Tag Archive for Ecotourism

15 Jan 2012
Ecotourism

Growing Ecotourism Industry In Hawaii Protects Environmental Assets While Increasing Profits

Growing Ecotourism Industry In Hawaii Protects Environmental Assets While Increasing Profits











Maui, HI (PRWEB) December 30, 2006

According to the Hawaii Ecotourism Association (HEA), ecotourism is nature and culture based tourism that is ecologically sustainable and supports the well being of local communities. Commercial entities have become a positive influence on the environment because they promote a tourism industry that is environmentally and culturally sensitive while increasing profits. The availability of vacation accommodations through online resources such as HawaiianBeachRentals.com affords tourists the opportunity to plan customized, environmentally-friendly Hawaii vacations.

Recent statistics published in dBusinessNews reveal that visitor expenditures in Maui totaled 3.1 billion dollars in 2005 and 2.9 billion dollars in 2004. Maui’s tourism sector is sound and growing, as evidenced by the fact that hotel occupancy is well above average for the Hawaiian Islands. Since Maui’s economy is tourism-based, practicing ecotourism protects valuable environmental assets while luring savvy travelers to experience the raw beauty of a Pacific Island. Visiting an online vacation site is the simplest way to plan a customized trip to Maui or Kauai based on the principles of ecotourism. Jeff Berzolla of Hawaiian Beach Rentals states that, “We have traditionally specialized in providing our customers with alternative trips to Hawaii allowing them to stay in unique places and helping them coordinate the details of their dream vacation, be it romantic, active or relaxation focused. Also, our staff enjoys living and playing in Hawaii. Time off is often spent visiting the units we rent to our customers, whether they’re Maui vacation rentals or condos on Kauai, to better understand the Islands and the beautiful paradise we share with the world.”

According to Wayne Nastri, the western regional administrator of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, more than 95 million dollars has been committed to Hawaii within the past year to correct environmental violations while preventing future pollution. Clearly, capitalists and tree huggers are now teaming up as opposed to being at odds, finding it more progressive and profitable to protect the environment rather than exploit it. Environmentally responsible hotels known as “green hotels” use energy and natural resources in environmentally-friendly ways and give visitors a realistic Hawaiian experience without compromising the world around them. As a result, breathtaking natural wonders such as the majestic Na Pali coast can be found just steps away from many Kauai vacation rentals. Hawaiian vacations offer hiking, boating, snorkeling and whale watching in an unaffected, natural habitat. Since it is the incredible flora and fauna of Hawaii that lures vacationers, it is in the best interest of big business to protect the environment to keep the visitors coming back.

According to a recent poll of HEA members, to be considered as genuinely engaging in ecotourism, Hawaii travel operators need to minimize the negative impact on Hawaii’s natural environment, cultural heritage and local communities, as well as maximize the positive impact on these factors. Additionally, rental operators must foster an appreciation of Hawaii’s sense of place among staff and visitors. The spirit of the land is referred to as “aina” in Hawaii. Kauai condo rentals and hotels are sensitive to this “aina” because they are built with special care to have the least impact possible on the precious local land and wildlife. Securing such accommodations is easy with the online help of informed locals. Jeff Berzolla further says, “We like working with folks that have a passion for travel and want a customized experience that only a local person can help coordinate. Hawaiian Beach Rentals offers accommodations such as vacation homes, condos and hotels, as well as airfare and car rentals to customers wanting to travel to Hawaii. We want to help our customers have a unique experience in Hawaii so we can show them what Aloha is all about. Our services include the most up to date local information about Hawaii and the ability for customers to quickly and easily pay for their vacation online via a secure payment process.”

A savvy traveler seeking information about ecotourism-based excursions to Maui and Kauai can visit HawaiianBeachRentals.com for additional details. Take advantage of technology to plan the most unique, socially-conscious trip of a lifetime!

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24 Dec 2011
Ecotourism

Now Available: Ecotourism with Great Food and Maasai at Campi Ya Kanzi at Kuku Group Ranch in Kenya

Now Available: Ecotourism with Great Food and Maasai at Campi Ya Kanzi at Kuku Group Ranch in Kenya











Uncharted Outposts


Los Angeles, CA (Vocus) November 29, 2007

For those who have never been to Africa, the idea of a safari conjures up images of adventure and breathtaking scenery. One imagines sepia-drenched plains filled with lions and giraffes and all sorts of other exciting animal wildlife. But today’s travelers are also looking to travel comfortably without leaving a large ecological footprint.

It was with the romantic images in mind while growing up in a small Italian town that Luca Belpietro dreamed of one day living in Africa. And he made his dream come true.

Today, Belpietro and his wife, Antonella Bonomi, and their two young children, operate their own safari camp deep in the rolling green hills of southern Kenya, where they delight in sharing this very wild and beautiful place.

Campi Ya Kanzi (Kishswahili for “Camp of the Hidden Treasures”) is truly a bush-country ecotourism paradise, located on the Kuku Group Ranch, a 400-square-mile Maasai reserve in the foothills of Mt. Kilimanjaro.

