Swiss Travel is proud to be recognized alongside 89 other companies and organizations in the tourism sector by the Department of Certifications and Tourism Responsibility of the Costa Rican Tourism Institute (ICT). The recognition took place at the recent “Sustainability Tourism Encounter” held at the Costa Rica Convention Center, where companies committed themselves to various sustainability programs in 2023. These include the Certification for Sustainable Tourism (CST), adherence to the SOFIA Network, the Code of Conduct, and licensing under the “Essential Costa Rica” Country Brand.

Costa Rica’s commitment to sustainable tourism has earned it the privilege of presiding over the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) Committee on Tourism and Sustainability for four years. This appointment highlights the country’s dedication to sustainable tourism, innovative initiatives, and global recognition.

In line with promoting inclusivity, there were sign language interpreters and a panel discussion involving individuals with disabilities, sharing their experiences and perspectives on accessibility and inclusion in the tourism sector. This initiative aims to foster a more inclusive and conscious approach to tourism, catering to the needs of all individuals.

The event also featured a showcase area where participating companies exhibited their sustainability initiatives. Among the participants were PNUD-INAMU, ICE Group, Booking.com, Electric Routes, 5Minute Foundation, MINAE-CONAGEBIO/Costa Rica Silvestre, the Artisan Collective with Identity, Costa Rican Firefighters, and Indigenous Tourism Roots.

Furthermore, the event introduced a new online subscription methodology for the SOFIA Network, Code of Conduct, Social Tourism with Integrity (part of “Tourism for All People”), and Your-Model programs. This streamlined approach aims to facilitate the commitment of companies to local social and economic impact.

Swiss Travel is honored to have received certifications and awards in 2023, including the Code of Conduct certification, Red SOFIA participation, and CST certification. These recognitions reflect our ongoing commitment to sustainable tourism practices, promoting responsible travel, and supporting local communities.

As part of the ongoing efforts to enhance sustainability standards, the ICT has invited the tourism sector to participate in an online Public Consultation to develop the new CST Standard version. Through feedback and contributions from the sector, the aim is to improve the assessment tool, making it more agile and accessible in line with current business contexts.

Swiss Travel encourages fellow tourism companies to participate in the public consultation and join in the collective effort towards sustainable tourism practices. Together, we can ensure that Costa Rica remains a beacon of sustainable tourism excellence for generations to come.

For more information about sustainability programs by ICT, visit: ICT Sustainability Platform.

To participate in the CST Standard Consultation, click here.

Swiss Travel remains committed to sustainable tourism, and we look forward to continuing our journey towards a more responsible and inclusive tourism industry.