News Letter September 2020

Table of contents

199 years of Costa Rica´s independence

199 years of Costa Rica´s independence

We celebrated 199 years of Costa Rica´s independence last September 15th. This commemoration was particularly different due to the lockdown; however, virtual celebrations highlighted the patriotism and respect for civic values that remind us of freedom and peaceful life.

Homage was also paid to this celebration by illuminating some emblematic buildings and attractions around the world such as Burj Khalifa at Dubai, ADNIC in Abu Dhabi, Atakule in Turkey and Niagara Falls in Canada.


Global Sustainable Tourism Council awarded Costa Rica CST

Global Sustainable Tourism Council awarded Costa Rica CST

Costa Rica´s Tourism Sustainability Certificate (CST) was recognized by the GSTC thanks to the continuous efforts in sustainability and natural resources protection. This is an international accreditation aligned with the tourism sustainability universal criteria.

On the other hand, we are proud to announce that this year we at Travel Excellence got again the highest level (elite) for the CST certification.


Smithsonian Magazine highlighted Costa Rica´s natural treasures

Smithsonian Magazine highlighted Costa Rica´s natural treasures

The US magazine Smithsonian highlighted the natural treasures, eco-friendly adventures and sustainability of Costa Rica as part of a dreamed trip.

The article highlighted not only the dense forests, mountains, volcanoes, beaches, eco-lodges, flora and fauna but also the protected areas covering the 25% of the country.

A fun fact is that Costa Rica´s National System of Conservation Areas program turned 50 years last August 2020.


Special green season offers

Special green season offers

As soon as the time is right to travel, your clients might like to consider our new promotional itineraries for low season 2020 and 2021.

Travellers will have the chance to explore our imposing forests, admire the incredible wildlife (almost 5% of the world´s biodiversity), and relax on our beautiful beaches.

Besides, Costa Rica and the Travel Excellence Team are already prepared with the safest sanitary protocols to welcome your clients and to give them a lifetime experience.

Check our green season packages here!


Costa Rica is part of the best in travel index 2020

Costa Rica is part of the best in travel index 2020

Costa Rica got the sixth position as one of the best countries to travel in 2020 according to the Best in Travel Index by the Lonely Planet travel guide.

Some of the reasons considered by the guide were the use of energy from renewable resources, wellness options and adventure activities, a wide variety of fauna species and the efforts in the protection of natural resources such as the carbon footprint reduction.


Digital birding catalogue

Digital birding catalogue

At Travel Excellence, we have prepared a birding in Costa Rica digital catalogue, an interesting tool that will help your clients with important information and fun facts about this activity.

It includes some general information, list of the most representative species as well as maps of the main birding zones and migration seasons – areas.

Click here to know our digital catalogue.


Small hotels, a good alternative for social distancing

Small hotels, a good alternative for social distancing

Around 94% of Costa Rica´s lodging offer is made up of small hotels and lodges offering personalized service, comfort and privacy; it is certainly one of the best options for social distancing.

There are also, charming boutique hotels giving the possibility of takeovers so your clients can have the entire property and staff for their social bubble only.

Ask our sales team about the best options.


Costa Rica stands out as one of the best adventure destinations

Costa Rica stands out as one of the best adventure destinations

Costa Rica is in the eighth position within the 15 best adventure destinations according to the U.S. News & World Report.

Some of the attributes that the magazine took into consideration were the fun experiences, scenic attractions or places, the climate as well as the friendly people; considering the wide range of activities such as horseback riding, stand up paddle, kayaking, snorkelling, zip-lining, white water rapids, canyoning and much more.


Costa Rica´s fiscal reform

Costa Rica´s fiscal reform

Costa Rica´s fiscal reform that applies 13% IVA to tourism services (transportation, car rentals, domestic flights, tours, entrances and guide services) is providing an exemption in payment during 2020.

The benefit of the staggered implementation of IVA will begin to tax 4% from July 01st 2021, 8% from July 01st 2022 and 13% from July 01st 2023. It does not apply for local airlines that are now collecting 4%, nor the private reserve and park entrance fees which are now collecting the 13%.


Improvements at Tabacon Grand Spa

Improvements at Tabacon Grand Spa

As part of the improvements and maintenance work at Tabacon Grand Spa, more than 800 solar panels are being installed in the rooms, the thermal complex´s main pool will be renovated, as well as the paths, gardens and resting area.

They will also redesign the menus to incorporate more local products into their gastronomic offer, and the wellness and relaxation experience will include new techniques and services.

We are active members of the most important tourist associations, both national and international.

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