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Costa Rica’s is 2024’s Destination of the Year

The prestigious Travel and Leisure magazine has recognized the country’s unquestionable growth and international allure with this coveted acknowledgement.

Costa Rica, renowned for its commitment to sustainable tourism and breathtaking natural beauty, has been named Travel and Leisure’s 2024 Destination of the Year. This prestigious accolade, previously bestowed upon iconic destinations like Italy, Japan, and Australia, reflects the nation’s dedication to a sustainable future and its profound connection with nature.

Travel and Leisure, the most prestigious tourism magazine in the world, painted a vivid picture of Costa Rica’s allure, from its white-sand beaches against the backdrop of a lush rainforest to the astonishing elemental force of the volcano national parks. Natural beauty, incredible biodiversity, and laid-back lifestyle were all some of the main highlighted features of the country.

All this recognition doesn’t come in a vacuum, however, as Costa Rica’s dedication to ecotourism has been a pioneering force for the concept of eco-lodges and has set global benchmarks for sustainable travel practices. More than 50% of Costa Rica’s landmass is now covered in lush rainforests, a testament to its successful efforts in reversing deforestation trends, which started in the 1970s.

As of 2023, Costa Rica is on track to welcome between 2.3 and 2.5 million tourists by air, breaking previous records and surpassing pre-pandemic levels. The country experienced a remarkable 16.4% increase in tourist arrivals during the first nine months of the year, with North America remaining as the primary source of tourists. This tourism boom is bolstering a national economy essentially based around this industry, with approximately 154,930 individuals working in tourism-related jobs as for the first half of 2023.

What this shows is that beyond Travel and Leisure’s new designation, Costa Rica has already established itself as one of the top destinations in the world when it comes to tropical travel. Its well-recorded set of unique social, cultural and political conditions remain a differentiating factor that perfectly complement the country’s unparalleled natural allure. It’s a matter of looking at the global satisfaction score provided by the magazine, a noticeable 87 out of 100.

As the Land of ‘Pura Vida’ continues to captivate with its natural wonders, adventure activities, and rich culture, Costa Rica solidifies its status as a global travel gem and projects a robust outlook for tourism in the near future.

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A new initiative empowers rural women in Costa Rica

Historically thought of as a masculine environment, agriculture has diversified itself and seeks to include women in its constant process of reinvention and progress. 

In a significant step towards narrowing the digital gender gap, the Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture (IICA) has recently announced that a hundred women from rural areas in Costa Rica have undergone training in digital and geospatial technologies applied to agriculture and water resource management.

The initiative, known as the Women’s Rally for Geospatial Technologies, aims to empower women associated with the agri-food sector by enhancing their technological, digital, geospatial, and innovative capabilities. Additionally, the program focuses on strengthening skills related to growth, resilience, and professional empowerment in a wider sense.

As the agricultural sector in Costa Rica continues its constant transformation process, topics such as the inclusion of women have become integral to the new avenues of progress and development. Participants of this initiative gained access to services such as the GEOGloWS streamflow prediction, a global hydrological model providing daily updated forecasts and access to over 40 years of historical streamflow data. They also utilized Climate Trends, which allows access and comparison of data from global models for different variables such as precipitation and soil moisture.

The call for participation, issued by IICA, brought together women starting from the age of 14, including professionals from associations such as Edunámica, the College of Agronomist Engineers of Costa Rica, the College of Professionals in Geography of Costa Rica, and the National System of Conservation Areas (SINAC-MINAE). In the closing session, participants shared the projects generated through the knowledge gained during the event.

Historically, agriculture in Costa Rica has been one of the country’s main economic thrusts and still maintains itself as the main income source for many rural communities nationwide. Initiatives like this aim to narrow the educational gap that tends to permeate settlements beyond the Great Metropolitan Area and provide them with the tools to better integrate the ever-flowing needs of this industry, and be up to date with the newest ideas in terms of sustainable development.

