long term investment, since these pieces of clothing and accessories have a longer shelf life and more value over trendy, short-lived counterparts. It’s a compelling argument, and a read that shouldn’t be missed.
Luxury & Sustainability in Hotels
Stemming from the world’s first Sustainable Luxury Fair in Paris, this article explores the topic of sustainability amongst leading luxury hotels. Biodynamic champagnes, battery-powered scooters for quick jaunts to the café and low-flow faucets are just some of the ways the world’s leading hotels are providing their patrons with eco-friendly alternatives. Read the full article here.
September 24, 2009 | Posted by costaricamodernecoliving
Emperor penguins atop an icy glacier.
Wealthy adrenaline junkies and intrepid travelers need not sacrifice their everyday luxuries to experience sweeping adventure. Thanks to a growing class of travelers with upper crust sensibilities and a longing for excitement, luxury travel companies are offering high end adventure tours to some of the world’s most intriguing places.
Accustomed to living richly in their daily lives, these discerning globe trotters want to spend their nights among jaguars and water buffalo in the African plains – while settling down to sleep amongst the finest five hundred thread count pillows and sheets in a luxury tent. For fearless travelers with such tastes, here is a list of some of the best adventure tours for the rich and famous:
Sail south from the tip of Argentina into the other-worldly white plains of Antarctica. Large ships outfitted with bars, lounges and libraries break through glacial ice and on-board naturalists lecture on Antarctica’s rich and unique wildlife. On the mainland, socialite travelers will find themselves in the company of royalty – in the form of the regal Emperor Penguins that call the arctic home. Further adventuring can be accomplished by sea kayaking through icy cold waters, camping in the white wilderness and even cross country skiing.
Abercrombie & Kent’s Ancient Wonders Adventure Tour
Delve into the ancient wonders that lie within Israel, Jordan and Egypt on this luxury adventure tour from Abercrombie & Kent. Leaders in upper crust adventure travel for decades, Abercrombie & Kent travel guides will lead explorers through the sands of the ancient world by camel. Adventurers will get a taste for Bedouin life by enjoying tea with local families, preparing a Jordanian meal at the Petra Kitchen and taking a refreshing dip in the Dead Sea.
Gaia Hotel & Reserve in Costa Rica
The Gaia Hotel & Reserve offers discerning travelers a Costa Rica Adventure Package that includes three days of exploring the country’s pristine rainforests, mangroves and beaches. Adventurers can satisfy their need for thrill on rushing white water rapids or by guided ATV tours that uncover Costa Rica’s rich biodiversity, and satiate their need for luxury by curling up in Gaia’s plush suites in front of a flat screen TV.
September 23, 2009 | Posted by costaricamodernecoliving
EgoGir Suit
Though more and more women’s wear designers are now using organic cotton and alternative fibers, it’s still hard to find luxurious, sustainable men’s wear. Save an organic cotton t-shirt here and there, the attention paid to creating a stylish and sustainable men’s line has been minimal. Thanks to our sleuthing, we have located two fabulous eco-friendly lines that will satisfy the most discriminating consumer.
Bagir’s EcoGir Collection
International clothing company Bagir is shifting their company’s focus with their new EcoGir line. The same tailored fit and quality construction that has made Bagir a coveted brand is infused into EcoGir, with one exception – all materials used in the EcoGir line are either from recycled materials or organic fibers. EcoGir goes so far as to offer an expertly tailored, smart-looking suit jacket made from recycled plastic bottles. The most amazing thing is that the resulting garment looks like something ripped from the pages of GQ.
John Patrick Organic
John Patrick Organic
John Patrick Organic is a luxury label with the mission of creating clothing with integrity. The brand has a holistic view of what it means to be green, and is a sustainable company in every sense of the word: they using looms crafted from old bicycle wheels and support cottage industries in developing countries. The result is a handsome and dapper line of luxe sustainable menswear that looks as good as it feels. Though Organic also creates clothing for women, the men’s line is given just as much careful thought and tailoring – a welcome anomaly in a limited world of sustainable menswear.
October 8, 2009 | Posted by costaricamodernecoliving 
Categories: Lifestyle | 
Tags: green food movement, luxury dining, michelin star restaurants, organic sustainability, slow food movement, the french laundry, the french laundry organic food, thomas keller restaurants | 
10 Comments »
Costa Rica’s Pacific coast is a haven of activity and excitement for adventure-seeking travelers. Between luxury zip-lining tours hundreds of feet above the jungle and serious yoga retreats, Nosara is a veritable hot bed of fun and leisure. If taking to the ocean with a longboard in hand is your idea of the ultimate day, Nosara’s beaches are the ideal spot to hit the surf in Costa Rica.
Close your eyes and imagine flying free through a tropical paradise, high above majestic rivers, vibrant flowers and surreal waterfalls. The warm air whips through your hair and your limbs dangle languorously while you take in the awe-inspiring sights all around you. Though this might seem like the ultimate fantasy for an outdoor adventure-seeker, you can actually live out this dream in the Costa Rican jungle.
perspective on Costa Rica’s natural beauty. Unique amongst Costa Rica’s zip lining tour options, Miss Sky Canopy is set within a completely natural 2500 acre forest reserve on a coastal mountain range. Set out in the middle of pristine wilderness, there is little distraction to Costa Rica’s breathtaking natural beauty.
Grey water recycling systems are the Kalia homes’ means for reducing water waste, while the finest Italian plumbing fixtures are the means through which the residents get to enjoy their water. Kalia embodies the belief that a commitment to sustainability and a penchant for true luxury living are not mutually exclusive. Each home is the definition of eco-luxury at its best.
and quality. Originally founded in 1929 by Zuchetti Rubinetteria, the company has been family owned and operated for three generations. With each new generation the company has renewed its commitment to research, innovation and quality to create the most sophisticated water fixtures available on the market today. Zuchetti is known for their sleek, simple designs that make a statement.
The 
