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Category: Costa Rica News

Costa Rica Enhances Travel Experience with New Tourism Projects for 2025 

Costa Rica News

Costa Rica is set to expand to enhance its appeal to international travelers. The Costa Rican Tourism Board (ICT) has outlined two primary goals: improving tourism products and expanding the global promotion of the country’s offerings.  

These efforts align perfectly with the eco-luxury experience, making it an ideal time for guests to explore Costa Rica’s top tourist spots. 

Key projects for 2025 include launching new Tourist Police offices in Cahuita and Santa Teresa, with the ICT investing approximately ¢700 million to bolster safety and security for visitors, as per The Tico Times.  

Additionally, a new dock in La Pavona, located in La Alegría de Pococí, will replace existing facilities, improving access to popular destinations like Tortuguero and Parismina—a major priority for the ICT.  

Tourism Minister William Rodriguez highlighted that “significant improvements” are also planned for key sites, including the Tenorio Volcano National Park, the Guayabo National Monument, San Lucas Island, and the Puntarenas Pier, ensuring these areas remain highlights for eco-tourism enthusiasts staying at luxury villas like Villa Firenze. 

On the international front, the ICT aims to penetrate new markets, including Scandinavian countries, with plans to secure direct flights from Denmark and Italy.  

Additionally, efforts will focus on converting seasonal flights from the United States, Canada, and Latin America into year-round operations, while work continues to establish a direct flight from Argentina.  

“We have a solid foundation to strengthen the competitiveness of our sector and continue positioning Costa Rica as a leading destination for sustainability and biodiversity,” said Rodriguez. 

Rising Visitor Numbers and Regional Growth 

Tourist numbers in Costa Rica are rising, with increasing visitor arrivals and foreign exchange earnings, even during the traditional low season from April to November. 

In 2025, upgrades to Liberia Airport in Guanacaste are expected to be completed, enabling more airlines to operate and facilitating easier access for global travelers.  

Several new hotels are also slated to open in Guanacaste this year, further expanding accommodation options for those seeking to explore the region’s luxury villa experiences and flora and fauna. 

Thinking of Escaping? Why Wait? 

For those planning their next vacation, these initiatives represent an exciting opportunity to visit a destination that is more accessible and dynamic than ever.  

Discover how these enhancements can improve your travel plans by visiting our blog for the most recent updates and suggestions on how to make the most of your trip. 

6 Must-Try Restaurants in Costa Rica 

Costa Rica, Costa Rica News

Let me take you on a lovely culinary trip across San José, Costa Rica. National Geographic has featured six restaurants in Costa Rica that claim to delight your taste buds and leave you feeling on cloud nine with each bite. 

Right in the middle of this dynamic city, one may find dining venues that combine classic favorites with new concepts. Here are the six standout options, each with something unique to offer: 

1. Sikwa, The Yoses

It is the first Costa Rican restaurant to make Latin America’s 50 Best list. Its market-fresh, indigenous-inspired cuisine steals the stage. Located at Avenida Central, Calle 35 in San José, the earthy interior and thoughtful plating reflect a deep respect for Costa Rica’s cultural heritage. 

2. Central Market

It is a bustling center where you can eat traditional Gallo Pinto in a Casado, which is as soothing as a warm hug. Situated at Av Central, Calle 6, this historic market hums with life, offering authentic local dishes in a colorful, lively maze of food stalls that locals and tourists equally adore.

3. Feroz and Escazú

These are known for their robust and intriguing flavors that awaken the taste receptors with each bite. Found in Plaza Tempo, Escazú, this trendy spot serves bold, fusion-forward plates in a sleek, modern setting that’s perfect for a stylish night out.

4. Conservatorium in Ciudad Colón

It is a creative steakhouse where meats are matured for up to 100 days, and recipes are created in a lab, making each meal a science of flavor. Located on Calle 1 in Ciudad Colón, it features a minimalistic interior and scientific flair, offering a truly experimental dining experience that’s both refined and exciting. 

5. Al Mercat Dota

This restaurant serves simple yet tasty meals that capture the spirit of local cuisine while adding a fresh twist. Tucked in the hills of Santa María de Dota, this rustic farm-to-table gem charms with its cozy atmosphere and seasonal ingredients sourced from nearby farms.