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Costa Rica commits to making tourism even more accessible to everyone.

This new inclusivity campaign looks to expand the range of options for visitors with disabilities

As one of the world’s definitive tourist destinations, Costa Rica has not only made active efforts to improve its infrastructure in terms of amenities but also with regard to accessibility and inclusivity. The latest example comes with a new initiative from the Costa Rican Tourism Institute (ICT).

The initiative is a collaborative effort with Wheel The World, a renowned operator specializing in providing accessible travel experiences for individuals with disabilities. The main goal is to encourage tourists with disabilities, particularly those using wheelchairs, to explore the country and all its natural wonders.

ICT has emphasized the significance of promoting this kind of tourism on a national level, acknowledging the importance of making Costa Rica’s stunning destinations accessible to all, and highlighting the country’s commitment to inclusivity and diversity.

This campaign recently kicked off with an exploratory journey, aiming to showcase the remarkable progress in accessibility that Costa Rica has made. A group of tourists and influencers using wheelchairs had the privilege of experiencing firsthand the improved accessibility in various destinations. These travelers set out to explore enchanting places like San José, the breathtaking Volcán Poás, the artisan town of Sarchí, and the natural wonder of La Fortuna, among others.

The partnership with Wheel The World signifies a major step forward in Costa Rica’s commitment to welcoming tourists of all abilities. The experiences shared by these visitors promise to be a source of inspiration for others with disabilities who dream of exploring the diverse landscapes, rich culture, and vibrant biodiversity that Costa Rica has to offer.

The campaign benefits the tourism industry and the nation as a whole, as it showcases the country as an open and welcoming destination for travelers. This effort is a testament to the country’s mission to be one of the stewards and leading examples of progressive tourism, merging sustainability, accessibility, and conservation.  Increasing the appeal for everyone to visit this magnificent tropical paradise.

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Embrace Costa Rica’s Coastal Richness

Costa Rica’s Independence Month tends to be a great spotlight for the myriad of national customs and traditions that make this small Central American nation such an alluring setting. Most of the time, Costa Rican identity is constructed around the iconography imported from the Nicoya Peninsula and the agricultural history of the country, which merits their acknowledgment but aren’t the only kind of expressions the ticos know about.

The Pacific coastline stretches way beyond the Northern province of Guanacaste, boasting in Puntarenas a captivating tapestry of experiences and traditions that’s underrepresented in the national consciousness. For example, architectural enthusiasts will have a hard time finding better examples of Victorian coastal buildings than Puntarenas, with its iconic pier and many prominent houses from the earlier half of the 20th Century. This comes in conjunction with the older colonial buildings from the 19th Century, which are mainly seen in churches and cathedrals in the Spanish fort-like construction.

In terms of music, Puntarenas boasts a blend of folk colonial music intertwined with the Colombian cumbia and the “tambito generaleño” from San Jose’s Southern communities. It’s very tropical in texture and blends perfectly with the festive aura that permeates the summer carnivals and colorful parades.

Perhaps one of the ticos’ favorite reasons to visit Puntarenas is experiencing its culinary delights, which mainly revolve around seafood. Combining pre-Hispanic indigenous diets, Spanish colonial cuisine, and immigrant contributions. Ceviche is the area’s signature dish, featuring diced fish, chucheca, or shrimp marinated in lime juice, mixed with onions, sweet pepper, cilantro, and salt. It’s served cold with crackers, boiled green plantains, or “patacones.” Variations may include vegetable oil, Worcestershire sauce, tomato sauce, Tabasco, or mayonnaise. Other seafood dishes include whole-fried fish, grilled lobster, and various preparations with garlic or butter. Soups are prepared with shrimp or seafood, and traditional African-influenced dishes like “vigorón” (cracklings with cabbage and cassava) showcase Puntarenas’ unique flavors. Local beverages include “resbaladera” (rice and cinnamon drink), tamarindo, coconut water (“agua de pipa”), horchata, and more. For dessert, there isn’t something as iconic as the legendary “granizados,” an icy treat featuring shaved ice, syrup, powdered milk, and condensed milk, particularly the local favorite “Churchil”, a popular variety with added ice cream for which Costa Ricans nationwide have visited the coast to try for generations.

