Have you been searching for the perfect tropical paradise? Look
no further than Costa Rica - whose name means "rich coast." What
may surprise some people is that Costa Rica is actually a world
leader in many areas - from the economy to society to the
environment. Traditionally, tourism has been very big in the
country, and continues to be one of the biggest industries to
this day.
While Costa Rica isn't a large country, there are seven general
regions you can explore. From the Pacific to the central valley
to the Caribbean to tiny Monteverde, you'll want to know a
little about the country before you decide where exactly you
want to travel. For example, if ecotourism is your thing (seeing
pristine wilderness), you'll want to look into the "Bandera Azul
Ecológica" (Ecological Blue Flag) program at Langosta Beach, Las
Baulas National Marine Park. Ecotourism is becoming very popular
all over, and Costa Rica is a great place for it.
On the other hand, if the urban life is more your style, there
are destinations for you in Costa Rica as well. Most likely you
will want to visit the coast - either the Pacific or the
Caribbean, the choice is yours. Whatever you do decide, you can
rest assured that you're going to be able to experience the
riches of the "rich coast." If luxury and the good life is more
your style, Costa Rica has a lot to offer you as well along
their coastlines.
Some other popular destinations are Arenal Volcano (in San
Carlos, Alajuela), Manuel Antonio National Park and the Poás
Volcano crater. As you can see, there are quite a few natural
wonders to see in the country. When you're tired of that or just
want to take a break, there's a long list of beaches you can
visit all over the country. You'll want to make sure you pick a
beach that allows your favorite activities, whether they're
scuba diving, shell collecting, or swimming.
Fun Costa Rica Facts
- Costa Rica has its own currency but most things are listed in
US dollars
- If you like hummingbirds, there are over 52 different species
in Costa Rica, making it a bird watcher's paradise.
- Costa Rica is one of the smallest countries in Central
America, but they are culturally very diverse because of their
location.
- Monkeys are very prevelant in the country.
Costa Rica: The Rich Coast
Sometimes in life you have to treat yourself to the very best.
Costa Rica is a small country, but they are a country that knows
how to enjoy the finer things in life. Sometimes that just means
soaking in the natural beauty, but there is plenty of man-made
beauty in Costa Rica as well. No matter what experience you are
looking for in Central America, the coasts or interior of Costa
Rica is sure to have something to suit your tastes. The country
holds the title of being the most visited country in Central
America. Once you get there, you'll quickly see why life along
the "rich coast" is so good.
