The travel industry research firm Future Brand recently ranked Costa Rica among the countries predicted to have the most growth in tourism during the next five years, according to a statement released yesterday by the Costa Rican Tourism Institute (ICT).

The current edition of Future Brand’s magazine named Costa Rica as one of 10 countries classified as a “rising star” in the tourism world, the statement said.

Additionally, Costa Rica was ranked the second most exotic travel destination. Thailand, New Zealand, South Africa, Kenya, Indonesia and Fiji were also in the top 10.

In terms of “authentic countries” with “unique cultures,” Costa Rica ranked among the top 10 countries along with Lebanon, Italy and Peru.

The study also found that most tourists book their vacations via Internet and decide where to go based on recommendations from family members and friends.

Tourism Minister Carlos Benavides called the ranking “an honor and a source of pride,” that also represents “a grand challenge to plan for this growth in terms of infrastructure, security and promotional strategies,” according to the statement.

The results of the Future Brand study were released last week at the World Travel Market fair held in London, which was attended by Benavides and Tico business leaders.

The study considered countries’ population distribution, parks, topography and political situation, the statement said.

-Tico Times