Hutton, Punch. “Polynesian Paradise.” Vanity Fair June 2014: 59. Print.
Is there a way that luxury and consumption can avoid hurting the planet? The Brando pursues that train of thought. As an “eco-resort” on Tetiaroa (an atoll in French Polynesia), The Brando offers the usual resort splendors like deluxe villas, spa service and a beach bar. But in addition to these aspects are an organic garden, an ecological habitat and many energy-saving features. Deep seawater air conditioning, solar panels and power derived from coconut oil make the resort nearly 100 percent energy independent according to Hutton.
I think this development is significantly beneficial and I’d like to see more resorts follow The Brando’s model of going green. The resort just opened in July 2014, and its news coverage has been widespread. However, it’s clearly accessible only to a select population. Private plane is the only means of arriving and that certainly caters to a specific clientele. Still, if the wealthy are going to indulge, doing it here is better than most other options.
