Tres Ceibas Summer Edition -2014

SUMMER/ FALL EDITION 2014

CONTENTS

7LETTER FROM THE PRESIDENT Our Vision in Focus

8FISH FORECAST Your guide to trophy fish

12MUKUL RESORT MAKES “HOT LIST” Condé Nast Traveler

14SPA SECRETS Healing formula

16SEA TURTLE CONSERVATIONSustaining the Legacy

20ROBB REPORTMukul in the worlds top 100

24ANTAL LEGACY VILLASExclusive Preview Unveiled

SUMMER EDITION

2 0 1 4

TRES CEIBAS | Summer/ Fall, 2014 2

14SPA SECRETS Healing formula

16SEA TURTLE CONSERVATIONSustaining the Legacy

20ROBB REPORTMukul in the worlds top 100

24ANTAL LEGACY VILLASExclusive Preview Unveiled

42OCEAN-SIDE CATERING Special Events at Tres-Ceibas Beach Club & Sports bar.

46EMPTY EPIC SURF BREAKSA surfer’s dream in paradise

50I CAN & I DID!A touching story on sustainability.

30THE PASSIONS OF FINE RUM Rum Tasting

40LA NUBESNew real estate opportunity

Summer/ Fall, 2014 | TRES CEIBAS 3

INVEST IN YOUR LEGACY....

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WHERE ONLY LIFE ANDLUXURY PLAY THROUGH

[email protected]. +505 2274 4250+505 8660 9359

WWW.GUACALITODELAISLA.COM

Dear Readers, Welcome to the eighth edition of Tres Ceibas, your source of information about Guacalito de la Isla. On this occasion, you will have the opportunity to learn more about Antal Legacy Villas, our fifth residential project. Antal in the Maya-Chorotega language means ‘home’. Antal Legacy Villas is one of the most unique and avant-garde developments executed so far by Pellas Development Group. The villas of Mukul in terms of their concept, architecture and privacy have inspired Antal, offering spectacular views of the Pacific Ocean. Their construction is in line with PDG high quality standards. We also invite you to take a look at Las Nubes, a compound of nine lots starting at 3000m2 and up to 7000m2, located high in the mountains with memorable views of Guacalito and its coasts. For those who love to fish or to surf, we offer you our best tips for exciting fishing trips or to surf in spots with magnificent waves. These are two sensational activities available just a few steps from our villas that encourage family gatherings. We would also like to share with you the enthusiasm and joy that we feel because Mukul continues to be the subject of praise and recognition by the most prestigious publications in the field of tourism. Conde Nast Traveler, a respected luxury travel magazine, included Mukul Beach Golf & Spa among the five best new beach hotels in the world on its select Hot List 2014.

For the second consecutive year, Robb Report, a renowned authority on lifestyle for readers with high purchasing power, included Mukul Beach, Golf & Spa in its exclusive list “Best of the Best”, that contains the brands, products and services that stand out internationally for their style and elegance. Finally, I am pleased to tell you that we continue accumulating achievements in our efforts to create a model of responsible tourism in the Tola area. We present here an overview of the progress we have made; unique experiences in which Mukul guests and owners of Guacalito can also contribute their part! Weavers of Astillero is a case in point of those who with their beach bags and accessories made from recycled plastic bags contribute to the conservation of sea turtles. “One less bag, one more turtle”, tells the story of Jasmina Guardian, one of their enterprising women. Enjoy reading Guacalito de la Isla news! Yours faithfully, Carlos Pellas Ch.

Letter From the PRESIDENT

OF GUACALITO DE LA ISLA


-By Captain Andrew

The fishing frenzy continues with Captain Andrew’s private charters aboard the 31 foot luxury boat “Spirit of Mukul.” The Captain’s previous,

insider Fish Forecast, published in the last issue of Tres-Ceibas, was a big “hit” with record size catches and ecstatic, story-telling anglers. Captain Andrew reveals more “secrets of the sea,” giving anglers the early advantage of making reservations to lure in their fishing passions!

F O R E C A S TFISH


July

August

The world-renown blue water season continues into this month with Dorado gaining size by the day! Current sea surface temperatures reach a scorching 86 degrees, the blue color of the water becomes electric and the ocean is teeming with life. Conditions are a perfect set-up for putting Sailfish and Dorado in a feeding frenzy! Anglers can expect to boat multiple Dorado and release Sailfish regularly. Dorado in the 15 - 2 0 lb. range are common. For anglers interested in Marlin fishing, full day trips allow us to push

Another great month for blue water fishing in Nicaragua! Anglers will be pleased with the many days of glassy mornings and light winds. Sailfish and Dorado are still the main target, but Marlin are also still prevalent. Wahoo can potentially start to run, but this species’ migrational pattern varies

further into the Pacific in search of true sea monsters! Best shots at trophy Blue and Black Marlin are had by slow-trolling with large, live baits. The bait of choice, of course, is a Bonita in the 3 - 4 lb. range. Not for the faint of heart! Be ready for a 1- 6 hour fight, dependingon the size and stamina of the Marlin. The world-renown blue water season continues into this month with Dorado gaining size by the day! Current sea surface temperatures reach a scorching 86 degrees, the blue color of the water becomes electric and the ocean is teeming with life.

from year to year. For anglers that are targeting Rooster fish, you are in luck! We expect there to be a few stud “Gallo” around the Guacalito area, rocky shorelines and near shore at local hot spots. Venture out for a shot at releasing a trophy Rooster!

