The Costa Rica Tourism Authority and VoX International rolled out a green carpet for Open Jaw and media attending the Costa Rica Wellness Event on 13JUL.
Stepping onto a green yoga mat at Toronto's Sweat and Tonic, Open Jaw contorted into various poses inspired by Costa Rica's wildlife and nature to experience first-hand one of the destination's most popular wellness experiences: yoga.
"The goal of today's event is to introduce media to Costa Rica's wellness offerings. Of course, yoga is a huge aspect of that," Deborah Wegiel, PR Account Manager, VoX International Inc., told Open Jaw.
Luanna Gonzalez, Executive of International Tourism with the Costa Rica Tourism Board, added: "The goal of today is to get people in Canada, specifically in Toronto, to get to know our wellness offerings better, because Costa Rica is a perfect destination for wellness. We have fresh fruits, hot springs and a lifestyle that is Pura Vida. Everything is around wellness."
"Pura Vida" is a popular phrase in Costa Rica that translates to "pure life" or "simple life" in English. It's a unique expression that embodies the country's laid-back and positive outlook on life.
Yoga has become incredibly popular in Costa Rica, with a large number of yoga studios and retreats attracting both locals and visitors seeking relaxation and holistic well-being.
"I think right now, we are one of the top spots for wellness," Gonzalez said. "We have specialized wellness hotels. We offer things like doing yoga in the middle of the jungle or in front of the ocean. You can also go forest bathing because we have this amazing jungle and rainforest. Wherever you are in Costa Rica, you can disconnect completely, but connect with nature."
Canadians Look to Costa Rica to Embrace the Outdoors
After years of being indoors due to the pandemic, Gonzalez said Costa Rica, with its natural beauty, eco-friendly resorts, and range of nature-based activities, is a go-to destination for Canadians. Arrivals from North America saw a 21% increase compared to last year, including 148,973 visitors from Canada.
"Our visitors from Canada increased well over 2019," Gonzalez said. "I think we are very successful because everything is outside. People don't want to stay at home or in an apartment, especially not Canadians, because they're inside for so much of the year. Costa Rica is just about five hours from Toronto and there are many direct flight options. You can be connected with nature very quickly and easily."
In 2020, Costa Rica started the year with some of the highest arrivals for January and February before travel was put on pause. This year, Costa Rica's tourism industry is continuing to grow. The destination welcomed approximately 1.3 million visitors in the first half of the year - that's a 19.4% increase compared to the same period in 2022, and is even higher than 2019 numbers.
Trade tips: Selling the "Pura Vida" experience
According to Wegiel, the rule of thumb to enjoy Costa Rica to the fullest is to spend seven to 10 days in two to three destinations.
Gonzalez added that Costa Rica is widely recognized as a safe country for travellers, and renting a car is a popular and secure option for exploring its landscapes. Here's what else she had to share for travel advisors selling Costa Rica:
- Tell your clients not to fear the rainy season (typically May to November).
"Costa Rica is a year-round destination," Gonzalez said. "The hot season is January, February, April, and maybe May. But our advantage is that in the rainy season, you can still do many activities because it doesn't rain all day. It may rain for an hour or two in the afternoon or at night, but you can still do many activities. For people who like to do water activities, the rainy season is perfect because the level of the rivers is usually high, and that's best for rafting and other water sports." - To get the most out of a wildlife experience, hire a tour guide.
"You can see so much more with a tour guide and learn so much from them. They are specialists," Gonzalez said. "For example, at Manuel Antonio National Park, you have to walk about two kilometres from the entrance to the beach. Some people end up spending three or four hours just in that area looking at sloths, monkeys, birds, and other animals. Canadians love seeing that." - An abundance of surf n' turf activities.
From yoga retreats in lush rainforests to meditation sessions overlooking breathtaking waterfalls, Costa Rica is a haven for those seeking tranquillity and rejuvenation. But the activities don't stop there.
Whether it's exhilarating zip-lining through the treetops, catching waves at world-class surf breaks, or exploring vibrant coral reefs, Costa Rica's offerings extend from extreme and soft adventure, as well.
"I always say, you can do anything in Costa Rica," Gonzalez said, "except things with snow!"
