Costa Rica is a country of enormous scenic beauty and an intriguing destination
because of the diversity of things to see and do. Slightly smaller than West
Virginia - it has a relatively long coastline with the Pacific Ocean on the west
coast and the Caribbean Sea on the east. The culture is a fusion of European and
indigenous influences and this mix is visible in some of the country's
architecture, foods, customs, and crafts. Remnants from ancient civilizations
still remain throughout the country. The terrain consists of some of the most
enviable beaches, coastal plains and rugged mountains and include several major
active and inactive volcanoes. The climate is tropical and the country has a
very stable economic and political history. Residents, known as Ticos, are warm,
friendly and outgoing.
San Jose, the capital city, has a wealth of cultural activities for the
traveler - including concerts, plays, museums, theater, shopping, discos,
festivals and international and local cuisine.
Sports, action and sun lovers searching for the clear waters of a coral
reef or for that perfect wave can seek the country`s beautiful white and black
sandy beaches and engage in a variety of water related adventures such as
surfing, rafting, snorkeling, kayaking, fishing and windsurfing. Additionally
the visitor can engage in horse-back riding, hiking, guided bird-watching tours,
bungee jumping and hot air balloon sailings.
For those seeking a different experience - Costa Rica is considered one
of the most bio-diverse regions in the world. It has 8 Nature Reserves and more
than 20 National Parks which are designated as protective areas. No visit to
Costa Rica would be complete without including a visit to see these unique
ecosystems of marine, wildlife and vegetation. Guided tours can include views of
cloud forests, tropical forests, forest canopy life, waterfalls and blue
lagoons, volcanic craters, wildlife species of aquatic birds, mammals and
reptiles. There is a tour for nearly everyone.
Perhaps it is this ability to directly experience such unforgettable
natural beauty that stays with visitors and makes a visit to Costa Rica such a
unique and impressive experience.
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