COSTA RICA

Introduction to Costa Rica

All trails lead to waterfalls, misty crater lakes or jungle-fringed, deserted beaches. Explored by horseback, foot, or kayak, Costa Rica is a tropical choose-your-own-adventure land. Rainforest hiks and brisk high-altitude trails, rushing white-water rapids and world-class surfing. Costa Rica ofers a dizzying suite of outdoor adventures in every shape and size. National parks allow visitors to glimpse life in the tropical rainforest and cloud forest, simmering volcanoes offer otherwordly vistas, and surf breaks are suited to beginners and experts alike. And then there are people, Costa Ricans, or Ticos as they perfer to call themselves, are proud of their slice of paradise, welcoming guests to sink into the easygoing rythms of the pura vida.

What to eat in Costa Rica

In the last few years, locals have started to experiment more with the country's fresh, exotic and plentiful produce. The results have been inspiring and delicious.
Seafood is plentiful, and fish dishes are usually fresh and delicious. While not traditional Tico fare, ceviche (seafood marinated in lemon or lime juic, garlic and seasoning) is on most menus.
Most bars ofer the country's most popular boca (snack), chifrijo , which derives its name from two major ingredients: chicharron ( fried pork) and frijoles (beans). Diced tomatoes, spices, rice, tortilla chips, and avocado are also thrown in for good measure.

Don't miss

Volcan Arenal & Hot Springs : While the molten night views are gone, this mighty, perfectly conical giant is still considered active and worthy of a pilgimage. There are several beautiful trails to explore, especially magnificient climb to Cerro Chato. At its base, you are just a short drive away from her many hot springs.

Nosara: is a cocktail of international surf culture, jungled microclimes and yoga bliss, where three stunning beaches are stitched together by a network of swerving, rutted earth roads that meander a drop-dead gorgeous beach - or in Playa Pelada.

Parque Nacional Manuel Antonio: A place of swaying palms and playful monkeys, sparkling blue water and a riot of tropical birds, Parque Nacional Manuel Antonio is the country's smallest and most popular national park.