FRENCH MANOR INN AND SPA IS COMMITTED TO HELP PROTECT THE POCONO MOUNTAINS

SOUTH STERLING, PA, APRIL 30, 2009 – The French Manor Inn and Spa announces its Partner Membership with “Green” Hotels Association.

This membership signifies that The French Manor Inn and Spa’s management has committed the property to employ practices which “help protect the beautiful destination of the Pocono Mountains” through water and energy-saving practices and waste-reducing measures. The “Green Hotel” flag on the French Manor’s front desk notifies guests of the management’s commitment.

Recycling cardboard, aluminum and glass have been everyday practices at the French Manor since the 1990’s. Now they have incorporated other recycling programs including single-stream recycling with Waste Management, use of only 100% recycled paper for letterheads, and use of all-natural and organic spa products in Le Spa Forêt – the new spa facility at the French Manor opening at the end of May 2009. “We use sustainable linens, have incorporated a towel-recycling program, and have moved all of our exteriors, common rooms and storage areas to high efficiency lighting,” says Genevieve Logan Reese, General Manager. “We have also implemented a web-based property management system that allows us to store guest information efficiently and securely online while using less paper products”.

The Logan’s feel that part of being Green is to encourage guests to utilize local commerce. They continue to package with local businesses such as Buck Hill Golf Course, Mountain Creek Riding Stables, Camelback Ski Area, and more. They also hand out to guests a map they have created in-house to pinpoint local attractions such as local antique stores, local State Parks such as Promised Land, Tobyhanna and Gouldsboro, Lacawac Sanctuary and many more. Over the past couple of years, their “Nature Lovers” package has become very popular and includes a packed lunch for two and a one hour horseback ride at Mountain Creek Riding Stables. This package, among others offered at the French Manor, allows guests to get out end enjoy the beautiful Pocono Mountains and the great outdoors.

The French Manor plans on opening Le Spa Forêt this spring (Grand Opening planned for end of May 2009) after 2 years or research and development of this exciting Green project. The Logan family, owners, developed the idea of the new spa and suites to enhance the guest experience by meeting the demand for more luxury suites, each boasting a fabulous view from Huckleberry Mountain from their private balcony, as well as being equipped with amenities such as air jetted tubs for two, fireplaces, wireless internet, flat panel TV’s; and then adding a facility downstairs to create a mini luxury spa featuring a salt water pool and Jacuzzi, health/fitness equipment, conference area, and of course spa treatment rooms, including a couples suite with fireplace.
The project morphed as the Logan’s wove their way through permits, DEP, the Historical Society, and planning sessions. Our goal was to provide a quality project without disturbing the historical integrity of the original French Chateau. Although the Logan’s have always been concerned about the Green factor in our business, it seemed not only a good idea, but almost necessary to consider the Green issues concerned with a new addition to the property. The more the Logan’s researched, the easier it seemed to incorporate green practices and materials to the project.

Outlook Construction, with the expert guidance of owner Chuck Skowronski, was also excited to help. They are a Green Certified builder (known for the PAGreen Home) and helped us explore ways to “green” the project. The materials, pool, sprinkler system and spa products all contribute to our Green efforts (please see Le Spa Forêt Green Features attached).
After greening the building, the Logan’s wanted to do more. They changed their line of amenities and soaps in the guest rooms and suites to a “Forest Essential” line, which was conceived to be sensitive to the Earth’s precious resources and delicate natural balance; Forest Essentials is among the most environmentally friendly amenities collections available today.

Results of the French Manor’s Green Program – Le Spa Forêt

“As we plan the grand opening of Le Spa Forêt, we as owners are inspired to be more Green,” says Bridget Logan Weber, Director of Sales and Marketing. “Le Spa Forêt has generated an excitement and awareness in us that trickles down through our staff and to our customers as well. If we can set an example in the community, we hope that others will feel the same and help to conserve our best characteristic – our own backyard.”

With the opening of Le Spa Forêt, the Logan’s plan on continuing their elegant retreat philosophy while taking it that one step further into nature. Guests will feel a sense of peace and contentment while enjoying all the added amenities the spa will offer. Building this spa is the natural progression towards a healthy growth for the French Manor.

More information about the Spa is available at http://www.thefrenchmanor.com/spa/. Visit www.thefrenchmanor.com to view a comprehensive overview of the French Manor, or call 1-877-720-6090. The French Manor has been a proud recipient of AAA’s four-diamond award for both the restaurant and accommodations for the past 6 consecutive years.

Written by Bridget Logan Weber, Director of Sales and Marketing
The French Manor
bridget@thefrenchmanor.com
570-676-3244