Meetings and Incentive Travel

COSTA RICA
OFFICIAL GUIDE OF MEETINGS & INCENTIVES OF COSTA RICA
Meetings and Incentive Travel
Costa Rica
10
21
8
9
7
ISLA DEL COCO
23
6
18
Caribbean
Sea
20
5
19
Pacific
Ocean
Hotels & attractions
Central Pacific
1.
2.
3.
4.
4
Parador Resort & Spa
Los Sueños Marriott
Villa Caletas
DoubleTree Resort by Hilton Central Pacific
3
2
1
North Pacific (Guanacaste)
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
JW Marriott
The Westin Resort & Spa Playa Conchal
El Mangroove
Andaz Península Papagayo
Four Seasons Resort Costa Rica at Península de
Papagayo
10. Dreams Las Mareas
Central Valley
11.
12.
13.
14.
15.
16.
17.
Radisson San José Costa Rica
Holiday Inn San José Aurola
Crowne Plaza Corobicí
DoubleTree by Hilton Cariari
Wyndham San José Herradura
Real Intercontinental
Marriott Costa Rica
Northern Plains
18. Tilajari Hotel Resort & Conference Center
Attractions
19.
20.
21.
22.
23.
Calypso Cruises
El Viejo Wetlands
Hacienda Guachipelín
Ríos Tropicales
Desafío Adventure Co.
14
15
13 12 11
16
17
Symbology
Roads
National ........................
Regional .......................
Interamerican................
Ferry Access..................................
Borders
International..................
Provincial......................
Towns
Capital City.......................
Provincial Capital..............
Head of Canton................
Minor Towns.....................
Volcanoes.........................................
Protected Areas...............................
International Airports......................
(LIR) Liberia Guanacaste
(SJO) San José
Cruises ............................................
Harbors.............................................
Domestic Airstrips...........................
COSTA RICA CONVENTION BUREAU
San José, Costa Rica
Ph: (506) 2221-3753
Fax: (506) 2221-3743
[email protected] • www.costaricacvb.com
22
Costa Rica offers a wide range of first class services, supported by hotels, five-star resorts and boutique hotels that are unequalled, where our creative DMC and PCO professionals can put
their vast experience at your disposal. Natural places, the quality of our multilingual guides and luxury transportation will make your event a unique experience that your customers will greatly
appreciate.
Attractions
CALYPSO CRUISES
DESAFÍO ADVENTURE CO.
EL VIEJO WETLANDS
HACIENDA GUACHIPELIN
RÍOS TROPICALES
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
www.calypsocruises.com
www.DesafioCostaRica.com
www.elviejowetlands.com
www.guachipelin.com
www.riostropicales.com
DMC’S
More than 500 years ago, when Columbus came ashore on his final trip to the New World
and received an offering of gold from the local people, named this land ”Rich Coast”
Welcome to Costa Rica! A New
World for your meetings...
We are definitely the ideal destination for your meetings and incentive travel
events.
Certainly there are a great many reasons that make Costa Rica a suitable
destination for your meetings and incentive programs: from its recognized
dedication to the conservation of natural resources, its rich biodiversity and
quality hotel infrastructure, to factors such as its recognized political stability,
its high quality health services, ease of air access and excellent technological
development, which is why many world renowned companies decided to install
their regional offices in the country.
1. Easy air access from most major cities in North America and
Europe
Costa Rica has two international airports: Juan Santamaria International
Airport (SJO), the country’s largest and only 20 minutes from San José; and
Daniel Oduber Quirós International Airport (LIR) in Liberia, Guanacaste, which
emphasizes the tourist attractions and services of the Northern Pacific region
and nearby areas.
2. Strategic location
Costa Rica is located in the tropical region between the two American continents,
with a varied but very pleasant climate all year round and average temperatures
ranging from 70 to 79 degrees Fahrenheit (21 to 26o Celsius.
3. High quality medical services
Costa Rica’s social security system was established 70 years ago and today it
provides universal health coverage to the entire population, immigrants included.
This early investment in social services has allowed Costa Rica to boast levels of
human development comparable to those of advanced countries.
4. Country of peace
Costa Rica has a well-known history of commitment to peace, which is evident
in the fact that teachers rather than soldiers founded our country. Over 65 years
ago, in a supreme pacifist act with a historic vision that was exceptional in the
world, we decided to abolish our standing army. Our democracy does not rest its
strength on either weapons or war, but rather on peace as a mandatory human
right.
5. High level of education
It is said that the nation’s largest uniformed body is made up of the children
and youth in the public school system. To move towards an economy based
on innovation, the country developed a digital focus and today 90% of our
elementary and high schools have some form of connectivity and access to digital
technologies.
