British travel company Thomas Cook awards Montenegro for contributing to sustainable tourism development

Podgorica, Montenegro (10 April 2014) -- Leading British travel company Thomas Cook has honoured Montenegro with “Destination of Excellence 2014” bronze award for major contribution to sustainable tourism development.

The award is based on the research carried out by the travel agency Alfa Tours from Budva and the Thomas Cook in 2013. Successful cooperation between the two companies started in 1998 and is aimed at better positioning Montenegrin tourism within international framework.

The results of this research show that Montenegro is very successful in meeting standards towards developing sustainable tourism in accordance with guidelines of the “Destination of Excellence” programme, which is divided into three levels – bronze, silver and gold award. Twenty five destinations have won the bronze award to date, including Montenegro.

To gain this kind of award, a country must show full commitment to protecting environment, reducing electricity and water consumption, developing sustainable transport mode, recycling and efficient waste management.

Thomas Cook Group is one of the most respectful and oldest global companies dealing with travelling. It is founded in 1841 in London, and nowadays has representative offices in 17 countries with over 27 000 employees. Every year, 23 million people travel across the world using the company’s services. Its business philosophy implies business responsibility, sustainable development and environmental protection.“Destination of Excellence” programme was established in May 2012 as the framework for doing business in accordance with these principles.