Sustainable Tourism: Traveling with a Conscience in Costa Rica

Hello, eco-conscious explorers! Dreaming of a breathtaking vacation that's kind to our planet? Let's set our sights on Costa Rica, the shining star of Central America in sustainable tourism. Often dubbed the "Switzerland of Central America,” Costa Rica boasts a mesmerizing mix of biodiversity, landscapes, and cultures. From the tranquil ambiance of its cloud forests to the untouched beauty of its beaches, it's every nature lover's paradise.

by John Quam

But what truly elevates Costa Rica is its unwavering commitment to sustainable travel. Many of its accommodations, be it hotels or lodges, have adopted eco-friendly practices. They're powered by renewable energy, and some are even endorsed by the Rainforest Alliance and the Costa Rican Tourism Board for their stringent environmental and socio-economic standards. Notably, the country has zealously protected over a quarter of its land, safeguarding a mind-blowing 5% of the world's biodiversity.

And when you travel here, you'll feel the essence of community. A significant portion of tours is managed by local communities, ensuring that your tourism spending directly nourishes the very hearts and souls of the places you cherish. So, how can you champion sustainable travel in this tropical haven? Opt for spots with the Certification for Sustainable Tourism (CST) label, tread gently in the national parks, and invest in local businesses by dining and shopping locally.

And while flying might be your goto travel mode, consider offsetting its carbon footprint by contributing to Costa Rica reforestation projects. Before you embark on your journey, delve a bit into Costa Rica's rich culture, customs, and environmental narratives.

Now, if you're wondering where to start, Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve is like wandering in an emerald dream, while Tortuguero National Park offers the serene spectacle of sea turtles nesting.

Corcovado National Park, praised by National Geographic as "the most biologically intense place on Earth,” is an absolute treat for wildlife aficionados. And let's not forget the iconic Arenal Volcano, where the thrill of an active volcano meets sustainable hot springs and waterfalls.

Ready to plan your escape? Begin your research at Costa Rica Real Escapes. A trusted source since 1996.

So, ready to make memories without compromising our Earth? Grab your ecofriendly essentials, and immerse in the magic of Costa Rica. Pura Vida!

John Quam

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In the October issue of Howler Real Escapes magazine, we invite readers to "Escape the Ordinary, Embrace the Real!" as we explore the rich and vibrant facets of Costa Rican life and culture.

Discover the poetic narrative embodied in Costa Rica's equestrian ballet, a dance that blooms from the ancient bond between horse and rider, honoring a rich cultural legacy born from Spanish heritage. We shed light on sustainable tourism, guiding you through eco-friendly retreats that offer not just a getaway, but a conscious approach to travel.

Marvel at the mystique of the country's waterfalls and why these natural wonders hold the power to enthrall. Join us as we tackle the playful yet challenging endeavor of learning to surf, offering tips to help beginners embrace the surf culture with joy and grace.

Revel in the return of the beloved Pura Vida show in Tamarindo, a vibrant celebration of life and color. Explore the revolution in sustainable fashion reshaping the textile industry in Costa Rica, and venture into the innovative world of construction with hemp bricks, promising a greener tomorrow.

Indulge your senses as we guide you through the delicious world of Costa Rican chocolate, a journey from bean to bar that promises delight and knowledge in equal measure.

This October, Howler Real Escapes offers a gateway into the multifaceted culture of Costa Rica, from its unique traditions and wildlife to modern trends in fashion, cuisine, and local customs. Prepare to immerse yourself in a reading experience that unfolds the real Costa Rica in all its vivid and diverse glory.

Writers

John Brockmeier. Writer and activist inspired by diverse interests and international life experiences.

Terry Carlile. Served as a U.S. Navy journalist for eight years, and is also a workshop trainer and keynote speaker.

Frank Deloria. Health and wellness writer, currently in Costa Rica but traveling the world.

