Costa Rica
Country Overview
Costa Rica is commonly referred to as the Switzerland of Central America. Surrounded by Nicaragua to the north and Panama to the east and south, Costa Rica is an oasis of calm among turbulent neighbors and one of the best places to experience the tropics with minimal environmental impact. In fact, Costa Rica is ranked 3rd in the world in the 2010 Environmental Performance index. As a result, ecotourism is one of the largest business sectors in Costa Rica, followed by bananas, pineapples, and coffee. While Costa Rica remains a developing country, the general population is well-educated and the area has become prime real-estate for investors.
Although San Jose is the country’s highest populated province, it is the rural and coastal areas that Costa Rica is famous for. The saying “pura vida” was coined in Costa Rica to describe the lifestyle which is pure, uninhibited and in-tune with nature.
Unlike North America and Western Europe, the weather in Costa Rica cannot be divided among four seasons, but rather the rainy and dry seasons. The standard dry season known locally as summer lasts from December to April; the rainy season commonly referred to as winter goes from May to November. The close proximity of Costa Rica to the Equator gives it a tropical climate year round. Costa Rica does have many microclimates as well, which depend on elevation, rainfall, and the topography of each region. Although Costa Rica has a very old-world feel, it is a leader in areas of conservation and modern environmental technology which protect its lush jungles and ensure that its wide variety of wildlife is preserved.
Culture
The western and eastern coasts are home to different cultures. The Pacific side is home to a more indigenous population that descends from the original Aztecs, while the Caribbean coast was populated with African workers during the 17th and 18th centuries and remains of heavy Afro-Costa Rican descent. Costa Rican cuisine is a blend of predominantly Indigenous, Spanish, and African influences. Many dishes incorporate the use of corn, such as tamales, however you can expect rice and beans to be a staple, even at breakfast. While dance is popular in Central America, common dances such as soca, salsa, merengue, bachata and cumbia are most enjoyed by the older generations. Nightclubs that play Western pop music have become more popular with younger people.
Travel Tips
Costa Ricans operate on a very relaxed version of Western time. Often there are delays with transportation or public services will be closed without notice. Addresses in Costa Rica are less standardized. Landmarks describe the location, as opposed to specific street numbers, so be sure to keep this in mind when communicating with taxi drivers. Sun screen is also a hot commodity. While you will be able to find sun screen locally, the cost is highly inflated and it is an absolute necessity when traveling so close to the equator. Also, think about bringing a refillable water bottle.
Although Costa Rica is considered the safest country in Central America, nonetheless you should always be aware of your surroundings. Basic safety rules apply, including do not wear flashy jewelry or leave items unattended, ignore attempts by strangers to approach you on the street, take only officially marked taxis, avoid carrying valuables or large amounts of cash, and always ask locals about areas that may be considered unsafe, especially at night.
Go!
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