I’m old enough to remember those old Timex commercials. You know the ones featuring various “torture tests” that proved that the Timex could “take a licking and keep on ticking.” I was thinking this morning that, you know, Costa Rica has a similar quality. Since I have been living here I have seen Costa Rica’s resiliency proven time and time again. First there was the aftermath of September 11, 2001, when the whole world suddenly developed a fear of travel. That greatly affected tourism in the country for a short while, but then it came roaring back. This recent economic crisis is another example. Yes the last twelve months have been difficult for all of us, but now the light is beginning to shine again. What is the reason behind Costa Rica’s durability? Well, like the incredible durable Timex watch, Costa Rica offers a great product at the right time and in the right place. The product is Costa Rica’s natural beauty and the outgoing warmth and friendliness of its people. You just can’t find the stunning views and beautiful smiles that you find here anywhere else. The timing of Costa Rica’s rise as a tourism juggernaut coincides with the rise of environmental consciousness around the world. When Al Gore sounded the global warming alarm, suddenly the idea of “going green” became the hottest fashion trend. That trend has only gained momentum and Barack Obama seems dead-set on making sure that the U.S. and the rest of the world really does “go green.” Well Costa Rica recognized the value in doing so long before Gore began to popularize the notion and now is recognized as a world leader in environmental sustainability. The world is looking to Costa Rica to continue this leadership and a vacation here is a prime way to show off one’s “green friendliness.” Finally, Costa Rica is in the right place. Its strategic location, especially for visitors from North America, make it attractive even when the wallets of would-be travelers are a little on the light side. So there you have it….my take on why Costa Rica has weathered these crises like a Timex watch. I don’t foresee anything coming around the corner that might reverse that trend. That’s why I remain bullish on Costa Rica. Costa Rica….it takes a licking but keeps on ticking!
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