6. Isolina, Barrio Escalante

It is a tiny place serving good, simple cuisine that seems like a pleasant local greeting. Found on Calle 33 in Barrio Escalante, this cozy, artsy nook feels like home—serving up comfort food in a welcoming space full of warm touches and neighborhood charm.

San José’s restaurants offer a window into the soul of Costa Rica, whether one cherishes fine dining or enjoys discovering new tastes. Take a moment, pick up your fork, and savor the experience—these culinary tours in our city guide are a delicious reminder to appreciate the various flavors of life. 

American Airlines Launches Direct Flights from Philadelphia to Liberia Airport 

Costa Rica News

Big news for travelers! American Airlines just made getting to Costa Rica even easier with a new direct flight from Philadelphia to Liberia Airport in Guanacaste. No longer long layovers or multi-stop itineraries—just hop on a plane and land in paradise.  

This new weekly route, launched by Liberia Airport and the Costa Rican Tourism Board (ICT), is a first-of-its-kind connection between Philadelphia International Airport and Costa Rica—a faster, smoother way to swap city lights for beach sunsets. 

Flying in on a Boeing 737, this route runs every Saturday until March 30, 2025. The inaugural flight touched down in Guanacaste at 1:00 p.m., bringing 100 passengers straight into Costa Rica’s laid-back lifestyle—exactly how travel should be. 

More Than a Flight, It’s a Cultural Connection 

Costa Rican Ambassador to the U.S. Catalina Crespo nailed it when she called this more than just a flight—it’s a bridge. On one side, American travelers get a direct line to Costa Rica’s stunning beaches, lush rainforests, and adventure-packed landscapes. On the other, Costa Ricans now have easier access to Philadelphia, a city packed with history, culture, and legendary cheesesteaks. Win-win. 

Guanacaste’s Tourism Boom Keeps Growing 

Tourism Minister William Rodríguez sees this as a game-changer for Costa Rica’s travel scene. Guanacaste is already a top-tier destination, and this direct flight boosts its connection to American Airlines’ major hubs, including Charlotte, Dallas-Fort Worth, New York, Miami, and Chicago—more seamless ways for travelers to get to Costa Rica’s golden shores. 

And it’s not stopping here. This Philadelphia route is one of four new flight additions at Liberia Airport—which is on a mission to expand its global reach. Hosting 13 airlines and offering direct flights to 22 destinations across North America and Europe, this airport makes travel to Costa Rica difficult. 

Costa Rica’s Tourism Is Thriving 

Numbers don’t lie. Between January and October 2024, over 1.3 million U.S. travelers landed in Costa Rica by air. The U.S. has always been Costa Rica’s biggest tourism market, and this new route only strengthens that connection. 

For American travelers, this means one less excuse to put off that Costa Rica getaway. And for Costa Rica? More visitors, more opportunities, and more reasons to celebrate this epic new flight connection. 

Pura Vida just got a whole lot closer.  

How Costa Rica is Balancing Conservation and Sports Fishing 

Costa Rica News, Sportfishing

One of the most iconic fish species in the world is found in Costa Rica’s Caribbean region—Tarpons. This majestic fish is an integral part of the ecosystem and supports local communities, especially in Barra del Colorado. A concerning decline in their population has brought together conservationists and tourism advocates to protect this species and secure its future. 

FECOP, in partnership with the Bonefish and Tarpon Trust (BTT), is working to situate Costa Rica at the forefront of a global movement to protect the tarpon. According to Barra del Colorado South Eco-Tourism Association president Eduardo Pérez, the tarpon population has dropped by 40%, directly affecting the very livelihoods of local families who work in fishing. 

According to FECOP, in 2019, sport fishing accounted for nearly $500 million in Costa Rica’s economy. Tarpon is one of the primary attractions for international anglers, so their survival is of great importance. The conservation efforts that BTT carries out include teaching fishing guides and tourists sustainable fishing practices and proper catch-and-release techniques. 

Why Proper Catch and Release Matters?   

Catch-and-release is popular in sports fishing, but you can only succeed if you handle the fish correctly. Studies show that if the tarpon’s fight time is no longer than 30 minutes and it is kept in the water, its survival rate after letting go can be as high as 90%. However, prolonged fights and taking the fish out of the water significantly increase mortality to 50-60%. 

