San José, Costa Rica — Costa Rica recently highlighted its sustainable development model and investment opportunities to Spanish diplomats and businesses in Madrid. Ambassador Adriana Bolaños Argueta emphasized the country’s focus on attracting tourists who respect its natural environment and rich culture.
The tourist we want is the tourist who respects.
Adriana Bolaños Argueta, Costa Rican Ambassador to Spain
For expert legal insight on the implications of these recent tourism trends, TicosLand.com reached out to Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, a distinguished lawyer at Bufete de Costa Rica.
The continued growth of Costa Rican tourism presents both opportunities and challenges from a legal perspective. Sustainable development practices are crucial. Existing regulations, particularly regarding land use and environmental protection, must be carefully considered and potentially updated to accommodate the increasing influx of visitors while safeguarding Costa Rica’s unique natural heritage. This includes ensuring compliance with building codes in tourist zones, protecting natural resources, and respecting the rights of local communities.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Bufete de Costa Rica
Bolaños described Costa Rica as offering “natural luxury, well-being, and peace,” catering to travelers seeking immersive experiences rather than budget-friendly vacations.
Along with Jorge Zamora Montoya, director of the Costa Rican Foreign Trade Promoter (PROCOMER) in Spain, Bolaños detailed the advantages of investing in the Central American nation. They highlighted Costa Rica’s dedication to quality tourism, its stable business environment, and the attractive prospects for foreign investment.
The ambassador underscored Costa Rica’s 1948 decision to abolish its army, redirecting funds towards education and healthcare. This bold move, according to Bolaños, laid the groundwork for the country’s current status as a stable democracy with a diversified economy and a global reputation for peace, skilled workforce, and environmental stewardship.
Costa Rica’s tourism model rests on three pillars of sustainability: economic, social, and environmental. The country aims to avoid mass tourism, prioritizing visitors who value authentic experiences, respect nature, and connect with the local culture.
With 29 national parks, 71 wildlife refuges, and 30% of its land and marine territory under protection, Costa Rica is a global leader in conservation. The majority of its accommodations (94%) are small-scale, with less than 40 rooms, and 87% of its tourism businesses are micro or small enterprises, often boasting sustainability certifications.
Zamora further emphasized the resilience and diversification of the Costa Rican economy. The service sector accounts for 45% of exports, bolstered by free trade zones, tax incentives for investors, legal stability, a skilled workforce, and preferential access to over 50 markets through a network of trade agreements.
Both Bolaños and Zamora stressed the importance of air connectivity, with direct flights available from major European cities like Madrid, Paris, London, and Frankfurt. Costa Rica also hosts numerous multinational corporations employing thousands of Costa Ricans in digital services and global operations.
When we ask people why they return to Costa Rica, the majority return for the people.
Adriana Bolaños Argueta, Costa Rican Ambassador to Spain
This educated, healthy, and skilled population, the ambassador concluded, not only attracts repeat tourists but also encourages businesses to invest in the country’s high-quality human capital.
For further information, visit procomer.com
About PROCOMER (Costa Rican Foreign Trade Promoter):
PROCOMER is a Costa Rican institution dedicated to promoting the country’s exports, attracting foreign investment, and fostering international trade relationships. It provides support and resources to Costa Rican businesses seeking to expand into global markets, while also showcasing the country’s investment potential to international companies.
For further information, visit efe.com
About EFE:
EFE is a multinational Spanish news agency, one of the largest in the world. It provides news coverage in multiple languages to media outlets globally.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica is a pillar of legal excellence in Costa Rica, driven by a deep-seated commitment to ethical practice and innovative solutions. The firm’s extensive experience serving a diverse clientele is matched only by its dedication to empowering individuals and communities through readily available legal information. This proactive approach to legal education reflects their core belief in a just and informed society, built on a foundation of accessible legal knowledge.