num_pages: 23
description: Costa Rica is sometimes referred to as the Switzerland of Central America. And no wonderthe comfortable lifestyle peaceful government and stunning natural wonders make this small Central American country the perfect vacation spot. Whether you prefer hiking on pristine rainforest trails among howler monkeys and toucans or sipping margaritas on the Caribbean Coast Costa Rica has something for everyone.History buffs will thrill at the ruins of 3000-year-old Guayabo de Turrialba as well as the pre-Columbian architecture found in cities throughout the country. If city-life is more your style the bustling capital of San Jose is home to six major museums a handful of stunning parks and plazas open-air markets and restaurants and bars galore.If youre interested in hiking Costa Ricas 35 national parks cover 11% of the country and boast hiking trails for all levels. (If youre up to the 2-day climb of Cerro Chirripo a hike to the 3820m peak yields a view that spreads from the Pacific to the Caribbean Ocean.)For the people of Costa Rica the frequent reply of pura vida (pure life) to the question How are you? isnt just a slang termits a way of life. It symbolizes the Costa Rican ideal of sitting back and enjoying the beauty of life. Costa Ricans pride themselves on being friendly helpful and easygoing. Family is important to Costa Ricans and many live in extended family units. In 2012 Costa Rica was ranked number one in the Happy Planet Index a rating based on life expectancy ecological footprint and subjective life satisfaction.Contents:Introduction To Costa RicaOverviewCultureOrientation/LocationClimate and When to VisitSightseeing HighlightsCanopy/Zip-line ToursCoffee and Chocolate ToursBeachesArenal VolcanoTortuguero Turtle Nesting AreaMonteverde Cloud ForestCerro ChiripoWhitewater raftingMuseums of San JosePuerto Viejo de TalamancaRecommendations for the Budget TravelerPlaces to StayPlaces to Eat &amp; DrinkPlaces to Shop
language: English
title: Costa Rica (Central America) Travel Guide - Sightseeing, Hotel, Restaurant & Shopping Highlights
publisher: None