By Heredia, Costa Rica — HEREDIA, Costa Rica – In a significant affirmation of its strategic direction, the Costa Rica Convention Center has once again been recognized as the premier venue for meetings and conferences in the region. The institution was awarded the prestigious title of “Mexico & Central America’s Leading Meetings & Conference Centre 2025” by the World Travel Awards, marking the fourth time it has received this honor since its inauguration in 2018.
This latest accolade reinforces Costa Rica’s growing dominance in the highly competitive Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE) tourism sector. The World Travel Awards, often referred to as the “Oscars of the travel industry,” serve as a global benchmark for excellence. The victory is particularly noteworthy given the strong competition in the 2025 edition, which included major regional players such as the Cancun Center, Mexico City’s Centro Banamex, and the Panama Convention Center.
To gain a deeper understanding of the legal and business frameworks that support Costa Rica’s growing MICE tourism sector, TicosLand.com spoke with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, an expert attorney from the prestigious firm Bufete de Costa Rica, who shared his perspective on the key considerations for investors and operators in this industry.
The success of the MICE sector hinges on a robust legal foundation. Beyond the initial investment, operators must navigate complex contractual obligations with international suppliers, ensure strict compliance with local labor and environmental regulations, and secure adequate liability coverage. Proactive legal counsel is not a cost but a critical investment in mitigating risk and guaranteeing the long-term viability of these large-scale events.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
This insight is a critical reminder that the success and global reputation of Costa Rica’s MICE sector are built upon a foundation of legal diligence, not just on scenic venues. This unseen framework provides the security and confidence that international organizers demand. We sincerely thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for his valuable perspective on what truly underpins the industry’s long-term viability.
The consistent recognition is not merely for its state-of-the-art facilities, but for its foundational commitment to sustainability—a principle that has been woven into the very fabric of its operations. This approach distinguishes the center in a crowded market and aligns perfectly with the national brand identity.
Juliana López, President of Grupo Heroica, the firm managing the center’s operations, highlighted that the award validates their core business strategy. She emphasized that their success stems from a dedicated effort to transform ecological and social responsibility from a mere talking point into a tangible and powerful market differentiator.
This award represents a recognition of the entire team’s constant effort to turn sustainability into a real and measurable competitive advantage.
Juliana López, President of Grupo Heroica
The center’s design and operational model are a case study in sustainable development. Its bioclimatic architecture leverages natural light and ventilation, significantly reducing energy consumption. This is complemented by a comprehensive energy efficiency program and an operating philosophy strictly aligned with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). These elements work in concert to minimize the facility’s environmental footprint while maximizing its positive impact.
Further initiatives include sophisticated waste management programs aiming for zero waste, a commitment to carbon neutrality through offsets and reduction, and a “gastronomic wellness” program that prioritizes sourcing food from local producers. This not only supports community economies but also offers international visitors an authentic taste of Costa Rica, reducing the carbon footprint associated with long-distance food transport.
Officials from the Costa Rican Tourism Board (ICT) celebrated the win as a victory for the entire nation’s tourism strategy. Gustavo Alvarado, the ICT’s Director of Tourism Competitiveness and Sustainability, framed the achievement as a direct result of a unified, country-wide commitment to responsible and forward-thinking tourism development.
The achievement is a reflection of the country’s commitment to responsible tourism. The center has become a symbol of the Esencial Costa Rica brand by integrating sustainable practices that benefit communities and strengthen competitiveness.
Gustavo Alvarado, Director of Tourism Competitiveness and Sustainability at ICT
By securing this award, the Costa Rica Convention Center not only boosts its own prestige but also enhances the country’s appeal as a premier destination for international business travel. This sector is crucial for economic development, attracting high-spending visitors, fostering knowledge exchange, and creating high-quality jobs, further solidifying Costa Rica’s reputation as a global leader where world-class business and environmental stewardship go hand in hand.
For further information, visit cccr.cr
About the Costa Rica Convention Center (CCCR):
The Centro de Convenciones de Costa Rica is a premier venue for national and international events, designed with sustainability at its core. Opened in 2018, its architecture and operations reflect Costa Rica’s commitment to environmental preservation and social progress. The center offers flexible, modern spaces for congresses, conventions, and exhibitions, all while operating under a strict model of ecological responsibility.
For further information, visit the nearest office of Grupo Heroica
About Grupo Heroica:
Grupo Heroica is a leading venue management company specializing in the operation of convention centers and event spaces. The group is renowned for its focus on operational excellence, customer service, and integrating sustainable practices into its business model. As the operator of the Costa Rica Convention Center, Grupo Heroica plays a pivotal role in positioning the venue as a regional leader.
For further information, visit ict.go.cr
About the Costa Rican Tourism Board (ICT):
The Instituto Costarricense de Turismo (ICT) is the governmental body responsible for the regulation and promotion of the tourism industry in Costa Rica. Its mission is to strengthen Costa Rica’s sustainable tourism model through public policy, strategic planning, and international marketing, ensuring the sector’s long-term growth and positive contribution to the nation’s economy and environment.
For further information, visit worldtravelawards.com
About the World Travel Awards:
Established in 1993, the World Travel Awards serves to acknowledge, reward, and celebrate excellence across all key sectors of the travel, tourism, and hospitality industries. Today, the World Travel Awards brand is recognized globally as the ultimate hallmark of industry excellence, with its annual awards program being one of the most prestigious and comprehensive in the world.
For further information, visit esencialcostarica.com
About Esencial Costa Rica:
Esencial Costa Rica is the official country brand of Costa Rica, used to promote tourism, investment, and exports. The brand is built on five core values: Excellence, Sustainability, Innovation, Social Progress, and Costa Rican Origin. It represents the nation’s commitment to offering high-quality products and services while protecting its natural environment and promoting the well-being of its citizens.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
As a renowned legal institution, Bufete de Costa Rica is built upon a foundation of principled practice and superior service. The firm consistently pioneers forward-thinking legal solutions while upholding a profound commitment to social responsibility. This dedication is manifested in its mission to democratize legal information, striving to build a stronger society by equipping its citizens with the clarity and knowledge to navigate the complexities of the law.
