RSW PR 01

Define a Resort
A resort is a commercial establishment that offers various amenities and facilities
for guests to enjoy during their stay. It typically includes accommodations, such
as hotel rooms or villas, as well as recreational activities, dining options, and
other services. Resorts are often located in popular tourist destinations or natural
settings, offering guests a chance to relax and unwind while experiencing the
local culture and attractions.
Unlike standard hotels, resorts offer an all-encompassing experience. They
provide accommodations along with a variety of recreational activities, dining
options, and amenities like spas, pools, and entertainment. The goal is to create
a self-contained environment where guests can enjoy a range of experiences
without leaving the property.
Characteristics of a Resort
Resorts are designed to provide a comprehensive experience. They often feature
multiple dining venues, extensive activity options, and luxurious amenities.
Unlike standard hotels, which primarily focus on providing a place to sleep and
basic services, resorts aim to offer everything a guest might need or want during
their stay. This includes entertainment, relaxation, and dining—all in one
location.

What are different types of Resorts?

Beach Resorts
Beach resorts are located along coastlines and offer activities like swimming,
sunbathing, and water sports. They often feature beachfront properties and
provide amenities such as beach bars, seafood restaurants, and cabana rentals.
These resorts aim to create a tropical paradise for their guests.
Ski Resorts
Ski resorts are typically located in mountainous regions and offer winter sports
like skiing, snowboarding, and ice skating. They provide facilities such as ski lifts,
equipment rentals, and cozy lodges. The focus here is on winter activities and
creating a warm, inviting atmosphere for guests to relax after a day on the
slopes.
Spa Resorts
Spa resorts specialise in wellness and relaxation. They offer a range of spa
treatments, including massages, facials, and body wraps. These resorts often
feature serene environments, sometimes incorporating natural elements like hot
springs or beachfront settings, to enhance the relaxation experience.

Trends and Strategies

1. Site Planning
Site planning for a resort is the initial step towards the construction of the
development. It requires in-depth research and analysis of the site conditions,
the geography, and topography of the site and the elements present on the site.
It is also very essential to recognize contextual components such as a nearby
lake, beach, mountains, or any other natural settings as they play a pivotal role
in the design process. The natural environment of the proposed site acts as a
guideline to start site planning and control the effects of the environment for the
effective design outcome.
2. Contextual Elements
The design must resonate with the context of the site in the construction along
with the social and economic entities. The contextual elements based on the
housing typology, ideologies and the materials used are often the reflections of
customs and traditions of the place. The design and planning process can
incorporate the features of the context, selection of materials, and the design
elements considered for the typology of the resort and the facilities that it will
serve.