6. Wide range of services and facilities for meetings
The large, renowned international hotel chains as well as the independent ones
operating in Costa Rica today have extensive experience in the development,
operation and execution of meetings, conferences and incentive programs.
For over 20 years, our professionals have been developing activities for small
groups, sophisticated incentive programs, managerial workshops, international
conferences and many other kinds of meetings, always ensuring high standards
in accordance with your requirements.
7. Commitment to sustainability
Ninety-five percent of energy consumed in the country comes from renewable
sources and Costa Rica has the goal of becoming one of the first carbon neutral
nations on the planet. We successfully promote sustainable tourism and many of
our agricultural exports, including bananas and coffee, are carbon neutral.
8. Meeting costs are tax-deductible for US organizations and
citizens.
Costa Rica holds a privileged status for meetings organized by US companies.
Under Section 274 (h) of the Internal Revenue Code of the United States
and Internal Revenue Service Rule 94-56, Section 274 (h) (6), Costa Rica is
considered within the “North American Area” where expenses incurred for
conventions, seminars, congresses or similar meetings by individual US taxpayers
attending such meetings are tax-deductible. All these events have the same taxdeductible considerations for US citizens as if the convention were held in the
United States. For more information consult your local Internal Revenue Service
(IRS) office or visit www.irs.gov/irb/2003-42_IRB/ar06.html#d0e152.com.
BEST OF COSTA RICA INBOUND TOUR OPERATOR & DMC
CACTUS TOUR
CAST
COSTA RICA DMC
COSTA RICA DREAM
CRT TEAM
DESTINATION COSTA RICA
DISCOVERY TRAVEL
ESCAPES VIP
EXCELENTE DMC
GLOBAL EVENTS DMC
IVI COSTA RICA QUEST DMC
MEETINGS BY HORIZONTES
PREMIO DMC
SELECTED MOMENTS
SUMMIT DMC
SWISS TRAVEL
TAM DMC
TOP TOURS
VIATUR
ATP
CEDE EVENTOS
COMEXP
JM EVENTOS
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www.bestcostaricadmc.com
www.cactustour.com
www.castcr.com
www.costaricadmc.com
www.costaricadreamtravel.com
www.costaricaincentives.com
www.destinationcr.com
www.discoverycr.com
www.escapesvip.com
www.excelentedmc.com
www.globaleventscrc.com
www.ividmc.com
www.meetingsbyhorizontes.com
www.premiodmc.com
www.selectedmoments.com
www.summitcostarica.com
www.swisstravelcr.com
www.tamtravel.com
www.costaricatoptours.com
www.viaturtravel.net
www.atpmeettings.com
www.cedeeventos.com
www.comunicacionexpresiva.com
www.jmeventos.com
HOTELS
ANDAZ PENÍNSULA PAPAGAYO
CROWN PLAZA COROBICÍ
DOUBLETREE BY HILTON CARIARI
DOUBLETREE RESORT BY HILTON CENTRAL PACIFIC
DREAMS LAS MAREAS
EL MANGROOVE
FOUR SEASONS RESORT COSTA RICA AT PENINSULA DE PAPAGAYO
HOLIDAY INN SAN JOSÉ AUROLA
JW MARRIOTT
LOS SUEÑOS MARRIOTT
MARRIOTT COSTA RICA
PARADOR RESORT & SPA
RADISSON SAN JOSÉ COSTA RICA
REAL INTERCONTINENTAL
THE WESTIN RESORT & SPA PLAYA CONCHAL
TILAJARI HOTEL RESORT & CONFERENCE CENTER
VILLA CALETAS
WYNDHAM SAN JOSÉ HERRADURA
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[email protected]
www.papagayo.andaz.hyatt.com
www.crowneplaza.com
www.cariarisanjose.doubletree.com
www.doubletreecentralpacific.com
www.dreamsresorts.com/las-mareas
www.elmangroove.net
www.fourseasons.com/costarica/
www.aurolahotels.com
www.marriott.com/sjojw
www.marriott.com/sjols
www.marriott.com/sjocr
www.hotelparador.com
www.radisson.co.cr
www.intercontinental.com/sanjose
www.westinplayaconchal.com
www.tilajari.com
www.hotelvillacaletas.com
www.wyndhamherradura.com
PCO’S
ATP
CEDE EVENTOS
COMEXP
JM EVENTOS
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CIRKO VIVO
COPA AIRLINES
COSTA RICA GIVEAWAYS
EVENTOS CARLOS GIL
MASCO
SUPERIOR AUDIOVISUAL
SUPPLIERS
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We enjoy receiving your inquiries; please contact or write us on our website at www.costaricacvb.com. It will be our sincere pleasure to assist you.
