OSA PENINSULA, Costa Rica—Announced today, Lapa Rios Ecolodge, an upscale, eco-conscious resort in Costa Rica, has been honored as a 2007 Corporate Sustainable Standard-Setter by the highly respected Rainforest Alliance organization at its 20^th anniversary gala in New York City. The prestigious recognition celebrates Lapa Rios’ “outstanding leadership efforts” in promoting both environmental and social sustainability.

A nonprofit international conservation organization, the Rainforest Alliance applauded Lapa Rios’ significantly advanced goals as a pioneering company for the green travel movement.

“The Rainforest Alliance is proud to honor these business leaders that have been incorporating a responsible approach into every day decisions and encouraging sustainable practices in agriculture, forestry and tourism,” said Tensie Whelan, executive director of the Rainforest Alliance. “We are encouraged by the expansion of a greener corporate culture that is helping tip global markets toward sustainability.” 

Dedicated to providing the ultimate harmonious escape since 1993, Lapa Rios founders Karen and John Lewis work diligently to continually enhance and update Lapa Rios’ acclaimed Sustainability Program, focusing on the belief that ”acres of land are no needed nearly as much right now as acres of attitude.”

Tucked within 1,000 acres of Central America’s last remaining lowland tropical rainforest and overlooking the Pacific Ocean, the upscale wilderness resort offers interactive tourism with greater respect for the social-cultural and ecological interests of local communities, high service standards and the ability to protect and regenerate the natural environment and local customs. 

Built as a private nature reserve, Lapa Rios blends seamlessly among its surroundings, featuring 16 suiita-thatch bungalows perched 350 feet above the churning sea, and a main lodge that houses a fine-dining restaurant and bar – all hidden beneath the dense, tropical canopy.

Not only do guests contribute to the conservation of the rainforest with a stay at Lapa Rios, they are offered the opportunity to learn about and truly experience a sustainable environment at its best. From Sunday night “sustainability chats” – where local conservationist groups discuss environmental issues with guests – to Tico Cooking Classes taught by local women and featuring Costa Rican cuisine, Lapa Rios Ecolodge thrives in educating eco-minded travelers.

Travelers seeking a slice of paradise are encouraged to visit www.laparios.com, where they can catch a glimpse of the endangered wildlife that freely roams the resort’s private nature reserve. From scarlet macaws and toucans to sloths and coatis, guests can easily soak up the colors of Costa Rica from the balcony of their eco-sensitive bungalow.

For more information on Lapa Rios, their detailed sustainability practices, or to inquire about packages, rates and reservations please visit http://www.laparios.com/ or call 506-735-5130.