3. Environmental Consideration
Environment consideration is an essential component during a resort
development because of the impact it will have on the site and the environment.
It must pre-analyze certain factors while designing such as pollution the
construction will cause and damage to the fertile soils, discard of waste, solid
waste, and sewage. The design should aim to conserve the flora and fauna as
much as possible and build considering it. The design development could lead to
alteration in the skyline, views from the site, and vision of the natural landscape
hence, it must develop responsibly.
4. Exterior Design
The exterior design depends on the building materials that are easily available
and suitable for the site. It can vary as per the context of the site from stone,
timber to bricks, and mud or bamboo. There is a direct relationship between the
materials used and the building considering the climatic conditions. The wall
structure and roof depends upon the weather to withstand powerful winds to a
heavy downpour. The exterior design also reflects on the courtyard, porch
design, which is essential for the ventilation to establish maximum air circulation
within the built body.
5. Interior Design
The interior design of the building determines the theme of the resort and sets
the ambience of the space. The interior design must complement the exteriors
through proper accessibility and ventilation systems in all spaces. The furniture
and other fittings, the shades of colour, and essential facilities such as a
bathroom, wash area must be in sync with the overall design format of the
resort.
6. Hierarchy of spaces
The layout of the resort plays a vital role in the overall functionality and success
of the design. It should base the layout on a hierarchy of spaces that
differentiate between public, semi-public, and private spaces. The connection
between the indoor and outdoor spaces is very important and a smooth
transition from one space to another. The spaces should cater to all age groups
and needs to have a provision of special facilities for disabled people.
7. Aesthetic Appeal
Aesthetic appeal is very essential apart from the exterior and interior design as
the resort acts like a retreat for people to connect with the natural environment
and enjoy their leisure time. The structure should seamlessly blend with the
surrounding environment that uplifts the natural beauty of the site.
8. Landscape Design
The resort design depends on the landscape on a vast portion as it is effective to
create an environment in and around the site. It also helps in developing spaces
of ambience and adds greenery that is usually missing in the cityscapes. Green
zones in and around the building help to bind indoors and outdoors.
9. Structure
The structure of the resort depends on the geographic location, the materials
used and the construction methods. It is vital to have a structure that respects
the natural elements of the site and is not too superimposing on it. The design
can use materials and local methods of construction that are sustainable and
engage the local craftsmen.
10. Accessibility
The resort needs to have fair connectivity with the surrounding context for easy
accessibility. There needs to be more that one way to approach the site for the
evacuation of a maximum number of people during an emergency. The layout
must also have different entry and exit points considering the road network
around the site for easy mobility.
11. Resource Management Based
Green SPD's main concept is sustainable resource usage, which means reducing
energy and other resource consumption.
12. Land Use.
This is because land usage involves interconnectedness between individuals and
communities, which has a significant effect on economic and social well-being .
Ecologically vulnerable areas should not be developed to reduce environmental
impact. Redevelopment of formerly occupied or contaminated land should be
encouraged, with adequate evaluation and cleaning. Using sustainable
development principles, underground construction aims to minimize
environmental hazards while saving energy, increasing urban structure diversity,
and reducing local transportation demand Underground structures are naturally
shielded from severe weather and are fully isolated from all climates
13. Passive Building Design.
The passive design uses natural elements to heat, cool, and light a building .
Passive design is the most cost-effective and widely accepted technique of
reducing home heat load. Passive solutions reduce or eliminate the need for
mechanical systems, energy consumption, and CO2 emissions.
14. Green Vehicle Parking.
Green cars produce less pollution than gasoline or diesel-powered automobiles,
or cars that run on alternative fuels. Green vehicle marketing reduces pollution
by encouraging alternatives to conventionally fueled vehicles [16]. Green
vehicles should be given priority parking in green SPD, either within the electric
vehicle charging stations or liquid or gas alternative-fuel filling stations.
15. Less Parking Floor Space.
Reduce the number of paved surfaces to allow rain and snow to naturally flow
over the landscape and into groundwater aquifers. Minimizing site development
footprints may help preserve natural areas and allow for their restoration. In fact,
reducing parking footprints reduces surface parking land
16 . Irrigation.
For example, preserving or growing urban greenery and avoiding ecological
damage on site are examples of irrigation. To conserve potable water, build
appropriate landscape irrigation systems that utilize rain or recycled water, and
use drought-tolerant plants
17. Storm water Management.
Preventing agricultural land erosion and floods in highly populated urban and
rural areas requires stormwater management. Stormwater management is the
detention, retention, or release of stormwater for reuse or groundwater
absorption. Within the limitations of current infrastructure, stormwater
management should aim to mimic or preserve the natural hydrologic cycle
18. Environmental Conditions
In addition to utilizing existing building resources, conserving urban humanistic
history, and maximizing site resources.
19. Local Transport.
Sustainable transportation systems, according to the European Union Council of
Ministers of Transport, can provide basic human and environmental needs while
promoting intergenerational equality . To discourage private car use, a
sustainable building project's parking capacity should be restricted. To reduce
pollution, building occupants should be encouraged to use public transit instead
of private vehicles and taxis.
20. Integration to Immediate Environment.
An open space is any undeveloped, publicly accessible region free of buildings or
other structures. In land-use planning, open space includes parks, community
gardens, public sitting areas, squares, and playgrounds. Closer interaction with
the environment and society is encouraged by open space, which also adds to
environmental quality.
21. Daylight Access.
The sun, the sky, and the spaces between and around them light up structures. It
may adjust the urban fabric to the environment, ensuring that all buildings and
spaces get sunlight. The effect of new buildings on vulnerable neighbouring
structures should be carefully considered in green SPD .
22. Natural Environment.
The third SPD principle in green buildings is that the natural environment should
be properly preserved to create coordination and harmony between the project
site and the surrounding ecosystem.
23 Building Microclimates.
Used and accessible places such as building entrances and exits, pedestrian
paths, open spaces, streets and podium gardens, walkways, sitting spots and
playgrounds all help to create microclimates. Wind, sunlight, temperature, and
air quality should all be considered while designing a site's microclimate .
24. Heritage Cultural.
Cultural heritage offers a framework for understanding previous social, cultural,
and economic developments. Because cultural continuity and human history are
important factors in social cohesion and belonging, cultural heritage preservation
is essential for sustainable development. Protecting archaeological remains,
historic buildings, and monuments on-site helps maintain and preserve cultural
heritage components in the surrounding areas

25. Ecological Conservation and Protection.

To promote green land usage, green buildings should be built on low-value land,
to maintain existing biological features throughout the site design and
construction stages. Conservation of habitat is the most effective method to
reduce the negative environmental impacts of new development. On-site, green
buildings help to create or maintain native species habitats, preserving and
enhancing local biological diversity