About the camp.

Centered around Luca and Antonella’s residence, Tembo House, guests at Campi Ya Kanzi are treated to delicious fresh-cooked Italian meals. This enchanting camp can accommodate 14 lucky guests in luxurious tented cottages constructed of stone, fabric and wood, each with a veranda taking in a superb view. Furnished with king beds made from locally hewn logs, the cottages feature a full, elegant bath with shower, bidet and basin. Brass plumbing fixtures add an unexpected touch of old-world elegance and comfort with hot and cold running water.

Interior Bath

One can read a book from the charming library, play backgammon, or simply listen to music. With Campi Ya Kanzi as a backdrop, all of these simple activities become transporting experiences.

About the Kenya safaris.

Guests at Campi Ya Kanzi enjoy private safari game drives in open Land Rovers, accompanied by professional guides and Maasai game trackers. The incredibly pristine, varied landscape around Campi Ya Kanzi – savannah plains, river courses, forest, and even lava flows – gives rise to astonishing biodiversity. The hiking and walking in the Chyulu Hills – in the shadow of the majestic Kilimanjaro – is a breathtaking experience.

About the ecotourism

Luca and Antonella offer their guests a chance to reconnect with the wild, while providing insight into the unusual partnership they have forged with the local Maasai community. The Kuku Group Ranch, bordering Tsavo West and Chyulu National Parks, and close to Amboseli National Park – is home to three thousand Maasai.

Luca and Antonella collaborate with the Maasai to involve them in the preservation of their land, wildlife and culture, by creating sustainable ventures that offer them employment and empowerment. For too long the needs of rural communities have been neglected by people involved in conservation work. Campi Ya Kanzi has created a model that may well serve as the future basis of conservation in Africa.

Additionally, earlier this year Ecotourism Kenya recognized Campi Ya Kanzi for its outstanding work in protecting the environment. In addition to locally harvested building materials, including lava rocks, thatched roofs and trees from a reforestation program, Luca and Antonella use solar boilers to supply hot water and photovoltaic cells to provide electricity. The kitchen relies on eco-friendly charcoal and waste is recycled or incinerated, while organic material is used to make compost for a small organic vegetable garden. With the nearest springs 12 miles away, water is a scarce resource. Rainwater is collected from the roofs into cisterns. Used water is filtered and purified through lava filters and goes into a pond for wildlife.

After spending time with Luca and Antonella and their Maasai team at Campi Ya Kanzi, you will carry this incredible, intelligent ecotourism experience with you forever.

Contact:

Sandy Cunningham

Uncharted Outposts

Uncharted Outposts offers ecotourism with Kenya safaris

Local: 505-795-7710

Toll-free: 888-995-0909

Contact:

Maya Benyehuda

Ballantines PR

310 454 3080

Ballantines pr

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07 Oct 2011
Ecotourism

Vacation Rental Market Offers Tourism With Minimal Environmental Impact and Encourages Ecotourism in Kauai, Hawaii

Vacation Rental Market Offers Tourism With Minimal Environmental Impact and Encourages Ecotourism in Kauai, Hawaii












Honolulu, HI (PRWEB) November 27, 2006

Kauai, HI: Kauai, Hawaii provides one of the most effective examples of ecotourism in the United States today by offering a tourist destination that has preserved its natural beauty while opening its arms to visitors from around the world. The growing availability of vacation rentals in places such as Kauai, Poipu, Princeville and Hanalei has lead to a change in the visitor experience. These vacation rentals offer tourists a unique opportunity to engage in the local communities and share in the true “Aloha” of Hawaii.

Ecotourism is defined by the Hawaii Ecotourism Association as “nature and culture based tourism that is ecologically sustainable and supports the well being of local communities”. According to a poll of HEA members in 2004, to be considered as genuinely engaging in ecotourism, operators need to minimize the negative impact on Hawaii’s cultural heritage, local communities and natural environment, as well as maximize the positive impact on these factors. Furthermore, these operators must also foster an appreciation of Hawaii’s sense of place among staff and visitors. In Hawaii, the spirit of the land is referred to as “aina”. Kauai condo complexes and hotels are sensitive to this “aina” because they are built with special care to have the least impact possible on the land and wildlife in the local area.

For the savvy traveler who is also environmentally concerned, Kauai vacation rentals can offer a true Hawaiian experience that does an outstanding job of providing first class amenities and service while allowing the traveler to experience the incredible raw beauty of a Pacific Island.    Online resources make it simple to plan a vacation based around the concepts of ecotourism because you can browse for Kauai vacations with just a few simple clicks of your mouse and yet still be able to get personalized, one-on-one service. Charles Koehl of Hawaiian Beach Rentals states that, “Every vacationer is looking to have the vacation of a lifetime and we aim to help them find it in Hawaii. Our customers want to be able to ask questions about their trip and have a human interact with them and listen to their desires and dreams and make suggestions on what they would like.”

