First Green Globe Gold Status resort awareded recertification

LOS ANGELES, California – Green Globe announced re-certification of Manchebo Beach Resort & Spa in Aruba, in the Caribbean. Since its initial certification in 2003, this luxury resort has continued to be a leader in sustainability and responsible tourism, and was the first certified Green Globe resort earning prestigious Gold Status in January 2008.

“At Manchebo Beach Resort & Spa we promise to preserve a safe and healthy environment for the island of Aruba, its people and visiting guests,” said Edgar Roelofs, General Manager at Manchebo Beach Resort & Spa, “We are very proud of our Green Globe Certification achievements and the international recognition, and it is our goal to continuously improve our environmental efforts to secure a sustainable future for the business.”

Manchebo Beach Resort & Spa implemented a long-term sustainability management system, energy goals, and operational performance is strictly monitored. In addition, the hotel conducts various projects on renewable energy sources. The property’s zero-impact policy encourages guests to support a carbon-neutral stay and to minimize their environmental footprint. All guest room doors are insulated by weather strips, and the patio sliding doors are tinted with double glass to maximize the air conditioners’ efficiency. Low-watt warm fluorescent light bulbs are installed in all light fixtures throughout the property. The towel and linen re-use program reduces water and electricity consumption, and room amenities are vegetable based, packaging is made of 100% compostable bottles. Local suppliers and services following best environmental practices are given preference. The resort takes on social responsibility by educating its staff members, guests, suppliers, and community to build environmental awareness and action. Guests are invited to join local environmental and community-related activities, such as the monthly island-wide beach clean-up.

Green Globe Certification’s CEO, Guido Bauer, said: “We are extremely pleased about Manchebo Beach Resort & Spa’s re-certification and their high compliance rate against Green Globe Certification criteria. This resort demonstrates outstanding commitment and sets benchmarks with their eco-friendly performance in the Caribbean.”

ABOUT MANCHEBO BEACH RESORT & SPA

Manchebo Beach Resort & Spa offers the ultimate vacation experience in the Caribbean. The 2-story boutique resort is located on the shores of Eagle Beach, Aruba’s widest beach, an ideal place for romantic and rejuvenating getaways. The property offers 72 deluxe and newly-renovated Ocean and Garden View Rooms with an inviting island decor. Manchebo Beach Resort & Spa features three a-la-carte restaurants, including the French Steakhouse, Giorgio’s Ristorante Italiano, and the casual beach-side Pega-Pega Café and Bar. Spa del Sol, a Caribbean-Balinese spa on the beach is the place for healing massages delivered in a beachfront gazebo and sea-side yoga classes. The resort is just 10 minutes away from downtown Oranjestad, Aruba’s capital.

Contact: Lidia Halley, Environmental Coordinator, Manchebo Beach Resort & Spa, J.E. Irausquin Boulevard # 55, Eagle Beach, Aruba, USA, Phone (297) 582 3444, Fax (297) 583 3589, Email [email protected] , www.manchebo.com

ABOUT GREEN GLOBE CERTIFICATION

Green Globe Certification is the worldwide sustainability system based on internationally -accepted criteria for sustainable operation and management of travel and tourism businesses. Operating under a worldwide license, Green Globe Certification is based in California, USA, and is represented in over 83 countries. Green Globe Certification is a member of the Global Sustainable Tourism Council, supported by the United Nations Foundation. For information,visit www.greenglobe.com .