“TIS THE SEASON”

10 TRES CEIBAS | Summer/ Fall, 2014

SeptemberPassing rain storms can be prevalent as the rainy season come near to its height. However, it doesn’t seem to bother the fish! With the local river mouths expected to break open, we find the best “color breaks” of the season in areas where murky river water meets open, blue ocean water. This condition creates a condensed feeding zone for the pelagic fish, which ambush anything in their path!!!

We expect many large Dorado in the 20+ lb. range. And, many great chances at landing Dorado in the 30 - 40+ lb. range. To top it all off, September has historically been one of Nicaragua’s best months for the big Black Marlin!

Experience the thrill of world-class fishing with Captain Andrew aboard the 31 foot “Spirit of Mukul” or the 57 foot fishing yacht, “Big Sugar.” To inquire about reservations at Mukul or to reserve your private fishing charter, please contact us at:

[email protected] Visit our website at: Spiritofmukul.com

Mukul Resort of Guacalito de la Isla, makes the 18th Annual Condé Nast Traveler “Hot List” for Best

New Beach Hotels in the world. Over 510 hotels were considered with a theme of coastal bliss combined with an emphasis on creating a sense of place in the world, providing personalized, hand-chosen details in the decor, and imparting a sense of intuition whereby every need is met in advance of ever needing anything. From Kenya to Los Angeles to Phuket, this year’s

Condé Nast Traveler Hot List is a debut of the very best new hotels for the passions of today’s most discerning travelers. Indulge in the review details of Mukul’s majestic location on the Nicaraguan Pacific coast, their clay-tile-roofed villas and bohios (huts with private plunge pools), the relaxation of open-air palapas, lush valleys and pristine beaches, a world-renown golf course and the sense of discretion that so distinctively reveals the character of Mukul.

MAKESTHE MUKUL RESORT

BEST NEW BEACH HOTELS IN THE WORLD

CONDÉ NAST TRAVELER

“HOT LIST”


MAKESTHE CONDÉ NAST TRAVELER

TO VIEW MUKUL’S STORY WITH PHOTOS, VISIT:http://bit.ly/hotlist-traveler


SPAS E C R E T S

The wellness and healing practices of ancient

Mesoamerica have inspired thetreatments in Spa Mukul. In

Pre-Columbian times, the native people, of what now is Nicaragua,

were culturally similar to the Aztecs and Mayans. The culture of Nicaragua has continued many of

their ancestral traditions, including the ecologically sound use of

native plants and herbal potions in healing, and a deep respect for the

earth and ocean.

In Mukul, we use a “living pharmacy” of locally grown

medicinal plants, species, regional flowers, volcanic clay, sea salt,

sugar and herbs to create unique and regional healing treatment recipes. Our featured, “easy to

make” facial recipe brightens up face tones, re-hydrates skill

cells and improves softness. The age-old use of cucumber helps

strengthen connective tissue and retains moisture through

antioxidants and silica nutrients.

H O N E Y , L E M O N A N D C U C U M B E R M A S K

½ cup of organic honey

5 drops of lemon

1 cucumber cut into very thin

circles or long-length slices

(for an extra cool freshness, put the

cucumber in the refrigerator before slicing)

Mix honey and lemon juice and apply

with a brush on the face and neck

(previously clean and dry). Lemon

exfoliates dead skin cells while the honey

softens. Avoid eyebrows and eyelashes.

Remove the excess with a damp cloth.

Carefully place the cucumber slices on the

face and neck. Lie down and relax for

15 - 30 minutes. Remove the cucumber

slices, rinse off the mixture and enjoy the

refreshing feel of your newly pampered,

healthy, glowing skin.


Sea Turtle CONSERVATION

Sustaining the legacy


Sea Turtle

It ’s a balanced gift in its purest form. Preservation of nature, land and sea, for future generations to enjoy…

as though the impact of mankind never happened. The Pellas vision of sharing an untouched tropical paradise has become a topic of global importance, resulting from Guacalito de la Isla’s positive efforts to protect endangered species of flora, fauna and sea-turtles. Project “Rangers”, or “Forest Keepers” are part of the success as they work 24/7 to oversee, inventory and protect 30,000 - 50,000 trees including species of extinction, 1,650 acres with wildlife, and the Turtle Conservation Project. Several beaches in Nicaragua are among the few in the world where turtles arrive to lay eggs. Two of these beaches include Guacalito de la Isla’s Playa Guacalito and Playa Manzanillo.Playa Guacalito, designated to preserve endangered sea-turtles, overlooks AncianaIsland, meaning ‘ancient or old’. The island provides protected waters for releasing baby turtles back to sea where they will spend the next 20-50 years reaching sexual maturity. When the female is mature, she will return to her birthplace to lay eggs. “The theory is that the characteristics of their birthplace are embedded in their mind,” explains Ranger Osmany. “When they become adults, the female will remember every detail of her origin, including temperature and environmental texture, in order to return to the same beach to lay her eggs.” Chacocente, one of the nine most important beaches in the world, is located just north. This preserve protects four of the seven existing sea turtle species. To the south, La Flor Beach Natural Preserve harbors the endangered Olive Ridley turtles, locallyreferred to as the Paslama Sea Turtle

When they become adults, the female will remember every detail of her origin, including temperature and environmental texture, in order to return to the same beach to lay her eggs.