Ph: (506) 2221-3753
Fax (506) 2221-3743
[email protected]
www.costaricacvb.com
www.atpmeettings.com
www.cedeeventos.com
www.comunicacionexpresiva.com
www.jmeventos.com
www.cirkovivo.com
www.copa.com
www.costaricagiveaways.com
www.eventoscarlosgil.com
www.masco.co.cr
www.av.cr
WELCOME
OUR PARTNERS
Contact us and we will be happy to answer your queries
Index
05
Welcome to
Costa Rica
10
07
15
Important facts
19
26
General
information
New
projects
Positioning of
the destination
08
17
Infrastructure
20
28
Other venues
Other
atracctions
24
30
Why
Costa Rica?
Facilities and
services for
meetings and
conventions
Sports centers
Top destination
Special Acknowledgement
COSTA RICA CONVENTION
BUREAU
Calle 38 y 40, av. 2, Paseo Colón
Edificio ASG, II piso, oficina 18
San José, Costa Rica.
Teléfono: (506) 2221-3753
Fax (506) 2221-3743
Apartado postal 15-1002
San José, Costa Rica
[email protected]
www.costaricacvb.com
INSTITUTO
COSTARRICENSE DE
TURISMO
Oficina central en San José
Costado este del Puente Juan
Pablo II, Autopista General
Cañas.
Teléfono (506) 2299-5800
Facsímil (506) 2291-4645
Apartado postal 777-1000 San
José, Costa Rica.
Información Turística en Estados
Unidos y Canadá
800- TURISMO
www.visitcostarica.com
Costa Rica Convention expresses its gratitude to its
associated companies and the professionals who graciously
supported this publication by allowing the use of their
photographic material.
DMC’s: CRT Team, Best of Costa Rica Inbound Tour Operator
& DMC; Swiss Travel DMC, TAM DMC, Cast, Destination Costa
Rica, Premio DMC, IVI Costa Rica Quest DMC, Excelente
DMC, Escapes VIP, Costa Rica Top Tours, Eventos Carlos Gil.
Hoteles: DoubleTree Resort by Hilton Central Pacific,
Real InterContinental San José, The Westin Resort & Spa
Playa Conchal, Crown Plaza Corobicí, El Mangroove, Four
Seasons Resort Costa Rica at Peninsula de Papagayo, Hilton
Papagayo Costa Rica, Hotel Hacienda Guachipelín Ricón de
la Vieja Costa Rica, JW Marriott Guanacaste Resort & Spa,
Los Sueños Marriott Ocean & Golf Resort, Marriott Costa
Rica San Jose, Tilajari Hotel Resort & Conference Center,
Wyndham San José Herradura.
Fotógrafos: Pablo Martínez y María Fe Alpízar.
Eighth Edition – 2015.
All rights reserved.
Produced by the Costa Rica Convention Bureau, with support from the Costa Rican Tourism Institute (ICT) and its associated companies.
Costa Rica is expanding its presence in the MICE market
Costa Rica is a unique destination in the global tourism context. Even though it is a relatively small country, its 19,730 square miles [51,100
km2] house 5% of the planet’s biodiversity on less than one percent of its land surface.
Its geographical conditions are highly varied and the territory offers a range of ecosystems seldom found elsewhere. These include
beaches, volcanoes and mountains and a rich supply of dry, wet and rain forests.
In terms of weather conditions, our climate is tropical because we are located in the planet’s intertropical zone. This aspect causes a clear
seasonality with dry and rainy seasons and based on the time of year, tourists can decide what they would like to do.
Another difference has to do with environmental protection policies that have led us to promote a sustainable development model, which
has been and is a hallmark of value added in the tourist product supply, enchanting responsible tourists as well as lovers of nature and the
environment.
Costa Rica is also well known for its political and economic stability; these are aspects of great importance and value to the country’s
international image because they imply security for potential investors in the development and implementation of business proposals. As a
country with a pacifist culture that upholds the ideals of democracy, with talented, hardworking people who want to excel, the nation garners
the respect and admiration of other nations.
Competitiveness is a major issue on the tourism agenda of nations and the particular case of Costa Rica is no exception; therefore, in order
to be better and more competitive, the Costa Rican Tourism Institute has a National Plan for
Sustainable Tourism Development, which indicates the work we need to carry out.
On the issue of competitiveness, the Costa Rican Tourism Institute wants to continue to
support the MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Events) market, which employs
hundreds of people who are working to turn the country into a niche of special interest to the
tourism industry.
Every year, Costa Rica hosts thousands of tourists who visit the country to participate in
incentive travel, conferences or major events. In this field, many of these events are the result
of the efforts of entrepreneurs along with the Costa Rican Tourism Institute. The Costa Rica
Convention Bureau participates in international fairs in different parts of the world to show what
Costa Rican tourism has to offer.