BTT advocates for guides and educates visitors on a healthy tarpon population. Taking “trophy photos” of tarpon cannot be sustainable since it led Texas to suffer its worst decline in the tarpon population during the 1960s from overfishing. 

Community Collaborations in Conservation 

FECOP and BTT have translated educational materials into Spanish to be distributed in Costa Rican hotels to help implement these conservation guidelines. This program aims to educate tourists before their fishing trips on how to engage responsibly in fishing activities. Guides and hotels can then orient tourists to incorporate this knowledge through orientations and promotional activities on social media. 

We want hotels to educate tourists on the importance of keeping tarpon in the water,” said Adams from BTT. “That reduces the pressure on guides and ensures that our practices align with conservation goals.” 

Shared Responsibilities 

The habitat of the tarpon is in far better condition here than in other regions. Yet, this advantage cannot be maintained without local communities and conservation organizations collaborating with tourism. Focusing on education, adopting sustainable practices, and continuing to support the flourishing culture of sports fishing in Costa Rica will easily ensure the sustainability of its future tarpon populations. 

As Costa Rica leads the way in tarpon conservation, this initiative reflects a broader commitment to balancing environmental sustainability with economic development, ensuring that both people and nature can thrive together. 

Avianca Announces Daily Direct Flights from Costa Rica to Miami 

Costa Rica, Costa Rica News

For all the avid travelers who have been waiting for the direct route between Costa Rica and Miami, the good news is here. Avianca has announced the return of the direct connected route from Costa Rica to Miami, operating from March 30, 2025. The route will have a capacity of 180 passengers and will be operated with Airbus A320 aircraft, with a daily frequency from Juan Santamaria International Airport to Miami International Airport.  

The flight schedule will be –  

  • Departure from Costa Rica at 8:25 am 
  • Arrival in Miami at 1:15 pm 
  • Departure from Miami at 9:40 pm 
  • Arrival in Costa Rica at 10:40 pm 

Rolando Damas, the Avianca Sales Director for Central America, North America, and the Caribbean, expressed his gratitude for the successful launch of this daily direct route between Costa Rica and Miami. He said, “In 2o24, we managed to transfer the largest number of passengers in 105 years. It was a record-breaking success that resulted in the most extensive network in history. This time is different. We are excited to take a step in improving connectivity between Costa Rica and Miami. We will work with authorities and partners to ensure a successful and smooth new route.”  

Excited? Well, this is indeed great news for many. Want to know what others have to say about this new launch? The reaction was somewhat similar, a mix of excitement and happiness.  

The Minister of Tourism, William Rodríguez, talked about the launch of a direct route as an essential step in improving connectivity between Costa Rica and Miami. He added, “This route will strengthen the connection with the main travelers market. It feels great to start 2025 with stronger air connectivity that aligns with the vision and efforts of Costa Rica Tourism Institute (ICT).” One of the ICT officials also highlighted how the direct route for travelers from Miami has benefited travelers by giving them options to experience everything Costa Rica offers.  

Avianca Launches Direct Flights Between San José and San Juan 

Costa Rica, Costa Rica News

For the first time in two decades, tourists can fly nonstop between Puerto Rico and Costa Rica, all thanks to Avianca Airlines. From March 31, 2025, the airline is introducing a new direct flight from Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport in San Juan to Juan Santamaría International Airport in San José, reinstating a much-missed link between the two cities.  

For years, travelers willing to travel between Costa Rica and Puerto Rico faced indirect layovers and flights, which wasted precious time and made things more complicated. This new service changes all this, providing an easy way for tourists and businesspeople to travel between Central America and the Caribbean. Travelers will operate three weekly flights on Mondays and Thursdays. The schedule is set up to offer flexible travel opportunities for those wanting to see relatives, experience a new city, or enhance business relationships between the two regions.  

Tickets on the route are available now, with fares beginning at $100.85 one-way for customers flying with only a personal item. For customers carrying checked bags, fares will be in the range of $162.50. Though there may be different prices, this new direct service makes it possible to travel between these two places more affordably and conveniently than in years.  