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(Lepidochelys oliveacea). Guacalito de la Isla’s central location provides a protected refuge for all sea-turtles but is frequented mostly by the critically extinct Tora, or Leatherback Turtle (Dermochelys corlacea) and the Paslama Sea Turtle.

As part of the Turtle Conservation Program, Kul kids are taught about environmental preservation and can assist releases. Last year a hatchery was built on Playa Guacalito utilizing a breathable, green netting to enclose a specific beach area. The protected area guards against predators including animals, birds and humans. As we walked toward the hatchery, a Ranger noted three nests, but indicated that only one had eggs. The other two were created as camouflage by the Tora turtle to confuse predators. Ranger Osmany brushed some sand away to reveal a hidden wood plaque with information recorded about the nest.

We do not transplant these eggs to the hatchery because the eggs are very sensitive, so there is a risk. Instead, we use a camouflage marker.” He laughed, “It kind of follows the same camouflage idea the turtle had in mind.


Inside the hatchery were two transplanted turtle nests from Manzanillo Beach. “We have just started,” explained one Ranger. “Due to world climate change,the hatchings have been pushed back. Normally July is the beginning, but now it will be September.” It is believed that water and sand temperatures, along with reductions in rainfall, have lessened the chance for turtles to return. “Normally we have about 20 nests by now,” said Osmany “and today we have 2.” The alarming drop has been consistent in the other two preserves resulting in the initiation of a study due to a total loss of over 700 turtles. Preservation is a process. The Rangers gather eggs from both Playa Guacalito andManzanillo Beach, record the date and place of birth, then transplant them to the hatchery within the first 72 hours. The nests, generally consisting of 85-120 eggs, are transplanted to the same temperature depth to increase the chance of survival. “If the temperature is hotter, there will be more males; when the temperature is perfect, there will be equal males and females. September-February offer perfect temperatures,” explained Ranger Osmany. In 7-10 weeks, hatchlings emerge and are returned to the same beach where they were born. They are released to sea near sunset so they can use the darkness of the night to travel unnoticed by predator birds.

Although thousands of hatchlings go to sea, the percentage of survival is small due toothier environmental factors. In the procreation period alone, the ratio of five males fighting for one female can be life-threatening.

In the end, the percentage of survival tallies 1-3%. The higher percent is a result of conservation efforts. Last year’s inaugural live hatchling count for Paslama turtles in the hatchery was 4,171 and for the Tora was 1,118, totaling over 5,000 turtles. “We are hoping to pass that figure this year,” states Claudia Silva, Director of Marketing & PR. “The turtle was such a rare gift of nature, we utilized it in our logo,” she continued. The first turtle release is expected in October


ROBB REPORT

FEATURES MUKUL RESORT IN THE WORLD’S TOP 100 RESORTS


TO VIEW MUKUL’S STORY WITH PHOTOS, VISIT:http://bit.ly/Robb-Best-of-Best

Robb Report 100 Features Mukul Resort in the World’s Top 100 Resorts. The Robb Report 100, an internationally trusted publication

originally established in 2006 as a Luxury Resort publication, has unveiled their pick of the world’s top 100 resorts. Mukul Resort at Guacalito de la Isla has been selected as one of the top 100 ultimate travel experiences on earth. This year’s edition contained diverse selections ranging from old favorites to elite island retreats to Mukul, a new, ground breaking resort in Nicaragua.

“The panelists rate the properties based on setting, service, privacy, design, dining and more. It is not a popularity contest - we go to great lengths to find out-of-the-way places that few people know about,” said Bruce Wallin, editorial director of Robb Report. The Robb Report 100 has a reputation for uncovering hidden gems of luxury, adventure, and relaxing destinations for the discerning, world-class traveler. Robb Report 100 World’s Top Resorts


ANTAL L E G A C Y V I L L A S

E X C L U S I V E P R E V I E W U N V E I L E D . . .


Guacalito de la Isla debuts exciting details of the soon to be built Antal Legacy Villas. “Antal,” derived

from the Mayan indigenous word meaning “to stay,” sets the bar for private, luxury homes. Overlooking nature’s backdrop of turquoise-blue ocean waters, crashing waves, and the lush green fairways of Guacalito de la Isla’s award-winning golf course, Antal Legacy Villas offer a prime real estate location. Overlooking the turquoise waters of the sea and the lush green areas of the award-winning golf course of Guacalito de la Isla, these villas have a privileged location. Seventeen luxury villas encompassing 4,504 - 5,032 square feet of living space and a covered, two-car garage, will be located on private, secluded homesites

adjacent to hole #5 “Pochote,” a par 4, dogleg left with wide fairways and white sand bunkers. “The homes will be centrally convenient for walking to amenities such as Tres Ceibas Beach Club & Restaurant, Golf Pro Shop, Surf-Shack and beaches yet comfortably distant to offer spectacular, bird’s eye views of the Pacific,” explains Matt Wood, Predevelopment Coordinator for Guacalito de la Isla.” Reflecting a Spanish Colonial era combined with the native roots of Nicaraguan artistic expression, the architectural theme accentuates functional, sustainable living in a tropical coastal environment. Guacalito de la Isla’s signature “indoor-outdoor” lifestyle details extended, outdoor-terrace living spaces, reflections of nature alongrefreshing infinity pools and open-air,


