Monday, July 14, 2008

Flats in Luxor goes Green

Responsible Travel

Flats in Luxor has been officially recognized by Responsible Travel as Luxor’s first eco friendly or “green” tourist accommodation.

Owners Jane Akshar and Mahmoud Jahlan did a holiday themselves through Responsible Travel and liked the eco friendly concept so much they decided to apply it to their own business. Having spent time reviewing their business practices, tours and accommodation, changes were made in accordance with the latest ecological practices. Staff terms and conditions, environment, fittings and furniture, even their tours had to make changes in order to meet the high standards required.

“We have always believed in keeping the tourist dollar in the local economy and this is just an extension of that kind of tourism or travel”, said Akshar. “There were areas we had to review staff, consumables, recycling, etc. For example, our staff is 100% Egyptian, from Luxor itself. We take our responsibilities to them seriously. We recently helped 2 members with their wedding expenses and we always cover sickness. Another example is our consumption of electricity, which is all hydro electric; using low energy bulbs, timed lighting in communal areas, and providing fans so reduce the use of air conditioning. There is lots, lots more”.

“Even some of our tours are green using bicycles and donkeys for transportation to the sites and walking tours with local guides.”

Flats in Luxor is recommended by the Lonely Planet and Rough Guide. It provides unique independent holidays and tours to visitors to Egypt. Whether you want a full holiday arranged or just a camel trip in Luxor they can help you. They also provide Nile Cruises on sailing boats via Sail the Nile.

Jane Akshar is also the author of a popular blog hosted by Tour Egypt, the premier guide on the web to holidays in Egypt.

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