"United understands the importance of protecting the cultural, economic and environmental integrity of the destinations we serve," says Angela Foster-Rice, United's managing director of global environmental affairs and sustainability. "We're committed to long-term environmental stewardship, and this program encourages and promotes responsible travel to ensure these destinations remain attractive places to live, work and visit for generations."
How to book a United Eco-Skies Vacation:
Customers can visit the United Vacations website where they can select "Sustainable travel" under the "Specialty vacations" section. From there customers can choose from four resort properties that have been evaluated by Sustainable Travel International as maintaining environmentally sustainable practices in accordance with recognized standards. Customers will also have the option to purchase CarbonChoice carbon offsets associated with their travel. After the initial pilot program, United, Sustainable Travel International and The Mark Travel Corporation plan to expand Eco-Skies Vacations to more eco-friendly destinations outside of Costa Rica.
Featured Eco-Skies Vacation Resorts:
The Westin Playa Conchal Golf Resort and Spa, situated on Costa Rica's magnificent North Pacific Riviera, boasts 99 acres of dry forest dedicated to protection of the local environment and is ISO (International Organization for Standardization) certified.
The Tabacon Grand Spa, nestled in a lush Costa Rican rainforest that has been described as "the eighth wonder of the world," has achieved the Luxury Eco Certification Standard and offers flora and fauna protection, wastewater treatment and workshops on the natural surroundings.
Costa Rica's Barcelo Langosta Beach Hotel in Tamarindo is located on a stunning beach and surrounded by natural beauty in the northwest part of the country. Some of the resort's sustainability highlights include tree planting, programs for saving water and electricity and communal infrastructure projects. The Flamingo Beach Resort and Spa, located in the province of Guanacaste, puts guests in a perfect spot for exploring and offers products for purchase to support the local economy and educational programs that support and protect the local ecosystem. Both hotels are certified by the Certification for Sustainable Tourism Program.