William Rodriguez has been appointed the country’s new tourism minister following the election of the country’s new president Rodrigo Chaves Robles. He will replace Gustavo Alvarado as tourism minister, and will also head up the Costa Rica Tourism Board.

Rodriguez said his main priority as tourism minister was to completely reactivate international travel to Costa Rica, driving visitor numbers back up to the same level as pre-pandemic. “Destinations around the world are saying that they will be meeting the 2019 visitor arrival figures in 2024 or 2025," he said. "However, our aim is that Costa Rica gets full back on track sometime in 2023."

With this in mind, the new minister will focus on increasing air connectivity between Costa Rica and the UK and Europe, as well as encouraging repeat visits and longer stays. “Visitors come to Costa Rica because of the wildlife, nature, adventure and wellness, but we know they return because of the warmth and friendliness of the locals, who are always willing to give visitors a hand," he said.

The new minister has a background in the tourism sector, with 49 years’ experience in various roles including working as country manager for United Airlines in Costa Rica and Guatemala and managing the Aurola Holiday Inn in Costa Rican capital San Jose.

The 71-year-old has also held the position of marketing manager at the Costa Rica Tourism Board.

Together with tourism, Rodríguez has experience in international relations, business and economics. He holds a degree in political science and a master’s degree in business administration and marketing.