Looking to make a difference when you vacation? Four environmentally friendly resorts in Costa Rica are now available through United Airlines’ new Eco-Skies Vacations, a travel program that provides United customers with vacation options that incorporate sustainability and environmental responsibility into their getaways. The airline is working with The Mark Travel Corporation, exclusive tour operator for United Vacations, and long-time partner and global nonprofit organization Sustainable Travel International to launch the vacation program. The program is being piloted in Costa Rica, a destination known for its stunning beaches and breathtaking rain forests, as well as its commitment to sustainable tourism and environmental stewardship.
••••••
DON’T MISS: 8 Top Adventure Travel Experiences in Costa Rica
••••••
“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.”
••••••
DON’T MISS: ¡Buen Provecho! 7 Great Restaurants in Puerto Viejo, Costa Rica
••••••
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.
••••••
DON’T MISS: Must-See Historic Architecture in San José, Costa Rica (PHOTOS)
••••••
Featured Eco-Skies Vacation Resorts
• The Westin Playa Conchal Golf Resort and Spa, situated on Costa Rica’s North Pacific Riviera, has 99 acres of dry forest dedicated to protection of the local environment and is ISO (International Organization for Standardization) certified.
• The Tabacón Grand Spa, nestled in a lush Costa Rican rainforest, has achieved the Luxury Eco Certification Standard and offers flora and fauna protection, wastewater treatment and workshops on the natural surroundings.
••••••
DON’T MISS: 7 Tips for Whitewater Rafting in Costa Rica
••••••
• Costa Rica’s Barceló Langosta Beach Hotel in Tamarindo is located on a 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. It’s certified by the Certification for Sustainable Tourism Program.