With respect to our particular conditions, we can stress the value and talent of our people.
The country has human capital and suitable infrastructure conditions for providing services of
the highest quality, satisfying our customers who then revisit the country and include it in travel
recommendations they make to their relatives, acquaintances and friends.
On this point, we should recognize the tenacious work of the hundreds of people employed
in this niche market and who with their efforts and dedication allow us to participate in the
competitive international supply of destinations for organizing events.
Costa Rica has the conditions for continuing success in the MICE market. Therefore, as
Minister of the Costa Rican Tourism Institute, I invite you to follow our work in this market where
each day we obtain more impressive results.
Wilhelm von Breymann B.
Minister of Tourism
5
COSTA RICA
The destination, its people, its
essence …
Costa Rica has managed to place itself on
the international map as a strategic
destination
for
many
multinational
companies from various sectors, due to
the high qualifications of its workforce, its
strategic location in the center of the
Americas, the warmth of its people, its
stable and transparent business climate,
and the quality of its services. This is
evidenced by the fact that more than 250
companies have chosen Costa Rica as a
place to settle and develop their regional
operations; these include:
• INTEL SS
• HOSPIRA
• SYKES
• BOSTON SCIENTIFIC
• ACCENTURE
• WESTERN UNION
• VITEC
• ARTHROCARE
• EMERSON ELECTRIC • HOLOGIC
• TRIMPOT
• ALLERGAN
• EXPERIAN
• ST. JUDE MEDICAL
• BAXTER AMERICAS
• IBM GLOBAL
• P&G
TECHNOLOGY
• HEWLETT-PACKARD SERVICES CENTER
6
The educational system is ranked number
20 in the world and it is the highest ranked in
Latin America, according to the 2013-2014
Report on Global Competitiveness of the
World Economic Forum
General
Data
Costa Rica
Population: 4,889,826 Mills
-6:00 GMT
San José
Official Name: Republic of Costa Rica.
Capital: San José.
Languages: Spanish (Official), English is widely spoken.
Territorial Area: 51,100 km2 (19,730 mi2).
Location: 9º 56' 0" N - 84º 5' 0".
On the Central American Isthmus, flanked by the Pacific Ocean and
the Caribbean Sea, bordering the republics of Nicaragua and
Panama.
Time zone: GMT-6 (Central Standard Time in the US).
Currency: Colón (¢, CRC – Approximately ¢540 per
US dollar).
Workforce: 2.21 million.
Gross Domestic Product GDP: US$ 56 billion.
Education expenditure: 6.3% of GDP.
Health expenditure: 11% of GDP.
Armed forces expenditure: 0% of GDP (Costa Rica has not had
military forces since 1948).
7
COSTA RICA
the ideal site for your meetings
and incentive travel…
Costa Rica offers a wonderful, extremely diverse alternative in terms of tourist
attractions with meaning and with a fresh proposal full of creativity and professionalism
for the organization of meetings and attending to incentive programs. Let us share
some of the most important reasons that you should consider when choosing a
destination for your programs:
The most democratic nation in Latin America (Worldwide Governance
Indicators, World Bank, 2012), and the most peaceful nation in Central
America (Latin Business Chronicle, 2012).
8
1. Health and quality of life
According to the Social Progress Index (2014),
Costa Rica performs very well in the field of
healthcare, including nutrition and basic
medical care, and it stands out as a provider
of good platforms for growth in people’s lives,
achieving an average life expectancy of nearly
80 years, according to a World Bank report in
2013.
Costa Rica is internationally recognized as
the safest country in Central America and the
fourth safest in Latin America, which is why it
is included in the countries with a high level of
security.
The global study for the 2014 Happy Planet
Index awarded first place to Costa Rica as the
happiest country in the world. Costa Rican
citizens are considered to be highly satisfied
with their lives.
The evaluation of the level of quality of the
healthcare system puts the nation at 7th place
in the world, first in Latin America and first
in Central America, since about 91% of the
population has access to potable water and
almost 79% has access to electricity.
Many hospitals and clinics in the country
are state-run and provide universal medical
services to the population.
Pura Vida!! This is a lifestyle, an
expression that denotes a status of
happiness, joy, appreciation, peace
and freedom for Costa Ricans,
otherwise known as “TICOS.”
9
2. High level of education
Its free and compulsory education system, established in 1870, has helped more than 93%
of the population enroll in school. It is ranked number 55 globally, 6th in Latin America
and first in Central America, and 78% of the population has access to telecommunications
(number 30 in the world, first in Latin America and first in Central America).
Nearly 44% of the population gains access to higher education (ranked 58 worldwide, fifth
in Latin America and second in Central America).