26. Ecological Management Plan.

Because construction sites are the main working surfaces for projects, poor site
management may create substantial environmental contamination, affecting
both nearby inhabitants and the broader public. It is important to minimize the
environmental impact of building and demolition activities during the
construction period. Effective environmental management should strive to
reduce noise pollution, air pollution, water consumption, and construction waste,
as well as enhance worker health on construction sites

Planning and and design for Resorts

RULES AND REGULATIONS TO GOVERN THE ACCREDITATION OF HOTELS,
TOURISTS INNS, MOTELS, APARTELS, RESORTS, PENSION HOUSES AND
OTHER ACCOMMODATION ESTABLISHMENTS
Resort – any place or places with pleasant environment and atmosphere
conducive to comfort, healthful relaxation and rest, offering food, sleeping
accommodation and recreational facilities to the public for a fee or remuneration.
CHAPTER III CLASSIFICATION OF AND STANDARD REQUIREMENTS FOR RESORTS
Section 7. Kinds of Resorts. Resorts may be categorized as beach resort
(located along the seashore), inland resort (located within the town proper or
city), island resort (located in natural or man-made island within the internal
waters of the Philippine Archipelago), lakeside or riverside resort (located along
or near the bank of a lake or river), mountain resort (located at or near a
mountain or hill) and theme parks.
Section 8. Classification of Resorts. For purposes of accreditation, resorts
shall be classified as follows: Class "AAA"
Class "AA"
Class "A"
Special Interest Resort
Section 9. Requirements for a Class "AAA" Resort.
The following are the minimum requirements for the operation and maintenance
of a Class "AAA" Resort:
a. Location and Environment The resort shall be situated in a suitable
location free of noise, atmospheric and marine pollution.
b. Parking (If applicable) An adequate parking space with parking security shall
be provided free to guests.
c. Facilities and Room Accommodation The resort shall have its rooms,
facilities and amenities equivalent to those of a First Class Hotel required under
Section 4 hereof.
d. Public Washrooms There shall be a clean and adequate public toilet and
bathroom for male and female, provided with sufficient hot and cold running
water, toilet paper, soap, and hand towel and/or hand dryer.
e. Sports and Recreational Facilities The resort shall offer at least four (4)
sports and recreational facilities.
f. Conference/Convention Facilities Conference/convention facilities with
attached toilets shall be provided.
g. Employee Facilities Adequate and well-maintained cafeteria, locker rooms
and separate bathrooms for male and female employees shall be provided.
Section 10. Requirements for a Class "AA" Resort.
The following are the minimum requirements for the operation and maintenance
of a Class "AA" Resort: a. Location and Environment The resort shall be
located in a suitable area free of noise, atmospheric and marine pollution.
b. Parking (If applicable) An adequate parking space with parking security shall
be provided free to guests.
c. Facilities and Accommodations The resort shall have its rooms, facilities
and amenities equivalent to those of a Standard Class Hotel required under
Section 5 hereof.
d. Public Washrooms There shall be a clean and adequate public toilet and
bathroom for male and female, provided with sufficient running water, toilet
paper, soap, hand towel and/or hand dryer.
e. Sports and Recreational Facilities The resort shall offer at least three (3)
sports and recreational facilities.
f.Conference/Convention Facilities Conference/convention facilities shall be
provided.
g. Employee Facilities Adequate and well-maintained locker rooms and
bathrooms for male and female employees shall be provided.
Section 11. Requirements for a Class "A" Resort.
The following are the minimum requirements for the operation and maintenance
of a Class "A" Resort:
a. Location and Environment The resort shall be located in a suitable area
free of noise, atmospheric and marine pollution.
b. Parking (If applicable) An adequate parking space with parking security shall
be provided free to guests.
c. Room Accommodations Class "A" resort shall have its rooms equivalent to
those of an Economy Class hotel as required under Section 6 hereof.
d. Public Washrooms There shall be a clean and adequate public toilet and
bathroom for male and female, provided with sufficient running water, toilet
paper, and soap.
e. Sports and Recreational Facilities The resort shall offer at least two (2)
sports and recreational facilities.
f. Food and Beverage Outlets The resort shall have at least one (1) food and
beverage outlet.
Section 12. Requirements for a Special Interest Resort. The following are
the minimum requirements for the operation and maintenance of a Special
Interest Resort:
a. Location The camp and ground sites shall be well-drained and not subject to
flooding. It shall be distant from any source of nuisance and shall not endanger
sources of any water supply and other natural resources.
b. Lounge and Reception Counter There shall be a reception counter and a
reasonably furnished lounge commensurate with the size of the resort.
c. Room Accommodations There shall be at least five (5) lettable bedrooms for
permanent site operations, sufficient and fresh supply of clean linen, mirror and
electric fan except in places where electricity is not available. For movable
operation, a minimum of sixteen (16) guests plus the staff shall be
