Tourism Board program promotes ladies’s security when touring –

The Costa Rica Tourism Board (ICT) last week launched the SOFIA Network, a program to promote gender equality in the tourism industry.

The aim of the program is to “help every tourist explore and enjoy Costa Rica while feeling safe at all times,” according to the ICT.

Companies or individuals associated with the tourism industry can participate free virtual courses aims to promote gender equality and a safe environment for travelers. If 80% of a company’s employees take part in the online training courses, the company itself can receive a SOFIA network badge.

The US Embassy in Costa Rica has reportedly worked with the ICT, the National Tourist Security Council (CONSETUR) and the National Women’s Institute (INAMU) to create guides for the SOFIA network.

“These guides will help increase safety for female travelers,” said a statement from the US embassy. “The guides represent the commitment of tourism companies to sustainable tourism in different areas of Costa Rica.”

“The guides complement the new Costa Rican SOFIA Network program that tourism companies can join to bring people, businesses and tourists together who share common values ​​of gender equality, tourist safety and sustainability.”

The US State Department advises visitors to Costa Rica “to exercise increased caution in Costa Rica due to crime”.

“While petty crime is the predominant threat to tourists in Costa Rica, violent crime, including armed robbery, murder and sexual assault, occurs in Costa Rica,” the State Department noted.

“The Costa Rican government provides additional security resources in tourist-frequented areas.”

For more information about the SOFIA network or to participate, Click here.