Through scientist and astronaut Franklin Chang, Costa Rica has ventured into the
space industry, with his project to produce VASIMR rocket propulsion engines.
3. Meeting costs are tax-deductible for US organizations and citizens
Costa Rica holds a privileged status for meetings organized by US companies. Under
Section 274 (h) of the Internal Revenue Code of the United States and Internal Revenue
Service Rule 94-56, Section 274 (h) (6), Costa Rica is considered within the “North American
Area” where expenses incurred for conventions, seminars, congresses or similar meetings
by individual US taxpayers attending such meetings are tax-deductible. All have the same
deduction considerations for US citizens as if the convention were held in the United States.
For more information consult your local Internal Revenue Service (IRS) office or visit www.irs.
gov/irb/2003-42_IRB/ar06.html#d0e152.com.
10
4. Extensive communications network and technology
Costa Rica has a robust communications platform with fixed and mobile telephone coverage
country-wide; however, cell phone signals can sometimes be weak when far from urban centers.
There is access to broadband Internet in most of the territory and there is an optical fiber
connection.
Costa Rica is the first exporter of high technology in Latin America and the Caribbean, and it is 5th
worldwide, according to the World Bank report on 2013 Global Development Indicators.
Most innovative country of Latin America and second in business sophistication (INSEAD, 2013).
11
Two
international airports
host 18 international carriers
representing
almost
400
weekly
flights
COSTA RICA
5. Proximity and accessibility
Being located in the center of the Americas, Costa Rica is easily accessible by air, land or sea.
It has two international airports and a good frequency of flights from Europe and America, as
well as facilities for cruise ship arrivals and modern marinas on both coasts that allow access
by sea. The two international airports host 18 airlines and nearly 400 flights per week.
6. Dedicated to sustainability and conservation
Costa Rica generates nearly all its electricity from clean, renewable sources: hydroelectric, geothermal
and wind, so the energy used by tourists during their travel is clean energy.
By choosing Costa Rica as a destination, you support an industry committed to responsible
development, with a long tradition toward respect for nature and determination to leave a better
future for the coming generations. Not only are you contributing to the economic development of the
country, you are also collaborating with the defense of the environment.
Company
to San José (SJO) from
AEROMEXICO
AIR CANADA
Mexico City
Toronto
Toronto
ARKE FLY
AMERICAN AIRLINES
Miami
Miami, Dallas Fort Worth
JAZZ
Canada
SUNCOUNTRY
Minneapolís
AVIANCA
Mexico City, San Salvador,
Guatemala, Tegucigalpa, San
Pedro Sula, Managua, Panamá,
Lima y Bogotá
SUNWING
Toronto
THOMPSON
UK
CONDOR
Frankfurt vía Dominican Republic
San Salvador
COPA AIRLINES
Panama
Cuba
DELTA AIRLINES
Atlanta, Los Angeles
Atlanta, Los Angeles, Nueva York
FRONTIER
Denver
Denver
IBERIA
Madrid
INTERJET
Mexico City
JET BLUE AIRWAYS
Orlando, Fort Lauderdale
SOUTHWEST
Baltimore
Fort Lauderdale
UNITED AIRLINES
Newark, Houston, Washington, Chicago
US ARWAYS
Carolina del Norte, Phoenix, Philadelphia
WEST JET
Company
AIR TRANSAT
CUBANA AVIACION
SPIRIT AIRLINES
12
to Liberia (LIR)
to San José (SJO) from
Toronto, Montreal
to Liberia (LIR)
Toronto
Amsterdan
Panama
Nueva York
Newark, Houston
Toronto
13
INFRASTRUCTURE
Airports
7. Diversity of attractions and activities
Its irregular geography, mountain ranges with active volcanoes spanning the country,
and the influence of two oceans generates hundreds of beautiful beaches and many
microclimates, from rainforests, to tropical dry forests, to cloud forests. Its extensive
plains, mangrove swamps and wetlands, as well as the many rivers and waterfalls
make up the rich geography of the country, offering landscapes for all tastes.
The country has two international airports with a wide range of flights to strategic locations: Juan
Santamaria International Airport (SJO) in the urban center of the country has an excellent range of
commercial services. In recent years, this airport has achieved major international recognition:
Infrastructucture
Costa Rica dedicates 25% of its territory to protected areas and it houses
6% of the planet’s biodiversity (Government of Costa Rica).
2007
World Travel Awards 2008: Leading Central American Airport.
2009
ACI Award: “Third best airport in the Latin American and Caribbean region”, based on the results of a
passenger perception survey in 2008.
2010
ISO 9001:2008 recertification in 2010.
ACI Award “Third best airport in the Latin American and Caribbean region”, based on the results of a
passenger perception survey in 2010.
ACI Award: “Most Improved Airport”, based on the results of a passenger perception survey in 2010.
