Giulia Pellizzato is the resident Marine Biologist at Raffles Maldives Meradhoo. As much as we wish we were on location in the Maldives catching up with Giulia, we have caught up remotely for this week’s Talking Travel.
Here is what Giulia had to say.
What does your job involve?
As the resident marine biologist, my main focus is to monitor and reduce the impact of the resort on the surrounding environment and to raise awareness and educate the guests on the importance of protecting the oceans. I do so by conducting weekly surveys of the coral reef with a special focus on fish diversity, coral health and water quality. I actively involve the guests in this surveying, letting them help me with the data collection. Also, I track the movements of the resort’s 23 resident sea turtles and I collect data on their behavior. Last but not least, I work with the staff of the resort, conducting marine biology training sessions for them and involving them in beach and reef cleanups.
How have you tackled the difficulties caused by COVID-19?
With positivity, trying to be flexible and adapt as quickly as possible to the “new normal”.
What do you enjoy most about your profession?
What I love the most is sharing with the people my love for the ocean, making them fall in love with it. In particular, I find working with kids very rewarding. Kids are open-minded and genuinely curious. Their expression of wonder when they are underwater is what makes me believe that a better world is possible.
What are the biggest challenges for you in your profession (outside of COVID-19)?
I believe that for a marine biologist that works in the hospitality industry, the biggest challenge is to make your voice heard. Sometimes is hard to convince people that don’t have a scientific background that even a small action/choice can have a huge impact on the marine environment.
What do you think are the biggest challenges the industry faces?
I think that the biggest challenge is regaining guests’ trust.
What do you think will be the biggest game changer in the travel industry in the next 12 months’?
Hopefully the vaccine.
What destination/travel trend do you think is the next big thing?
I think that people will try to reconnect with nature, choosing secluded destinations rather than crowded historical cities.
What are your thoughts on responsible travel and how do you try to implement this in your workplace?
Travel responsibly means not only respecting local cultures and communities, but also minimizing our impact on the natural environment we are visiting. This is exactly what my job is about and I strongly believe that education is the key to do so. After all, we can’t protect what we don’t understand.
Who inspires you most and why?
From a personal point of view my grandfather, a self-made man, an unparalleled example of strength and determination. From a professional point of view Sylvia Earle, pioneer of ocean exploration and tireless ocean advocate.
What is your must pack travel item(s)?
My must pack travel item is my camera (and, of course, its underwater housing).
Who would you invite on your next holiday if you could choose anyone and where would you go?
The next destination on my bucket list is Raja Ampat, a remote and unspoiled underwater paradise that I would love to visit on board of a small sailing boat. I would invite someone as adventurous and passionate about nature as me.
