Thirty-three Costa Rican companies yesterday received a Certificate of Sustainable Tourism (CST) for their efforts to be environmentally, culturally and socially responsible, according to a statement from the National Tourism Chamber (CANATUR).

The 25 hotels that earned this award include Sí Como No, Hacienda Punta Islita, Best Western Jacó Beach, Esquinas Rainforest Lodge, Xandari Hotel, Fiesta Premier Resort & Spa, Ocotal Beach Resort Guanacaste and San José Palacio Hotel.

Eight travel agencies received certificates: Travel Excellence, Jacamar Naturalist Tours, Costa Rican Trails, Arenal Mundo Aventura, Gray Line Tours Costa Rica, Sunset Tours, Costa Rica Top Tours and Marbella Tours.

These businesses received their certificates from the National Accreditation Commission, of which CANATUR is a member.

To qualify, they had to meet 108 requisites such as saving energy, controlling emissions, managing wastes responsibly and using biodegradable products, according to a statement from Casa Presidencial.

Tourism Minister Carlos Benavides was among leaders who applauded these companies yesterday, seizing the occasion to tout an 11.3% increase in tourists to Costa Rica so far this year.

-Tico Times