The magazine, which forms part of the Time group, introduced the awards in 2005 to recognise the outstanding efforts of individuals, organisations and companies that are working to preserve the world's natural and man-made resources. The Vineyard Hotel was hailed as a 'trailblazer' and a powerful voice in promoting sustainability and the mindfulness of natural resources - Travel + Leisure went on to describe the hotel as a "beacon of energy-efficient hospitality".
The hotel's GM, Roy Davies, said: "The Vineyard Hotel is naturally thrilled with this announcement and to have been included among the top-three sustainable properties, globally. However, our sustainability efforts have always been a labour of love - and not for recognition or fame. Pioneered by CEO Lex Petousis, and Group Sustainability Manager, Chris van Zyl, the Vineyard Hotel's vision of 'living green' comes from the heart and is an integral part of our ethos."
The awards honoured destinations across the world - including Ciudad Perdida, Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta in Colombia and the Inthar Heritage House and Inle Princess Resort in Myanmar. The only other two awards received in Africa went to Campi Ya Kanzi, Chyulu Hills in Kenya and Conservancy Safaris Namibia, Swakopmund in Namibia.
Lex Petousis, CEO of the Petousis Group of Hotels - which includes the Vineyard Hotel, Townhouse Hotel and Oude Werf Hotel, commented on the announcement: "I am very proud of our team - the inclusion of the property in the Global Vision Awards shows that their hard work is not going unrecognised. This acknowledgement serves to further fuel our passion for a sustainable business approach - which is an integral part of our operating system and culture."
For more, go to www.vineyard.co.za.
