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Tico Times..
Costa Rica’s tourism sector, a longtime bedrock of our national economy, continues to face an ongoing decline, with visitor arrivals dropping for seven consecutive months, according to industry data. A strong colón and persistent safety concerns remain key factors undermining the country’s standing as a top travel destination.
Central Bank of Costa Rica (BCCR) President Róger Madrigal has acknowledged that the exchange rate, with the dollar near ₡500, is likely contributing to the sustained tourism downturn. “It must have some effect, but we shouldn’t focus exclusively on the exchange rate, as a wrong diagnosis could lead to inappropriate measures,” Madrigal said, underscoring the issue’s complexity. He indicated that intervening in the exchange market could disrupt other economic sectors, despite ongoing appeals from the tourism industry for action.
The appreciated colón is placing significant pressure on tourism businesses, 85% of which are micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises. In Guanacaste, hoteliers have increased prices by up to 15% to offset losses, potentially deterring budget-conscious travelers. The sector’s repeated requests for exchange rate adjustments have yet to be addressed, with authorities prioritizing broader economic stability.
Persistent safety concerns are also driving tourists away. A National Chamber of Tourism (CANATUR) survey found that 62% of prospective U.S. tourists cited safety as a reason for choosing destinations like Belize or Mexico. Official data reports 880 homicides in 2024, 225 in 2025 to date, and over 6,300 tourist-related crimes, including thefts and assaults. A high-profile robbery near Tamarindo in early April 2025, widely circulated online, has further damaged Costa Rica’s reputation.
KLM will be adding flights in October..I guess the ladies will have to learn Dutch
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