2011
ACI Award: “Third best airport of the Latin American and Caribbean region”, based on the results of a
passenger perception survey in 2011.
The Daniel Oduber Quirós International Airport in Liberia (LIR) allows quick access to many of the most
attractive beaches and renowned resorts in the province of Guanacaste.
14
15
In the Caribbean: Limón and Moín.
In the Pacific: Punta Morales, Puntarenas,
Quepos, Golfito and Caldera.
FACILITIES AND SERVICES FOR MEETINGS AND CONVENTIONS
Highways - Road Network:
In the past four years, Costa Rica’s road infrastructure has increased significantly
in both construction and maintenance, as demonstrated in recent projects such
as the San José-Caldera and the Costanera Sur highways. The road to San
Carlos was started and two level crossings were built on the San José beltway.
In 2013, a bridge rehabilitation plan was begun that aims to improve more
than 230 structures and it will fund 29 bridges on the Northern Interamerican
highway and eight others through a JICA program for a total of $42 million.
Guanacaste
The name comes from the indigenous word meaning “place near the trees with ears.” It
is the largest and most sparsely populated province, which is also known for its cattle
production and for its spectacularly beautiful beaches on the Pacific Ocean.
Facilities and services for meetings and conventions
Infrastructucture
Main Ports
Here there are several semi-active volcanoes, amazing waterfalls and lakes; it conserves
one of the few dry tropical forests remaining in Central America and it combines many of
the most attractive international hotel and resort chains to event organizers.
Daniel Oduber International Airport (LIR) is found in the city of Liberia.
Weather: Warm / Dry.
Average temperature: 28o C/ 85o F.
Hotel
Dreams Las Mareas
Four Seasons Papagayo
Andaz Papagayo
Papagayo Resort & Spa
El Mangroove
The Westin Resort Playa
Conchal
JW Marriott Guanacaste
16
Rooms
Min
Max
447
175
153
202
85
Meeting Rooms
1
11
3
8
8
20
26
32
20
12
800
340
180
400
200
406
8
20
600
310
7
30
600
17
Hotel
DoubleTree Resort by Hilton
Central Pacific
Villa Caletas
Los Sueños Marriott
Parador Resort & Spa
Only an hour away from San
José, the Central Pacific
315
6
26
340
region hosts many scenic
beaches, national parks and
52
7
40
130
201
3
50
300
a wide range of adventure
129
1
10
64
activities, many of which can
be enjoyed in its magnificent,
pristine waters: diving, snorkeling, windsurfing, kayaking and whitewater
rafting.
Rooms
Meeting Rooms
Min
Max
The area has many very attractive international resorts and independent
hotels known for their facilities and first class service, plus gourmet
restaurants, world class golf courses and tourist attractions in a natural
setting, ideal for complementing the their program activities.
Other activities include walks through private reserves, hanging bridges,
horseback riding or crocodile safaris.
Weather: Warm / Wet.
Central Valley
Hotel
Marriott Costa Rica
Wyndham Herradura
Double Tree by Hilton Cariari
Real InterContinental
Crowne Plaza Corobicí
Holiday Inn San José
Radisson San José
Tilajari Hotel & Resort
Rooms
300
229
222
372
213
200
210
75
Meeting Rooms
5
9
6
19
14
6
9
9
Capacity
Average temperature: 25o C/ 78o F.
Min
35
20
50
45
20
20
10
30
Max
800
1800
750
1800
1000
220
1000
1500
This area is located in the center of the country and it includes the cities of San José,
Alajuela, Cartago and Heredia. The recently renovated Juan Santamaria International
Airport (SJO) is only minutes from the hotel zone and about 25 minutes from the city
center.
San Jose has a huge supply of art exhibitions in museums and galleries, theaters,
extensive and varied restaurants, and a great many day tours whose programs can
include active volcanoes, coffee plantations, the world’s largest butterfly farm, or even
breathtaking waterfalls, whitewater rivers and zip-line or canopy tours that defy the
spirit of adventure in us all, in the middle of the tropical forest.
Weather: Warm temperate / Dry. Average temperature: 22 C/ 72 F.
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NewProjects
New Projects
Facilities and services for meetings and conventions
Central
PacíficoPacific
Central
In 2015 and 2016, several chain
hotels are expected to open, such as:
AM Resorts - Dreams Las Mareas,
Hilton Garden Inn San José Sabana,
Meliá Paradisus, YU Wyndham and
Marriott. Some independent hotels
are also coming: Alta Gracia and
Croc’s Casino and Resort.