This is just a small sample of the kind of cultural delights that abound in Puntarenas and the Pacific coast’s heritage, another element that enrichens Costa Rica as a multicultural and diverse destination and makes this popular area a must-visit, even beyond its paradisiacal beaches and astonishing national parks. 

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Prepare for the whale-watching season in one of Costa Rica’s definitive destinations

Costa Rica’s coastal splendor is celebrated globally, as it encompasses some of the most incredible, verdant rainforests and pristine beaches the world has to offer. Yet, the allure of this tropical paradise extends beyond its scenic landscapes all the way beneath the waves, as witnessed during the annual whale watching season.

Spanning from August to October, this is the best time of the year to glimpse nature’s grandeur. Humpback whales, undertaking their migration from the Arctic’s chilly waters to Costa Rica’s warmer environs, make these coastal waters their temporary residence. Seeing these colossal beings breaching and playing is an experience that holds itself in memory, a testament to their majestic power.

For those looking for a hub for their marine adventures, Quepos and Manuel Antonio emerge as prime destinations for this annual spectacle. Situated on Costa Rica’s central Pacific coast, these areas boast attributes that enrich the whale-watching journey. One of these features is how the waters around these tourist hotspots harbor a multitude of marine life, including dolphins, sea turtles, and colorful fishes.

Additionally, both Quepos and Manuel Antonio uphold a steadfast dedication to responsible tourism. Many local tour operators adhere to stringent guidelines to minimize disturbances to the whales and their habitats. This eco-conscious approach lets visitors relish the spectacle while nurturing the fragile ecosystem and even provides an abundance of natural diversions beyond the whale-watching exploration, like the rich biodiversity of Manuel Antonio National Park or other water-centric adventures like snorkeling and kayaking.

With their captivating landscapes, eco-conscious ethos, and unparalleled amenities, this iconic area of Costa Rica’s Central Pacific shines as an exceptional setting to witness these gentle giants in their native habitat.

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Electric car usage grows in Costa Rica

As a new example of the country’s leading role in ecological causes, its population has begun seeing the benefits of alternative energy sources for their vehicles.

Costa Rica’s pioneering role in Latin America’s sustainable development has come by way of a multi-layered effort in areas such as conservation, renewable energies and carbon emission reduction. Transportation, however, has been one of the area’s that this small Central American nation hasn’t fully addressed. As plans for an urban electric train faltered, however, a new silver lining for eco-friendly alternatives emerged from data regarding electric car usage.

The adoption of electric mobility is on the rise in Costa Rica as showcased by an steady increase in the number of electric vehicles on tico roads. What were only 282 units in 2011 have now reached nearly 9000 in 2023. Just between 2022 and 2023 growth has been exponential, increasing by around 2300 registered vehicles. The accelerated pace is showing no signs of stopping soon, as the first semester of 2023 has seen 2375 electric cars registered in the country, a number that trumps the entire amount for 2022.

The reasons behind this surprising trend are plentiful. Naturally, one of the main guiding factors are environmental concerns, a discursive thread that’s particularly important to a country that relies on its engrossing natural landscapes for its tourism economy and international appeal. More pragmatic reasons algo come into the fold, particularly when the country has made an active effort to incentivize alternative transportation methods since the start of its ambitious decarbonization plan. Acquiring an electric vehicle in Costa Rica comes with important fiscal benefits not warranted to normal cars.

Beyond Costa Rica, the accessibility of electric vehicles has also made a great impact on the number of owners, as what were once seen as luxury items are now a real possibility for a wider range of people. As long as these kinds of automobiles are within striking distance of the cost of a normal car, many will see the added benefit of its complementary perks and tax exemptions.

