Costa Rica
In the heart of Central America, between Nicaragua and Panama, is a paradise full of natural parks and exciting beaches: Costa Rica.
The origin of the name is uncertain. Some say it was Christopher Columbus (who arrived in September 1502) himself who suggested it, dazzled by its beauty. Others say the name is an adaptation of the Indian word "Coquerrica", originary from the first Spanish settlers. Several centuries later, this charming country was elected as one of the most advanced in the region, and counts with an interesting detail: since 1948 it does not have an army.
The ticos, as its inhabitants are known, are amicable and receptive, besides always having at a popular expression at the tip of their tongues, contagious to all: ´pure life´.
Both sea coasts are of stunning beauty – the Caribbean, and the Pacific. But here, if we have to choose one, we would suggest the latter, where the beaches are more extense, the access is easier, and the national parks are breathtaking.
Leaving from San José, I would say it is a good idea to rent a car so you are able to enjoy the region up to the most. Heading South, the first spot is a beautiful peninsula, accessible through route #2. There are three magical places there: the Corcovado national park, a wildlife area, and the Velamar eco sanctuary.
From then on, we follow the coast to the Nicoya peninsula. The first destination from there is the Marino Ballena national park, with great surfing waves and awesome for diving. Following through route #34, we arrive in Quepos and Jacó, touristic cities with several hotel and restaurant options.
After that, we arrive in Puntarenas, where the Barra Honda national park is situated. We then go to route #160, which will lead us to amazing beach spots, such as Cuevas, Azul, Carmen, Bahía Ballenas, Teresa, Manzanillo, Cocal, Bongo, Hermosa, Coyote and Samara.
The next park in our route is Marino Las Baulas, near the Tamarindo beach. People from all over the world visit the place to sunbathe and enjoy the perfect waves. The beaches of Flamingo and Bahía Culebra (next to the Nicaragua boarder), are also worth the visit.
Gastronomy
The gastronomy of Costa Rica is a mixture of three different cultures - the Aboriginal, the African, and the European. I would recommend the following dishes: Gallo Pinto, a traditional mixture composed by rice and eggs; casado, a typical lunch formed by several ingredients, including fried bananas and all; olla de carne, traditional meat stew; and pati de limón, a refreshing lime dessert.
Relaxation
The relaxation possibilities are infinite, and include the national parks, adventure sports, divings, and cycling routes. The touristic agencies are very professional, and ready to meet the necessities of all the visitors who choose to visit the region.
To summon up, Costa Rica is undoubtely one of the most natural and savage spots in America. Calm, friendly, peaceful, and unforgettable: pure life!
The origin of the name is uncertain. Some say it was Christopher Columbus (who arrived in September 1502) himself who suggested it, dazzled by its beauty. Others say the name is an adaptation of the Indian word "Coquerrica", originary from the first Spanish settlers. Several centuries later, this charming country was elected as one of the most advanced in the region, and counts with an interesting detail: since 1948 it does not have an army.
The ticos, as its inhabitants are known, are amicable and receptive, besides always having at a popular expression at the tip of their tongues, contagious to all: ´pure life´.
Both sea coasts are of stunning beauty – the Caribbean, and the Pacific. But here, if we have to choose one, we would suggest the latter, where the beaches are more extense, the access is easier, and the national parks are breathtaking.
Leaving from San José, I would say it is a good idea to rent a car so you are able to enjoy the region up to the most. Heading South, the first spot is a beautiful peninsula, accessible through route #2. There are three magical places there: the Corcovado national park, a wildlife area, and the Velamar eco sanctuary.
From then on, we follow the coast to the Nicoya peninsula. The first destination from there is the Marino Ballena national park, with great surfing waves and awesome for diving. Following through route #34, we arrive in Quepos and Jacó, touristic cities with several hotel and restaurant options.
After that, we arrive in Puntarenas, where the Barra Honda national park is situated. We then go to route #160, which will lead us to amazing beach spots, such as Cuevas, Azul, Carmen, Bahía Ballenas, Teresa, Manzanillo, Cocal, Bongo, Hermosa, Coyote and Samara.
The next park in our route is Marino Las Baulas, near the Tamarindo beach. People from all over the world visit the place to sunbathe and enjoy the perfect waves. The beaches of Flamingo and Bahía Culebra (next to the Nicaragua boarder), are also worth the visit.
Gastronomy
The gastronomy of Costa Rica is a mixture of three different cultures - the Aboriginal, the African, and the European. I would recommend the following dishes: Gallo Pinto, a traditional mixture composed by rice and eggs; casado, a typical lunch formed by several ingredients, including fried bananas and all; olla de carne, traditional meat stew; and pati de limón, a refreshing lime dessert.
Relaxation
The relaxation possibilities are infinite, and include the national parks, adventure sports, divings, and cycling routes. The touristic agencies are very professional, and ready to meet the necessities of all the visitors who choose to visit the region.
To summon up, Costa Rica is undoubtely one of the most natural and savage spots in America. Calm, friendly, peaceful, and unforgettable: pure life!
Author : Rafael Paniagua
Posted in: 10/16/2017
Last modified: 11/27/2017
0 comments