Hermitage Bay Antigua Gets Green Globe Certification

Los Angeles, California (USA) – March 8, 2013 – Green Globe announces certification of the Hermitage Bay Hotel in Antigua, in the Caribbean. Since its opening in December 2006, this luxury resort has been positioned as an environmentally-conscious property with a clear focus on protecting its untouched natural surroundings.

“This gentle-handed approach was adhered to by clearing the land in a non-invasive manner, sourcing sustainable building materials and constructing the property to blend in naturally with its surroundings,” said Andy Thesen, Environmentalist and Owner of the Hermitage Bay Hotel. “The practice continues to this day with the hotel’s ‘reduce, reuse, and recycle’ policy. Solar energy is used for running water, and grey water is utilized for gardening. All sheets, towels, and linens, as well as robes, are recycled by being donated to local homes and charity organizations. The kitchens at Hermitage have a policy of ‘zero food miles’ whenever possible, including buying only local fish and produce. Additionally, we’re extremely proud of our ever-growing organic garden producing vegetables, fruits, and herbs which are served to our guests daily. One of our most popular ‘events’ at the hotel is the weekly garden tour with the Chef. Our achievement with Green Globe is a wonderful recognition of our efforts, and we are proud to be placed among our most respected colleagues in the industry.”

A long-term sustainability management system is implemented at the Hermitage Bay Hotel, and a dedicated eco-team monitors the progress of green measures, shaping and realizing environmental goals set forth by the property. Energy efficient heating, cooling, and lighting is in effect, including low lighting on the beach to not disturb turtles laying their eggs. Guests are invited to learn about the history and eco-system of the island, and the hotel offers a number of eco-friendly activities, such as nature walks conducted by Antiguan natives.

The Hermitage Bay Hotel works closely with the Environmental Awareness Group of Antigua and Barbuda (EAG), promoting sustainable use of natural resources. EAG has initiated a number of projects and campaigns to address environmental problems the Antigua and Barbuda area is facing. Current projects include the Offshore Islands Conservation Program, the Christian Valley Birding Trail Project, the Life Stock Reform Initiative, Caribbean Water Bird Census, and conserving native ferns, as they are an important barometer of the ecological health of the environment.

Green Globe Certification’s CEO, Guido Bauer, commented: “We are extremely pleased to award certification to the Hermitage Bay Hotel. The resort provides a luxurious, peaceful, and natural environment and is home to many species of plants, birds, turtles, and more. I am impressed with the property’s environmental preservation and wildlife conservation efforts, and their ongoing support of the local community.”

ABOUT HERMITAGE BAY HOTEL

The intimate, privately-owned Hermitage Bay Hotel is comprised of 25 luxury cottages, and guests can enjoy a sort of members-only exclusivity. Tucked into a beautiful bay in one of the most secluded corners of Antigua, it is perfect for those seeking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. Spanning 16 acres of lush tropical gardens, this eco-chic, luxury hotel provides all the comforts of a 5-star resort – without compromising the natural habitat that thrives around it. The resort offers open-air facilities, extensive beach, and detached rooms, to unwind in isolated luxury. Each of the 8 beachfront cottages features a spacious split-level lounge and patio, while the large wrap-around decks and private plunge pools of the 17 hillside pool suites afford the added luxury of soaking up the Caribbean sun from the privacy of your own sunbathing deck. Whether enjoying lunch by the pool, dining in the beachfront restaurant, or having breakfast in bed, every meal feels privately catered. The menus change daily and feature locally-grown products and organic ingredients. At the resort entrees are prepared to order, and the kitchen is always open.

Media Contact: Jennifer Forte Cuomo, Principal, JFC PR, Tel: 631 265 0584 (office), E-mail jennifer@jfcpr.com , www.jfcpr.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

Media Contact: Green Globe Certification, Phone: +1-310-337-3000, Fax: +1-310-626-9982, Email: prlax@greenglobe.com , Web: www.greenglobe.com