May 18, 2024
In a world where luxury often seems disconnected from community initiatives and environmental stewardship, there are shining examples of companies that strive to bridge this gap. Through a visionary project, Tulemar has not only redefined the concept of luxury travel but is also making a tangible difference in the lives of local communities and the preservation of wildlife.
“For the last two decades, Glen and I have been supporting our local community in South Florida. Helping others is core to what motivates us and makes us feel good. Now that we live in Costa Rica, we’ve branched out into nearby communities and have identified specific needs. Our three initial areas of focus are local public schools, an organization that supports local families, and The Sloth Institute of Costa Rica,” Jules Scalisi, Managing Partner, Tulemar Luxury Vacations.
Jules, her husband Glen, and their Costa Rican partners are owners of Tulemar Luxury Vacations, tulemar.com, and multiple vacation rental properties. Tulemar ~ Where Nature Lives is not only the company’s slogan but words that they and their company live by.
At the heart of Tulemar’s initiative lies a profound dedication to giving back to the community and protecting the rich biodiversity of Costa Rica. Partnering with three remarkable organizations including a local public school district, Full Circle C.R. Foundation, and The Sloth Institute of Costa Rica, Tulemar has embarked on a journey that transcends traditional tourism paradigms.
Many parents living in neighboring towns send their children to public schools in the district of Aguirre. After site visits to several of these schools, and interviewing the district’s superintendent and teachers, specific needs have been identified as the most urgent. A major challenge that these schools face is keeping children engaged and fostering a desire to remain in school. Tulemar’s focus is on providing basic tools like new whiteboards, desks, chairs, toilets, school supplies for the students, and providing paint for the classrooms and exterior. These necessities are lacking and will make a significant difference to the students’ educational experience. Jules is also working with the teachers to develop a curriculum that can be used by volunteers to teach the students English. Currently, there is no funding at the district level to provide English speaking teachers.
In addition to its student and conservation efforts, Tulemar recognizes the importance of uplifting local communities and empowering the next generation. This ethos is embodied through its partnership with Full Circle C.R., which aims to improve the lives of individuals, especially children at social risk, by providing them with the resources and support they need to thrive. By focusing on individual empowerment and community development, Full Circle C.R. embodies the belief that sustainable change begins at the grassroots level.
The Sloth Institute, with its mission focused on the welfare and conservation of sloths, embodies the essence of Tulemar’s commitment to environmental sustainability. By rescuing, rehabilitating, and releasing hand-raised and injured sloths, the institute not only ensures the well-being of these iconic mammals but also conducts vital research and educational programs to secure their survival. Tulemar’s support for The Sloth Institute underscores the company’s belief in the interconnectedness of luxury travel and wildlife conservation.
“Manuel Antonio is one of the most biodiverse areas in Costa Rica and the world. This expansive natural beauty attracts thousands of tourists each year making our close partnership with Tulemar even more important. Responsible tourism is an essential part of protecting vulnerable wildlife like sloths,” Sam Trull, Executive Director and Co-Founder, The Sloth Institute of Costa Rica
Through its collaboration with these organizations, Tulemar is not only donating a portion of its proceeds but will also actively engage guests in meaningful experiences that foster a deeper connection with the local environment and communities. From witnessing sloths thrive in their natural habitat to immersive cultural exchanges with beneficiaries of local schools and Full Circle C.R., guests will be invited to become active participants in Tulemar’s mission of responsible tourism.
What sets Tulemar apart is its holistic approach to luxury travel, where opulence is seamlessly intertwined with social responsibility and environmental stewardship. By leveraging its platform to support underfunded causes and engage guests in transformative experiences, Tulemar is setting a new standard for ethical tourism in Costa Rica and beyond.
As travelers increasingly seek authentic and meaningful experiences, Tulemar’s visionary collaboration serves as a beacon of hope, demonstrating that luxury and philanthropy can indeed go hand in hand. By choosing Tulemar.com, guests not only indulge in unparalleled luxury but also become part of a larger movement towards sustainable tourism that leaves a positive impact on both people and the planet.
In Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica, where lush rainforests meet pristine beaches, Tulemar’s commitment to community collaboration and conservation is not just a project; it’s a testament to the transformative power of tourism when guided by principles of empathy, sustainability, and social responsibility. Through its unwavering dedication to making a difference, Tulemar is not only shaping the future of luxury travel but also leaving a lasting legacy of positive change in the communities it serves.