The Costa Rica Tourism Board (ICT) is taking part of the ITB Berlin, the world’s leading travel show which will extend through March 12 at the Messe Convention Center in Berlin, Germany.

The Tourism Minister, Mauricio Ventura, explained that Costa Rica has been strengthening its participation in international fairs, presenting a stronger image and caring for all details involving the representatives of the Costa Rica Tourism Board that attend the fairs, the image and decoration of the country’s stand and the options offered to the attending public, with the objective of reinforcing the country’s identity.

“All countries in the world are allowed to show their natural attractions as their main presentation card, but what really makes a difference in a country is its culture, its identity and traditions; for this reason, we have changed the concept in the international fairs, with the goal of presenting the country as a destination that generates authentic travel experiences in which the culture plays an important role”, stated Ventura.

The ICT took up a stand of almost 300 square meters, the biggest ever used, to compete in the ITB which is considered the biggest fair in the world. In the stand the attending public can try Costa Rican food, enjoy typical dances and an oxcart painter will be showing his skills.

In total, 36 tourism companies are participating with the ICT, and hope to capture the attention of potential tourists in the European market. Some of the companies that have presence are: Barceló Hotels, Marriot Hotels, Costa Rica Dream Travel, Enchanting Hotels, Costa Rican Trails, Travel Excellence, Hertz Car Rental, Tabacón Thermal Resort & Spa, Punta Leona Hotel, to mention a few.