The focus on ecotourism in Hawaii causes operators to lean toward renewable tourism as opposed to building a 20 story hotel on the beach without considering its environmental impact. This creates an unprecedented opportunity for tourists to revel in the natural magnificence of Hawaii in a special setting of their own choice. Protecting the environment also gives tourists the opportunity to fully understand the wildlife, flora and traditions of Hawaii. Simply by surfing the Internet, travelers can view their potential Kauai vacation condos and finalize arrangements for their trip securely online. Koehl of Hawaiian Beach Rentals further says that, “Allowing our customers to make a transaction easily and securely online also makes us unique. We provide our customers with service on all of the major Hawaiian Islands and offer accommodations, airfare and car rentals to customers wanting to travel to Hawaii.”

Environmentally responsible hotels are known as “green hotels” because they use energy and other natural resources in environmentally responsible ways. Ecotourism was also internationally recognized when the United Nations celebrated the “International Year of Ecotourism” in 2002. Hawaii has been engaging in the practice of ecotourism for many years and Kauai vacation rentals evidence the success of this vibrant, important movement. Incredible, first-class accommodations are available all over the island, from a Poipu vacation home to Kauai hotels, that enable visitors to have a realistic Hawaiian experience without compromising the world around them.

In short, ecotourism is a vehicle to sustainable development that makes it possible to accept tourists without compromising the quality of the land and its precious resources. A Kauai vacation gives well-informed tourists an opportunity to see the benefits of ecotourism in action, especially since this is a long-standing concept in this area of Hawaii.

Environmentally-friendly Hawaiian vacations are easier and more affordable to plan than was ever thought possible with the growing online resources available to travelers today. Take advantage of this technology to plan the most unique, socially-conscious trip of a lifetime! After all, today’s vacation rental market is filled with incredible travel opportunities that make a tropical trip more accessible than it ever was before.

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Vocus©Copyright 1997-

, Vocus PRW Holdings, LLC.
Vocus, PRWeb, and Publicity Wire are trademarks or registered trademarks of Vocus, Inc. or Vocus PRW Holdings, LLC.







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12 Aug 2011
Ecotourism

Francisco Ver

Francisco Verástegui Wins 2007 Colibri Ecotourism Award










(PRWEB) June 8, 2007

As part of the global celebration of World Environment Day, Planeta.com presents the seventh annual Colibri Ecotourism Award to Francisco Verástegui, who created Mexico’s first map of notable and historic trees.

First presented in 2001, the Colibri Ecotourism Award is presented to a leading authority and catalyst at the vanguard of ecotourism in Mexico.

The winner of the award is selected by Planeta.com founder Ron Mader following consultation with members of the Mexico Ecotourism Network.

The United Nations celebrates World Environment Day each year on June 5 as a means to stimulate worldwide awareness of the environment and enhance political action.

About the Colibri Award

Francisco Verástegui receives the Colibri (“Hummingbird”) Award for his work in protecting the historic and notable trees of Oaxaca City and raising awareness of the urban environment.

Announcing this year’s winner, Planeta.com founder Ron Mader said, “Ecotourism depends on the leadership of individuals exemplified by Francisco Verástegui who are resourceful and who create new linkages connecting tourism and environmental conservation.”

Colibri means “Hummingbird” in Spanish and in 2007 the Colibri Award celebrates its seventh anniversary, making this one of the longest-running ecotourism awards. The winner of the annual award receives a trophy, diploma and a $ 1,000 cash award from Emilio Kifuri, president of Canyon Travel.

“Mexico is one of the world’s mega diverse countries with one of the most successful tourism industries,” said Emilio Kifuri. “If ecotourism is to overtake the senseless destruction of the world’s natural areas, it has to develop at a faster pace. We feel fortunate to be in a position to demonstrate to the tourism industry that ecotourism can be more profitable than mainstream tourism.”

The Colibri Ecotourism Award’s co-sponsor, Destination Ventures, is contributing another $ 1,000 directly to Planeta.com for development of spin-off media, including an English-language version of the map and DVD. The company specializes in travel industry education and currently works for the Mexico Tourism Board and United Nations Foundation in promoting sustainable travel to UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Previous winners include Steve Bridger , Jennifer Morfín, Hector Ceballos-Lascurain , Jorge Chàvez de la Peña, Fernando Garcia Aguinaco, Marlene Ehrenberg, Juan Carlos Ibarra and Antonio Suarez.

2007 winner

Francisco Verástegui is an artist born in Mexico City’s Condesa neighborhood who has lived in Oaxaca for the past twenty years.

His work is featured at prominent galleries, including Arte Cocodrilo and Arte de Oaxaca.

Verástegui’s passion for Oaxaca’s urban parks and gardens has never been stronger and in the spring of 2007 he collaborated with colleagues in producing the map Árboles Históricos y Notables. The first printing has a run of 7,000 copies, courtesy of La Curtiduria and Carteles de Sur, and is available in Oaxaca City at Amate Books, Macedonio Alcalá #307.