Regarding flight schedules, the San José to San Juan sector will take off at 7:30 AM and arrive in Puerto Rico at 12:40 PM local time. The flight from San Juan back to San José will take off at 2:10 PM and return to Costa Rica at 3:25 PM local time. These flight times are convenient for both business and pleasure travelers, ensuring a seamless, direct flight without unnecessary layovers or complex itineraries.   

With this new route, Avianca is adding 4,500 new seats monthly to its growing network, making Costa Rica even more connected to the Caribbean. It’s not about convenience but bringing back a connection that had been absent for too long. This route is a game changer for tourists who have long dreamed of an easier travel route between these two hot spots. 

One thing that tourists must remember is the entry requirements. Because Puerto Rico is a U.S. territory, tourists coming from Costa Rica will require a valid U.S. visa for entry. Always verify visa requirements and travel documents to prevent surprises before departure.   

This release is part of Avianca’s overall initiative to grow its global presence. Indeed, it follows closely on the heels of the airline’s introduction of its new San José–Miami route on March 30, 2025. These new routes reflect Avianca’s ongoing commitment to simplifying travel for Costa Rican travelers, enhancing tourism prospects, and increasing business ties between major regions.  

The good news is out for others who have long been waiting for a more straightforward route between Costa Rica and Puerto Rico. Whether off to San Juan’s lively streets or discovering Costa Rica’s natural beauty, this new Avianca route makes it easier, quicker, and more economical. 

Costa Rica Earns Title of Friendliest Country in 2024 Readers’ Choice Awards

Costa Rica News

Costa Rica has proudly been named the friendliest country in the world in Condé Nast Traveller’s 2024 Readers’ Choice Awards, solidifying its reputation as a top destination for travelers seeking not just adventure but genuine warmth and hospitality. This accolade further affirms Costa Rica’s unique allure, where the welcoming spirit of its people perfectly matches breathtaking natural beauty.  

Pura Vida – A Way of Life 

The sincere philosophy of “Pura Vida” sets Costa Rica apart, which means “pure life.” It’s more than a warm greeting by the locals; it’s the way of life that Costa Rica has built on happiness, thanks, and appreciation of life’s little things.  

Optimism is also very much reflected in its people, so every visitor feels like they belong. With its dense rainforests to hike through, Costa Ricans are always ready to share their love for their country with an open heart and a smile when they surf along the sun-kissed beaches or explore active volcanoes.  

From family-owned eco-lodges to vibrant local markets, life here is imbued with a sense of community and hospitality in every dimension. That’s especially what travelers who visit Costa Rica most often refer to as the main reason why they keep coming back. 

Pioneering the Way in Ecotourism 

Environmental conservation is a profound part of the charm of Costa Rica. Indeed, as an ecotourism pioneer, more than 25 percent of its grounds are reserved sanctuaries. It is conceivable to let loose sheer biodiversity, where the kindness of the people is matched by their love for nature. This balance between human warmth and environmental stewardship creates a harmonious travel experience that’s hard to find elsewhere.  

What Makes Costa Rica Stand Out? 

While nations such as New Zealand and Thailand are best known for their relaxed, friendly predispositions, the singular attribute Costa Rica endorses is the deeply ingrained philosophy of sustainability and social well-being. In fact, visitors quite often comment on the good nature displayed by the everyday ordinary Tico, whether rural village dwellers or bustling city dwellers. 

On the contrary, even though New Zealand and Thailand are famous around the globe for their friendly landscapes and people and for their wealth of culture and hospitality, respectively, the intermix of warm humans with great care for the preservation of their environment is truly only experienced in Costa Rica. As part of the hospitality of the Costa Rican people, the notion that “the earth and its people must be cared for” is incorporated into harmony among nature and community, thereby making the whole travel experience unforgettable. 

Why Visit Costa Rica? 

Positioning itself as the only destination in 2024, Costa Rica, the world’s friendliest country, offers majestic volcanoes, luscious rainforests, and pristine beaches whose charm is enhanced by the warmth of its people. Cultural richness combined with the seamlessness and genuine friendliness of the country invites travelers to explore it rather than connect to its people and landscapes on a deeper level. 

From the moment you step off the plane in Costa Rica, authenticity immediately sets in to make it feel like a second home. Whether you are hiking through the awe-inspiring Arenal Volcano National Park, surfing the waves of Tamarindo, or just savoring local cuisine in a local restaurant, the Costa Rican experience always brings a sense of belonging. 