accommodated in tents, lean-tos and the like. Where permanent tents are used,
flooring shall be at least four (4) inches above the ground. Tents shall be
provided with adequate beddings suitable for tropical use. Theme parks may be
exempted from this requirement.
d. Toilet and Bathroom There shall separate clean toilet and bathroom
facilities for male and female guests which shall be provided with sufficient
supply of running water and situated in appropriate and accessible areas. The
same shall be supplied with soap and toilet paper. Adequate portable chemical
toilets shall be provided at the camp site for mobile groups. In the absence of
chemical toilets, temporary sanitary latrines shall be provided based on
acceptable Philippine standards.
e. Lighting, Furnishing and Ventilation Lighting arrangement and
furnishings in all rooms shall be of good standard. In areas where there is no
electrical power, each room shall be provided with non-hazardous portable lights.
Adequate means of ventilation shall also be provided.
f. Staff and Service Adequate number of trained, experienced, courteous and
efficient staff shall be employed. They shall wear clean uniforms at all times. The
frontline staff shall have a good speaking knowledge of English.
Section 13. General Rules on the Operation and Management of
Resorts.
a. Maintenance and housekeeping. Maintenance of all sections of the resort
shall be of acceptable standard, and shall be on a continuing basis, taking into
consideration the quality of materials used as well as its upkeep. housekeeping
shall be of such a standard ensuring well-kept, clean and pollution-free premises.
A vermin control program shall be regularly maintained in all areas of the resort.
Regular and hygienic garbage disposal system shall be maintained. Sanitation
measures shall be adopted in accordance with the standards prescribed under
P.D. 856, the Code on Sanitation of the Philippines.
b. Lifeguard and security. All resorts shall provide the services of a sufficient
number of well-trained lifeguards duly accredited by either the Philippine
National Red Cross, the Water Life Saving Association of the Philippines or any
recognized organization training or promoting safety objectives, and adequate
security whenever there are guests.
c. Medical Services. All resorts shall provide the services of a physician, either
on-call or on full-time basis, depending on their volume of operation and
accessibility to hospital or medical centers. In additions, resorts shall employ
adequate first-aiders who have completed a course in first aide duly certified by
the National Red Cross or any other organization accredited by the same.
Adequate first aide medicines and necessary life-saving equipment shall be
provided within the premises.
d. Fire-fighting facilities. Fire-fighting facilities shall be provided in
accordance with the Fire Code of the Philippines.
e. Signboards. Appropriate signboards shall be conspicuously displayed outside
the establishment showing clearly the name and classification of the resort as
determined by the Department.
f. Beach and lakeside resort. There shall be placed on a beach or lakeside
resort an adequate number of buoys which shall be spread within the area to be
determined by the resort owner or keeper as safe for swimming purposes, an in
compliance with the existing government regulations and/or local ordinances on
the placing of such buoys.
g. Designated area. The distance fronting the area of the resort with adequate
number of buoys as provided in the preceding section shall be designated as the
area for swimming purposes, and no boat, banca or other crafts shall be allowed
to enter the areas so designated. The resort owner or his duly authorized
representative shall be empowered under these rules to enforce the above, and
shall likewise designate a portion of the beach front to be used exclusively for
loading and unloading of resort guests, unless otherwise designated elsewhere
by rules and regulations specific to the area.
h. Precautionary measures.
1. In no case shall the resort management allow swimming at the beach
front beyond 10:00 p.m. and appropriate notice shall be posted to inform
the resort guests of this regulation.
2. Night swimming at the pool shall be allowed only if there are adequate
lifeguards on duty and when the pool premises are sufficiently lighted.
3. Management shall post sufficient and visible signs in strategic areas in
the resort or at the beach to warn guests/customers of the presence of
artificial or natural hazards, danger areas or occurrences threat.
i. Prohibited acts and practices.
1. No pets or animals shall be allowed to bathe/swim along beaches.
Likewise, "pukot" fishing and washing of fishing nets shall be strictly
prohibited in beach resorts.
2. Resort owners shall prohibit ambulant vendors from peddling their
wares within the resort premises in order to provide their guests a certain
degree of privacy to enable them to relax and enjoy their stay threat.
3. Littering in resorts shall be strictly prohibited. Resort owners shall keep
their premises clean and shall adopt their own anti-littering measures.
Without prejudice to existing ones no resort shall be established or
constructed within a radius of five (5) kilometers from any
pollutioncausing factory or plant."

REFERENCES
Memorandum Circular No. 2012-02 or the "Rules and Regulations to Govern the
Accreditation of Accommodation Establishments - Hotels, Resorts and
Apartment.
O. J. Ediae et al 2022 IOP Conf. Ser.: Earth Environ. Sci. 1054 012035

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