The map has attracted the attention of the local TV 9 which is preparing a video documentary about the trees.

Future work

In the planning stage is a portfolio of engravings of the historic trees created by Oaxaca’s most famous artists to be published by Fernando Sandoval, one of Mexico’s most prestigous printers. This will be sold to raise funds to pay for scientific studies, signage plaques and fences to protect the trees. The publication is sponsored by La Curtiduria and the Alfredo Harp Helú Foundation.

Planeta.com is preparing a DVD documenting trees in Oaxaca and is researching how to locate the trees using Google Earth. Planeta.com is also updating our online guides to forestry issues and documenting reforestation efforts in Mexico.

Testimonials

Sin lugar a dudas, hay pocas personas como Francisco Verástegui, interesados en crear proyectos para el bien común. Artista de gran talento y trayectoria, escritor de verdades y luchador incansable por nuestro patrimonio cultural e histórico y sobre todo un gran observador y pensador de nuestro tiempo, Verástegui es indiscutiblemente el mejor candidato para recibir el premio Colíbri por su dedicación en conservar, difundir y promover proyectos novedosos como La Hoja Volante uno dedicado a los árboles notables de la Ciudad de Oaxaca.

Demián Flores

Francisco Verástegui es alguien ha trabajado a favor del patrimonio natural e histórico de Oaxaca y en especial de nuestros entrañables árboles en los últimos tiempos ha sido precisamente él, quién con su decidida y significativa participación ha logrado despertar en nosotros el deseo de contribuir a la protección y salvaguarda de nuestro invaluable patrimonio. Sin embargo, el camino por recorrer el largo y difícil, por lo mismo considero que cualquier premio u apoyo que reciba Francisco le será de gran utilidad y le motivará a continuar con esta importante labor.

Víctor González Sánchez, Galeria Arte de Oaxaca

Tengo varios años de conocer a Francisco Verástegui y hoy mas que nunca me sorprende su personalidad ya que no logra estar sin movimiento un momento, siempre tiene en su ser una creatividad inmensa para el bienestar social que es realmente su pasion por la vida. Comenzo a mirar a los arboles de Oaxaca pero como solo él sabe hacerlo…..observando y dandose cuenta de su belleza y trascendio esta mirada a la Historia de cada uno. Hoy que me entero que esta propuesto para recibir el Premio Planeta me lleno de alegria porque es decir sí a la vida y sí a las personas que como Verástegui la viven atentos a la realidad.

Dora Luz Martinez Vasconcelos

Francisco Verástegui’s Oaxaca tree map is an innovative product that is of great interest to residents and visitors alike. This is urban ecotourism in action and it really works as the map results in one wanting to find more of these hidden green wonders in the city.

Gerhard Buttner

Kudos

Many thanks to friends and colleagues who are relaying the word about the Colibri Award including the United Nations Environment Programme.

Details

Colibri Ecotourism Award

http://www.planeta.com/colibri.html

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Vocus, PRWeb, and Publicity Wire are trademarks or registered trademarks of Vocus, Inc. or Vocus PRW Holdings, LLC.







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28 May 2011
Ecotourism

Jennifer Morfín Wins 2005 Colibri Ecotourism Achievement Award

Jennifer Morfín Wins 2005 Colibri Ecotourism Achievement Award










(PRWEB) June 4, 2005

Planeta.com – As part of the global celebration of World Environment Day, Planeta.com presents the fifth annual Colibri Ecotourism Achievement Award to Jennifer Morfín Morgan

About the Colibri Award

First presented in 2001, the Colibri Ecotourism Achievement Award is presented to a leading catalyst working toward ecotourism in Mexico.

Colibri means “Hummingbird” in Spanish and the Colibri Award is celebrating its fifth anniversary in 2005. The winner of the annual award receives a trophy, diploma and a $ 1,000 cash award from Emilio Kifuri, president of Canyon Travel.

The winner of the Colibri Award is selected by Planeta.com founder Ron Mader with consultation from members of the Mexico Ecotourism Network.

“Ecotourism depends on the leadership of individuals who are resourceful and innovative and who are bold enough to bridge the traditional divisions between tourism and the environment,” said Planeta.com founder Ron Mader.

“Mexico is one of the world’s mega diverse countries with one of the most successful tourism industries,” said Emilio Kifuri. “If ecotourism is ever to overtake the senseless destruction of the world’s natural areas, it certainly has to develop at a much faster pace. We feel fortunate to be in a position to demonstrate to the tourism industry that ecotourism can be more profitable than mainstream tourism. It is this potential for profit that has the greatest ability to cause the most profound changes.”

Planeta.com will participate in several environmental events in Mexico City during the World Environment Day weekend and will present the Colibri on the waters of the Xochimilco Gardens.

