5 Things You Should Know Before Starting Your Costa Rica Adventure

If you are planning to cave in to the desire of your adventurous spirit and intend to do so in Latin America, then you should highly consider visiting Costa Rica. Whatever type of adventure you wish to engage in, this Central American country surely has something to offer to quench your thirst for adventure.

However, before setting foot on the soil of Costa Rica, there are certain things you need to consider and remember. While brushing up on your basic Spanish language lessons is important, there are other things you need to know:

1. It is the safest Central American country.

Costa Rica has been enjoying its uninterrupted democracy since the 1940s. Without having a standing army since the end of its civil war, this country of beautiful people and marvelous work of nature takes pride in regularly clinching the top spot on the Global Peace Index for Central America and being in the top three for Latin America in general. Without question, Costa Rica is the right choice for security-concerned tourists.

2. Unfortunately, it is one of the most expensive, too.

With Costa Rica boasting of high literacy rate and excellent infrastructures, it has earned its right to attach expensive price tags to its goods, services, and commodities on the whole. If you are planning to visit this country with a backpacker budget, you are advised to save until you have enough money to afford the high standard of living here. Prices in this Central American country are comparable to those of the US and the UK.

3. Nonetheless, its people can make your visit more fun.

While there is no denying that Costa Rica is no haven for backpackers due to its pricey commodities, this does not mean that you should drop the idea of visiting this country. With Happy Planet Index ranking Costa Ricans as some of the happiest people around the globe, even topping the list in 2016, people in this country will surely paint a smile on your face and etch a memorable mark in your heart.

4. More than a quarter of the country is protected land.

For a small country covering only 0.03% of the world’s surface, Costa Rica holds 5% of the world’s biodiversity. Hence, it is no surprise why this country’s major tourist offering is its wildlife, boasting national parks and refuges.

5.“Pura Vida” stands for almost anything.

While Costa Rica’s famous slogan, “Pura Vida” literally translates to “Pure Life” in English, it is more than just a catch phrase. In fact, it can be used in many ways, such as saying “hello,” “goodbye,” “I am well,” and “no problem.” Hence, “Pura Vida” is more than just a common expression that you will hear when you are in this Latin American nation as it is reflective of a Costa Rican’s state of mind and way of living.

So, what are you waiting for? Are you ready to say Ole?