covered terraces overlooking lush gardens. “The idea is an extension of the quality of Mukul with a focus on family living,” said Matt. “Each home represents only the finest with first class materials, craftsmanship and top of the line fixtures.” In a design of contrast, the architectural style includes indigenous stones and Nicaraguan hardwoods as accents to a simple, soft stucco canvas. Distinctive andwelcoming interiors create comfortable, family environments taking advantage ofocean and hillside breezes, views, textures and colors. Secluded, small home groupings in a neighborhood setting will be offered in two rows. The higher back row will consist of nine Legacy Villa homes with spectacular, views of the golf course andwhite-water breaks along two peninsulas framing Manzanillo Bay. The lower front row is planned to be a golf lover’s paradise,

offering eight Legacy Villas with enhanced interaction with the famous golf course designed by Scottish architect David McLay Kidd, and an ocean view. There are two Villa designs, both including customized options. Furniture packages will be available upon request as well as an interior designer whocan work with owners directly to put together packages from art to couches. Antal Legacy Villa homes are expected to be in the 1.4 - 1.5 million price range and will be the premier rental in the Mukul Property Management program. These large Legacy Villas are perfect for families to enjoy as a residence, vacation home, or luxury investment get-away. The first phase is expected to break ground early 2015 with two overlapping phases spaced three months apart.

The homes will be centrally convenient for walking to amenities such as Manzinillo Beach Club & Restaurant, Golf Pro Shop, Surf-Shack and beaches yet comfortably distant to offer spectacular, bird’s eye views of the Pacific,” explains Matt Wood, Predevelopment Coordinator for Guacalito de la Isla.


LEGACY VILLA

A CONCEPT: Living and sleeping areas are mostly on the first floor with 3 bedrooms downstairs. The second floor offers a 4th bedroom and covered rooftop terrace that, upon request, can be converted into a 5th bedroom.

LAYOUT: The entrance opens into the living room, featuring endless, open views through large, sliding glass doors. A separate dining area and hybrid kitchen can be closed off while chefs prepare meals, or opened up for more social interaction.

• 5,032 square feet of living space (500 sq. m)• 4/5 bedrooms with large walk-In

closets and expansive bathrooms• Master bathroom garden area

• Expansive interior/exterior living room, dining area and lounging terrace

• Large laundry room and service quarters

• Fully equipped gourmet kitchen• Infinity pool and stone terrace• 2 Car covered garage with storage• Casual grill and dining area under

poolside palapa


It’s a Guacalito de la Isla débuts exciting details of the soon to be built Antal Legacy Villas. “Antal,” derived

from the Mayan indigenous word meaning “to stay,” sets the bar for private, luxury homes. Overlooking nature’s backdrop of turquoise-blue ocean waters, crashing waves, and the lush green fairways of Guacalito de la Isla’s award-winning David McKay Kid golf course, Antal Legacy Villas offer a prime real estate location.

Seventeen luxury villas encompassing 4,500 - 4,850 square feet of living space and a covered, two-car garage, will be located on private, secluded homesites adjacent to hole #5 “Pochote,” a par 4, dogleg left with wide fairways and white

LEGACY VILLA

B CONCEPT: Living space for relaxing and entertaining is downstairs with all bedrooms upstairs. These Legacy Villa homes offer a separate pool house with a recessed, multi-level pool area, accessible from the spacious, first floor covered terrace.

POOL HOUSE: 1 BR design with large dresser and garden-view bath with his/her sinks. Or, plans could be revised to create 2 bedrooms with a connective bath, one side spacious enough for a king-size bed and the other suitable for 2 bunk beds.

LAYOUT: Enter through a private foyer that connects you to the first floor of your lifestyle including a spacious living room, media room (den), outdoor living room, formal dining room and hybrid kitchen. Huge, glass doors and open-air, covered terraces keep you in touch with nature, showcasing dramatic bird’s-eye views. • 4,500 square feet of living space (450

sq. m)• 3 Spacious bedrooms with large walk-

In closets and expansive bathrooms• Master bathroom garden area• Elevated outdoor living

and dining room• Formal dining room• Media room• Second story outdoor

shower and daybed• Large laundry room and

service quarters• Fully equipped gourmet kitchen• Infinity pool and stone terrace• 2 Car covered garage with storage• Casual grill and dining area under

poolside palapa29

Full-bodied, Delicious, Compelling.

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THE PASSION OF ENJOYING FINE

R U M FLOR DE CAÑA

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The moment was a glimpse back in time, to an old-world era with a sense of exclusivity, where one engaged in the passions of enjoying the finest in life.

“Welcome to the Pellas legacy of Flor de Caña rum,” says our host as he opens a rustic, cellar door to the history of the Pellas family. The room is cozy, warmly lit and surrounded by aged old maps and select bottles of Flor de Caña rum. A subtle, alluring aroma fills the air. It is from the wood plank floors and legacy displays which have been handcrafted from rum-aged, oak barrels. Centered in the room, in sparkling brilliancy, is an assortment of fine crystal tasting glasses, awaiting use for our Flor de Caña sampling tour.