“If we desire to make our cities greener, making tourism greener is a great step forward,” said Mader, adding that urban ecotourism is a reality in Mexico City with such pioneering projects as the ciclovia (bike path) and the hiking and biking trails in the Ajusco mountains.

Planeta.com is no stranger to city-based nature tourism, having hosted the 2004 Conference on Urban Ecotourism. Participants at that event agreed upon the Urban Ecotourism Declaration, a collective response to a common challenge – making urban spaces more livable while protecting biodiversity.

Winner

Jennifer Morfín Morgan’s interest in ecotourism began when she began working at the Mexican Nature Conservation Fund (FMCN) and took part in several online conferences hosted by Planeta.com to see whether tourism could benefit conservation.

Jennifer’s work with communities goes back 10 years. She received her bachelor’s degree in International Affairs at Mexico City’s Universidad Iberoamericana and recently received a masters degree in Sustainable Tourism Management from the International Cooperation University of Costa Rica.

Her tenure at the FMCN began in 2000 and she was part of a team that created the Mexican Conservation Learning Network (IMAC). Jennifer’s work at IMAC is that of a web-savvy training manager specializing in sustainable tourism and wildfire management.

Jennifer describes her work as a way that connects conservation in the natural world with improving communication using a variety of media:

“I believe that promoting communication among institutions and communities links people with similar interests in a way that encourages transparency and sustainable development,” she said. “Sustainable development has renewed purpose when we use current technology to improve not only what we know, but how we collaborate and learn new things that improve our quality of life.”

Jennifer’s interest in sustainable tourism and ecotourism continues as IMAC strengths its coverage and Jennifer continues to work face-to-face with community leaders.

Feedback

Jenny is one of the most dedicated people I know in the conservation field, besides being one of the most efficient people I have worked with! Certainly she deserves it!

Edna Aguinaga

Totalmente de acuerdo con que Jennifer sea este año la ganadora del Premio Colibrí. Me entusiasma la idea. Más allá de que sea una amiga. Poca gente hay en iniciativas ligadas a gobierno que hayan favorecido al ecoturismo, Jennifer es una de ellas, quien además tiene un gran entusiasmo.

Fernando Garcia Aguinaco

I completely agree with Jennifer’s designation as a recipient of the 2005 Colibri Award. Her work in IMAC has been outstanding and she fully deserves this award.

Hector Ceballos-Lascurain

Of course Jennifer has all the qualifications for the Colibri Award. She has done a marvelous work and, as you say, her dedication to the “cause” is remarkable.

Verena Gerber

Excelente la propuesta para que Jennifer sea acreedora al Premio Colibrí 2005.

Angel Nieva

About World Environment Day

The United Nations General Assembly established the first World Environment Day in 1972 to mark the opening of the Stockholm Conference on the Human Environment. 2005 spotlights green cities.

Planeta.com is submitting our Declaration on Urban Ecotourism (the theme of our 2004 online conference) to the organizers of WED 2005. The declaration is a collective response to a common challenge — making urban spaces more livable while protecting biodiversity.

Organizers

Planeta.com

http://www.planeta.com

Canyon Travel

http://www.canyontravel.com

References

Colibri Award

http://www.planeta.com/colibri.html

World Environment Day

http://www.unep.org/wed

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Vocus©Copyright 1997-

, Vocus PRW Holdings, LLC.
Vocus, PRWeb, and Publicity Wire are trademarks or registered trademarks of Vocus, Inc. or Vocus PRW Holdings, LLC.







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22 Apr 2011
Ecotourism

Greenloons Eco Travel Certification Guide Sheds Light on Ecotourism Industry Standards

Greenloons Eco Travel Certification Guide Sheds Light on Ecotourism Industry Standards










Washington, DC (PRWEB) April 5, 2011

Growing ecotourism provider, http://www.greenloons.com, just published a comprehensive online certification reference guide aimed at aiding environmentally conscious travelers as they endeavor to make more responsible vacation purchasing decisions that ultimately make a positive impact on the world around them. The first of its kind, this trailblazing handbook helps Greenloons improve the environmental tourism landscape through increased certification transparency, which consumers have been calling for since 2002 when the United Nations designated that year as the International Year of Ecotourism.

The release of this type of reference guide is more necessary than ever given the estimated 5% annual growth rate in the ecotourism market worldwide. The manual compares eco-vacation certifications by 14 major evaluation criteria as well as general standards including whether the certification requires multiple levels of endorsement , reauthorization, and if it is aligned with the Global Sustainable Tourism Criteria (GSTC).

“As we continue our work with organizations like the Rainforest Alliance, Greenloons hopes to engage consumers so that they ask about and support those tourism businesses that help to protect and sustain the world’s natural and cultural resources, while ensuring that tourism meets its potential as a tool for poverty alleviation” says Greenloons founder & CEO, Irene Lane. Greenloons currently partners with ClimateCare and the Rainforest Alliance in order to further promote best management practices in sustainable tourism and the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions.

