In honour of International Women’s Day, we shine a spotlight on the incredible women shaping the future of business travel.
From pioneering sustainable tourism practices to breaking barriers in leadership roles, these inspiring individuals are redefining what it means to travel with purpose. Join us as we celebrate their achievements and explore the unique perspectives they bring to an industry that thrives on innovation and resilience.
Vera Zeledón, Founder and Executive Advisor- Hotel Belmar
Vera Zeledón is a visionary entrepreneur and co-founder of Hotel Belmar, one of Costa Rica’s most celebrated eco-luxury destinations. Nearly four decades ago, she and her husband conceived a dream to build Hotel Belmar from the ground up, driven by a shared vision of sustainability, excellence, and authentic Costa Rican hospitality.
At a time when hospitality leadership in Costa Rica was largely male-dominated, Vera played a pioneering role as a woman in the industry, shaping not just the success of Hotel Belmar but also the broader landscape of eco-luxury tourism. Her leadership and dedication have propelled the hotel to international acclaim, earning recognition from Travel + Leisure, Condé Nast Traveler, and other global platforms. But Vera’s impact extends far beyond accolades—she has redefined what it means to offer luxury with purpose.
At the heart of Hotel Belmar’s closed-loop sustainability model is Finca Madre Tierra, the country’s first certified carbon-neutral farm, supplying fresh, organic ingredients that fuel the hotel’s farm-to-table philosophy. Beyond regenerative agriculture, Finca Madre Tierra embraces humane animal husbandry, proving that ethical, cruelty-free farming can yield an abundant, nourishing bounty. Guests are invited to experience this compassionate approach to food production, reinforcing the idea that sustainability must extend to both the land and the lives it sustains.
Beyond her contributions to hospitality, Vera is deeply committed to cultural preservation. She founded Celajes de Mi Tierra, a folkloric dance group dedicated to sharing Costa Rica’s rich traditions with guests and the broader community. Through art, sustainability, and hospitality, she has built a multi-dimensional legacy that connects people to both nature and culture in an authentic way.
Vera’s story is one of resilience, leadership, and innovation. As a pioneer in hospitality and eco-luxury tourism, she has shaped not only Hotel Belmar but also the broader conversation around responsible travel in Costa Rica. Alongside her family, she continues to raise the bar for sustainability-driven hospitality, inspiring future generations of women entrepreneurs, sustainability advocates, and travellers alike. Her vision continues to leave a lasting impact.