San Jose, COSTA RICA (May 9, 2012) – The Costa Rica Tourism Board is proud to announce that Costa Rica was recently recognized as the top wedding destination in Latin America by The Knot Market Intelligence: 2012 Destination Weddings Study. The study revealed that, as far as Latin America goes, one out of every four destination weddings takes place in Costa Rica. This represents 36 percent of the 2,757 qualified respondents that were polled by The Knot.

“Costa Rica’s exotic locales, romantic atmosphere and favorable climate are only a few of the reasons why more and more couple’s are finding themselves saying ‘I Do’ in Costa Rica. What truly distinguishes Costa Rica from other wedding destinations is its unique blend of natural atmospheres with premium luxury services, which allow couples to immerse themselves in nature while enjoying high-quality offerings and amenities,” commented Ireth Rodriguez, deputy manager and marketing director for the Costa Rica Tourism Board. “We’re excited to be recognized by The Knot, and we look forward to seeing even more couples celebrate their special day in Costa Rica,” she continued.

Environmentally conscientious couples can rest assured that Costa Rica’s diverse offerings are considered sustainable and “green,” thanks to the country’s highly successful Certificate for Sustainable Tourism program. Through this program, couples marrying in Costa Rica can consult the government’s rating system to verify that the hotels, tour companies, car rental companies and restaurants they choose operate sustainably. Costa Rica’s commitment to environmental protection makes it the perfect destination for an eco-chic wedding.

While sustainable weddings are a recent trend, Costa Rica has been an extremely popular wedding destination for many years. The country’s natural beauty offers the ideal backdrop for a relaxing and romantic event, while the breadth of outdoor adventure gives new couples and their guests the perfect opportunity to share a thrilling adrenaline rush.

Celebrating a marriage must be memorable and personal. With such a variety of unique and breathtaking experiences to offer, the magic of Costa Rica remains with all who visit.

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About Costa Rica

Nestled between the Caribbean Sea and the Pacific Ocean, Costa Rica is located in Central America between Nicaragua and Panama. The country represents only .05 percent of the planet’s surface but shelters almost 5 percent of the world’s biodiversity and 3.5 percent of the world’s marine life. Costa Rica is home to three UNESCO World Heritage Sites, four types of forest, 12 microclimates and more than 500 species of flora and fauna, with more than 26 percent of its territory comprising national parks and other protected areas, making the country one of the most popular sustainable tourism destinations in the world.

Some of Costa Rica’s most notable recognitions include: TripAdvisor 2011 Travelers’ Choice Beaches Award for top beach in Central and South America; the Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Award 2010 for best resort in the Americas and best hotel in Central America; Travel Weekly Readers’ Choice Award 2010 for the seventh consecutive year for best destination in the Americas; and Apple Vacations 2011 Crystal Apple Award for Best Destination.

 

About the Costa Rica Tourism Board

The Costa Rica Tourism Board (www.VisitCostaRica.com), created in 1955, is responsible for promoting tourism attractions and destinations nationally and internationally; establishing tourism norms, regulations and incentives; and certifying Costa Rica’s hotels, travel agencies, rental cars and other tourism service providers under its world-renowned Certification of Sustainable Tourism program.

For travel information about Costa Rica, contact the Costa Rica Tourism Board directly at 1-866-267-8274, visit www.VisitCostaRica.com or follow us on Facebook, Twitter or YouTube.

For press inquiries, please contact 1-888-600-6806, email VisitCostaRicaPress@bm.com or consult VisitCostaRica.MediaRoom.com.

This material is distributed by Burson-Marsteller on behalf of the Instituto Costarricense de Turismo. Additional information is available at the Department of Justice, Washington, D.C.