Uniworld Cruises Preserves World With Green Policy

By Nancy Powell Radlauer (PowellReviews@aol.com)

Los Angeles-based Uniworld Boutique River Cruise Collection is a premier river cruise and tour company; it is listed in Condé Nast Traveler's prestigious Gold List, and was voted among the World's Top 10 Small Ship Cruise Lines. Uniworld ships feature intimate settings designed for experienced travelers with expertly planned itineraries, all-inclusive shore excursions, sumptuous cuisine, and award-winning hospitality from an all-English speaking crew. Uniworld offers over 500 departures on more than 35 itineraries, sailing on 12 rivers, in 17 countries throughout Europe, Egypt, and China.

 

This summer, I had the pleasure of sailing on Uniworld’s Douro River Queen, a deluxe ship built in 2005, whose itinerary focuses on seven-night, roundtrip voyages through Spain and Portugal. The Douro River, rising in Spain and reaching the Atlantic Ocean in Porto, has created the spectacular Douro River Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Rambling vineyards and charming native farms, cling to the steep sides of the Douro River Valley, creating an incredible backdrop to one of Europe’s most unspoiled regions and to the Port country, the oldest demarcated wine region in the world. Aptly named the ‘River of Gold’, it is truly a hidden gem for those who seek an unspoiled river valley with lovely vistas.

The Douro Queen is a floating hotel with an intimate small-ship ambiance. It accommodates a maximum of only 125 guests.  All  staterooms have river views (some with private balconies) and are appointed with modern amenities. The main lounge has a full-service bar and dance floor; the upper deck houses a sun deck, jacuzzi, and small swimming pool. Dining is flexible with open-seating and offers a varied cuisine for every palate. Wireless Internet access was occasionally limited due to the ship’s location when in the heart of the Douro Valley, but otherwise attainable. It is difficult in this space to detail every wonderful nuance of our itinerary; but suffice it to say that every facet of this trip moved seamlessly, including my pre-cruise stay in Lisbon. Cruising from Porto to Salamanca (also designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site) included opportunities to visit rural villages; restored palaces, places of pilgrimage such as Gothic cathedrals and Baroque churches, cultural centers and of course, Port-producing vineyards. But there is more to Uniworld than meets the eye.

Uniworld has gone green with a commitment to protecting our environment by ensuring that they minimize their environmental impact of their operations around the world. Their “Green Policy” aims to reduce C02 energy consumption and waste throughout its international operations and offices. In 2008, Uniworld conducted an energy audit of its offices and implemented a range of measures to reduce its overall carbon footprint, usage, and also increase the recycling of consumable products. New initiatives have seen the additional installation of efficient lighting, introduction of an IT energy-saving policy, incentive staff car pooling schemes, at-desk recycling, environmentally-friendly procurement, and a staff environmental education and involvement program. As for assisting local communities; it introduced a staff volunteer program (staff members may volunteer for a local charity of their choice two days a year) and the company itself supports a range of charities throughout the year. Uniworld’s environmental performance is reviewed on an ongoing basis and is committed to continuous improvement across energy and waste management, as well as contributing positively to fostering sustainable tourism in communities around the world. Uniworld has also undertaken to improve client awareness, by recommending steps for reducing one’s individual footprint while on vacation.

Uniworld partnered with Sustainable Travel International; their web site allows you to calculate the carbon footprint of your travel plans and contribute towards projects that will reduce the C02 emissions in the atmosphere on your behalf. Some viable tips for sustainable travel; pass brochures on to a friend or recycle them; buy local products (to reduce transportation air miles for importing); re-fill your own water bottle; recycle packaging of new products; and switch lights and air conditioning off when not in the room. 

And in furthering its commitment, Uniworld’s parent company created The Leading Travel Companies Conservation Foundation, a non-profit organization that invests in supporting long-term sustainable tourism.  In hopes of creating a better world for future generations to enjoy, this consortium has contributed one million dollars per year to fund the conservation and protection of the environment, wildlife and cultural heritage sites; the relief of poverty and the improvement of the conditions of life in socially and economically disadvantaged communities through community involvement; and the promotion of sustainable tourism as a means to achieve economic growth and regeneration. 

Given the opportunity, I would be honored to sail on another Uniworld Boutique River Cruise. Make a difference and travel responsibly with Uniworld. Just remember to heed their advice; “While you’re painting the town red, don’t stop thinking green!”