Quick facts
Capacity
(pax)
Configuration
Exhibition Hall
3,000
1/3 1/2 2/3
Meeting rooms 1, 2, and 3
1,253
Combined 1, 2, and 3
Meeting rooms 4, 5, and 6
268
Combined 4, 5, and 6
Conference rooms 1 – 6
10 to 20
Pre-function area
1,100
Convention Center:
Projected for 2016, the National Congress and Convention Center in Costa Rica
will encompass nearly 15,000 m2, including 4000 m2 of roofed exhibition area and
conference area with over 1600 m2.
It will feature an exhibition area, conference rooms, VIP meeting room, media room,
registration desk, lobby area, barbecue halls, and service areas including kitchens,
hallways, bathrooms and restaurant.
The versatility of the facility will enable it to house events for up to 3,038 people in
plenary-type arrangement, with a total building capacity of 4,595 people, comfortably
seated. The outdoor area will also allow outdoor exhibitions and food services.
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Other venues
Other
venues
Antigua Aduana - Old Customs House
This building once housed the customs offices in San Jose and now belongs to the
Ministry of Youth, Culture and Sports. Its beautiful structure was recently remodeled
and it has four halls ranging from 325 m² to 3,325m², plus an esplanade (3,900 m²)
for a total area of 8,445 m².
Webpage: http://wikimapia.org/4198055/es/Antigua-Aduana-Principal.
Pedregal Events Center
Located in San Antonio de Belén, San José.
With five has ranging from 1980 m² to 3300 m² for a total of 11,022 m²
combined and a maximum capacity of 12,520 people.
Webpage: http://www.eventospedregal.com/.
Parque Viva
Located in Guácima de Alajuela.
It has an Events Center (with areas from 1,800 m2 to 9,000 m²; capacity for 11,000 people),
amphitheater (7,000 persons in stadium seats), racetrack, VIP lounge (800 m², can hold 200
people) and outdoor plaza for events (35,000 m²) .
Webpage: www.parqueviva.com.
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21
Theme park with buildings that represent historical
sites of San José in the late XIX century and early
XX century, it is part of amusement park PARQUE
DIVERSIONES, whose revenues are source of
donations to the National Children’s Hospital.
Strategically located in the capital, its facilities are
suitable for congresses, meetings, fairs, seminars,
receptions and parties, under different concepts.
Six rooms and one tent with different capabilities
allow the attention of events up to 2000 people,
using full facilities. Free parking, full service A & B,
artistic performances for entertainment, counseling
and specialized staff focused on a success event.
Our museums offer collections of unique pieces that are testament to the cultural richness
of Costa Rica, based on archaeological research, artistic creation and technological
development.
The most prominent museums with facilities for groups include the National Museum of
Costa Rica, the Costa Rican Art Museum, the Museums of the Central Bank, the new
Museum of Jade and pre-Columbian Culture, and the Children’s Museums.
More information on Costa Rica’s museums at: http://www.museosdecostarica.com/.
Other venues
Pueblo Antiguo
Museo de Jade
Webpage: www.puebloantiguo.co.cr.
Museums
Costa Rica has a wide variety of museums, many of them located in the Central Valley; however,
several are in other provinces and they offer opportunities to see their artistic or historical content
along with learning experiences that promote personal growth and ensure the preservation of
natural heritage.
National Museum
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Other venues
Sports
National Stadium, San José, Costa Rica
Inaugurated on March 26, 2011, it hosted the
Under-17 Women’s World Cup in 2014. Capacity
for 35,100.
Centers
Estadio Nacional San José, Costa Rica: Capacity of 35,100 and was
opened on March 26, 2011, the final of the women’s world under-17 was
held in 2014.
Adventure
On water:
Cruise and catamaran tours, surfing,
paragliding, rowing, kayaking, whitewater
rafting, skiing, boat excursions, and
more.
Above-ground:
Canopy cable cars, zip-line canopy
tours, canyoneering and rappelling.
On land:
ATVs, horseback and bicycle riding,
visits to national parks.
Golf:
Parque Valle del Sol, Club Cariari, Four
Seasons Resort Costa Rica at Peninsula
Papagayo, The Westin Golf Resort &
Spa Playa Conchal, Hacienda Pinilla,
Los Sueños Marriott.
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Heredia Sports Palace
The center can host a variety of sports
events such as basketball, futsal, volleyball,
martial arts, boxing, handball, gymnastics,
and many others. Venue capacity is 3500
people in the stands and there is a broadcast
booth, bathrooms and 8 entrances and
exits.
BN Gymnasium Arena San José
The arena was inaugurated in March 2013
and holds 5,200 people. It can host events
such as basketball, futsal, volleyball, martial
arts, boxing, handball, gymnastics, and more.
This venue hosted the 2013 Central American
Games in San José.
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Positioning of the destination
Positioning of the
destination
• Costa Rica exports more than 4,500 products to 146 countries (Costa Rica Foreign
Trade Promoter - PROCOMER).
