Developing countries throughout world especially those in Caribbean and West Indies are paying keener and keener attention to creation of an eco-tourism and sustainable development base to satisfy a growing niche market that could pave way for socio-economic growth and development for their respective population. (Click Map.)

The work that is being undertaken at 370,000 hectares Iwokrama (International Center For Rain Forest Conservation and Development) project in Guyana's hinterland could well become prototype for eco-tourism and sustainable development goal that so many nations are seeking.

The project on which future generation of Guyanese and indeed other countries of world will depend, has its mission clearly defined: "The mission of Iwokrama International Center for Rain Forest Conservation and Development is to promote conservation of sustainable and equitable use of tropical rain forests in a manner that will lead to lasting ecological, economic and social benefits to people of Guyana and to world in general, by undertaking research, training and development and dissemination of technologies."

It was recognized by Government of Guyana that eco-tourism is a potentially valuable and sustainable use of tropical forest ecosystems, and this recognition led to a World Bank/Commonwealth Secretariat grant for study on potential for eco-tourism in Iwokrama Forest.

The study concluded that eco-tourism is a viable and appropriate endeavor for Iwokrama Center, which has several characteristics that give it a potential comparative advantage in development of eco-tourism.

The Iwokrama Forest itself is a unique resource of natural and human communities, with extra-ordinary scientific and global conservation value, and a combination of attractive elements that have tremendous appeal to potential visitors interested in natural history, social anthropology and conservation.

Tropical rain forests are currently high on list of popular destinations for nature and adventure travelers.

Work at center is continuing against background of a world demand for a substantive demonstration that conservation and sustainable management of tropical forest can provide tangible and lasting benefits to governments and communities that own these resources or depend on them for their very livelihoods.

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pampering begins moment we arrived at 400-room Myrtle Beach Marriott Resort at Grande Dunes in beautiful South Carolina. Courteous staff greet us in light and airy contemporary reception area of 14-story oceanfront luxury hotel that celebrated its opening in December of 2003. Within minutes after checking in we are making entertainment plans with John Shanley, one of Concierges, located just across lobby from reception desk.

After settling into our room, my husband and I relax on heated patio at The Bar that is open nightly. The lively atmosphere is perfect setting for nibbling on a selection of fresh shrimp from buffet and sharing a drink on this breezy summer night.

Venturing out onto spacious central courtyard we take in captivating view of Atlantic Ocean beyond. Below, guests take a leisurely swim in three tropical beachfront pools. The Myrtle Beach Marriott Resort’s infinity-edged pool, first in South Carolina, appears to merge seamlessly into scenic seascape. We hear children of all ages laughing their way down waterslide at pool set aside for kids. During summer season, from Memorial Day through Labor Day, Marriott Resort at The Grande Dunes has a non-stop schedule of fun and games for kids. An indoor pool is rarely used on beautiful sunny days.

A lush tropical landscape of native plants and colorful hibiscus surrounds pool that we pass on way to beach. Stretching 60 miles from Little River to Georgetown, we feel like we own our private piece of paradise along Myrtle Beach where a lifeguard keeps watch daily.

After our day at beach we’re relaxing poolside at Surfside Café, enjoying a refreshing glass of tea before dinner. We prefer romantic setting of Marriott Resort’s signature restaurant, Ocean’s on 82nd, that has a captivating view of sunset. The staff is gracious and delightful, offering suggestions from menu of eclectic American-Asian cuisine. Executive Chef Mark Galvin presents delicious meal beautifully; extraordinary service adds finishing touch to a perfect day. Within minutes of returning to our room we sink into thick, comfy signature Marriott bed, mattress forming to nautral curve of our bodies; we are asleep.