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On that note, oohs, aahs and the clear ring of fine sipping glasses fills the air to toast the first sample of the Pellas family legacy rum.

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“All rum is made from sugar cane,” starts our host. He pours a sample of Flor de Caña 7 explaining that the “number” represents how many years that particular rum aged in a barrel. “For the health and diet conscious,” he laughs, “it is good to know that 1 oz. of Flor de Caña rum contains only 65 calories.” He paused and smiled. “Since our rum has less sugar, it leaves fewer hangovers…”

On that note, oohs, aahs and the clear ring of fine sipping glasses fills the air to toastthe first sample of the Pellas family legacy rum. Then contemplative silence falls uponthe room for a moment to inhale the distinctive bouquet. We swirl our glasses and hold them to the light to determine subtle color and quality. “That small rim of green just above the amber… that tells a story that it was aged in an authentic American oak wood barrel,” our host explains. Technically, the “sniff” should precede the “swirl which precedes “sip,” but with this group we went right to “Salute!”

As we continue to sip our sample, four generations of Pellas family portraits seem to be gazing upon us… like they were with us, sharing a hint of their legacy from the1890’s. Our host references a portrait of Don Alfredo Pellas Chamorro, the father of Carlos Pellas. “He is currently 96 and drinks rum every day!” We notice that his photo is part of an oval-shaped label, preserved in his honor, on a Special Edition 25 year rum.

“The life of the oak barrel is 25-26 years due to the saturation process, which is why“25” is our oldest rum,” explains our host. “After that, the barrels are never re-used for rum. Instead, they are recycled to make art and furniture, such as that ceiling lamp and display accents in this room.” Our host then reveals a secret: “Pellegrino, ice and Flor de Caña 7 is the favorite of Carlos Pellas.” Again, we toast the savvy “7” in his honor and proceed to savor the differences after cleansing the pallet with a sip of fresh water.

35Summer/ Fall, 2014 | TRES CEIBAS

The Comparisons:

7 The most popular in Nicaragua. Alcohol content is the same as 12 and 18, but the sensation is stronger because it is young, although smooth. All Flor de Caña rums are “single malt,” meaning each “year” is pure… nothing is blended. Mix with: Citrus and cocktail flavor juices, sodas or straight for those who enjoy the higher alcohol sensation.

COLOR & BODY: Amber with a trace of green along the edges. Full bodied with “tears” or “legs” appearing on the glass, resembling the way the flavor remains in your mouth. To feel the alcohol sensation, take a small sip and swirl it in your mouth… let the rum linger on your tongue, then swirl it around again. After it is swallowed, you will experience the “finish” which is often the most memorable part of the rum.

AROMA & FLAVOR: A hint of cinnamon and after a sip, the finish is smooth with a lingering flavor of oak.

BEST TO DRINK WITH: Hor d’oeuvres at cocktail parties, casual meals or anytime it’s “5 o’clock somewhere.”

yearrum


12

18

The most Award Winning year. From “barrels to bottles,” Flor de Caña is a genuine rum, slow-aged in oak barrels to acquire its distinctive color and aroma. The 12 year rum is a smooth sipping rum in hot demand all over the world. MIX WITH: It is suggested to drink it straight, with ice or at room temperature. “This is my favorite year,” confesses our host. “I really like the smooth, spicy flavor.”

COLOR & BODY: Full bodied. Has redder tones and more legs on the glass than the 7. The finish lasts longer, imparting more complex aromas and flavors.

AROMA & FLAVOR: Spicy, fruit flavor with more aged oak presence. “The sip is very smooth with more staying power in the pallet… like a good Cognac,” summarizes our host.

BEST TO DRINK WITH: Desserts… such as fruit pies and ice cream.

Our host holds up a bottle and continues. “We have a secret recipe on the fermentation of all our rum. To guarantee consistency, the entire process, called “Single Estate” is controlled and produced by the Pellas family business.” MIX WITH: Straight. Recommended for after dinner sipping. COLOR & BODY: The color is clearer than the 12 or 7 and minus the red tones of 12. They all have the faint green edge. The legs stay longer indicating it offers a much fuller body, and an increased lingering of flavors in the pallet.

AROMA & FLAVOR: More of a oak spice, like a brown spicy fragrance. The finish develops into a sensation resembling chocolate. BEST TO DRINK WITH: Desserts... such as chocolate, almonds, and cashews. Our host smiles from experience. “I prefer the 18 when I smoke fine cigars.”

yearrum

yearrum


This is the

dessert


25 This was not on the tasting tour, but appreciatively, an exception wasmade for our review.

MIX WITH: Nothing. This is the most aged rum made. It is a sipping rum that has earned the respect for simplicity.

COLOR & BODY: Similar to the 18 in that it is a clear amber. Full-bodied.

AROMA & FLAVOR: The fragrance reveals that it is 40% alcohol as compared to the others at 35%, although incredibly smooth. The flavor is reminiscent of roasted nuts, almondsand cocoa.

