Top 10 Costa Rica

US Tourists to Seek Closer Vacation Spots for the Holidays

A recent article published in the Costa Rican newspaper, La Republica, stated that the North American traveler is looking to cut back on their travel plans. These cut backs refer to anywhere from traveling to closes destinations, staying less time or simply not traveling at all.

However, Costa Rican authorities are confident that the country’s proximity to the U.S, a good dollar value as well as a low budget variety in accommodations and attractions will attract tourists. Although the expected tourism influx may not be met, Costa Rica will still have a good high season.

The Travel Industry Association (TIA) recently interviewed several citizens regarding their travel plans to which the response was lukewarm. A total of 2, 231 subjects were interviewed to which a 52.2% responded that the high fuel prices are a major obstacle for their travel plans. Falling in second as a reason to why Americans are shying away from travel is the high airfares and a limited family budget.

However, the recent downward spiral of fuel prices could possibly reverse the number one reason for not traveling given that the American people regain their confidence in the economy.

The results of the before mention poll has helped several companies re-evaluate their marketing and operational strategy by adapting to the current situation. For example, the Rincon de la Vieja SRL in Costa Rica that manages the Hotel Hacienda Guachipelin mentioned that the information received from the report will help them target the right demographic for their services.

Another positive information for Costa Rica was Tripadvisors’ report in which the majority of tourists prefer green destinations. In 2007, 60% of the tourists that arrived to Costa Rica mentioned that their main reason in visiting was for the country’s National Parks.