Other Friendliest Countries in the World  

While Costa Rica is at the top, many more welcoming nations were named in the 2024 Readers’ Choice Awards. Here’s how Costa Rica stacks up against the top 10 friendliest countries in the world:  

Rank Country Score 
1 Costa Rica 96.15 
2 New Zealand 95.63 
3 Thailand 94.37 
4 Maldives 93.50 
5 Canada 93.33 
6 Japan 93.25 
7 Sri Lanka 92.73 
8 Mexico 92.17 
9 Vietnam 90.00 
10 Seychelles 88.84 

The Wrap Up 

Costa Rica’s recognition as the friendliest country in the world is well deserved, and this distinction only adds to its appeal as a must-visit destination in 2024. Plan your trip today and discover why Costa Rica is not just a place to visit—it’s a place to experience the true meaning of “Pura Vida.”   

Juan Santamaría Airport Exceeds 4 Million Passengers in 2024

Costa Rica News

The Juan Santamaría International Airport (AIJS) had an extraordinary period between January and August 2024, during which it greeted more than 4.3 million passengers, a sharp increase of 11.5% compared to 2023. 

This milestone reinforces the airport’s critical role as the primary gateway for international travelers visiting Costa Rica.  

Hub for International Traveller  

Juan Santamaría International Airport continues to grow, providing a network of connections with 25 airlines to 39 direct destinations. This connectivity makes it easier for tourists from all over the world to experience Costa Rica’s natural beauty, cultural richness, and adventure tourism.  

Whether for eco-tourism or simply for a relaxing beach holiday, the airport is the first warm welcome to the “Pura Vida” lifestyle. 

Improving Passenger Experience with Local Culture 

AERIS, the airport’s operator, is dedicated to improving the traveler experience at Juan Santamaría. Participating in the Customer Experience Program at the airport means offering the highest quality service.  

Another program, Sense of Place, has been running since 2014. It brings proper Costa Rican culture right into the terminal. From rotating campaigns to live cultural, musical, and artistic performances, you get a taste of Costa Rica’s vibrant heritage while waiting for your flights. 

Improving Connectivity in Costa Rica 

AERIS and ICT, in collaboration with the General Directorate of Civil Aviation, are working towards complementing and expanding the connectivity of the airport. Broader flight availability and participation in international tourism events are gradually making Costa Rica an increasingly accessible destination to international visitors. 

Prospects for the Future  

With Costa Rica’s growing profile as a major tourism destination, Juan Santamaría International Airport will play an even more critical role. It is not just a transportation hub but a genuine gateway to everything that Costa Rica has to offer, with all its huge ongoing initiatives aimed at enhancing the traveler experience and expanding connections. 

Costa Rica’s Starbucks Stores Lead with Eco-Friendly Certification for Four Locations

Costa Rica News

With today’s travelers being more environmentally conscious, companies are raising the stakes when it comes to sustainability. Starbucks Costa Rica is no exception, having four of its recently certified eco-friendly stores paving the way for responsible practices.  

The aim of gaining certification for its first four Greener Stores in Costa Rica is to reduce global carbon emissions by 50% by 2030. This move not only strengthens Costa Rica’s reputation for eco-tourism but also allows visitors to support environmentally conscious businesses during their stay.  

Being a Greener Store means meeting these eight environmental impact standards –  

  1. Water Stewardship 
  1. Energy Efficiency 
  1. Waste Diversion 
  1. Renewable Energy 
  1. Responsible Materials 
  1. Engagement with Sites  
  1. Engagement with Communities 
  1. Health and Well-being 

According to the Tico Times, these four stores are now LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certified- a globally recognized standard for green buildings. The said certifications ensure that every location follows stringent guidelines for energy efficiency, water conservation, waste management, and the use of sustainable materials. 

These Greener Stores by Starbucks are located in Alajuela and San José Province. They strive to provide their customers with a sustainable environment with tailored options according to their preferences. This achievement perfectly fits the culture of hard work that Costa Rica has built throughout its history to preserve its natural resources well. 

For this milestone, Michael Kobori, Starbucks chief sustainability officer, highlighted, “At Starbucks, we are dedicated to minimizing our environmental footprint and supporting our communities. Achieving these LEED certifications raises the bar for our operations and supports Costa Rica in continued sustainability leadership.”   

