The Diversity of Amazing Costa Rica

Every get so hyped for a trip that once you arrive at your destination, it can’t possibly live up to your expectations? You’ll never have this problem with Costa Rica. It is the ultimate “wow” travel destination.

If you like to do different things on your vacations, you are going to love Costa Rica. The most obvious thing to do is enjoy the coasts on both sides of the country. You can pick a beach totally empty or one with a more festive atmosphere.

The beauty of Costa Rica is there is so much more than just beaches. Eco-tourism is hot with some of the most accessible rain forests in the world. Like rafting? The rivers around Lake Arenal in the center of the country are thrill rides.

Throw in health retreats, windsurfing, San Jose and you can see there is a lot to offer in the country. Ah, but what about a bit of hard factual background? Glad you asked.

For nearly three centuries, Costa Rica was a province, not a country. It was run as part of the Captaincy General of Guatemala under a military governor instituted by Spain.

Given the name of the country, you probably will not be surprised to learn the people are known as “Costa Ricans.” That is a mouthful, so most of the citizens just call themselves “Ticos”

scar Arias Snchez, who was president in 1986, served a vital role in negotiating peace between the relevant parties in the civil wars of Nicaragua and El Salvador. He received the Nobel Peace Prize in 1987 for his efforts.

The capital city of Costa Rica is San Jose, located in the center of the country.

Costa Rica has no standing military, but does have a police force.

Costa Rica has big earthquake issues. The last major quake hit on April 22, 1991. Centered on the Caribbean side southeast of San Jose. It measured 7.4 on the Richter scale.

Education is tremendous in Costa Rica with the country having a 96 percent literacy rate. Average life expectancy for a woman is 79 years while men come in at 74. Spanish is the dominant language.

Costa Rica puts Seattle to shame when it comes to rain. 100 inches annually is the number. Mountain areas can get as many as 250 inches. Temperatures always remain in the 70 to 90 degree range.

Instead of a military, the Constitution guarantees universal public education for all citizens. Primary education is obligatory, and both preschool and high school are free. The county has leading Universities in biological fields.

Many countries could learn a thing or two about education systems from Costa Rica. Elementary and high schools are everywhere. Since there is no funding needed for a military, education gets a lot of focus and the literacy rate in Costa Rica is of 96%.

Should you visit Costa Rica on your next vacation? Vacation time is precious, and Costa Rica is the place to use it. The “wow” factor is huge and you will not regret it.