After two weeks of an immersive, information-packed, and engaging study abroad experience in Costa Rica, I have gained valuable insight into doing business in Latin America and refined my people skills while dealing with cultural differences.
Through lectures and company visits, it has become clear that Costa Rica has maintained a stable and versatile economy and democracy through many initiatives for businesses and the environment. Every company we visited expressed the importance of preserving their wildlife and nature which was refreshing. Costa Rica is favorable to investors doing business because of numerous factors which have resulted in FDI (Foreign Direct Investment) contributing 7.8% of gross profit. It was interesting to see the different approaches some business owners took to grow and maintain their businesses. Sib? Chocolate did not believe in certifications from the government because they did not see the value in spending even more money on top of all of the taxes imposed. In comparison, Caf? Britt sought out as many certifications as they could to seem more trusted and appealing in their vastly growing markets. One thing is for certain about doing business in Costa Rica, though, is the thick “red tape” needed to cut through in order to start a business, especially for locals. There are, however, current measures being discussed to reduce some of the obstacles in place for business owners.
Speaking of business owners, we met the owner of Villas San Rafael, a small eco-lodge nestled outside of La Fortuna. He was a very friendly man who discussed his experience starting the hotel alone. Meeting individuals like him made me realize the importance of putting yourself out there and learning from people by understanding their perspectives. This trip has also saved me from my Spanish learning rut and sparked my motivation because of how fascinating some of the people were and how badly I wanted to communicate with them with no restrictions. All in all this was a great trip thanks to Professor Lane and the exuberant Ticos.