Uniworld Boutique River Cruises www.Uniworld.com

Sustainable Travel International Click here to find out more and carbon neutralize your travel.

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KIMPTON HOTELS and RESTAURANTS SET SUSTAINABLE TABLE THROUGH WINE, WATER AND SEAFOOD

By Nancy Powell Radlauer (PowellReviews@aol.com)

THE GREEN GRAPEVINE: Kimpton Restaurants, a collection of 45 chef-driven restaurants in the United States and Canada, is a recognized environmental pioneer. New Nationwide Environmental Initiatives have been designed to advance their EarthCare Program. Now, guests can enjoy in-house purified still and sparkling water, increased eco-friendly wine selections, and sustainable seafood dishes at Kimpton destination restaurants in 21 cities.  In each of their participating restaurants, guests can expect the following:

v  30 percent of their wine lists will feature eco-friendly selections by January 2010 (including organic, biodynamic, and sustainable wines from small and large producers)

v  Only sustainable seafood selections will be offered, in accordance with Monterey Bay Aquarium’s Seafood Watch program (currently in place)

v  In-house purified water will be available through a national partnership with Natura by July 2009, to reduce disposable bottle usage.  Each bottle sold will include a Kimpton contribution from most locations (except Illinois, Maryland and Massachusetts), and an additional donation from Natura, to The Nature Conservancy. (Complimentary tap water will still be available at all restaurants, upon request.)

“Although each Kimpton restaurant offers a distinct experience, they all share a passion for, and dedication to, preserving the environment,” said Niki Leondakis, chief operating officer at Kimpton, and chair of the National Restaurant Association’s Committee on Sustainability and Social Responsibility.  “This commitment is the reason that we have decided to raise the bar on green dining at our restaurants brand-wide.”

"By partnering with like-minded companies, such as Natura and the Monterey Bay Aquarium, we are able to take greater strides towards the future of eco-friendly dining,” said Frank Kawecki, director of Northeast and Mid Atlantic restaurant operations and Chair of Kimpton’s restaurant EarthCare program.  “Our new sustainable menu options reflect the steadfast dedication we have towards protecting the environment for generations.”

Using Natura's reusable bottles instead of plastic bottles at a single Kimpton restaurant will reduce oil consumption by over 100 barrels, and will reduce CO2 emissions by 46.8 tons annually. That is a reduction of 5,000 barrels of oil and 2,340 tons of CO2 emissions for all of Kimpton’s nearly 50 restaurants nationwide (as per the Container Recycling Coalition, Dr Gleick (Pacific Institute). By participating in the Monterey Bay Aquarium’s Restaurant Program, Kimpton restaurants pledge not to serve items from the Seafood Watch "Avoid" list and have trained wait staff to be knowledgeable about seafood choices.  These practices play an active role in the protection and health of the oceans.

“We are very excited about our partnership with Kimpton,” said Marco De Plano, Co-founder of Natura water.  “By choosing Natura water, Kimpton guests and employees show their support of the environment by eliminating unnecessary transportation costs and reducing millions of plastic bottles that go to waste every day.”

“Providing guests with sustainable wine selections and supporting environmentally conscious producers is something we feel passionate about at Kimpton,” said Emily Wines, master sommelier and director of wines at Kimpton. “We look forward to educating guests about the quality and flavor of eco-friendly wine.”

KIMPTON’S SUSTAINABLE INITIATIVES DATE BACK TO THE COMPANY’S INCEPTION IN 1981 AND NOW INCLUDES OVER 50 DAILY ENVIRONMENTALLY FRIENDLY PRACTICES UNDER THE EARTHCARE UMBRELLA. Already established EarthCare restaurant practices range from back-of-the-house recycling and fryer oil reuse to toxin-free kitchen cleaning chemicals, the elimination of Styrofoam to-go containers and low-flow plumbing.  

Check out AREA 31 Restaurant, on the 16th Floor of the beautiful EPIC Hotel (270 Biscayne Blvd. Way, Miami), where multi-cultural influences are celebrated with fresh, seasonal, and inspired cuisine from rising-star Chef John Critchley. The restaurant was named for Major Fishing Area 31, their namesake international fishing area, as designated by the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization. This encompasses the marine waters of the Southeast Atlantic Coast, the Gulf of Mexico, the Caribbean Sea and South America's northeast coast. THE UN IS DEDICATED TO KEEPING THIS SPECIFIC AREA, A PLACE OF SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT, A VISION THAT AREA 31 EMBRACES AND ADVANCES. Our fresh ocean-to-table seafood is strictly sustainable, whether farmed or wild-caught. Area 31's eco-friendliness and commitment to quality extend beyond our seafood offerings into every element of our establishment. Everything that we do is rooted in a passion for the planet and the life-affirming joy of flavorful food and drink.

