Category: Tourism

Costa Rica’s commits to Plastic Transformation in the Tourism Industry

A new initiative for accessible tourism was recently showcased as an extension of the Central American nation’s ongoing sustainability project

It seems Costa Rica doubles down on its world-renowned position as a trendsetter in sustainable development in every instance it gets to do it. The Costa Rican Network of Accessible Tourism recently showcased a remarkable initiative on a global platform at the Pacific Leaders Summit “Rapa Nui 2024” in Chile.

The DONATAPA project is the initiative in question, which was immediately met with acclaim and shown as a beacon of success, highlighting the intersection of plastic transformation and accessible tourism. DONATAPA’s achievements include over 185 tons of plastic collected, 477 meters of wooden plastic walkways constructed, 14 donated amphibious chairs, and the establishment of 13 accessible beaches. These palpable outcomes solidify the project’s mission statement on sustainability and inclusivity.

At the heart of the summit’s discussions was the urgent need to address the pervasive issue of plastic pollution in the planet’s oceans. According to the United Nations, millions of tons of plastic enter the globe’s waterways annually, posing grave threats to marine ecosystems and human well-being. Costa Rican initiatives like DONATAPA present themselves as models for effective plastic waste management and circular economy practices.

DONATAPA’s approach is more than what can be seen in Costa Rica’s coasts, as it’s, in essence, a holistic project that encompasses awareness campaigns, waste collection drives, and the development of innovative products crafted from recycled plastic. By promoting proper waste disposal and encouraging the transformation of plastic into valuable resources, the project demonstrates a multifaceted solution to the current plastic crisis. 

Moreover, the Costa Rican Network of Accessible Tourism leveraged the summit as an opportunity to forge strategic partnerships with like-minded organizations region-wide. By collaborating with diverse sectors internationally, Costa Rica aims to bolster its efforts in sustainability and continue its standing as a leader in environmental stewardship.

The United Nations Environment Program warns of the dire consequences if current plastic consumption trends persist. However, Costa Rica remains steadfast in its commitment to environmental preservation through the aforementioned initiatives, and participating in strategies like the National Marine Debris Plan 2021-2030, where the country is actively working to mitigate plastic pollution and promote sustainable practices.

By harnessing innovation, collaboration, and advocacy, Costa Rica is paving the way for a cleaner, more inclusive future for generations to come, and to continue sharing its blissful coastal wonders with visitors worldwide. 

2CRVR Leave a comment on Costa Rica’s commits to Plastic Transformation in the Tourism Industry Costa Rica, Tour, Tourism Tags , ,

Guanacaste strengthens its Canadian connectivity

The cold winter months at the end and beginning of the year are Costa Rica’s high season given the natural disposition to seek warmer climates. Animal migration is guided by that, and historically, retirees tend to do the same. In the case of Costa Rica, this is also the stretch of the year when there’s virtually no rain, making it perfect to visit all the wonderful natural landscapes and enjoy the incredible outdoor activities that established the country as a world-class destination. 

It’s no surprise then that Canadian tourism is one of Costa Rica’s main visitation markets, particularly considering their famously harsh winters. In a strategic move to cater to the burgeoning demand and broaden travel horizons for that demographic, Guanacaste International Airport has extended operations on the route from Montreal, Canada.

Commencing on May 2, the year-round availability of this route, operated by Air Transat, beckons travelers to explore the wonders of Costa Rica. The route, marked by two flights per week on Thursdays and Sundays, boasts Air Transat’s A321 aircraft with 198 seats. Departing from Montreal’s Trudeau International Airport at 07:30 am and landing in Guanacaste at 11:30 am, the schedule is tailored to optimize the passenger experience, offering ample time to savor the beauty of the region.

Previously limited to the winter season from November to April, this extension reflects a thoughtful response to the evolving travel landscape and the desire for increased flexibility among Canadian wanderers. Guanacaste International Airport’s commitment to fortifying connectivity and propelling tourism growth in the region stands manifest in this strategic decision, as it has done throughout 2023 and 2024 with each one of its scheduling and expansion decisions. 

In 2023, Costa Rica saw 242,970 Canadian tourists visit the country. On average they graced the country with a stay of 14.8 nights. Their enthusiasm contributed to an estimated average expenditure of $106 per day, exalting the economic significance of their visitation, and the strategic reasoning behind the expanded routes. 

Tourists favoring the Guanacaste region can revel in a plethora of activities, from basking in the sun on pristine beaches to indulging in outdoor escapades, exploring volcanoes and hot springs, and savoring the rich tapestry of local cuisine in the iconic Blue Zone. As the news echoes across the traveler’s sphere, and Costa Rica continues its placement as one of the definitive tropical destinations, Guanacaste International Airport adapts to fulfill the growing demands that come with it. Now it’s as easy as ever to start your seamless journey to the heart of Costa Rica’s natural wonders.

2CRVR Leave a comment on Guanacaste strengthens its Canadian connectivity Tourism Tags , ,

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.

2CRVR Leave a comment on Costa Rica’s is 2024’s Destination of the Year Costa Rica, Tourism Tags ,

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.

2CRVR Leave a comment on Costa Rica commits to making tourism even more accessible to everyone. Costa Rica, Inclusivity, Tourism Tags

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. 

2CRVR Leave a comment on Embrace Costa Rica’s Coastal Richness Costa Rica, Nature, Tourism Tags

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.

2CRVR Leave a comment on Prepare for the whale-watching season in one of Costa Rica’s definitive destinations Costa Rica, Manuel Antonio, Quepos, Tourism Tags ,

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.