With the increasing advertorial power of the term “eco”, the Greenloons Certification Standards Summary will help consumers understand the political, economic and social issues that surround sustainable tourism and ecotourism. “We hope consumers will choose authentic ecotourism providers that support local communities, emphasize environmental education, sustain conservation efforts, minimize tourist waste, and respect local cultural traditions,” says Lane. “By adding much needed clarity to the eco certification process, we hope more people will connect at a deeper level with the places and people they are visiting.”

About Greenloons

Greenloons L.L.C. is a Washington D.C. based company dedicated to providing nature enthusiasts and wildlife conservationists worldwide with trusted information about responsible, sustainable, and certified ecotourism in the U.S. and internationally. From inspiring wildlife adventures to ecosystem education, Greenloons is an easy to use one-stop shop for ecotourism destination services. The site provides key information regarding regional certifications and international standards for ecotourism, third-party certified vacation tour search and reservation capabilities, volunteer conservation effort search, and topical news. For more information, please visit: http://www.greenloons.com

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Vocus©Copyright 1997-

, Vocus PRW Holdings, LLC.
Vocus, PRWeb, and Publicity Wire are trademarks or registered trademarks of Vocus, Inc. or Vocus PRW Holdings, LLC.







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30 Mar 2011
Ecotourism

NatureAir Launches Educational Eco-Tourism Blog

NatureAir Launches Educational Eco-Tourism Blog












San Jose, Costa Rica (Vocus) October 20, 2008

Today NatureAir, the world’s first certified carbon neutral airline, announced the official launch of its Nature Blog. The blog was created to help educate readers on sustainable travel and keep people informed and involved in Costa Rica as an ecotourist destination. Nature Blog provides an educational outlet for people to share and exchange information on ecotourism, global warming, climate change and its impact on the world.

NatureAir as an airline is working to combat the effects of global warming by using carbon credits from every passenger to help conserve Costa Rica’s Osa Peninsula, one of the region’s most biologically diverse rainforests.

“It becomes a duty and necessity for us to preserve and protect the environment that we are living in,” said Alex Khajavi, Founder and CEO of NatureAir. “We are the users of resources and this should motivate us to protect and to give back to the environment.”

Nature Air’s blogger, Naturally Larry, offers information relating to the efforts of people and institutions that make a difference, helping to create a balance between commerce and conservation amidst the backdrop of some very serious global issues, like climate change, and sustainable travel. In addition, NatureAir’s flight captain will be sharing his stories from the sky. This column will give readers an inside perspective on what it means for this pilot to be an integral part of a sustainable airline.

The blog was created to be a social networking educational outlet. Travelers, pilots and professionals in all fields are encouraged to share their stories and thoughts about Central American travel, ecotourism, global warming and climate change. To learn more about how to become involved and post stories, questions or comments visit: http://blog.natureair.com

About NatureAir:

Since its inception in 2000, NatureAir has grown from flying 18,000 passengers annually to more than 150,000 in 2007. The company got its start with one plane and 17 employees. Now it has a fleet of eight planes and more than 150 employees. NatureAir offsets more than 6,000 tons of carbon dioxide annually and uses carbon credits to help conserve Costa Rica’s Osa Peninsula, one of the region’s most biologically diverse rainforests. It’s the only twin-engine airline in Costa Rica with both scheduled and chartered flights, and offers 74 daily flights to 17 destinations in Costa Rica, and Panama. For pricing, and a complete list of flight schedules visit: http://www.natureair.com or call 800-235-9272.

CONTACT:

Alexi Huntley

TEL: 506-299-6000

E-MAIL: ahuntley @ natureair.com

WEB: http://www.natureair.com/

Click here for Media Kit.

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Vocus©Copyright 1997-

, Vocus PRW Holdings, LLC.
Vocus, PRWeb, and Publicity Wire are trademarks or registered trademarks of Vocus, Inc. or Vocus PRW Holdings, LLC.







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27 Jan 2011
Ecotourism

Award-Winning Photographers Donate Images to The International Ecotourism Society (TIES) for Celebration of Earth Day

Award-Winning Photographers Donate Images to The International Ecotourism Society (TIES) for Celebration of Earth Day










Washington, DC (PRWEB) April 18, 2006

This year Washington area residents can kick off Earth Day at an evening gala featuring leading ecotourism companies and experts from around the world. However, in addition to 50 vacation packages to some of the world’s leading ecotourism destinations, noted photographers are joining force by offering “images of excellence.”

“We’re marking Earth Day by offering fabulous eco-holidays with some of the world’s best companies. Tourism is one of the world’s biggest industries, and when it’s done badly, it causes major environmental and social damage. The companies donating trips operate in ways that respect the environment and local communities, while providing their guests with outstanding holiday experiences,” says Martha Honey, TIES Executive Director.

“And TIES also has award-winning photography images for those who are looking to bring a bit of paradise into their home,” says Karin Leperi, Photography Event Coordinator for TIES. “These photographs celebrate the beauty of nature, wildlife, and the land, representing some of the finest images available on the market today.”

