Viva Wyndham Maya Resort Receives the Rainforest Alliance Verified™ Mark

MIAMI, Aug. 29, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Viva Wyndham Resorts® announces that the Viva Wyndham Maya Resort in Playa del Carmen, Mexico has been awarded the Rainforest Alliance Verified™ mark. This verification by one of the world's leading environmental non-profits demonstrates the all-inclusive resort company's progress towards minimizing its environmental footprint and supporting the sustainability of the local cultures and surrounding communities of its properties.

Rainforest Alliance verification is a tool for tourism companies such as hotel and resort chains, tour operators and others to operate sustainably. The organization works with these companies to achieve the verification goal by providing guidance throughout the process, training and technical assistance of staff, progress checks and communication vehicles between the industry and consumers. Rainforest Alliance verification underscores Viva Wyndham's continued efforts to expand its environmental sustainability initiatives and to preserve the incredible, natural beauty surrounding each of its properties.

"Viva Wyndham Resorts, and specifically our Maya property, are extremely proud to be part of a group of tourism businesses that carry the Rainforest Alliance Verified^™ mark and a powerful initiative that contributes to the strengthening of the tourism industry's efforts towards the environment," said Rafael Blanco Canto, executive vice president for Viva Wyndham Resorts. "The Viva Wyndham Maya is located in one of the most breathtaking destinations in Mexico. By obtaining this seal of approval, the property has adopted new environmental policies and by involving staff and guests, we can further promote sustainable tourism and preserve the natural beauty of our resort."

In addition to the environment, Viva Wyndham Resorts social responsibility platform includes societal issues, with a particular focus on youth and families, and educational initiatives.

About The Rainforest Alliance
The Rainforest Alliance works to conserve biodiversity and ensure sustainable livelihoods by transforming land-use practices, business practices and consumer behavior. Established in 1987, the non-profit organization has 35,000 members and more than 400 employees across 13 offices worldwide. The Rainforest Alliance has a 4-star rating from Charity Navigator. For more information, visit www.rainforest-alliance.org.

About Viva Wyndham Resorts®

Viva Wyndham Resorts® features all-inclusive properties throughout the Bahamas, Dominican Republic and Mexico. Viva Wyndham Resorts' multilingual staff, tropical settings, extensive amenities and thorough entertainment line-up ensures guests a truly customized vivid all-inclusive experience. As part of the brand's passion for life, it strives to protect all the resort's surrounding environments and cultures by implementing green programs. For reservations or more information, call 800-WYNDHAM or visit www.vivawyndhamresorts.com.

SOURCE Viva Wyndham Resorts