The sustainability officer added, “Our mission for the future is to make Starbucks around the world more sustainable and environmentally focused. This is why I am so excited to see these Greener Stores grow and succeed.”  

For the eco-conscious traveler, this development essentially means that even an act as trivial as getting a cup of coffee can go toward a greener planet. These newly certified stores remind us that eco-tourism is not limited to national parks and nature reserves but also encompasses companies that take responsibility for the environment.  

The sustainable practices followed at Starbucks’ Greener Stores are –  

  1. Efficient use of energy resources.  
  1. Energy-rated appliances and equipment installed.  
  1. Using low-flow plumbing fixtures.  
  1. Renew and Reuse to reduce waste production.  
  1. Using responsible material for construction.  

Regarding Starbucks’ continuous efforts, Kobori added, “Our promise for a sustainable and environment-conscious Starbucks around the world comes to life with our innovative approaches; one of them is our partnership with coffee farmers who follow and promote sustainable coffee growing practices.”      

Outside of the Starbucks initiative, Costa Rica itself is a beacon of sustainable tourism. From its bold goal of carbon-neutral status by 2050 to its commitment to protect 30% of its land area, Costa Rica allows visitors to marvel at natural beauty while respecting and preserving it.  

At Villa Firenze, we share this commitment. Our luxury vacation rental aligns with Costa Rica’s eco-friendly approach, allowing travelers to enjoy the splendor of nature responsibly. 

A partnership between Costa Rica and global brands such as Starbucks enhances the nation’s positioning as a leader in sustainability. It also helps spur other businesses to pursue the same mentality. This also allows tourists to actively contribute to the nation’s environmental undertakings by selecting eco-friendly hotels, tours, and dining options.  

Whether you focus on the breathtaking biodiversity or the vibrant local culture, Costa Rica offers countless ways to enjoy your vacation while leaving the smallest possible mark on the environment. The newly certified Starbucks stores are just one example of how sustainable tourism can enhance your experience without leaving a negative imprint. 

Thus, when anyone travels to Costa Rica, they should remember that every cup of coffee consumed, every accommodation booked, and every adventure indulged in can contribute to a bigger movement toward sustainability.

Royal Caribbean Announces 2025-2026 as Visa-free Cruise Season in Costa Rica

Costa Rica News

Hey, travel fans! Are you ready to cruise without the visa headache? Royal Caribbean has some exciting news for 2025-2026. They plan to start a season of cruises that don’t need a visa—yes, you got that right! This could be your perfect chance if you’ve wanted a Caribbean trip but hated the paperwork. 

Royal Caribbean Costa Rica announced the opening of visa-free Caribbean routes on board Serenade of the Seas for its 2025-2026 cruise season, departing from Panama and Cartagena, once again giving Costa Ricans the possibility to enjoy unforgettable vacations throughout a lifetime without worrying about a US visa. 

This modality, owing to great demand and high popularity among Costa Rican travelers, once again returns. The event witnesses an increase in the attractiveness of cruises as a basic alternative for vacations within the region, with a positive economic impact on the destinations involved. 

Serenade of the Seas plans to set sail from Colón, Panama, Cartagena, and Colombia between October 5, 2025, and April 2026, among them Aruba, Bonaire, and Curacao. 

What’s the Scoop?  

From 2025, you can board a Royal Caribbean cruise from Costa Rica and visit unique places without a visa. Picture yourself drinking a cocktail on deck as you sail through blue waters, stopping at beautiful islands, and never thinking about visas. Doesn’t that sound great? 

Why You’ll Dig It?  

  • No Visa Trouble: This is a big deal. You won’t have to worry about visa forms—just book, pack, and take off! 
  • Awesome Trip Plans: Picture all the cool spots you can check out without paperwork. From sunny beaches to lively local scenes, your journey will be exciting. 
  • Easy-Going Travel: We get it—travel can be a pain sometimes, but this makes things simpler. You’ll have more fun and less time stressing about documents. 

Thus, if you are planning your 2025-2026 vacation to the Caribbean Coast of Costa Rica, why not go for a cruise? Without visas, Royal Caribbean is ready for a tour to the Caribbean this year. Mark up your calendars and be prepared for a smooth sail—literally!