Costa Rica has made a name for itself as a must-visit place for eco-conscious tourists. Indeed, a Time magazine report went as far as to call it a pioneer in ecotourism, finding 98% of its energy from renewable sources and taking progressive views towards animals – one suburb gave citizenship to bees. This is clearly a huge pull factor, but perhaps quite a niche one. Fear not, as Costa Rica has a lot more to offer tourists than simply its stunning ecological record.
What you should know about Costa Rica
Costa Rica, a nation situated in Central America, is esteemed as one of the most popular international tourist destinations. Tourism constitutes a major part of Costa Rica’s revenue. Since the year 1948, this democratic and tranquil nation has not possessed a military force.
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Despite occupying a mere 0.03 percent of the world’s surface, the country harbours an impressive 5 percent of the planet’s extant biodiversity, a testament to the country’s commitment to conservation. Approximately 26 percent of the nation’s land is designated as protected natural territory.
In addition, 2018 marked a milestone for Costa Rica’s meeting tourism industry with the inauguration of the National Congress and Convention Center (CNCC), capable of accommodating up to 4,600 attendees. This novel space is located a mere eight kilometres from the Juan Santamaría International Airport and a mere 10 kilometres from San José, and brings together individuals from varied backgrounds and cultures, fostering opportunities for the exchange of experiences and the establishment of new businesses.
Thanks to its highly educated population, world-class services, and stable political and social climate, Costa Rica is also an alluring hub for investment and presents significant potential for the establishment of multinational corporations.
But, what should this amazing place be known for?
Pure luxury
One huge benefit of Costa Rica’s commitment to greenery is the creation of swathes of beautiful rainforests. As Reader’s Digest highlights, the ten microclimates that the country is formed of mean that there is rarely a bad time to experience that. The planning of hotels, which must conform to local sustainability rules, means that accommodation is placed strategically – and beautifully. Little wonder, then, that Costa Rica has a glut of luxury hotels, given the backdrop is already ready for them. The eco-lodge experience in particular will appeal to those who enjoy peace, quiet, and the joy of getting in the water.
Finding thrills
Ask Lonely Planet what pulls people to Costa Rica and their answer is simple – extreme sports. The national parks are a great place to host such activities – when engaged in an eco-conscious fashion, of course. Of particular interest is the Selvatura Park zipline, breathtakingly scenic and suited to daredevils. On the coasts and interior lakes, there are plenty of water-based sports, from jet ski adventures to wakeboarding. Going for a dive in Cocos Islands is a favourite of many return visitors.
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Modern sustainable consumerism
The country is famous for some of its key consumer products – coffee among them. According to travel blogger Nomadic Matt, this has started to become a source of huge interest for tourists, and for good reasons. The coffee plantations are readily accessible and, while there, you can enjoy local produce in an eco-conscious way that supports local businesses and the local economy.
Costa Rica has a huge pull due to its status as a jewel of modern sustainability. What many don’t realize is that there’s a huge amount of excitement behind that initial facade just waiting to be discovered. Travellers may be quietly surprised – even if they aren’t hugely excited by the prospect of visiting an eco-friendly emerald.
Should you visit Costa Rica in 2023?
There are so many reasons to travel to Costa Rica this year, but for the most part, it offers a unique travel experience outside of the norm. So why not give it a chance and think about your next trip?
