Tourism has quickly grown to become the nation's true principal source of income, surpassing both cattle ranching and exports of coffee and bananas. In 1999, for the first time, a million tourists visited Costa Rica. Increasingly, Ticos whose fathers and grandfathers were farmers find themselves hotel owners, tour guides, and waiters. While most have adapted gracefully and regard the industry as a source of new jobs and opportunities for economic advancement.

Tourism & Visitor Information

Tourist Arrivals (in thousand of visitors)

1997

1998

1999

2000

2001

2002
Air 582 669 734 787 812 799
Other 230 273 297 301 320 314
Total Arrivals 811 943 1,032 1,088 1,132 1,113

Source: Tourist Board (ICT)

Costa Rica Tourism Board (ICT)

Vision

The institutional vision is:

"To be the leading and rector institution for the country's tourism activity"

Mission

ICT's mission, according to the National Development Plan has been proposed in the following terms

Promote a wholesome tourism development, with the purpose of improving Costa Ricans' quality of life, by maintaining a balance between the economic and social boundaries, environmental protection, culture and facilities.

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