As we look ahead to meetings and convention planning in 2021, it’s clear how dramatically the climate has changed. We have learned and adapted, and Costa Rica is ready to receive your next event when the time is right.
In 2018, this Central American nation established itself as a major player in the MICE market with the opening of the $35 million Costa Rica Convention Center in San José. Spanning nearly 168,000 square feet, the venue was built to be sustainable, featuring energy-saving air conditioning, reflective materials to reduce solar heat, advanced waste management and rainwater irrigation.
In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Costa Rica Convention Center will now be certified under the new Safe Guard program to ensure the health and safety of all attendees and staff. This comprehensive program covers every operational area to create a controlled environment throughout the venue. Those measures include stringent cleaning and sanitization protocols, newly developed rules around food service, social distancing protocols that include limited seating in dining areas, and use of personal protective equipment. In addition, there is comprehensive training for private companies to make sure all of these plans are executed by our trusted partners.
Costa Rica’s appeal as a MICE destination is as strong as ever. Accessible via two main international airports — near San José and in the Guanacaste province — Costa Rica is within easy reach from major gateway cities. The nation has built its identity around its natural treasures, making it the ideal place to reconnect with the outdoors, restore inner balance and come back home feeling fully recharged and renewed.
From the highest government levels down to local partners, Costa Rica has strengthened its commitment to environmental, economic and social sustainability. Already the country runs on green electricity for 99% of the year and has set itself the goal of being carbon-neutral by 2021. In order to support efforts among meeting planners, the government created the Certificate for Sustainable Tourism (CST) program — a transparent tourism rating system that measures the sustainability levels of hotels, restaurants, tour operators and car rental companies.
Thanks to its central location and robust infrastructure, Costa Rica has risen to be one of the top 10 most frequently chosen Central American destinations for meetings and conventions. A collection of hotels in the Central Valley, Central Pacific, Northern Plains and Guanacaste regions offer the right setting for every audience. The country’s geographical diversity provides a rich and rewarding experience for meetings or incentive travel. From hiking in national parks to whitewater rafting and playing some of the best golf courses in Central America, there is a world of adventure for team-building and breakout sessions. As you begin planning ahead, Costa Rica has all of the elements in place to support your next event.
Learn more at CostaRicaPureMeetings.com.
