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August/2010  
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Uniglobe & Go Green!
You've
probably heard the terms "eco-tourism" or "green-travel". In
fact, environmentally friendly trips are all the rage in our ever
changing world. Yet, paying homage to planet earth doesn't mean
your wallet has to suffer or that you will have to swat mosquitoes in
the middle of nowhere. It can be as easy as opting for a bus instead
of a rental car or as in depth as planning a whole trip around giving
back to the environment. In this month's newsletter you'll find:
tips on lowering your carbon footprint while traveling, a list of
certified green hotels/resorts, and a feature on Costa Rica, one of
the most popular destinations for sustainable travel.
Visit our website or send us an email to learn more about Uniglobe Travel Designers.
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 | Costa Rica, an Eco-tourist's Paradise
Gorgeous beaches, pristine weather, stunning flora and fauna, and the natural warmth of the native "Ticos" make Costa Rica an ecotourism haven. This beautiful country embodies the perfect appreciation for life's simplest delights. Although small in size (just 19,730 sq. miles), Costa Rica offers incredible biodiversity with its scenic beaches, lush rain forest, active volcanoes and exotic wild life. Another advantage, Costa Rica is close to the United States; in just a 2 and a half hour flight from Miami, you can enjoy all the amazing things this country has to offer.
Jacqueline, one of the owners of Uniglobe Travel Designers,
visited Costa Rica in 2009.
Here, she recounts her adventure:
"I flew from Miami to San Jose and was surprised at how easy/short the flight was. With
a week to spend, I began my journey in Puntarenas where I stayed at the Double Tree Resort by Hilton Puntarenas. The all-inclusive resort was the perfect setting for exploring Costa Rica and relaxing on the beach. Along with the numerous amenities that the resort had to offer; national parks, surfing, nightlife and shopping were all readily accessible.
Exotic wildlife, and the Beach in Puntarenas  |
After my weekend in Puntarenas, I traveled to San Jose where I stayed in a wonderful Spanish style villa. Traveling with a group of 10, the villa was a fun way for all of us to stay together. We were welcomed with Costa Rican hospitality, and enjoyed everything the villa had to offer: live in staff, chef, pool, Jacuzzi, 7 bedrooms/baths and much more! While in San Jose, I had the chance to experience the night life and cuisine. Dining at Tiquicia in Escazu was definitely a highlight. The authentic Costa Rican meal was delicious and the view of Central Valley was breath taking!
View of Central Valley from Tiquicia  |
My favorite day in Costa Rica was at the Tabacon Grand Spa and Thermal Resort,
a five-star eco-friendly resort. Located at the foot of the Arenal Volcano in the northern region of Costa Rica, Tabacon offers a world of amenities: a world class spa, therapeutic hot springs, restaurants and more. I spent an unforgettable day relaxing in the hot springs sipping caipirinhas in the exotic tropical gardens with a perfect view of the volcano...it was truly paradise!
Arenal Volcano (left), and Relaxing in the Hot Springs (right)  |
I would highly recommend Costa Rica for your next vacation. It provides the perfect balance of adventure and relaxation in the midst of natural beauty. I can not wait to return...my first stop, Tabacon!"
Contact Jacqueline to start planning your Costa Rican getaway!
Send Jacqueline an email or fill out our vacation request form
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Tips for Traveling GREEN
Planning your trip:
Fly Green
Book flights with airlines that are committed to the environment like British Airways and Southwest Airlines.
Pack Light
This will help to reduce the weight of the load which will allow the airplane to use its fuel more efficiently. This will also help you to avoid baggage fees.
Sleep Green
Choose a green hotel or resort. We, Uniglobe Travel Designers, can help you select an eco-friendly accommodation based on your needs.
While traveling:
Go with public transportation
Trains, buses and subways emit a lot less carbon than a typical car and are almost always cheaper modes of transportation.
Rent a Hybrid
If you have to use a rental car choose a hybrid.
While at your destination:
Remember the "Three R's"
Just because you are on vacation doesn't mean you should stop obeying the "Three R's": reduce, reuse and recycle. Turn off the lights and air conditioner when leaving the room. Try to reuse bath towels instead of getting new ones every day.
Use less water
Take short showers and turn off the water when brushing your teeth.
Travel Green Tip: eat at local markets  | Eat Local
Choose restaurants and dining options that utilize local ingredients and buy souvenirs handmade by the local artisans.
Electronic Check Out
Check out using the hotel's electronic program which will help to reduce paperwork.
After your trip:
Stay Green at Home
Try to apply some of these changes to your life at home. These efforts are very small and can help in reducing pollution, global warming and interference with the local environment.
Contact Monica by email to learn more ways to reduce your carbon footprint while traveling. |
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Environmentally-Friendly Hotels & Resorts
Poolside at the Epic Hotel  | Epic Hotel, Miami
Who knew being green could
be this sexy?
This new boutique waterfront hotel is located between the Miami River and the Biscayne Bay and boosts two outdoor swimming pools on the 16th floor, a full service spa and a hosted evening wine hour. Pets are welcome.
Beaches Boscobel, Jamaica (left) and Hapuku Lodge,
New Zealand (right)  | Beaches Boscobel Resort
& Golf Club, Jamaica
The ultimate playground for kids
and adults.
Yes, even certain powerhouses like
the Beaches Brand make serious commitments to the environment. This all-inclusive resort includes: a Pirates Island water park with 11 water slides, 5 specialty restaurants, and a unique scuba program. Right now when you book, golf is complimentary for the whole family.
Hapuku Lodge, New Zealand
Luxury meets nature!
This dream retreat overlooks the Seaward Mountain Range and the surf of Mangamaunu Bay. You can ski, surf, hike or take advantage of the nearby Marlborough Wine Region. The Hapuku Lodge prides itself on using sustainable materials, conserving heat and water, employing alternate energy sources, and offers organic and vegetarian dining options.
Palomar Hotel, San Francisco  | Hotel Palomar, San Francisco
Be Green by the Bay!
It's probably not a surprise to you that San Francisco has a wealth of green hotel options,
but the Hotel Palomar is first rate. Located in the happening SOMA district, this "artful retreat" offers: yoga baskets and videos upon request, evening wine hour and 5th floor restaurant and lounge which is a recipient of a 2010 Michelin Star.
Pets are welcome.
Visit Uniglobe Travel Designers online to plan your Green vacation today!
Ask the Experts!
We're here to answer all of your travel related questions. Whether you're looking for the hottest new destinations or tips on how to make travel more affordable, we've got the answers! Click the link below and ask away! We may even feature your question in our next newsletter.
Submit your question to the Uniglobe Travel experts
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Safe Travels,
Uniglobe Travel Designers |
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