From May 9th to the 11th, the 2012 Tourism Expo (Expotur) will attract more than 300 representatives of the burgeoning tourism industry in Costa Rica and the region. This year’s focus will not be so much on ecotourism, something that has been a prominent theme in previous expos. The tourism industry will dedicate this year’s Expotur to advancing Costa Rica as a paradise for business meetings and conventions.
According to Yadyra Simon, President of the Tourism Professional Association of Costa Rica (ACOPROT in Spanish), the announcement of the initiative is in line with the government’s announcement of the new National Convention Center at the end of 2013. The planned 6,000 square meters convention facility will easily accommodate thousands of attendants.
“We have everything that is required to attract this type of business tourism, from our geographical position to our natural wonders. Our infrastructure is adequate to accommodate a first-class convention center”, explained Ms. Simon.
A good example of what Ms. Simon is referring to can be found in the success of the ICANN 43 conference earlier this year.
During a presentation ahead of Expotur, Ms. Simon made emphasis to the importance of beginning to attract business tourists now, as the industry has enormous potential.
“At Expotur 2012 we will count with the presence of countries that organize events in this lucrative tourism segment, and we will be extending an offer to them so that they know our nation is an attractive option.”, added Ms. Simon.
According to data provided by the Convention Bureau of Costa Rica, this segment of the tourism industry has been growing in the last few years, and it is clear that business tourists spend more than those who visit us for pleasure and relaxation. Convention organizers who are happy with successful events are likely to become regular clients.
Unlike the relaxation and ecotourism sectors, business tourism is not greatly affected by seasonal changes. In fact, event organizers often seek the low season in order to reduce overhead expenses.
More than 30 countries will be in attendance at Expotur 2012, all hoping to see what we have to offer in terms of facilitating meetings, conferences, symposiums, gatherings, and more. The expo will appropriately take place at the Convention Center of the Ramada Herradura Plaza Hotel.
Source: Caribbean News Digital