Costa Rica isn’t an outlier in this camp. International trends are now in full motion, with the European Union announcing their cease of combustion engine vehicle sales by 2035, an audacious plan followed by different US states and Latin American nations like Chile.

As the transition to electric mobility is gaining momentum, Costa Rica looks to maintain its standing in the forefront of sustainable innovation and green causes, a position that complements the nation’s ethos, but also benefits the whole world.

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A new project looks to maximize Costa Rica’s wind power

A joint effort between Costa Rica’s Institute of Electricity and the Central American Bank for Economic Integration looks to expand the country’s renewable energy options.

Costa Rica’s international image has always been linked to its unparalleled natural allure. From its paradisiacal beaches to its lush rainforests and mystic volcanoes, this small Central American nation shines as one of the world’s main ecological bastions. In recent years, this green abundance has gone beyond its role as a scenic backdrop for unforgettable tourist experiences and become more central to the country’s strategic planning, particularly its commitment towards clean energy generation.

The country has been a pioneer in renewable resources since its hydroelectric plants became its main power source in the first half of the 20th Century, and given its incredible natural conditions, it’s no surprise to see other alternative energies becoming a big part of the nation’s future plans. Recently, the historic Costa Rican Institute of Electricity (ICE) has joined efforts with the Central American Bank for Economic Integration (BCIE) to analyze the potential eolic energy generation in the country’s North Pacific region.

Both institutions are conducting studies that will serve as a foundation for future electricity production from wind power. The idea is to collect data about oceanic, socioeconomic, and environmental information that could potentially help with the development of infrastructure that makes the most out of these conditions. It is projected that these studies will be concluded by November of this year.

As part of the research tasks, the meteorological conditions of the region have been carefully evaluated through a  monitoring system using buoys and satellites. The investigation is being carried out by a multidisciplinary team of international specialists under the guidance of Offshore Wind Consultants. The ICE, in collaboration with national academia, public organizations, and coastal-related NGOs have been actively supporting this endeavor as an essential part of the country’s role as a regional leader in sustainable development.

By capitalizing on the power of its coastal winds, Costa Rica has the potential to diversify its energy mix, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and enhance economic growth in rural communities. The country continues setting a shining example for other countries in the region and beyond as it illustrates that a sustainable future can be achievable and economically advantageous even for developing nations.

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Costa Rica welcomes nearly a million tourists in the first months of 2023.

The tico’s visitation numbers are now virtually on par with their pre-pandemic showings.

What in many countries could be seen as merely another number in a boring government quarterly notice, in Costa Rica becomes a very important barometer of the nation’s wellbeing. Since the Costa Rican central industry is services and tourism, the visitation numbers from each quarter are essential to not only identify current trends, but also project the rest of the year from an economic perspective. 

The most recent report from Costa Rica’s Tourism Institute (ICT, for its Spanish acronym) shows that the country received 968,000 tourists in the first 4 months of 2023. This number nearly equals the 974,000 of 2019, the last pre-pandemic year.

As surprise to none, the United States continues to be the main market demographic for the ticos, with a whopping 536,000 visitors, actually surpassing data from 2019. After the US, the next main influx of tourists comes from France, surprisingly Europe’s top market, and other Old World nations like the Netherlands, Austria, Germany, the United Kingdom, Switzerland and Canada for North America. Additionally, Peru and Chili are the main Latin American countries sending tourists to Costa Rica.

All of the aforementioned countries have increased their visitation numbers from 2019, with only other Latin American countries like Colombia, Argentina, Brazil, Uruguay and Mexico representing a decrease. The increase in direct flight offerings both to the Juan Santamaria Airport and the Guanacaste Airport in Liberia have been an important factor linked to the country’s current upwards trend. The growth of Guanacaste’s Airport in particular has diversified routes and provided tourists with an even more appealing and direct way of reaching the most popular tico destinations in the Gold Coast. This quadrimester, that meant 315,000 international arrivals, nearly a 16% increase from 2019.

