Travel Guide - Costa Rica
Introduction To Costa Rica
Overview
Costa Rica is sometimes referred to as “the Switzerland of Central America.” And no wonder…the comfortable lifestyle, peaceful government, and stunning natural wonders make this small Central American country the perfect vacation spot. Whether you prefer hiking on pristine rainforest trails among howler monkeys and toucans, or sipping margaritas on the Caribbean Coast, Costa Rica has something for everyone.
History buffs will thrill at the ruins of 3000-year-old Guayabo de Turrialba, as well as the pre-Columbian architecture found in cities throughout the country. If city-life is more your style, the bustling capital of San Jose is home to six major museums, a handful of stunning parks and plazas, open-air markets, and restaurants and bars galore.
If you’re interested in hiking, Costa Rica’s 35 national parks cover 11% of the country, and boast hiking trails for all levels. (If you’re up to the 2-day climb of Cerro Chirripo, a hike to the 3820m peak yields a view that spreads from the Pacific to the Caribbean Ocean.)
Culture
For the people of Costa Rica, the frequent reply of “pura vida” (“pure life”) to the question “How are you?” isn’t just a slang term…it’s a way of life. It symbolizes the Costa Rican ideal of sitting back and enjoying the beauty of life. Costa Ricans pride themselves on being friendly, helpful, and easygoing. Family is important to Costa Ricans, and many live in extended family units. In 2012, Costa Rica was ranked number one in the Happy Planet Index, a rating based on life expectancy, ecological footprint, and subjective life satisfaction.
The people of Costa Rica are 75% Catholic, and Spanish is the national language. Costa Ricans have managed to maintain a country of peace and relative prosperity, despite the conflict that occasionally rages in nearby countries. In the absence of war, Costa Rica boasts the highest standard of living in Central America.
Primary education is free and
Overview
Costa Rica is sometimes referred to as “the Switzerland of Central America.” And no wonder…the comfortable lifestyle, peaceful government, and stunning natural wonders make this small Central American country the perfect vacation spot. Whether you prefer hiking on pristine rainforest trails among howler monkeys and toucans, or sipping margaritas on the Caribbean Coast, Costa Rica has something for everyone.
History buffs will thrill at the ruins of 3000-year-old Guayabo de Turrialba, as well as the pre-Columbian architecture found in cities throughout the country. If city-life is more your style, the bustling capital of San Jose is home to six major museums, a handful of stunning parks and plazas, open-air markets, and restaurants and bars galore.
If you’re interested in hiking, Costa Rica’s 35 national parks cover 11% of the country, and boast hiking trails for all levels. (If you’re up to the 2-day climb of Cerro Chirripo, a hike to the 3820m peak yields a view that spreads from the Pacific to the Caribbean Ocean.)
Culture
For the people of Costa Rica, the frequent reply of “pura vida” (“pure life”) to the question “How are you?” isn’t just a slang term…it’s a way of life. It symbolizes the Costa Rican ideal of sitting back and enjoying the beauty of life. Costa Ricans pride themselves on being friendly, helpful, and easygoing. Family is important to Costa Ricans, and many live in extended family units. In 2012, Costa Rica was ranked number one in the Happy Planet Index, a rating based on life expectancy, ecological footprint, and subjective life satisfaction.
The people of Costa Rica are 75% Catholic, and Spanish is the national language. Costa Ricans have managed to maintain a country of peace and relative prosperity, despite the conflict that occasionally rages in nearby countries. In the absence of war, Costa Rica boasts the highest standard of living in Central America.
Primary education is free and