Eagle Beach, Aruba – With great pride the Aruba Bucuti Beach Resort announces that National Geographic Traveler recently recognized them for their exceptional sense of place on the magazine’s first annual “Stay List.”

THE STAY LIST: 150 HOTELS YOU WILL LOVE… is what the article is called and is in the current issue April 2008.

According to Editor Keith Bellows, there is no greater letdown than a hotel that isn’t original and fails to exhibit any understanding of its cultural context. Hence the creation of National Geographic Traveler’s “Stay List” that celebrates 150 hotels in the United States, Canada, Mexico and the Caribbean region that are among the best at blending location-inspired architecture, ambience and amenities, eco-stewardship and an ethic of giving back to the community. Backed by extensive research, including input from local experts and seasoned travelers, in-depth questionnaires to more than 600 nominated hotels and detailed follow-up by magazine staff, the list showcases overnights that range from rustic to luxurious, dirt cheap to splurge. Yet all the featured hotels cherish a sense of place and offer a sweet night’s sleep. Organized by country, state and city, this is a list that travelers will refer to repeatedly.

“Promoting conservation among our staff and guests is a major part of the Bucuti experience. Says Ewald Biemans. “Whether it’s participating on one of our resort-sponsored beach clean-ups, our recycled crafts contests, interacting with local organizations such as Turtugaruba, or enjoying local cuisine, folklore and music at our restaurant on Aruban night at the Pirates’ Nest, our guests can count on a truly hands-on, authentic Aruban experience.”

The resort’s guest rooms feature Aruba Aloe toiletries and balconies with a view of the beautiful white sandy shores of Eagle Beach. Bucuti’s grounds are landscaped with flora indigenous to the island, which has been labeled by Biemans for guest education.

In addition to his dedication to maintaining the island’s cultural identity, Biemans is also a leader in the region for instituting environmentally sound operating practices. Leading by example, he encourages the entire community to prioritize environmental preservation in their daily lives. Bucuti was the first Caribbean resort to become ISO 14001 certified and is now celebrating its fifth consecutive year of certification and its seventh consecutive year of Green Globe 21 certification.

Throughout the resort, energy and resources are conserved through the use of light and air conditioning sensors, environmentally friendly products and bulk dispensers for products including soap, shampoo and lotion. Solar heated water is used in designated areas of the resort and ozone machines, rather than chemical aerosols, keep guest rooms smelling fresh. HAACP policies and equipment such as the BERSON UV line keep the food and water safe for associates and guests alike.

Bucuti’s award winning environmental program is truly extensive. Biemans regularly gives environmental tours of the resort for colleagues, students, service clubs and other island businesses who are interested to learn about it.