2CRVR Leave a comment on Costa Rica welcomes nearly a million tourists in the first months of 2023. Costa Rica, Places To Visit, Tourism Tags ,

Costa Rica is the perfect wedding destination

Boasting all the pillars needed for the perfect ceremony, this small Central American nation shines bright as the place to be when exchanging vows.

The vibrant waters of the Pacific coast as an almost angelic backdrop. White sands that perfectly complement the bride’s dress. An unforgettable tropical party in a truly paradisiacal environment. Just by going through these images, it’s no surprise that Costa Rica has become a well-known wedding destination. Can you really imagine a more scenic tropical setting for your wedding pictures?

In terms of pure photographic potential, Costa Rica not only hosts its celebrated natural wonders, but the very essence of its climate is also a plus within the area. Luminous landscapes and blue skies tend to be the norm during the summer months, so even if you decide for one of the mountain destinations the country offers, it’ll most probably be just the right set of circumstances.

The country also has the benefit of a robust and apparently ever growing tourism infrastructure, which really sets it apart from other wedding destinations. In Costa Rica, the high education level within the service industry, and the amount of years established as one of the world’s definitive tropical vacation spots, means there’s already a reference and a history you can look back to. After all, unless you have a very specific vision for your big night, an integral part of a destination wedding is also the guests’ experience, and Costa Rica is more than prepared for demanding and large groups of all kinds.

Be it an intimate and atmospheric immersion on the misty mountainside of a volcano, or embracing the vividness of the tropical beach, Costa Rica is as picturesque a setting as you can find, while also certifying your dream day with an internationally renowned stability and preparedness for visitors.

2CRVR Leave a comment on Costa Rica is the perfect wedding destination Costa Rica, Tourism, Trip Tags ,

Costa Rica is one of the world’s best January destinations

Travel & Leisure, the prestigious US-based magazine highlights the country’s wonderful summer weather, and wide array of potential activities.

Costa Rica is a fabulous destination basically year-round, but it’s no surprise that the country’s high-season begins around the months of November and December, up until April. The reason is twofold, as this is where the country’s summer season begins, offering fresh breezes in December, and wonderful sunny days throughout the next months. The feared tropical rains only start popping up around May, so your outdoor activities should be safer if you decide to visit Costa Rica during this stretch.

Coincidentally, Costa Rica’s high tourist season is in great part due to the winter months in the Northern hemisphere. As the great cities of Europe and North America begin their descent towards freezing temperatures and layers and layers of clothing, people in the tropics are still rocking shorts and a tank top. Such a contrast makes a nice escapade towards warmer latitudes a common vacation plan for many

Taking all these into account, it makes perfect sense that Costa Rica appears as one Travel & Leisure magazine’s 11 best destinations in the world for January 2023. Travel & Leisure magazine is one of the globe’s leading travel publications, based in New York but read in most parts of the anglophone world as an important reference.

The magazine’s rationale behind Costa Rica’s placing comes in great part due to this small Central American nation’s renowned natural diversity. From adventurous mountain experiences, to paradisiacal beaches and ecological resorts, there’s basically something for all kinds of tourists. Naturally, the magazine also highlights the perks of the dry season in Costa Rica, a time of warm and sunny weather that’s best experienced through the Pura Vida lifestyle of the country’s Caribbean and Pacific coasts.

The rest of Travel & Leisure magazine’s picks for January are some charming winter destinations like Park City, Utah, Minneapolis, Minnesota, Vienna, Austria, as well as the warmer beach options of Bahamas, Jamaica and Mazatlán in Mexico. Charleston, South Carolina, Las Vegas, Nevada, Queensland, Australia, and Fox Worth Texas round off the remaining selections of the publication.

If you’re looking to escape from the icy landscapes and cold temperature of the northern hemisphere, and favor a country with delicious summer weather and a myriad of potential activities, the experts seem to concur that Costa Rica shines as one of the world’s best options.

2CRVR Leave a comment on Costa Rica is one of the world’s best January destinations Awards, Costa Rica, Places To Visit, Tour, Tourism Tags ,

Travelbook calls Costa Rica the world’s best long travel destination.

The German-based travel magazine rewarded the country for its natural beauty and commitment towards ecological sustainability.

Costa Rica’s series of international acknowledgements keeps on growing as global traveling keeps skyrocketing after the Covid-19 pandemic. The country has always been a favorite destination in Latin America due to its unparalleled biodiversity, paradisiacal beaches, and laid-back atmosphere, but in recent years this small Central American nation has shined beyond the realm of the region.

Just recently, German travel magazine Travelbook deemed Costa Rica the “Best Long Travel Destination”. The rationale behind this decision came from an interlocking series of factors, including the ticos’ commitment towards sustainability and preservation, its healthy service industry and tourist amenities, and the overall cost-quality relation.

The jury chose Costa Rica over countries like Australia, South Africa, United States and Indonesia, and highlighted the country’s groundbreaking efforts towards an ecologically minded tourist industry. Other factors that the 9-people jury took into consideration were social sustainability, human rights, security, cleanliness, water quality, accessibility, diversity of activities and quality of public transportation. 

The fact that a German magazine rewards Costa Rica should come as no surprise, since this nation is the first European country in yearly number of tourists in Costa Rica. ICT numbers show that around 44 thousand Germans visited between January and August. The hope is that these accolades will only grow those numbers, as more and more tourists get to know the innate wonders of this beautiful tropical gem.

2CRVR Awards, Costa Rica, Costa Rica Trip, Tourism Tags , ,