Similar to global vacation patterns elsewhere in the world, many expats make travel plans to leave paradise during the holidays and school breaks. In effect, one population changes out for the other. Low season, conversely, lasts from May through October. This is otherwise known as green season or rainy season. Depending on what area of the country you’re in, the rainfall can be substantial. Generally, it’s the coolest and most lush time to travel in Costa Rica. However, with many tourists scared off by the threat of rain, businesses typically see a significant drop in revenue. These are the months when it is critical for business owners to build income plans that compensate for the loss of tourist traffic. While there is a relatively small surge of tourists during the June through August period, it usually falls far short of
what new business owners anticipate. That is why so many experienced business owners typically close for a portion of low season.
Critical first two years
Failing to understand and properly plan for our live dragon — aka seasonality — can cripple a new business in the first two years. It’s not enough to plan for Costa Rica’s high and low tourist seasons alone; you must also have a very clear understanding of how the expat community ebbs and flows in each specific area … the season within the season. Take the time to talk with business owners who have been open for more than two years. They can provide the kind of insight that a business plan cannot. Get to know the population shifts before opening for business to ensure the highest rate of success.
HM HOWLER MAGAZINE | 9