When asked what dessert to serve this with? Our host simply replied, “This is the dessert.” With that, we raised our glasses once more… “Salute!” In the final sip, the finish softly lingered as we became part of the Pellas legacy through the century old secrets of Florde Caña rum.

yearrum


LA NUBES A N E W N E I G H B O R H O O D I N G U A C A L I T O D E L A I S L A

NEW

R E A L E S T A T E

O P P O R T U N I T Y

For those savvy investors that are agile enough, this is an amazing opportunity to buy into an

exclusive neighborhood within our very high end development early on before plot prices increase. These plots are perched on our hill tops with spectacular and unobstructed panoramic views of our one of a kind Manzanillo Beach. The neighborhood is in the middle of a natural forest with gorgeous trees and fauna which provide ample shade, privacy and natural aesthetics for a beautiful design. The views are simply amazing and the sense of space, nature and tranquility are one of a kind, making this a coveted neighborhood. With only 9 plots of land, it will be a private and exclusive neighborhood. They are located 5 minutes away from Verdemar and Las Terrazas along La Liga road. Please note that full utilities will be available. A common road and all necessary infrastructure will be completed soon.

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It’s a party! Create a memorable occasion of a lifetime with a catered event at the Tres-Ceibas Beach Club, located near the 18th hole and along the white sands of pristine Manzanillo Beach. Complete with sports bar, food catering options, game and entertainment areas, century old trees and swaying palms, the location is unsurpassed for hosting a fun and fabulous affair.

OCEAN-SIDE CATERING FOR SPECIAL EVENTS TRES-CEIBAS

BEACH CLUB & RESTAURANT


THE TRES-CEIBAS SPORTS BAR & GRILL which is open daily, offering a rustic, yet well appointed quality experience. This open-air, circular bar is lined with age-old Guanacaste wood bar stools as it wraps guests around a towering Ceibas tree. The menu touts healthy, comfort food in a casual setting with latin music, fresh breezes, sports TVs and the shelter of a virgin “Caña de Castilla” bamboo overhang. Try fresh ceviche or fish tacos with a signature Mojito drink made with celery, pineapple, organic mint and Flor de Caña rum. RELAXATION with nature beacons with swaying hammocks, gentle ocean breezes and spacious lounge areas featuring daybeds under thatched roof cabanas. Water lovers can enjoy world-class surfing at the famous, yet private Manzanillo Surf Break as well as calmer waves near the lounging beach for beginning surfing, paddle boarding, and swimming. For kids, playgrounds offer volleyball, bocci ball, a kids soccer field and assorted games. Parents can relax knowing their kids are happy.

SPORTS AREAS include the Golf Pro-shop where guests can browse for golfing items, book a tee-time with friends, view personalized golfing videos, inquire about lessons with the Pro, request a golf cart tour or end their game after playing 18 holes on Guacalito de la Isla’s world-renown David McLay Kidd course. The Surf-Shack offers surfboard, boogie board, kayak and paddle board rentals, professional coaching by a pro-surfer, custom learning videos, surfing products, clothing, and the opportunity to charter a surf boat to experience other sought-after destinations, including fishing trips.

Private parties are available for booking by Guacalito de la Isla homeowners, landowners and guests of Mukul. From cocktail parties to surprise Birthday celebrations to kids piñata parties with a muppet theatre, Tres-Ceibas Beach Club can cater the entire event. For more information, please contact [email protected]

AMENITIES INCLUDE--


A SURFER’S DREAM IN PARADISE

“It’s an exciting, new, first-class hotspot for surfing!” says Adrian Wilson. “There aren’t too many places in the world you can do this,” he states in his thick Australian accent. Adrian is referring to surfing “empty” (uncrowded) epic breaks, right outside your door at Guacalito de la Isla, located on Nicaragua’s prestigious Emerald Coast. “From “bed to break,” he exclaims. “You just wake up and walk to waves of a lifetime. It’s a thrilling highlight of Guacalito de la Isla with lots of lineups and no crowds.”

Meet Adrian of Tropicsurf, a five-star, international company which touts luxury surfing getaways and has recently selected Guacalito de la Isla as a world-class destination. “That adds up to a perfect paradise of ‘hang-ten,” smiles Adrian. The partnership opens the door for discerning, international surf groups to vacation at globally award-winning Mukul Beach Golf & Spa at Guacalito de la Isla and to surf incredible swells on private, eco-pristine beaches. Furthermore, guests and homeowners receive an exclusive opportunity for customized, professional surf coaching with direct beach access to fantastic breaks or aboard a private charter for exploring other destinations.

“The great thing about Mukul Beach Golf & Spa is that while you are surfing, your family can discover hidden treasures at six internationally-awarded themed spas, play world-class golf,

EMPTYEPIC BREAKS

Check out our super Surf-package!” invites

Adrian. “From beginners to professionals, there

are suitable swell types for every level of experience.” To make

reservations orinquire, contact:

[email protected],

PH. (505) 25 63 71 61TOLL FREE 1-800-39-08-844


indulge at five-star and beachside restaurants, visit the turtle preserve and natural areas, partake in water sports or enjoy many other personal passions.” He paused. “Even better, they can actually watch you surf while floating around a winding, crystal-blue infinity pool or socializing under the palm-frond, thatched-roof Palapa with a full staff catering to every desire. “Quite a novel idea,” he says.

