Tour Operator Highlights Growing Trend: Marrying Luxury and Sustainability Creating a Fresh Concept of Eco-Luxury Vacations

Denver, CO, June 10, 2010 --(PR.com)-- As Americans fret over diminishing natural and financial resources, it seems as though two concepts, once seen as opposites, are now viewed as highly compatible. Denver-based tour operator Reefs to Rockies (www.reefstorockies.com), specializing in conservation tourism to biodiversity hotspots across the globe, highlights this growing trend - booking with properties that incorporate sustainability and conservation into their business plan and implement strategies to lower environmental impact. All of this is achieved without reducing class of service, attention to detail, or revenues. These trips have been come to be known as eco-luxury vacations.

“Along with the economic downturn, we've seen a shift in our clients' attitudes. Travelers today are looking for a more unique, authentic experience at the destination," explains Sheridan Samano, co-owner of Reefs to Rockies. “We are seeing an increase in travelers looking for a more experiential trip or an eco-luxury vacation. A journey that offers an unforgettable and life-changing experience that can be cultural, spiritual, social or active. The experience enhances the way one connects with the world and with local community member. Having said that, travelers are not willing to give up their creature comforts while on vacation. They may be willing to roll up their sleeves and become more immersed in the culture of the destination, but they don't want to sacrifice being comfortable at the end of the day. For example, travelers love the opportunity to spend time volunteering at an orphanage in Kenya or patrolling beaches in search of nesting leatherback sea turtles in Costa Rica or Trinidad. But once finished, they look forward to luxury accommodations, be it a lodge or tent camp, with great food, comfortable beds, and hot showers.”

Each of Reefs to Rockies’ eco-luxury vacations focus on the experience of the destination. Particular attention is given to the culture and this history of a biologically diverse region. Every itinerary is carefully crafted to implement the following critical steps which make the trip sustainable and impactful. The company makes sure to book with local companies and hire local guides so the money is directly filtered into the destination and the clients get a first-hand account of the local culture. Reefs to Rockies educates travelers about sustainable tourism, environmental stewardship, and resource conservation with pre-departure packets before and special briefings throughout the trip so travelers are sure to leave the lightest footprint possible. The company feels it is also important to maintain small group size to increase interaction among the group and to ultimately, boost the exchange of knowledge throughout the trip.

The trip that particularly highlights the amalgamation of luxury and sustainability is Reefs to Rockies’ Ultimate Wildlife Adventure. The journey includes observing humpback whales, tracking wild cats in the forest, rappelling down 70-foot waterfalls and snorkeling along the shores of Caño Island, all while helping support local conservation efforts in Costa Rica. After every day of adventure and conservation education, travelers recharge at some of the most luxurious ego loges in Costa Rica; including Reefs to Rockies’ favorite El Remanso. The accommodation provides stunning views of the Pacific Ocean, succulent dishes made with local ingredients and activities such as yoga and surfing offering endless entertainment all while using 100% renewable energies, partaking in a Recycling & Waste management program, using biodegradable products, protecting the local habitat and so much more.

Travelers interested in the Ultimate Wildlife Adventure in Costa Rica or other eco-luxury vacations and are interested in traveling with Reefs to Rockies, a company who believes that responsible and sustainable tourism can make a tremendous impact in areas in need of conservation, by contacting Sheridan Samano by email (Sheridan@ReefstoRockies.com) or by phone (+1.303.860.6045). Also, visit http://www.reefstorockies.com/ for many other wildlife-packed, conservation-based journeys.

Reefs to Rockies is a boutique tour operator specializing in customized itineraries to destinations famous for their wildlife and biodiversity. These “biodiversity hotspots” offer travelers unparalleled opportunities to view wildlife in their natural environments. The company carefully considers the impact of their activities on the environment and local communities, and they remain committed to promoting the principles of sustainable and responsible tourism. Reefs to Rockies’ clients can expect exceptional itineraries, spectacular wildlife, and expert guides. Conservation through tourism.

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