ABOUT KIMPTON HOTELS & RESTAURANTS: Founded in 1981 by Bill Kimpton, San Francisco-based Kimpton Hotels & Restaurants is a collection of boutique hotels and chef-driven restaurants in the U.S. and Canada and the acknowledged industry pioneer who first introduced the boutique hotel concept to America.  Like each hotel, all Kimpton restaurants share common cornerstones: heartfelt care; chef-driven, seasonal menus that celebrate local farms and purveyors; artisanal wines hand-selected by master sommelier Emily Wines; cocktails crafted by master mixologist Jacques Bezuidenhout; and striking interiors with a vibrant style and design. Guided by company-wide EarthCare practices, Kimpton Restaurants demonstrate a dedication to preserving the environment through the use of local and sustainable ingredients, whenever possible. Each Kimpton Restaurant is as distinct and expressive as its location.  Kimpton restaurants include Fifth Floor in San Francisco, Tulio in Seattle, Poste Moderne Brasserie in Washington, D.C. and Panzano in Denver. www.KimptonRestaurants.com or 1-800-KIMPTON

ABOUT NATURA WATER: Natura Water offers a new Eco-chic product designed as a cost-efficient and "green alternative" to bottled water. This unique product consisting of advanced purification and filtration technology connects to the local water source making it into chilled high-grade sparkling or still water. The Natura system also comes with exclusive Natura branded bottles designed for reuse and serving at tables or conference rooms for efficient transportation and decor. The Natura Water system eliminates bottled waste while also lowering the cost of serving water and the need for storage space - making it both environmentally friendly and cost-efficient. Natura Water provides installation and services, including maintenance, training and a toll-free customer care line active 24/7. www.naturawater.com

ABOUT THE MONTEREY BAY AQUARIUM’S SEAFOOD WATCH PROGRAM: Launched in 1999, the Monterey Bay Aquarium’s Seafood Watch® program is a key component of the Aquarium’s Sustainable Seafood Initiative. The Initiative works to transform the seafood market in ways that support ocean-friendly fishing and fish-farming operations. Seafood Watch® provides science-based seafood recommendations through its website and pocket guides, and works with over 180 partners nationwide to educate consumers and businesses about this important issue. www.montereybayaquarium.org, www.seafoodwatch.org

ABOUT THE NATURE CONSERVANCY: The Nature Conservancy is a leading conservation organization working around the world to protect ecologically important lands and waters for nature and people.  To date, the Conservancy and its more than one million members have been responsible for the protection of more than 18 million acres in the United States and have helped preserve more than 117 million acres in Latin America, the Caribbean, Asia and the Pacific. www.nature.org 

                     

 

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Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Hollywood Receives Florida Green Lodging PROGRAM “ONE PALM” Designation

By Nancy Powell Radlauer (powellreviews@aol.com)

THE GREEN GRAPEVINE: Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino has been awarded the Florida Green Lodging Program One Palm designation from The Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP). The voluntary state initiative provides the lodging industry with free technical assistance, encouraging hotels and motels to adopt cost-saving “green” practices that reduce waste and conserve natural resources. The Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino of Hollywood is the first hotel/casino in the State of Florida to earn this distinction, and directly supports Hard Rock International’s "Save the Planet™" global philanthropic initiative to make the earth a safer, healthier and better place to live.

“It’s both an honor and privilege to be recognized for our greening efforts,” said Christian Mari, VP of Operations at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino. “This is a company-wide initiative that our employees have worked diligently to achieve. Recycling, conserving resources and on-going environmental education are very important ways that we are giving back to the community in which we live. We look forward to these and future conservation efforts to ensure an abundant and lush environment for generations to come.”  “It is wonderful to see businesses implement green practices such as water conservation, recycling and energy reduction because they are not only good for business, they are good for Florida’s environment,” said Deas Bohn, DEP Sustainable Initiatives director.

The Florida Green Lodging Program for hotels requires a variety of green practices, including but not limited to, water conservation measures through low flow plumbing fixtures, a linen reuse program, and energy efficiency achieved by installing ENERGY STAR® appliances and programmable thermostats. The waste reduction criteria are met by providing the opportunity to recycle, purchasing items in bulk, purchasing recycled materials and by recycling ink and toner cartridges. All designated properties must also use green cleaners and high efficiency air filters.

Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino initiatives to date:

v  A back-of-house recycling program was established to recycle all glass, tin, aluminum, plastic, paper and warehouse pallets. Recycling bins, from the kitchens to the offices, encourage employees to dispose of items in appropriate recycling receptacles. Recyclable items include outdated computers, monitors and components, cell phones, toner cartridges, printer cartridges, cardboard, pallets, cooking oil, light bulbs, batteries, tires and old paint. 

v Several product changes and energy conservation measures were implemented: the casino switched to green-friendly toilet paper, paper towels and facial tissues, energy-saving LED and compact fluorescent bulbs; and solar panels now recharge ground equipment. A transition to using green chemicals for cleaning purposes has also begun.

v  To save water, auto flush valves, low flow toilets, faucets and shower heads were installed throughout the property. The hotel is using retention pond water for irrigation and fire protection and frozen products are being defrosted in ice baths instead of running water.

v  Council Oak Steaks & Seafood restaurant operates a new water program; instead of buying bottled water they installed a professional-grade water filtration system and fill glass water bottles that can be re-used after cleaning.

v  To encourage their thousands of employees to participate in these efforts, Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino established a “Green Updates Board” in employee areas; a green initiatives-related story in their weekly employee newsletter; and a “Green Tip of the Day” reminder on how they can help Hard Rock "Save the Planet™."

DEP’s Office of Sustainable Initiatives is comprised of three voluntary, non-regulatory programs that assist Florida industry and citizens in protecting the environment: (1) the Clean Marina Program, (2) the Florida Green Lodging Program, and (3) the Florida Pollution Prevention Program offer a variety of services including on-site assessments, consultations, speakers and workshops, all at no cost to citizens or organizations. The goal of the Sustainable Initiatives programs is to meet the needs of the present population without compromising resources for future generations. www.dep.state.fl.us/green/.

Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Hollywood provides quality guest experiences where one can play, stay, dine, and shop. Located inside the casino is Hard Rock Café-Hollywood, part of Hard Rock’s 123 globally recognized rock ‘n roll themed restaurants. The AAA, Four Diamond rated resort with Florida’s Green Lodging Program certification showcases 500 luxurious guest rooms, 16 restaurants and lounges, 40,000-square-feet of meeting room space, a European-style spa, auto salon, 22 retail shops, 14 nightclubs, Paradise Live, and Hard Rock Live. For more information about their Florida Green Lodging Program designation and its environmental initiatives, contact Ryan Rogers at 954-327-7631 or at ryan.rogers@seminolehardrock.com.  State Road 7 (U.S. 441), Hollywood, Florida. For information, call (954) 327-ROCK, 1 800-937-0010 or visit www.seminolehardrockhollywood.com

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BOCA RATON RESORT & CLUB  - A TASTE OF GREEN PARADISE

Story and Some Photos By: Robin Roth

 

I have been writing about hotels for more years than I would like to admit. There are some hotels that are known for being comfortable and hospitable; some are elegant and classic, while some are best known for being modern and chic. There are some hotels that truly make guests feel so very much at home, while others have that sun-and-fun getaway feel along with an aura of tranquility and well-being. Then, there are some hotels that are just filled with class and give their guests an all around sensation of being totally pampered. Well, I have discovered ‘THE’ hotel that brings it all, The Boca Raton Resort and Club. I would like to be calm and refrain from going overboard here but, in fact, I would find that an impossible task. Travelers I say, with all my heart, welcome to Paradise! From the moment you enter its doors you immediately realize that you have arrived into a very special world of opulence and class. I would have to say this is one of my favorite resorts in the world and for so many reasons.

 

The legendary multi award-winning Boca Raton Resort and Club presents a fresh, cutting edge approach to hospitality in a timeless lavish setting, with infinite possibilities of fabulous. The staff is warm, friendly, and at all times helpful and eager to please. While staying at the resort, I absolutely experienced and enjoyed complete luxury and received effortless satisfaction to my every need. I entered into an easy and care free world where all reality and daily stress seemed to fade away. 

 Tracing its origins to the vision of legendary architect Addison Mizner, the hotel redefines classic style and sophistication that is infused with a modern sense of warmth and style. Dreamers, risk-takers, moguls, and millionaires all contributed to the creation of Florida's Boca Raton and the stellar Boca Raton Resort & Club. This is, without a doubt, The ‘IT’ resort destination and elegant place to play and have a ball.

