Here at Cayuga Collection, we've always believed that true luxury isn't just about infinity pools and fancy dinners.
It’s about a deeper connection – to nature, to culture, and most importantly, to the well-being of the communities that host us. That’s why we’re incredibly excited about a powerful tool that’s gaining traction here in Costa Rica: the Social Progress Index (SPI).
For too long, the success of a destination has been measured almost exclusively by economic indicators like number of tourist visits and GDP. While visitation and economic growth is important, it doesn’t tell the whole story of how people are actually living. Are they healthy? Do they have access to education? Are they safe? These are the questions that the SPI answers.
Developed in collaboration between INCAE Business School and the Instituto Costarricense de Turismo (ICT), the SPI for tourism areas in Costa Rica is a groundbreaking initiative. It goes beyond the numbers on a balance sheet to evaluate 12 components across three key dimensions: Basic Human Needs, Foundations of Well-being, and Opportunity. Think access to water and sanitation, quality of education, personal safety, and environmental quality. This isn’t just theory; it’s a practical, data-driven approach to understanding the true state of our tourism communities.
The ICT recently updated the SPI for 2024, surveying 33 tourism development centers across the country and covering over 22,000 people. The results are incredibly insightful, showing an overall improvement in social progress in many destinations. This is fantastic news, confirming that tourism, when done right, can indeed be a powerful force for good.
But here’s the crucial part: this tool isn’t just for governments or large institutions. It’s an incredibly powerful resource for hotels and tourism businesses operating in these areas. Imagine knowing, with concrete data, the specific areas where your neighboring community needs support. Is it access to quality healthcare? Better educational opportunities? Improved public safety? The SPI provides that granular understanding.
At Cayuga Collection, we are committed to using this intelligence to deepen our impact. For example:
In Puerto Viejo, through Hotel Aguas Claras
We will leverage the SPI data to develop targeted strategies that directly address identified needs within the community. Whether it’s supporting local educational programs or enhancing infrastructure, this data will guide our investments for maximum positive impact.
In Quepos, with our Arenas Del Mar Resort
The SPI will inform our community engagement initiatives. We’ll be able to pinpoint specific social challenges and collaborate with local organizations to create meaningful, long-term solutions that genuinely improve the lives of residents.
In Monteverde, at Senda Monteverde Hotel
We will use the SPI to refine our existing sustainability programs and identify new opportunities for collaboration that contribute to the social well-being of the cloud forest community. This could mean initiatives around youth empowerment, environmental education, or supporting local entrepreneurs.
Unfortunately, there is no data available for Uvita where Cayuga Collection’s Kura Hotel is located. But we will of course continue with our community programs there and hope that it will be part of the study next year.
The Social Progress Index is not just a report; it’s a roadmap. It allows us to move beyond anecdotal evidence and make informed decisions that lead to tangible improvements in the places we call home. By embracing this tool, hotels can become true partners in sustainable development, ensuring that the benefits of tourism are shared equitably and that our “Pura Vida” extends to everyone.
We encourage all our fellow hoteliers in Costa Rica to explore this valuable resource and join us in building a more prosperous and equitable future for all.