Professional photographers who are donating their talents to TIES celebration of Earth Day include: Albert Valentino of New Jersey, Darren Stratemeier from California, Edward Heaton in Pennsylvania, and Karin Leperi from Maryland.

Wildlife photographer Albert Valentino, a recent first place Nikonian winner, offers three stellar images of an American icon – the eagle – from a recent photo shoot in the wilds of Alaska. He strives to capture the personality and soul of wildlife, often through the eyes. To preview Valentino’s three matted 11×14 prints, available as a tabletop auction, click on the following:

http://www.pbase.com/alvalentino/image/57895753


http://www.pbase.com/alvalentino/image/58529725


http://www.pbase.com/alvalentino/image/57655407

An accomplished landscape photographer, Darren Stratemeier showcases a stunning glass-framed and matted 12×18” print of a lone Cyprus taken on a recent photo tour of the Italian countryside. Evocative of the quintessential Tuscan agriscape, the print captures an ethereal quality of mood and light available only in the bluish light of pre-dawn. A limited production photographer, Stratemeier’s images are difficult to find on the market.

Ed Heaton, a landscape and travel photographer, currently has several of his images on special exhibition at Longwood Gardens. He takes us to Babcock State Park in West Virginia for his award-winning image titled, “Reflections at Glade Creek Grist Mill.” This is a double-matted 16×20. For a preview of this auction image, go to:

http://www.edheaton.com/-/edheaton/gallery.asp?cat=28492&pID=1&row=15

Karin Leperi combines travel photography with her love of nature, people, and the land. As a regular broadcast contributor to Talking Travel Radio Network and an agritourism consultant to TIES, she seeks to educate the public on agritravel and its connections with the bounties of both land and sea. Leperi has two glass-framed and matted photographs available at the TIES gala. To read about her recent article, “An Agriscape Experience,” check out: http://www.ttrn.com/dwvkarinleperituscany.htm

The live event, Celebration of Ecotourism and Eco-Holiday Auction, takes place from 5 to 11PM on Friday April 21, 2006 at the Carnegie Institution in Washington DC.

Tickets are $ 60 in advance and $ 75 at the door. For more details see: http://www.ecotourism.org or email events@ecotourism.org.

Previous year attendees included diplomats/ International development agency officials, philanthropic organizations, NGOs, academics, and others from the world of ecotourism and the tourism industry.

The International Ecotourism Society promotes responsible travel to natural areas that conserves the environment and improves the well-being of local people through: creating an international network of individuals, institutions and the tourism industry; educating tourists and tourism professionals; and influencing the tourism industry, public institutions and donors to integrate the principles of ecotourism into their operations and policies.

Proceeds from your auction event will go to support The International Ecotourism Society in our mission to promote responsible travel to natural areas that conserves the environment and improves the well-being of local people.

About TIES:

The International Ecotourism Society (TIES) is a non-profit organization headquartered in Washington DC with members in over 90 countries. It is the largest and oldest organization in the world dedicated to promoting tourism that protects and benefits both the environment and local communities.

Contact:

The International Ecotourism Society

1333 H Street, NW. Suite 300, East Tower

Washington, DC 20005

Telephone: 202-347-9203

Fax: 202-387-7915

http://www.ecotourism.org

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07 Jan 2011
Ecotourism

Growing Vacation Rental Market Encourages Ecotourism in Costa Rica and Lures Eighty Percent of Visitors with Pura Vida

Growing Vacation Rental Market Encourages Ecotourism in Costa Rica and Lures Eighty Percent of Visitors with Pura Vida











San Jose, Costa Rica (PRWEB) February 8, 2007

A recent survey conducted by Costa Rican Vacations revealed that more than eighty percent of their clients visit Costa Rica to get closer to nature and appreciate pura vida. “Pura Vida” is Costa Rica’s country motto, meaning pure life. The growing vacation market in Costa Rica encourages ecotourism and enables tourists to encounter wildlife in its natural habitat for a truly unique, environmentally-friendly travel experience.

Ecotourism, which actually means ecological tourism, was developed in the 1980′s and has grown in popularity since the United Nations celebrated the “International Year of Ecotourism” in 2002. The International Ecotourism Society formally defines ecotourism as “responsible travel to natural areas that conserves the environment and improves the well-being of local people.” Ecotourism gives travelers the opportunity to appreciate exotic wildlife found in various ecosystems without disrupting the balance of nature. Such tourism increases international understanding of different cultures and countries while building the economy of those nations. At the Third International Conference of Ecotourism in November, 2006, Costa Rica was recognized as one of the world leaders in ecotourism.

