July 26, 2010 -

La Fortuna, Costa Rica - Reported by Elite Traveler, the Private Jet Lifestyle Magazine

Tabacón Grand Spa Thermal Resort in Arenal, Costa Rica, has achieved the Luxury Eco Certification Standard (LECS), becoming the first luxury hotel in that country and the second luxury hotel in the world to pass the intensive desk audit and on-site inspections required for certification. The innovative program, developed by The Leading Hotels of the World, Ltd. in partnership with Sustainable Travel International, awards LECS based on high marks in policy and documentation, energy conservation, water conservation, recycling and community. Tabacón was certified 100% carbon neutral in May 2009.

LECS is the first global certification program of its kind for luxury properties and was created through a partnership between Sustainable Travel International, the global non-profit leader in sustainable travel solutions, and Leading Quality Assurance, a joint venture of Leading Hotels that specializes in quality assurance, benchmarking and training to the luxury hospitality industry. The program focuses on Triple Bottom Line management achievements where people, planet and profit are all part of the property's business objectives.

Brian T. Mullis, Sustainable Travel International president stated, "By achieving the Luxury Eco Certification Standard, Tabacón has demonstrated its superiority not only in quality and service but also in the resort's commitment to safeguarding the natural and cultural heritage of our planet for future generations." Noted Uwe Wagner, director general, "In an area with tropical rainforest, the Arenal Volcano and many kinds of wildlife, conservation and environmental care are critical. We actively encourage both our staff members and our guests to become involved in sustainability."

Read the full story at http://bit.ly/aYlGtQ

Source: tabacon.com