Monday, September 8, 2008

Lapa Rios Ecolodge

Adventure Travel Media Source
Lapa Rios Ecolodge

CONTACT: Jessica Blair

TEL: 734-837-7887

E-MAIL: jessica@atmstravelnews.com

WEBSITE: http://www.laparios.com/





OSA PENINSULA, Costa Rica—Lapa Rios Eco-lodge is proud to announce that it has been once again recognized as the first Costa Rican hotel to earn a “five leaves” rating in sustainability two consecutive times in a row.

Awarded by the Certification in Sustainable Tourism Program (CST), a division of the Costa Rican Tourism Institute, Lapa Rios’ “five leaves” rating ensures that the hotel has attained the highest possible level of sustainability set by CST. This includes a balanced interaction of: proper stewardship of natural and cultural resources; improved life of local communities; and economic success that contributes to programs for national development.

This recognition, in addition to many others, including rankings in both Conde Nast Gold and Green lists, as well as designation as a “Sustainable Standard-Setter” by the Rainforest Alliance organization—secures Lapa Rios’ position as a pioneer in ecotourism.

Lapa Rios is one of only four accommodations in Costa Rica to have earned this highly regarded recognition.

According to CST, “The main objective of the CST is precisely to turn the concept of sustainability into something real, practical and necessary in the context of the country’s tourist competitiveness, with the aim of improving the way in which the natural and social resources are utilized, to motivate the active participation of local communities, and to support the competitiveness of the business sector.”



At Lapa Rios, a 1,000-acre private nature reserve, environmental considerations are made clear, with special attention to the local culture and several eco-conscious activities and offerings, such as a volunteer rainforest initiative, biodiesel-powered electricity and the Carbonera School Foundation.

By making wise vacation decisions, tourists are taking a stand to support true environmentalism and the protection of the Osa Peninsula via socially-responsible travel.

Soon to be the first carbon neutral hotel in Costa Rica, Lapa Rios continues to support the advance of considerate travel by educating travelers on a daily basis.

To learn more about Lapa Rios’ dedication to environmentally-friendly travel, please visit www.laparios.com or the Lapa Rios blog.



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Travelers seeking a “green” slice of paradise are encouraged to visit www.laparios.com, where they can view resort details, bungalows and seasonal rates for planning their own eco-friendly getaway at Lapa Rios, ranked #11 in Travel + Leisure’s “Top 25 Hotels in Mexico and Central and South America.”



Note to journalists: Please contact Jessica Blair (Jessica@atmstravelnews.com), (734) 837-7887, to arrange an interview with John and/or Karen Lewis, founders of Lapa Rios.

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