Our Origins
HISTORY
HISTORY
Grupo Marta traces its origins to the innovative vision of Bernardo Monge, a Costa Rican entrepreneur born in 1930, an engineer, pilot, and a man deeply committed to service.
Together with his wife, Daisy Puig, the couple laid the foundations of a company that would become an integral part of Costa Rica’s tourism development for decades to come.
FOUNDER
Bernardo Monge
Throughout his life, Bernardo combined an entrepreneurial spirit with a genuine dedication to the well-being of local communities. He actively participated in social, healthcare, and infrastructure initiatives, leaving a legacy defined by purpose, integrity, and service.
Innovation
PIONEERS
In 1960, Bernardo led the creation of Motel BEMO, the first roadside hotel in Costa Rica and the country’s first property to receive AAA certification.
This milestone marked the beginning of a series of pioneering developments that would transform the travel experience in Costa Rica, including:
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Hotel Irazú, the first urban hotel designed for the international tourist.
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Hotel Jacó Beach, a pioneer in offering a beach resort experience tailored for global visitors.
PIONEERS
Evolution
PROJECTS
Over the decades, the properties created by Bernardo and Daisy evolved along with the country:
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The original BEMO Motel gave way to high-profile residential towers.
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The Irazú Hotel was established as a multifunctional urban complex with two hotels, restaurants, a casino, and a Gold's Gym.
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The Jacó Beach Hotel continues as a current and recognized all-inclusive resort in the Central Pacific.
Building on this legacy, Grupo Marta later introduced prestigious international brands to the Costa Rican market, including Hampton Inn by Hilton, Holiday Inn Express, Best Western, Gray Line, Denny’s, and more recently, Casago Vacation Rentals.
Legacy
FUTURE
Today, under the leadership of the second and third generations, Grupo Marta is consolidating itself as a solid player in the development, operation and transformation of tourism assets.
Our portfolio includes city hotels, beach resorts, international franchise restaurants, and vacation rental units, all managed with operational excellence and long-term vision.
More than six decades later, we continue to drive comprehensive hospitality solutions, committed to quality and the growth of tourism in Costa Rica.
And the best part is yet to be written.