In a milestone that reaffirms our nation’s international prestige, Costa Rica has been awarded Best Healthy Destination by the influential international publications Men’s Health and Women’s Health. This recognition, granted within the framework of the prestigious Healthy Places awards, positions the country not only as a sanctuary of biodiversity but as the preferred global haven for physical and mental balance.

The award, presented by the Spanish editions of these leading lifestyle titles, highlights that Costa Rica has perfected a unique formula: the integration of environmental sustainability with a tourism offering designed for personal regeneration. According to the jury, the country stands out above other international destinations thanks to its intrinsic “Pura Vida” philosophy, which transcends a mere advertising slogan to become a real metric of quality of life and longevity.

On a technical level, the report accompanying the award underlines three fundamental pillars that tipped the scales in favor of Costa Rican soil. First, local gastronomy, based on fresh, organic products that nourish the body naturally. Second, wellness infrastructure, ranging from yoga retreats in jungle settings to world-class volcanic hydrotherapy centers. Finally, the connection with nature—a decisive factor in stress reduction and improved cardiovascular health—elements that readers of these publications value as the new contemporary luxury.

This recognition arrives at a peak moment for the sector, where wellness tourism has become a vital economic engine. For Costaricans, this award represents a validation of our development model, demonstrating that the conservation of our ecosystems is directly proportional to the appeal we generate for a world that seeks, now more than ever, biosecure and healthy spaces. With this seal of approval, Costa Rica solidifies its position as the “top” destination for the conscious traveler seeking more than just a photograph: a comprehensive transformation of their health.