Costa Rica & Coronavirus
Updated: Oct 13, 2020
Challenging Times
As coronavirus sweeps the globe and we all try to navigate these challenging times, we are feeling fortunate to be living in Costa Rica. Obviously, running Libélula while the tourism industry is at a complete standstill is hugely stressful but we remain positive for our future and proud of the Costa Rican response.
With just 12 deaths and 1,939 cases* in a country of 5 million, Costa Rica is one of the world's relative success stories in managing the pandemic. Maria Dolores Perez-Rosales, of the World Health Organization, says this is due to the involvement of all sectors of government, a quick response, a strong health care system and the commitment of Costa Rican citizens. Notable actions include:
Producing sufficient medical supplies, equipment and facilities
Strong testing, contact tracking and symptom identification protocols
Shutting international borders and imposing nationwide driving restrictions
Educating citizens about good sanitation and hygiene practices
Effective and regular communication from the Government to citizens
Suspending all mass gatherings and group activities
Closing all beaches, national parks and public spaces
Closing bars, restaurants, hotels, offices and other non essential venues.
Cautious Reopening
These stringent measures mean that the spread of the virus is limited and the Government has announced a cautious four-phase reopening plan. National parks, beaches and public venues are gradually opening over the coming weeks subject to new rules on capacity and sanitation. For now, driving restrictions and international border closures remain until at least 30th June 2020.
Although this is very positive, there is no room for complacency. The Government is constantly monitoring the easing of measures against the number of new cases and adapting the plan as necessary. Restrictions are being introduced on a region by region basis if necessary, depending on the impact of coronavirus in that specific area.
Staying Positive
At Libélula, as we self isolated and closed to guests, we deep cleaned and renovated the whole resort. We are following the Government's reopening plan and we are delighted that we can now host 12 guests (50% capacity) as long as those people are already in Costa Rica. We hope that the situation continues to improve and that our international borders will reopen soon.
* Statistics correct on 18th June 2020