GTPP Episode 29 - From England to the Philippines: The Journey Behind Moalboal Ecolodge with Angie Briggs

In episode 29 of the Global Travel Planning Podcast, join host Tracy Collins as she chats with Angie Briggs, co-owner of the Moalboal Ecolodge in the Philippines.

Angie shares the incredible journey that brought her and her husband Simon from England to the Philippines and the inspiration behind founding their eco-friendly lodge. Dive into the challenges and rewards of creating and running an ecolodge, and gain insights into the importance of sustainable practices in ecotourism.

Angie also discusses her involvement in the local community, including her work with a dog sanctuary and a charity focused on spaying and neutering local dogs.

Discover why Moalboal Ecolodge is the perfect destination for a relaxing and rejuvenating experience, and get Angie’s top tips for planning your first trip to the Philippines.

Key topics in Episode 29

Introduction and Overview of Mobile Ecolodge
- Maximum capacity of six guests.
- Exclusive and spacious environment, absence of crowded settings.
- Combination of sustainability and luxury.
Guest Introduction: Angie Briggs
- Angie Briggs’ background and journey.
- Moving from England,living in Borneo, Indonesia, Gili Air, and eventually the Philippines.
- Settling in Moalboal, Cebu, for six years.
Experience at Mobile Ecolodge
- Emphasis on peace and unique experiences.
- Outdoor showers and hammocks for relaxation.
- Advice to slow down and enjoy the surroundings.
Host Inclinations and Plans
- Tracy Collins’ love for dogs and travel.
- Interest in visiting the Philippines and the Moalboal Ecolodge.
- Tracy’s plans to share information about bookings and the number of rooms available.
Charity and Community Involvement
- Angie’s support for two local charities: a dog sanctuary and a mobile animal welfare charity.
- Description of the dog sanctuary’s work with street dogs and advocacy for spaying and neutering.
- Fundraising and sponsorship for medical needs and spaying of dogs.
- Promotion of charity work on Facebook and monthly clinics.
- Angie’s personal adoption of three dogs and a cat.
Challenges and Rewards of Starting an Ecolodge
- Difficulty in finding trustworthy land in Indonesia.
- Purchasing land from a trusted dye centre owner in the Philippines.
- Building the lodge amidst palm trees with sustainable practices like rainwater collection.
- Six months’ effort in planning and building the lodge.
- Rewards of meeting like-minded eco-conscious guests.
Discussion on True Ecotourism
- Defining and identifying true ecotourism.
- Respecting nature and cultures in tourism.
- Awareness against unsustainable practices, such as supporting child sellers.
Engagement and Encouragement from the Host
- Tracy Collins encouraging listeners to visit the show notes for more details.
- Invitation for listeners to leave reviews for the podcast.
- Discussions about the financial support of charities and personal donations for specific causes.