GENERAL INFORMACION ABOUT COSTA RICA
HERITAGE AND CULTURE
Costa Rican culture is in many ways a reflection of its racial diversity. The predominant influence has long been European, which is reflected in everything from the official language -- Spanish -- to the architecture of the country's churches and other historic buildings. The indigenous influence is less visible, but can be found in everything from the tortillas that make part of a typical Costa Rican meal, to the handmade ceramics sold at roadside stands.
An important aspect of Costa Rica's cultural legacy is their love for peace and democracy. The Ticos like to stand out that their nation is the exception in Latin America, where military dictatorships have long dominated politics.
They take pride in having more than one hundred years of democratic tradition, and almost half a century without an army. The army was abolished in 1948, and the money the country saves by not expending in military issues is invested in improving the Costa Ricans' standard of living, which has fostered a culture of social peace that makes it such a pleasant place to visit.
THE TICOS
The Ticos, as Costa Ricans are commonly known, are famous for their hospitality, and are quite happy to live up to their reputation. They are well-educated and hard working people, who are quick with a handshake and a smile. They are well aware of the special land they have, and most likely they will help foreigners when they get lost, even explaining things that might seem bizarre to foreigners, and making their stay as enjoyable as possible.
People say the Ticos are their nation's greatest asset, and once you've experienced their friendliness and spontaneity, you'll have no doubt to that regard.
ECOTOURISM -
In Costa Rica, nature reveals itself in its entire splendor.
Considered one of the most bio-diverse regions in the world, Costa Rica is divided in 20 natural parks, 8 biological reserves, and a series of protected areas that captivate ecotourism lovers. The variety of activities includes horseback riding, hiking mountainous paths in the cloud forests, and guided bird-watching tours.
Tortuguero National Park is especially famous for sea turtle nesting that takes place every year, and the natural canals that abound with protected species such as crocodiles, manatees, and otters.
ADVENTURE
Costa Rica is a land of volcanoes, rain forests, waterfalls, and rivers. Adventure travelers can choose from a variety of activities such as rafting, snorkeling, kayaking, sport fishing, surfing, and lots more. The most challenging activity will be choosing what to do!
One of Costa Rica's main attractions is the Arenal Volcano. This active volcano will delight lucky visitors with a fire show, with rock and lava eruption. At the volcano's foot, visitors can find one of Costa Rica's best windsurf spots, because winds on the lake can reach 45 miles per hour.
In addition, those looking for a little adrenaline rush can go bungee jumping from the bridge over the Colorado River (located just one half hour from San Jose) or riding in a hot-air balloon.
A VALLEY OF CULTURE
As the capital of the country, San José also represents the capital of culture and amusement. Offering a series of places for all family members to enjoy the museums, theaters, cinemas and recreation centers.
Among the most relevant, the imposing, gothic architecture of the National Theater with performances that include every art gender. The Gold Museum will show you Pre Columbian, Costa Rican art. The National Museum will let you travel through Costa Rica’s history, and the Children’s Museum, guiding you through an interactive learning adventure for all the family, applied with innovative devices on each subject, to learn while you play.
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