Introducing Costa Rica, Country of the 'Rich Coast'

Newsletter January 17, 2013

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Commonly called the 'Greenest nation in the world' and the 'Happiest country', Costa Rica's popularity as a tourist destination has been on a steady rise since the early 1990s . Known for the exceptional opportunities it offers for nature enthusiasts and adventurers, the country has become a favorite getaway for those who wish to escape the urban hotchpotch of other popular tourist destinations. The sheer variety of flora and fauna, luxuriant beaches, secluded coves, and volcanic backdrops make Costa Rica incredibly alluring.

	Poas Volcano Crater The Poas Volcano Craters at the Poas Volcano National Park offers breathtaking views early each morning as the clouds start to rise. A definite must-visit.

	Tortuguero National Park Eleven different natural habitats are encompassed in this amazing national park. It is a favorite with nature and wildlife enthusiasts.

	Manuel Antonio Beach The beach at the Manuel Antonio National Park is known for its beautiful coral reefs and its white silky sands. Do not miss the sunset here.

	Basílica de Nuestra Señora de los Ángeles This basilica in the Costa Rican city of Cartago was built in the early 17th century and is known for its beauty and serenity.

	Guanacaste Though small, this national park is home to over 140 species of mammals, 300 types of birds, 100 species of reptiles, thousands of insects.

	Best time to visit: December through April when Costa Rica is warm and dry

	Best avoided between: May and November when the rains make travel difficult

	Best deals: November - December and May - June when the crowds are less and discounts are on offer

	Spanish is the official language in Costa Rica. Most tourist establishments and service providers speak English. An English-Spanish dictionary is very helpful.

	Mini-vans and cabs are a very comfortable means of local travel in the country. The locals prefer to drive to neighboring cities rather than take the flight.

	Most places in Costa Rica are difficult to identify with their formal addresses. Locals act as great guides when it comes to providing directions.

	Costa Rica requires international travelers to be inoculated for Yellow Fever about 10 days before they arrive in the country. Tourists will need to carry the inoculation certificate.

The Los Suenos Marriott Ocean & Golf Resort - Set on a 1,100 acre tropical rainforest, the resort has been called one of the "World's Best" by the Travel & Leisure magazine.

Intercontinental Real Costa Rica San Jose - Set in the in the heart of Escazú, this is an ultra-luxurious hotel located near local attractions.

The Gaia Hotel and Reserve - Gaia Hotel and Reserve, located in Manuel Antonio is an adults and teens luxury boutique hotel by the beach and is one of the country's most-luxurious hotels.

Punta Islita Hotel - Surrounded by the verdant tropical forests of Guanacaste Hotel Punta Islita is a secluded beach resort offering a great holiday experience.

Four Seasons Resort Costa Rica at Peninsula Papaqayo - This resort is ideal if you are planning for an eco-tour of Costa Rica and provides amazing luxury in the midst of beauty.


	The name Costa Rica is derived from Spanish for 'rich coast'. Costa Rica has over 800 miles of gorgeous coastline between the Pacific and the Caribbean.

	Costa Rica is home to 52 species of hummingbirds, 750,000 species of insects and over a fourth of the country is made up of reserves and protected forest areas.

	The staple diet of most Costa Ricans is rice and black beans with vegetables, meat, fruits and salads as sides. Gallo Pinto, a rice and beans dish is a famous breakfast in the city.

	Costa Rica is the only Latin American country featured in among the world's 22 oldest democracies. In 1949, the country abolished its army.

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