As Costa Rica’s tourism infrastructure continues to develop, and more and more world-class investments come to the country, the comforts and conveniences offered to international visitors will only grow, meaning there still room to grow in the future from what’s an already strong showing, even by the high standards of the country’s high season during the summer months.

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Two new plant species are discovered in Costa Rica

This is a new reminder that this small Central American nation is one of the planet’s most bountiful ecological settings.

Costa Rica is known internationally as one of the world’s most abundant corners in terms of biodiversity. Be it its enchanting mountain areas like Chirripó, Irazú, and Poas, its immersive tropical jungles all around the country, or the paradisiacal beaches on both coasts, this small Central American nation is truly a treasure trove for nature lovers worldwide.

Bird-watching tours, whale sighting adventures, and a myriad of activities devoted to plant lovers are all just glimpses of how Costa Rica shares its blessed environs with visitors. And the thing is, no matter when or where you explore Costa Rica, there’s always something new to discover, another natural spectacle waiting to manifest itself. A clear example is the recent discovery of two new plant species in the country: the Sternospemation coques and Ilex hamelii. 

These plants are endemic to Isla del Coco and the Guanacaste mountain range, respectively, but draw interest in the country as a whole. Just how many other nations can casually announce these relevant scientific discoveries from two independent investigations, in two different areas of the country? After being peer-reviewed by some of the most prestigious scientists in the world, the announcement of each one of these discoveries came by way of recent publications released almost side-by-side, which naturally garnered attention once again to what’s widely considered to be one of Earth’s oasis.

Given Costa Rica’s continued commitment towards preservation and conservation areas, as well as the importance of its national parks, it wouldn’t be a surprise to continue seeing more and more of these breakthroughs happening in the country. After all, ecotourism has grown in popularity in the last decade, elevating the country even more as an unmissable destination. 

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A new law looks to establish Costa Rica as a top filming destination

Building from a storied tradition and the current victory lap of Costa Rican cinema internationally, the recently signed legislation is a way to dynamize local economies

The misty mountains and dead forests around Turrialba, the moon-like, barren lands at the top of Irazú’s viewpoint, the dense and uncharted jungles and diverse national parks of the Central and Southern Pacific, and the paradisiacal beaches of the Gold Coast are just some of the many cinematic sights that can be found in Costa Rica. After all, the country’s reputation as a natural oasis comes precisely from its wide array of settings within a relatively small area. Many different experiences can be had in Costa Rica, be it as a thrill-seeking adventurer, or simply as an exotic background for your rest and relaxation.

This fact has been taken into account by Hollywood on different occasions, using the ticos’ blessed corner of the Earth to represent untamed wilderness in Ridley Scott’s 1492: Conquest of Paradise (1992), Steven Spielberg’s Jurassic Park (1993), Robert Rodriguez’s Spy Kids 2: Island of Lost Dreams (2002), and M. Night Shyamalan’s After Earth (2013), just to name some of the higher profile features filmed in the country.

Additionally, Costa Rica has been of particular note on the international festival landscape recently, with productions from tico talent like Valentina Maurel’s Tengo Sueños Eléctricos (2022),  Nathalie Alvárez’s Clara Sola (2021), and Antonella Sudassassi’s El Despertar de las Hormigas (2019) playing and awarded in some of the world’s premiere audiovisual showcases like Cannes, Berlinale, and Locarno, among others.

Recently, a 2021 law was approved to make the most out of this historic period of visibility, and bring more international investment to the country. Called the Law of Filmic Investment Attraction, this legislation creates incentives for international productions to use the country as a filming location, such as tax exonerations and importation of goods during the shoot.

When a film production takes place, the economy of the location is suddenly dynamized, with crew, cast and production members all using the rental, service, and nourishment options while filming, bringing a healthy influx of cash to the community in question. The idea is that this law will put Costa Rica at the forefront of filming location options in the region, highlighting the country’s renowned natural richness, stability and high-grade professionals.

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