Not Just a Souvenir: When Sustainability Became the First Thing a Visitor Carried into Costa Rica

Last week, Wearsos had the honor of contributing to a special  moment: the celebration of Guanacaste Airport welcoming its 15 millionth traveler — a milestone not just for Costa Rica’s tourism industry, but for the countless lives that tourism supports across the country.

At first glance, the event was about the number — 15 million. But look closer, and you’ll find the heartbeat of something much more powerful: a shared commitment to culture, sustainability, and connection.

La República

When Yameka Johnson, visiting from Houston with her husband and young son, stepped off the plane, she was greeted with traditional Costa Rican music, a festive welcome — and a meaningful gift. She received a handcrafted handbag made from upcycled airplane seats and pineapple leather, hand-painted by artisan Fio Quiros, inspired by an Olive Ridley, the emblem of the airport.

This wasn’t just a souvenir. It was a statement: about the power of second chances, the role of circular design, and the beauty of  craftsmanship rooted in Costa Rica.

Tourism plays a vital role in Costa Rican life. It brings opportunity, visibility to cultural traditions, and income to families — many of whom rely on visitors to sustain local businesses, agriculture, hospitality, and craft-based enterprises. It also amplifies the work of brands like Wearsos, where sustainability and social impact intersect through meaningful production. With 15 million travelers having now passed through Guanacaste Airport, Costa Rica is more visible than ever.

At Wearsos, we tell a story with the products we create. We invite others into the story. Through regenerative tourism we allow visitors a hands-on experience to experience circular economy in action. From workshops with local artisans to upcycling tours and visits to the communities we work with, travelers get to understand how sustainability is built — and who builds it.

When tourism is done this way — rooted in respect, regeneration, and shared benefit — it creates lasting impact. It builds bridges between people and places. It educates. And it empowers everyone involved.

Being part of Costa Rica’s 15 millionth traveler milestone reminded us of why we do this work: to put purpose in the hands of travelers, to celebrate our artisans on a global stage, and to show that sustainability is not just a trend — it’s a way of living.

We’re deeply thankful to Guanacaste Airport and Southwest Airlines for inviting Wearsos into this story. But most of all, we’re proud of our team — of Fio, of the artisans, and of the visionaries who believe in a future where design, dignity, and sustainability walk hand in hand.