(Infocom) — Even though Costa Rica is experiencing a growth period in its tourism industry, the so-called “low” or “green” (because of the rain) tourist season sees the number of travelers to the country decrease, as it is the dry and sunny weather of the “high” season (December-April) what motivates large numbers of foreigners to come here and enjoy the many natural attractions this nation has to offer.
With the goal of encouraging and making it easier for domestic tourists to rediscover their own country during the green season, the Costa Rican Tourism Institute (ICT) and state-owned Banco Nacional are offering attractive discounts for travelers through a $400,000 program. More than 127 businesses, including hotels, rent-a-cars, tour operators and transportation companies, are offering a 35 percent discount on their services to all individuals who pay with a Banco Nacional-issued debit or credit card.
In this manner, ICT officially launched its campaign aimed at national tourists this July 31. The program has the support of the National Chamber of Tourism (CANATUR) and the Costa Rican Chamber of Hotels (CCH).
“This is a recognition to the contribution of national tourists to the local economy,” said Maria Amalia Revelo, ICT’s deputy manager and director of marketing. “Ticos will feel that they will able to pamper themselves and take a vacation in hotels all throughout the country.”
As part of the campaign, ICT printed a brochure with information to guide tourists about this campaign, including information about the country’s 10 tourism regions and the companies offering their products and services as part of this initiative. The document also includes a map of Costa Rica showing beaches and protected areas, information about sustainability and ICT’s Tourism Sustainability Certificate (CST) standard, as well as a special section about rural community tourism.
Information about ICT-certified companies that is presented in the inside pages is divided by regions and in alphabetical order, highlighting those businesses which have earned CSTs. Listed for each company is the regular and discount rates, website and phone number.
According to ICT, the 35 percent discounts apply from July 31 to Nov. 30 of 2008. Available are many rates, going from $27 to $492, all taxes included. Some of the deals include meals, tourist guide and other amenities.
CANATUR believes it’s fundamental to promote tourism during the entire year, and even more significant is this joint effort with businesses that take part in this campaign to reactivate visitation of Costa Ricans to tourism centers both during the high and low seasons. Key in this effort are deals that promote short trips that still allow for seeing many places in one trip.