Costa Rica: A trailblazer in sustainable and social tourism

Costa Rica recently strengthened its position by renewing its membership with the International Social Tourism Organisation (ISTO), an assembly of 46 like-minded countries.

This act is testament to the country’s unwavering commitment to being a sustainable and inclusive destination. The Costa Rican Tourism Institute (ICT) has been lauded for their forward-thinking approach, spearheading initiatives like the “Tourism for all People Program,” which ensures tourism remains an open, inclusive, and sustainable practice for all.

Pioneering change through educational endeavours and certifications

The ICT reaffirmed their commitment to sustainable tourism by participating in an educational event on the 6th of July, entitled “Forming Leading Sustainability Companies.” This event was designed for Costa Rican companies holding the Tourism Sustainability Certification (CST). During the event, attendees discussed various aspects of sustainable tourism, participated in technical workshops and were presented with recent studies on sustainability. This gathering was an opportunity for the participants to learn about sustainable tourism, a sector where Costa Rica is a recognised world leader.

Encouraging sustainable choices through recognition and partnerships

One of the highlights of the event was the revelation by Booking.com that Costa Rica ranks seventh in Latin America for accommodation options carrying the Sustainable Travel label. This recognition is a result of an extensive survey process carried out with over 30,000 travelers in 28 countries, emphasising Costa Rica’s commitment to promoting sustainable tourism. The Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC), another prominent player in the event, is actively working with ICT to develop sustainability criteria for various sectors, further strengthening Costa Rica’s position as a trailblazer.

By continuously engaging with international organisations, fostering educational initiatives and championing sustainable travel, Costa Rica is looking to shape a future where tourism is in harmony with the environment and society.

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