Audrey Vargas Gil has lived in the Tamarindo area for over 20 years she is originally from Cali, Colombia, and is now a citizen of Costa Rica. She started Ordry's Spa in Tamarindo 16 years ago and has many local and tourist clients.

Henry Lafarge. Business writer for the BYKA foundation for ethical work environment

Maria Andria Mata. Fashion writer and design consultant in Escazu

Harold Matarrita. Paralegal, GM Attorneys at Law

Anabel Miranda: Yoga instructor from Jacó.

Stacy Nicholson. Retired semi-professional surfer making her home on the Caribbean side of Costa Rica.

John Quam. Howler Magazine Owner, Publisher and Editor-in-Chief, who has called Costa Rica home for nine years.

Tom Schultz. BS in Biology and Geology, avid birder and nature photographer, retired software executive. tom@pananima.com

Valerie Taylor. A native of the western U.S., enthusiastic about herpetoculture and nature in general. An avid photographer who has extensively explored biodiversity and ecotourism in Costa Rica.

Bryce Tomlinson. A part-time batracholgist who is retired from real estate business in Canada living in the Monteverde region.

Victoria Wagner. From Aspen Colorado currently traveling the world and writing about interesting places and things.

Captain Paul Watson. Globally renowned ocean conservationist and environmental activist, advancing marine ecosystem protection initiatives through the new Captain Paul Watson Foundation. Co-founder of the Greenpeace Foundation and founder of the Sea Shepherd Conservation Society.

Karen West. Nutritionist and healthy food chef from Boulder Colorado. Loves to teach people how to eat healthy and what foods have benefits for your health.

Bob White. A retired teacher who donates his time in teaching English to locals.

Barry Wolfe. A self proclaimed "chocoholic" living in the Central Valley.

COVER PHOTO:

PUBLISHER / EDITOR-in-CHIEF

John B. Quam executive director - Terry Carlile account executive

Mary Fernández

Editorial Staff

Laurie Quam - Copy Editor

HOWLER

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Editorial: Sustainable Tourism: Traveling with a Conscience in Costa Rica

TRAVEL & ADVENTURE

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• Packing for Costa Rica: Your Essential Guide to a Tropical Getaway

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Pura Vida Living

• Considering Retiring?

• Breast Cancer Awareness

• The Challenge of Diabetes for Costa Ricans

• The Irony of Burning Man

• Do you know what rainy season can mean for your pet?

• Why a Massage and Pedicure Relax You: The Science and Benefits Behind Relaxation Rituals

• Yoga: Inner Harmony and Physical Well Being

• Spanish: Asking for Forgiveness

Surf

• Tide Chart, Sun, Moon Schedule

• Discover the Caribbean Coast's Surfing Paradise

• Why Can't I Stand Up on My Surfboard?

• Where the Caribbean Whispers and Surfers Dance

ARTS, CULTURE & ENTERTAINMENT

• Pura Vida Show Returns!

• Snapshots of History

• Travel Talks from 1947

DINING & RECIPES

• Chocolate: A Superfood?

• Cocoa's History in Costa Rica

• Are Brownies the #1 Chocolate Treat?

• When is the Best Time for a Chocolate Martini?

Real Estate

• Tres Amigos

• Horizon Pacific

• Sun Real Estate

• Grupo Tropical

• Force One

• Mar Vista

• Palmex Roofing

Business

• Revolutionizing Construction: The Untapped Potential of Hemp Bricks

• The HOA Condo Dues

Cr Fashion

• Sustainable Fashion Impact: The Undeniable Shift Towards Eco-friendly Apparel

• Beauty In Imperfections

• Ethical Fashion Industry: Paving the Way for a Compassionate Future

• Almara

Wildlife

• Guanacaste Coastline a Haven for Sawfish Breeding

• Unveiling the Elegance of the Blue

Morpho Butterfly

• The Impressive Brahma Bulls

• Red Eye Tree Frog Embryos

• International Sloth Day Oct 20th