The name Costa Rica means “rich coast” and the country lives up to its title. There are over 850 species of birds, 13,000 plant species, 209 mammal species, 220 reptile species, 163 reptile species and 365,000 arthropod species found in Costa Rica today. Travelers can explore wetlands, aquatic habitats, dry forests, rain forests, mangroves and mountains to see monkeys, crocodiles and toucans up close. A Costa Rica vacation rental nestled in any of these beautiful locations can be easily found by browsing online. Casey Halloran of Costa Rican Vacations states, “We have a full website with great photographs of Costa Rica. We have images of all our hotel partners and tours. We continue to improve our customer satisfaction by offering top quality vacations. Our highly trained team of travel experts are here in Costa Rica to help you plan your adventure. We arrange your perfect Costa Rica travel experience and tailor every vacation package to fit you like a fine suit. We even meet you at the airport and are on call during your stay to deliver first class service. Our goal is to provide you a comfortable and memorable vacation in this paradise we call home.”

Costa Rica is home to 26 national parks and 8 natural reserves. When all national parks, wildlife refuges, biological reserves, forest reserves and other protected areas are considered, more than 27 percent of Costa Rica’s natural habitat is protected by the government. Because there is such a wonderful opportunity to appreciate nature in its raw form in Costa Rica, the State Department reports that the number of tourists visiting has increased by at least 6 percent annually over the past several years. Despite an increasing number of visitors to the country each year, Costa Rica travel remains environmentally sensitive. Martha Honey, a former resident of Costa Rica and the author of Ecotourism and Sustainable Development: Who Owns Paradise, says that, “They do ecotourism very well in Costa Rica.”

Costa Rica ecotourism vacations are the perfect choice for many Americans looking to escape the harried pace of everyday life and feel the relaxing pleasure of coastal paradise. Whether savvy travelers are looking for the adventure of a lifetime or a romantic Costa Rica honeymoon, the wonder of nature, scintillating culture and lovely tropical beaches are delightful. More than one million Americans are expected to visit Costa Rica next year because it is highly regarded, attainable and rewarding.

Leisure is only a few mouse clicks away for hard-working vacationers who want treat themselves to an indulgent vacation in enchanting Costa Rica. To join the eighty percent of people looking to experience nature up close, go online to http://www.vacationscostarica.com to plan a luxurious, customized Costa Rican vacation today.

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Vocus, PRWeb, and Publicity Wire are trademarks or registered trademarks of Vocus, Inc. or Vocus PRW Holdings, LLC.







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25 Dec 2010
Ecotourism

Emerging Industry Forum Recommends Donors Take Market-Based Approach to Ecotourism Development

Emerging Industry Forum Recommends Donors Take Market-Based Approach to Ecotourism Development










Oaxaca, Mexico (PRWEB) November 15, 2006

The final results have been delivered and posted from the Emerging Industry Forum, a three week forum with 40 active participants from 16 countries, and 237 registered observers which took place November 1-18, 2005 on Planeta.com. In the year since the dialogue debuted, it has been viewed 100,000 times.

Megan Epler Wood, of EplerWood International — the co-organizer of the forum, created the Executive Summary to deliver the important recommendations that resulted from this forum to donors and all those active in ecotourism development in short form.

“Ecotourism has evolved greatly in the last 10 years as a sustainable development tool,” notes EplerWood. “The fact that industry was deeply involved in this forum gives it particular relevance because sustainability outcomes are only possible if ecotourism businesses are becoming more competitive economically.”

Participants recommended that donors take a new more business friendly approach that fosters small businesses directly and does not hinge on working with NGOs. Financing for ecotourism programs also needs to be moved to small and medium enterprises (SMEs), and SMEs should be given the tools to finance the development and marketing of community based partner enterprises.

Participants stated that community based ecotourism development requires all the same approaches as other businesses, but all agreed that more time is needed to undertake community involvement procedures, and that these time consuming factors need to be factored into the design of donor projects.

Participants found that building green is a regional development issue. It was recommended that development agencies create regional plans for sustainable and ecotourism development where the costs of sustainability can be shared. Too many ecotourism projects have been developed in isolation of larger development projects.

Ron Mader of Planeta.com also points out that, “financial institutions need to post current public information about sustainable tourism investments online on their websites. We can on only track the progress of ecotourism development if there is more transparent information on line which actually provides independently monitored results of the projects funded.”

ABOUT THE FORUM

The Ecotourism Emerging Industry Forum was designed to provide professionally moderated, up-to-date results on small and medium enterprise (SME) priorities for funding and investment decisions for sustainable tourism in developing countries.

The Emerging Industry Forum was organized as seven dialogue areas: Developing Infrastructure for Sustainable Tourism, Private Sector/Public Sector Collaboration, Finance for SMEs, Communities and SMEs, Marketing and Market Development, Interpretive Programs, Triple Bottom Line Business Structures and Strategies. According to forum statistics, the most popular topic was Marketing. Participants discussed the projects they themselves had developed, the challenges they faced, and the possibilities for improving future ecotourism investment.

The e-conference was a showcase of creative collaboration. Having an extended lead time permitted conversations about the real needs of today’s SMEs and donors seeking entry into sustainable tourism financing.

Details

http://www.planeta.com/ecotravel/tour/emerging.html

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