Tuesday, May 22, 2012

EcoPR in Costa Rica

Just back from 10 days in Costa Rica, and wow, what a positive profile this little nation (the size of West Virginia) has put together vis-a-vis Public Relations. Everywhere one goes, a welcoming face is eager to talk about the numerous virtues of live lived here. Pura Vida! is the official national slogan (The Good/Pure Life!), and there are plenty of examples of the concept. Tour guides are incredibly effective salespeople, touting repeatedly the lack of a national military, the emphasis on education, the environmental conservation program, and the steady growth of organic farming (the largest organic pineapple operation in the world claims Costa Rica its home). San Jose, the capital city, boasts one of the friendliest and efficient airports I've ever been through. Kudos to the strategists and those implementing what clearly is a well-conceived national marketing program. I'm certainly sold on the Costa Rican brand!