This magical resort is an icon of a hotel filled with pure charm for more than 80 years, and without a doubt, remains faithful to its glamorous past. However, with its recent facelift of $220 million in renovations, it now possesses a vibrant new energy that offers infinite immensities, luxuries, and activities making this the most awesome one-stop all around vacation spot I have found in years. After experiencing the 356-acre Boca Raton Resort & Club first hand, it is obvious why it is one of the country’s premier resort locations and private club facilities. The  amenities include: a half-mile stretch of private beach (which puts you in a vacation mood instantly), the acclaimed Spa Palazzo (talk about plush), two 18-hole championship golf courses and a golf clubhouse (which would impress any avid golfer including myself), the famed Dave Pelz Scoring Game School, one of the country’s top tennis programs with 30 tennis courts and the Chris Evert Adult and Junior Academy, full-service marina, seven swimming pools, (the hard part was picking just one to bask around) three state-of-the-art fitness centers and a variety of water sports. Other Recreation activities on the grounds are bicycling, croquet, volleyball, and basketball.

 BOCA RATON RESORT & CLUB RECEIVES FLORIDA GREEN LODGING PROGRAM DESIGNATION

The environmentally friendly hotel conserves resources, saves money and attracts customers So, for the green conscience, you will be happy to know that the resort is quite GREEN as well. The hotel possesses green ecological concerns and wants to help protect the natural resources of our planet. They use recyclable materials as much as possible. They try to use as much low energy consumption as possible and recycle rain water back into Lake Boca. Bed linens are changed every third day to save water unless requested otherwise. Their amenities are all green as well, and I might add fabulous. The resort states, “We want to make a difference.” I wish more establishments felt this way. 

Boca Raton, FL, January 27, 2009 – The Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) welcomes the Boca Raton Resort & Club to the Florida Green Lodging Program with the presentation of the Resort’s first Palm Award. The voluntary state initiative encourages the hotel industry to adopt cost-saving “green” practices that reduce waste and conserve natural resources.

“It is wonderful to see businesses implement green practices such as water conservation, recycling and energy reduction because they are not only good for business, they are good for Florida’s environment,” said DEP Sustainable Initiatives Director Deas Bohn.

To become a designated member of the Florida Green Lodging Program, hotels must implement a variety of green practices. These practices include water conservation measures through low flow plumbing fixtures, a linen reuse program, and energy efficiency achieved by installing ENERGY STAR® appliances and programmable thermostats. The waste reduction criteria are met by providing the opportunity to recycle, purchasing items in bulk, purchasing recycled materials and by recycling ink and toner cartridges. All designated properties must also use green cleaners and high efficiency air filters.

The Resort & Club is committed to the Green Program, helping preserve the environment for future generations. To date, the Resort’s green initiatives include a recycling program and use of environmentally-friendly products, such as florescent light bulbs, a linens program to reduce water, energy and detergents, recycled paper and "green" cleaning products. In addition, a new energy management system controls the use of electricity by adjusting the air conditioning in rooms and spaces that are not being used and reclaimed water for 90% of all exterior landscaping is used.

Since beginning of the program, the Resort’s program has recycled 92,780 pounds of cardboard; 83,560 pounds of glass and saved over $8,500.

Florida Green Lodging Award Certification

Launched in March 2004, the Florida Green Lodging Program establishes environmental guidelines for hotels and motels to conserve natural resources and prevent pollution. In 2007 Governor Crist signed three executive orders initiating state energy-use policies, including one that requires state agencies and departments to hold meetings and conferences only at hotels with the Florida Green Lodging Program designation as of January 1, 2008, whenever possible. For more information about the Florida Green Lodging Program, visit www.dep.state.fl.us/greenlodging.

DEP’s Office of Sustainable Initiatives is comprised of three voluntary, non-regulatory programs that assist Florida industry and citizens in protecting the environment. The Clean Marina Program, the Florida Green Lodging Program and the Florida Pollution Prevention Program offer a variety of services including on-site assessments, consultations, speakers and workshops, all at no cost to citizens or organizations. The goal of the Sustainable Initiatives programs is to meet the needs of the present population without compromising resources for future generations. To learn more about DEP’s Sustainable Initiatives, visit www.dep.state.fl.us/green/.