Coffee is strongly associated with Costa Rica. It’s the main industry the country known for. The Ticos (Costa Rican people) have done much to encourage the growth of coffee and protect its industries. If you want to know where your rich morning aromas come from, read on for some fast facts about coffee in Costa Rica.
Famous Costa Rican Sayings - Part 1
The language of Costa Rica is Spanish, but many people can speak some English. There are some sayings which might leave you scratching your head. Whilst some have obvious meanings, others have simply been passed down and even those saying them are unclear about their meaning and origins.
We take a look at some of the common (and less common) sayings in Costa Rica so you don’t find yourself confused.
Shopping in Costa Rica – Trading with Local Merchants
At some point you’ll probably want to investigate the local stores in your area to see what souvenirs are on offer. You may want to take some trinkets home for your family and friends. Shopping in Costa Rica isn’t about high-end retail brands. It’s about local economies and merchants selling their wares. It’s a very traditional way of shopping, especially if you’re outside cities like San Jose.
Here's your guide to what works, and doesn't, when it comes to shopping in Costa Rica.
How to Save Money in Costa Rica
Costa Rica didn't used to be known for its high prices. However the rise of the tourist trade has changed this in more recent years. If you came here thirty years ago everything would cost but a fraction of what it does in the UK or the US. Now, you can see prices steadily creeping up and frequently goods and services here now cost the same as they would cost you back home. If you know how to save money in Costa Rica, you can avoid many of the tourist traps cleverly poised to take more of your money.
Avoiding the Worst Tourist Traps in Costa Rica
Tourist traps occur in any country where you can find tourists, and Costa Rica is no exception. To make sure you don’t become the victim of a shady operator, we’ve compiled a list of the worst tourist traps in Costa Rica. There are hundreds of them, but these are the ones we’ve seen reported on a regular basis.
How to Travel in Costa Rica without Any Problems
Costa Rica isn’t known for its road safety and its attention to detail whilst driving. Although the dirt roads are remote and poorly maintained, they will get you where you want to go. For foreigners though, they can be a nightmare. While driving safety is practically non-existent, from bridges without guard rails to drivers with little regard for anyone else, you can still travel well if you plan correctly.
The Story of the Costa Rican Civil War
The Costa Rican Civil War is the defining event of the 20th century for Costa Rica. It has influenced the country and its consequences reach out to today. We always say you should make every attempt to understand a country. This is why we’re going to talk about the civil war and what you’ll notice when you travel to Costa Rica.
Fun and Fantastical Facts about San Jose in Costa Rica
San Jose is the seat of government, and the most important city in Costa Rica. It’s a city which brings in thousands of tourists each year. Before you make your trip to the Tico capital, let’s take a look at these facts about Costa Rica and the capital city. They’ll help you prepare for your trip and learn about what you can expect from this high-altitude urban sanctuary.
What You Need for a Fantastic Bird Watching Trip in Costa Rica
Costa Rica is famous for its bird watching opportunities. There are hundreds of species unique to Central America and Costa Rica has taken great steps to protect them through establishing a number of national parks. For tourists like you, this provides unrivalled views of some of the most colourful creatures in the world. Spot jabiru storks, scarlet macaws, and the blue-crowned motmot.
Is Learning Spanish Hard?
Come to Costa Rica and this is the first question most people ask when they attend their first Spanish lesson. When you’re not splashing about in the water at our surf retreat or enjoying a relaxing massage, you might be sitting on a beach learning to speak the language of this Central American paradise. You know it’s important and fun to learn a new language, but you still have some butterflies floating around in the pit of your stomach.
Interesting Facts about the Nicoya Peninsula
The Nicoya Peninsula has been a point of contention over the years. Up until the 19th century, it was under Spanish rule, along with the rest of Central America. Originally, it was part of Nicaragua. In 1824 it voted to secede from the country and join Costa Rica. It’s still a hot topic of discussion today.
Secure Your Dinner with Fishing in Costa Rica
Fishing trips are a great way to get away from everything and relax, as well as catch your dinner. Fishing in Costa Rica is a popular sport as its waters are teeming with aquatic creatures. Competition fishers also come to Costa Rica to train for their next event. You can sail around the country and encounter hundreds of different creatures. Read on if you want to take to the waters...
A Diver’s Dream – Diving in Costa Rica around Tortuga Island
Tortuga Island is on the quintessential tropical paradise of the Nicoya Peninsula. This part of the country is a haven for surfers, divers, and just about anyone who wants to relax in azure waters and play around on sandy beaches under the glare of the Caribbean sun. Diving in Costa Rica is practically always like swimming in a glass of water. There’s so much visibility and almost zero obstructions.
Tortuga Island, on the other hand, is something else entirely. It’s an example of what diving is all about. Read on to discover more!
Get the Experience of a Lifetime by Volunteering in Costa Rica
The Adventure of Driving in Costa Rica
Talk about Costa Rica and you usually talk about the safari adventures in the jungles. You might talk about visiting the beaches and meeting some of the locals. Driving in Costa Rica is an experience you're also likely to talk about if you only have memories of driving in Europe and North America. It’s an adventure in itself and is bound to get the adrenaline pumping through your veins. Here are some of the nuances you need to get used to if you intend on renting a car during your stay.
The Money Issue – What Should You Do About Money in Costa Rica?
We all need money to get by in the world. Even Ticos with their Pura Vida philosophy acknowledge that a wad of bank notes in your pocket can take you places. Once you’re in Costa Rica, you will want to have all your financial affairs taken care of so you can get on with your holiday. Here’s a guide to dealing with money in Costa Rica.
Making a Good First Impression – Etiquette in Costa Rica
During your trip to Costa Rica you can expect to deal with a lot of different people. Ticos are typically informal, peaceful, and keen to help. Social conventions aren’t as strict in Costa Rica. Nonetheless, you should act appropriately so as to make a good first impression. Here are some tips on etiquette in Costa Rica to endear yourself to the locals.