During Adrian’s three month stay and with 14 years as a Tropicsurf professional surf coach, his focus is on completion of the Surf Shack coupled with private coaching for guests and homeowners. The Surf Shack, located near the Golf Pro Shop at Manzanillo Golf & Beach Club, offers breathtaking, panoramic views of exhilarating rock bottom breaks of Manzanillo Point as well as expansive white beaches lined with sand-bottom beach breaks. This welcoming, new haven has top brand rental surfboards, lessons, surfing merchandise, personalized surfing videos on the big screen and surf movies from all eras. From hanging-ten to hanging-out, surfers, friends and families can kick back in comfortable, outside lounge areas as they share legacy stories and overlook non-ending, astounding waves.


WOWMeNow WavesADRIAN WILSON’S TOP 6 PICKS

1. 2.MANZANILLO POINT. An incredible left point break that picks up most swells with long, open walls and some challenging sections. World class waves, located right outside the Surf Shack, makes this one of the best locations in the world.

PLAYA MANZANILLO. On an ideal day, this beach break is awesome for all surfing levels with left and right peaks forming along a sandy bottom. Although beach breaks can be more challenging than a point break, they often offer smaller waves which are perfect for beginning to advanced surfers.

SECLUDED BEACHES FOR GUACALITO

DE LA ISLA GUESTS & HOMEOWNERS:


3. 4.

5. 6.

PLAYA

COLORADOS. This world class beach break is about twenty minutes aboard your private boat charter from Guacalito de la Isla’s exclusive Playa Guacalito. Consistent swells with both left and right peaks will challenge the very best surfers to seek out unparalleled barrels.

POPOYO. This is a world-famous break that of-fers two different types of waves. One being a sand slab off Playa Sardines that peaks up and peels off predictably at a nice pace. It will hold up to dou-ble overhead. The other is the outer reef, 400 meters off shore. This break is only for the very bravest and most skilled big wave riders. It looks perfect from a distance, but when viewed up close it reveals shallow rocks, boils and currents. It holds up to twenty foot faces.

PANGA DROPS The beauty of this break is that it is only a 300 meter paddle out, yet it features characteristics of an outer reef break including high peaks with left and rightbreaks and friendly long drops. The size ranges from four feet to triple overhead.

LANCERS LEFT. Conducive to all levels, this left point break offers long, playful, easy waves to glide along and is ideal for perfecting linking your turns. On an optimal day, large swells produce warp speed barrels. Higher tides offer better conditions for lowerlevel surfers.

YOUR PRIVATELY CHARTERED

SURFARI


The Sociopreneur initiative, a partnership between Unicef and Mukul, is having an important echo abroad thanks to recognized international organizations such as the Harvard Institute, London School of Economics, and Yale University.

With the support of these prestigious institutions, the actions that are being developed in Tola, as well as the results of social research on sustainability made by these entities, have achieved a prominent repercussion that can be seen in blogs and international newsletters. This has reaffirmed Mukul’s CSR leadership in this region of Nicaragua, with a pioneer vision of social entrepreneurship in rural

23

I CAN!MUKUL & UNICEF SOCIOPRENEUR INITIATIVE EXPANDS


UNICEF MUKUL

areas, whose methodology is based on teaching people what are the skills that they must develop to improve their quality of life, rather than giving them the things they need for their daily living. This approach has generated great interest in uniRSE (Nicaraguan Union for Corporate Social responsibility), a foundation dedicated to promoting CSR in Nicaragua. The heart of this effort of social entrepreneurship is responsible tourism that prioritizes the wellbeing of children, while bringing economic development to the community of Tola. To achieve this goal, Unicef and Mukul launched at the beginning of 2014 the “Tola Conecta” platform, aiming to unite the community in a single strategy in which all actors can contribute with their experience or personal resources and work together to create innovative solutions to social problems that affect children, while recognizing business opportunities. The Sociopreneur initiative is based on a deep understanding of the needs of the community and a strong collaboration between local authorities, community leaders, students, teachers, tour operators, among others. This has allowed the identification of opportunities for profitable business with impact on social development, from which 30 social entrepreneurs have been selected with proposals that include the Tola’s Bride Tour; an English Language Academy; a women’s bakery; bags made from recycled plastic, printing of t-shirts; typical meals and more.

This initiative is raising awareness all around the world through the Facebook page “Friends of Tola”, which has been gaining popularity and has received to date almost 300 visitors from Argentina, Colombia, United States, Spain and other countries.

The biggest reward is to hear people say, “I Can” instead of “I Can’t”. To activate this entrepreneurial spirit, a Community Center with cutting edge facilities is to be built, where tourists and local businesspersons can co-create with entrepreneurs. This would create a tourist destination and a place to learn and socialize in Tola. This would be the first Hackerspace-Center in Nicaragua and perhaps the first in the world in a rural area. Mukul will provide the physical space needed and for the time being is working with tour operators of Tola in order to identify the profile of the travellers who would contribute with this social entrepreneurship effort, thus promoting responsible tourism attraction. “The possibilities are so exciting!” exclaimed Claudia Silvia, who has been heading the marketing throughout the communities. “We are considering having a Crowdsourcing Architectural Contest,” she said. “That would create a lot of tourist interest and a media-buzz,” she continued. “Plus,” she concluded, “The end-product would be an attraction in itself, especially if done by a famous artist.”

I CAN &

I DID!

