About Costa Rica
Good to Know
Costa Rica, a beloved travel destination, is a remarkably diverse country situated on the continental divide between the Caribbean Sea and Pacific Ocean. This unique location fosters a rich biodiversity, featuring towering mountains, active volcanoes, and tropical beaches. Beyond its stunning natural beauty, Costa Rica is renowned for its warm, welcoming people who embody the 'pura vida' lifestyle. The nation also boasts a fascinating history, a highly-rated education system, and excellent healthcare.
Costa Rica is an amazingly diverse country located on the continental divide of North and South America between the Caribbean Sea and Pacific Ocean. The isthmus that it is located on is a natural melting pot of wildlife, flora and fauna from both of these continents. Mix in the volcanic Ring of Fire and you have a magnificent recipe of rich biodiversity, towering mountains, live volcanoes and of course tropical beaches. The friendly people of Costa Rica are just as beautiful as the scenery. Ever warm and welcoming, they are the epitome of pura vida. Click on the links to read more about Costa Rica.
History
Costa Rica’s history is a rich one. This small Latin American country was named the “rich coast” by Christopher Columbus and is known for its political stability and peace.
When to Travel
Costa Rica is one of the world’s most popular tourist destinations. But, its unique climate zones make planning necessary. Let us help you get started with these tips.
Happiest Place
Welcome to the happiest place on earth! The Pura Vida vibe of Costa Rica is readily apparent in the smiling faces you’ll meet here and the relaxed, unhurried attitudes you’ll encounter.
Education
Costa Rica has a tradition of education and producing an engaging learning experience for its students. Its literacy rate is the highest in Central America because of its dedication to education.
Health Care
Costa Rica provides universal health care to citizens and permanent residents with the best of care in Latin America. The World Health Organization consistently place Costa Rica in the top country rankings.
Culture
What makes Costa Rica tick? A combination of influences from ancient Incas and Aztecs as well as European Spanish, a rich history, a love of land and the arts all come together in the Pura Vida lifestyle.
Costa Rica History
The history of Costa Rica is quite fascinating. It is estimated that indigenous people settled the region over 7,000 years ago and lived here without interaction with people of a different continent until Christopher Columbus discovered the country in 1502. Columbus is actually credited with naming Costa Rica, which translates to Rich Coast as the indigenous he met were clad with gold jewelry. Spanish conquistadors followed soon after and the European influence quickly took hold. Click here to read more about Costa Rica history.
When to Travel to Costa Rica
Knowing when to travel to Costa Rica and where to go can be the difference in sunny skies or torrential down pours during the majority of your trip. The time of year you travel can also have a large impact on the total cost of your trip or the availability of certain tours. These factors were all taken into consideration when we wrote this article. Click on the link to learn more about when to travel to Costa Rica.
Happiest Place in the World
Costa Rica was recently ranked as the world’s happiest place according to a British private research group. This group was charged with developing a new hypothetical economy based on people and environment. To those that have been to Costa Rica, this came as little surprise.
Costa Rica Education
Costa Rica is the most literate country in Central America with a 96 percent literacy rate. Grade schools are found in nearly every pueblo. Maria Castro, the first president of Costa Rica, was a former teacher who made education in Costa Rica a top priority. In the late 1860s, Costa Rica made education both free and obligatory, becoming one of the first countries in the world to do so. Click on the link to learn more about Costa Rica education.
Costa Rica Health Care
Costa Rica has excellent public and private hospitals and a strong universal health insurance system. The country’s healthcare system is highly rated on international levels. Therefore Costa Ricans enjoy not only great health care but also long life expectancy. The magazine, National Geographic and several other groups are currently studying areas of Costa Rica which have populations with exceptionally high life expectancy.
Costa Rica Culture
Though Costa Rica was inhabited for thousands of years by indigenous tribes, the culture these days is more influenced by Spain. Christopher Columbus discovered the country in 1502 and named it Costa Rica which means Rich Coast. The Spanish Conquistadors quickly settled, bringing religion and their culture along with them. Click on the link to learn more about Costa Rica culture.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the history of Costa Rica?
Costa Rica's history began over 7,000 years ago with indigenous settlements. Christopher Columbus discovered the country in 1502, naming it 'Rich Coast' due to the gold jewelry worn by natives, which quickly led to significant Spanish influence and cultural integration.
Why is timing important when planning a trip to Costa Rica?
Knowing when to travel to Costa Rica is crucial as it can dictate whether your trip experiences sunny skies or torrential downpours. The time of year also significantly impacts the total cost of your journey and the availability of specific tours.
Why is Costa Rica considered one of the happiest places in the world?
Costa Rica was recently ranked the world’s happiest place by a British private research group that developed a hypothetical economy based on people and environment. This recognition comes as little surprise to those who have experienced the country's unique charm.
What makes Costa Rica's education system notable?
Costa Rica is Central America's most literate country, boasting a 96 percent literacy rate. Education became both free and obligatory in the late 1860s, a pioneering move championed by its first president, Maria Castro, who prioritized education.