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Project Thesis:

Naturally privileged emerging destinations face an increasingly complex set of challenges: Overtourism, overdevelopment, a lack of proper infrastructure, and a deficient rule of law pose a threat to the natural ecosystems and cultural heritage of these unique locations. People’s sense of adventure and curiosity for exploring new places, especially natural wonders like the Laguna de Bacalar, is inevitable, and under the right circumstances, can be a positive force. We believe that sustainable development is possible, and that regenerative tourism can empower local communities while preserving nature. The thesis for Boca de Agua is simple: Let’s use hospitality projects for good – a beautiful hotel is a good excuse to ignite programs in social inclusion, economic development, sustainable built environments, and natural conservation.

The Plan:  

To develop a low-density multidisciplinary hospitality project at a large site with a unique ecosystem that we can take care of. Combine that environmental philosophy with an inspiring built environment while implementing sustainable design principles and materials.  

To create staffing and collaborative programs to serve local small businesses and emerging professionals from underrepresented groups.



The Actions:

For every single one of these decisions, there was a quicker, more affordable alternative. We could’ve skipped many studies and mapping. We could’ve overdeveloped and overbuilt. We could’ve used more affordable construction materials from abroad. We could’ve taken down trees for easier access. There are infinite “we could’ve”, and traditional “business” values will tell you that we’re not very bright. But we, as a project, believe that the traditional model for tourism in emerging destinations must change. We are obsessed about it, and hopefully, other hospitality projects will see what we’ve done here and try to take a similar route. We believe that regenerative hospitality does not have to be uncomfortable nor ugly, that regenerative hospitality is valued by travelers, and therefore, that projects like ours can become self-sustaining ventures.

Rodrigo Juárez
Founder Boca de Agua

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