Through tears and triumph, Jamina Gurdian Sevilla, has become the inspiration and leader of Las Mujeres de Herois, “The Needle Women from Astillero,” an entrepreneurial woman’s group that crochets recycled plastic bags into sizzling hot handbags.

“One bag less, One turtle more” touts the poster campaign displayed at a community workshop, located in the small fishing village of Astillero. The building, donated by Groupo Pellas CEP, overlooks sea-side beaches, lined with colorful, wooden fishing boats resting along the shore. Chickens roam around the property, running under lines of drying racks, laden with tightly tied bands of colorful plastic strips.

The posters were a result of an inspiring environmental history that sparked a need for the innovative recycled bag business, which has recently been chosen by the Mukul- Unicef Sociopreneur Initiative as one of the thirty vocations to spearhead Responsible Tourism in Nicaragua. The turtle tale started nearly eight years ago after Nicaraguan and Columbian governments noticed that many endangered and threatened sea turtles were dying for no apparent reason. It was discovered that the death toll was a result of sea turtles eating plastic bags… trash that had been carried out to sea.


The Columbian government sought ways to add value to discarded plastic bags in aneffort to encourage people to help clean up. In a pilot idea, the bags were collected, sorted by color and quality, washed, purified, cut, spooled then used like yarn tocrochet handbags of all styles and sizes. Eventually this initiative received more and more support whereby people wanted to pick up the trash in order to obtain an economic benefit.

“It takes about a week and around 400 plastic bags to make a decorative beach-size bag,” said Claudia, Marketing Director for Mukul. “If we order 300 bags for Guacalito de la Isla,” she paused, “that would be about 120,000 recycled plastic bags. That saves a lot of turtles!”

“For me, this was very significant,” said Jamina. “My mother had cancer and I needed work to pay the bills. But, I could not work because she needed me by her side.” Jamina stayed with her sick mother while her sister attended an invitational workshop to learn the trade. Inspired by her sister’s success, Jamina tried it. “I saw that the possibility was beautiful,” she

exclaimed. “For me, it was important about saving the turtles, and it was also a solution for my situation.” She sat with her mother and made her first ten bags. However, the Costa Rican buyer was not interested in the “size” of the bags that had taken her over two months to complete.

“I had thought with the sale of ten bags I could pay my debt to the bank,” Jamina said. “When I found out they were not the right size, I cried but I did not quit. I saw that I could make something sellable and I joined the group.” In a short time, she made enough bags to pay off the bank debt. “When other women saw me succeed, I encouraged hard work and they soon joined.” Then the unexpected happened. The contract ended. The women had made hundreds of bags, but there were no buyers. “I wanted to say ‘I Can’ but instead I found myself saying ‘Can I?’”, said Jamina. She was exhausted and without income once again. Her husband, a builder, was also out of work because there was no means of transportation to get to the distant jobs. “I was distraught and nearly quit but I prayed that night for a sign and waited.”


The next day Centro Empresarial Pellas, an organization that works with community projects, came to meet the group. “We were excited because we thought they were here to buy,” said Jamina. “But they were not. They were here to teach us how to create a buyers market.” This meant a sacrifice of five more months to learn and still no income. It was difficult to leave the daily chores like gathering water to wash, finding wood to cook over open fires, tending to food-source animals and raising three boys. But in the end, the course proved positive because it involved classes like marketing and motivation.

By 2010, through Centro Empresarial Pellas, TV channels, press, magazines, and photographers arrived and put out the word about the Needle Women from Astillero saving turtles by making fashion handbags out of recycled plastic bags. “Tourists started coming from all over to see and buy our bags!” exclaimed Jamina. “It helped our village in many ways,” she said. “For example, when they came to see the bags,they also bought fish!

”Today there are twenty-one local women crocheters and eight that market the products in hotels and larger towns. In the last eight

months, Unicef has stepped in and trained the group more extensively in business. “How I see my future, is that I will have a better house,” smiled Jamina. “As for the others, every woman has their own story to tell,” she said. With this job they have been able to make changes in their lives and they allhave benefited. “I like to work, and when my mother died I looked at all the bags I had made of plastic, and I knew I was given a gift for my family and for the betterment offuture generations.”

Jamina now leads the group in her inspiration and willingness to say “I Can.. and I Did.”

Astillero is a fishing village in which the efforts of recycling plastic bags to help save turtles are dear to the hearts of the people. Chacocente, a nationally protected wildlife refuge and turtle preservation is located just north of the area.

Guacalito de la Isla orders over 100 bags per month, in addition to special promotionalitems as a way of “giving back” to the community, promoting responsible tourism, and assisting in environmental sustainability of local communities.


GUACALITO DIRECTORY

GUACALITO DE LA ISLA REAL ESTATE SALES

Andres Valldejuli + 505 8539-8785

[email protected]

MUKUL BEACH, GOLF & SPA SALES & RESERVATIONS

[email protected] 1-800-39 08 844

+ 505 25 63 71 61

GUACALITO DE LA ISLA GOLF COURSE TEE TIME RESERVATIONS

Gustavo Betancourt [email protected]

2563 7100 ext 5366.

www.guacalitodelaisla.com

© GUACALITO DE LA ISLA, 2014

Tres Ceibas Summer Edition -2014

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Transcript of Tres Ceibas Summer Edition -2014