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DE PALM TOURS EARNS GSTC CERTIFICATION, SETTING A NEW STANDARD FOR SUSTAINABLE TOURISM IN THE CARIBBEAN

For more than 65 years, De Palm Tours has shared the beauty of Aruba with the world. But for us, travel has never been only about where you go. It’s about how you experience it and how that experience protects the island, its people, and its future.

That’s why we are incredibly proud to share a milestone that means so much to our journey. De Palm Tours has officially earned certification in 2025 from the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC), becoming the first and only tour operator in the Caribbean and Latin America to receive this globally recognized distinction. 

This is more than a certification. It’s a reflection of who we are and what we stand for. Today’s travelers are looking for experiences that align with their values. They want to explore responsibly, knowing their choices support local communities and protect the environment. GSTC certification confirms that we meet the highest international standards for environmental, social, and cultural sustainability, verified through a rigorous, independent third-party audit.

In simple terms, it means our guests can explore Aruba with confidence, knowing every adventure helps build a more responsible future for the island.

This achievement builds on years of measurable action. De Palm Tours proudly holds seven consecutive EarthCheck certifications and a second Gold recertification, milestones that reflect continuous improvement across all our operations.

Some of the ways we bring sustainability to life every day include:

  • A 1 MW solar array powering De Palm Island
  • A LEED-designed Operations Center built for energy efficiency
  • AI-powered dash cams and eco-driver training to reduce emissions
  • Reef-safe sunscreen and refillable water stations across our properties
  • Cash-lite systems that streamline operations and reduce waste
  • Ongoing community outreach through The Giving Palm, supporting local families, schools, and social initiatives, including awareness around human trafficking

Each action, big or small, moves us closer to our goal of operating responsibly while delivering unforgettable experiences that truly honor Aruba.

Our commitment doesn’t stop here. In April 2026, we will open the Coral Academy, expanding environmental education and marine conservation efforts on the island. This includes continued collaboration on the TUI Sea The Change Aruba project, led by the TUI Care Foundation, ScubbleBubbles Foundation, and De Palm Tours, focused on coral restoration, marine education, and long-term reef protection.

Unlike self-assessments, GSTC certification is independently audited, ensuring transparency, credibility, and integrity. As global cruise lines such as Royal Caribbean and Norwegian Cruise Line increasingly prioritize working with GSTC-certified partners, this achievement positions both De Palm Tours and Aruba as leaders in sustainable tourism across the region.

This milestone belongs to every member of the De Palm Tours family. Our Green Team and all team members across the company bring sustainability to life through their daily actions, passion, and care for our island. Sustainability isn’t a project or a promise, it’s a shared commitment we live every day.

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