U.S. travelers are globetrotting like crazy this summer despite rising costs across the board. Hotels, flights, and everything in between seem to be going up.
But that hasn’t stopped travelers from taking to the skies for a summer escape. Central America is home to some amazing destinations, so it’s no surprise why it’s so appealing.
Anywhere from Guatemala to Panama has places worth visiting, especially if you’re a digital nomad or a solo traveler.
One country in particular is seeing an influx of American travelers coming their way. Almost 800,000 U.S. tourists have come to Costa Rica this year.
Here are 6 reasons why American travelers flocking to this Central American paradise:
An Alternative To Crowded Beach Resorts
While many travelers are flocking to the Dominican Republic or Mexico resort towns, some prefer more space.
Instead of being surrounded by fellow tourists on a pristine beach, some of us like to have some elbow room.
@wanderkeen The quietest beach in Santa Cruz 🇨🇷#travel #traveltiktok #explore #oceanlife #travelers #costarica #guanacastecostarica🇨🇷 #guanacaste #santacruz
The good news is Costa Rica has amazing beaches with less crowds. You may have to go a little off the grid as there is no Cancun here, but the journey is worth it!
Some hidden gems are waiting to be discovered, and sometimes you might be the only one there to take it all in.
Costa Rica does have all-inclusive beach resorts, but nowhere near the density of say, Punta Cana or Cancun.
More Flights
More and more airlines are adding Costa Rica airports to their network, making it easy for Americans to reach.
@sammie_annie_ Just another day in paradise 🌊☀️ #costarica #manuelantonio #quepos #costaricapuravida #travel #traveltiktok #southwestairlines
American Airlines just announced additional flights this week. But even low-cost carriers such as Spirit and Frontier fly here — plus all the major airlines as well, including Southwest. Travelers usually fly into the capital city of San Jose (SJO), but Liberia (LJO) is gaining popularity too.
No matter which one you choose, its relatively easy to use either airport as a gateway to explore paradise. In fact, recent data shows 90 recent of visitors arrive by plane.
Clean Safety Record
Costa Rica has consistently held a respectable reputation in terms of safety for years. Rarely do you ever hear of travelers being harmed in their travels to this amazing country.
@ebfinleytravels Costa Rica has my heart forever 🫶🏽 definitely safe and AMAZING #greenscreen #travel #traveltiktok #safestdestinations #safestplace #safestplaceonearth #solotravel #solitrip #travelingsolo #womenwhosolotravel #solowomentravel #costarica #costarica🇨🇷
That’s not to say there isn’t crime, as the U.S. State Department did issue a travel advisory warning this past Spring.
However, despite some reports of a surge in crime, travelers are not typically targeted unless they find themselves in the crosshairs in a “wrong place, wrong time” scenario.
Most crime happens in and around San Jose, but the scenic beach towns and jungles are commonly considered safe destinations.
Celebrity Influence
Who doesn’t want to be rich and famous? When we see celebs living their best life, we want a taste too!
With gossip sites taking over the algorithms of our newsfeeds, it’s hard to ignore what the rich and famous are up to.
When a celebrity couple vacations here, it can quickly take over headlines where travelers say, “if it’s good enough for them, its good enough for me!”.
So, when famous models and musicians such as Gisele Bundchen and Shakira are reported living Pura Vida, that’s when travelers whip out their credit cards and book their next trip.
A Perfect Place To Reset
There may be no better place in Central America than Costa Rica to immerse yourself in nature, whether you’re going solo or with loved ones.
@carlyraerising one of the leaders of this retreat was born + raised in Costa Rica, which made the experience a billion times better ✨ thank you experience pura vida for showing us the best of your country + treating us like family 💚 they’re not on tiktok (yet), but they’re tagged in all my latest IG posts, if you’re feeling called to the rainforest. it’s magical. 1000/10 recommend #yogagirl #yogaretreat #adventure #costaricaretreat #puravida #experiencepuravida
Those seeking a reset may seek out a luxe yoga retreat, a relaxing stay at an ecolodge in the vast jungle, or a beachside stay in one of its many nice, low-key beach towns.
The Monteverde Cloud Forest is one of the highlights of Costa Rica’s wilderness, where you can disconnect for an adventure in nature.
Digital Nomads Love It
Last summer, Costa Rica officially launched a new digital nomad visa. It’s a very simple process to go through to obtain the visa.
No background checks, in-person interviews, or future income documentation are required. However, digital nomads do have to make a minimum of $3000 monthly, which must be generated outside Costa Rica.
@budgetbackpackers @Visit Costa Rica 🌊🌈🦥 #visitcostarica #budgetbackpackers #backpacker #budgettraveltips #digitalnomad #digitalnomadlife #remoteworklife #costaricapuravida #costaricatiktok #puertoviejo #travelrecommendation #vacationinspo #travelcoupledream
Other requirements:
- Must work remotely (can be self-employed)
- Prove health insurance coverage for the entire duration of your stay
Given these simple steps, Costa Rica has become very popular for digital nomads to work abroad. Plus, the country has many expats making it easier to meet people, unlike some other places.