• Major exporter of pineapple and third largest exporter of banana globally (Costa Rica
Foreign Trade Promoter - PROCOMER – based on data from Trade Map).
• Gourmet coffee quoted at over $4000 per quintal.
• Outstanding citizens: Franklin Chang-Díaz (astronaut and scientist), Jorge Jimenez
Deredia (sculptor), Elizabeth Odio (international jurist), Óscar Arias (Nobel Peace Prize
recipient), Claudia and Silvia Pol (Olympic medallists), Hana Gabriel (world welterweight
boxing champion), Jacques Sagot and Daniela Navarro (international pianists), Íride
Martínez (international soprano).
Source: Revista América Económica.
In the last two decades, Costa Rica has developed extensive expertise in organizing meetings,
conferences and incentive trips, managing to become the headquarters for many of them:
2015
• FLAUS 2015 - XVII Congress of the Latin American Federation of Societies for Ultrasound.
• Intelisys, President’s Club 2015, 2015.
• University of Florida - Conference, 2015.
• Confidential President Club Incentive Trip, 2015.
• Prime Tour - Incentive Trip, 2015.
2014
• FIFA Under-17 Women’s World Cup, 2014.
• Million Dollar Club, 2014.
• Western CPI Event, 2014.
• Leck Travel Service, Incentive Group, 2014.
• MIC Japan – Conference, 2014.
2013
• Headquarters, Central American Games, San José 2013.
• Latin American Congress for Medical Physics, 2013.
• XXIX FECARI 2013.
• New Cardiovascular Horizons, 2013.
• Shire Regenerative Medicine, 2013.
• Revised NorthStar Memorial Group, LLC, 2013.
• Scenty, 2013.
• Centro Mundial Bahai, 2013.
2011 y 2012
• CLEIN 2012 – Latin American Congress of Industrial Engineering and Allied Students.
• II Latin American Juridical Congress on Reproductive Rights, 2011.
• Medical Travel – International Business Summit, 2011.
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Attractions
Attractions
Spa and Relaxation
In Costa Rica you will find various ways to achieve transformation and discover peace and
relaxation thanks to the countless alternatives available in health and wellness services, from
rustic bungalows with all-inclusive and a la carte dining, to retreat and yoga relaxation and fitness
centers, all ready to give you an unforgettable experience in this tropical paradise.
Peace and security
Costa Rica is undoubtedly the
safest country in the region. It has
one of the lowest rates of violence
across the continent and although
there is crime, the incidence of
this in tourism is low.
Many living things in their natural
state:
The country’s impressive biodiversity and
its history of respecting all forms of life is so
famous that it needs no further introduction.
This abundance of life means that in Costa
Rica you can see many more species of
tropical plants and animals in their natural
state without having to travel too far from one
ecosystem to another, as demonstrated by
the following information:
11 Conservation Areas, which contain:
• 33 National parks.
• 8 Biological reserves.
• 61 Wildlife refuges.
• 14 Wetlands.
Customer Service, stay in good hands
Those who visit Costa Rica are greeted by a creative and efficient tourism industry with vast
accumulated experience and a commitment to sustainability, providing safe experiences with high
levels of satisfaction and very original stories to tell back home.
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Top Destinations
Cultural Diversity:
Despite its size, Costa Rica offers
highly varied cultural experiences,
due to the fusion of Europeans,
Mestizos, Africans and Indigenous
peoples. The Atlantic region is the
only one where Afro-Caribbean
people prevail, making it ethnically
and culturally distinct from the rest
of the country.
Distances between points
Since the country is small but
extremely diverse, it is possible
to do several activities in a single
day without having to travel long
distances.
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Summary table (rooms, lounges and capabilities)
Area
Rooms
Valle Central
Guanacaste (Pacífico Norte)
Puntarenas (Pacífico Central)
Zona Norte
Caribe
Puntarenas (Pacífico Sur)
Monteverde
Total
Lounges
5395
4281
1532
874
326
303
227
12938
Capabilities
210
65
21
24
12
12
3
347
16119
4300
2879
4240
1090
529
460
29617
San José
Jacó
Puntarenas
Quepos
Liberia
Nicoya
Tamarindo La Fortuna
San José
---
120
110
174
215
207
289
94,6
Jacó
120
---
64
71
185
256,5
271
168
Puntarenas
110
64
---
141
127
135
207
104
Quepos
174
71
141
---
252
333,5
348
201
Liberia
215
185
127
252
---
79
77
184
Nicoya
207
256,5
135
333,5
79
---
57
203
Tamarindo
289
271
207
348
77
57
---
258
La Fortuna
94,6
168
104
201
184
203
258
---