Holidays in Costa Rica
Costa Rica is not as popular a holiday destination as it should be, but do not let that put you off, as it has plenty to offer
For long enough, Costa Rica has been overshadowed by its more popular Latin American neighbours such Cuba, Brazil and the Dominican Republic. Well no more, as this often overlooked paradise island is now simply demanding the world's attention.
Those who crave the hot-blooded passion of Latin America, combined with white sandy beaches and warm, temperate climes should carry out a quick flight search and jump on the next plane out to Costa Rica, because this destination is simply waiting to be enjoyed.
Costa Ricans often refer to themselves as tico, which is masculine or tica which is the feminine form. And practically everywhere you go, you are likely to hear the phrase pura vida, which literally means pure life. It is a ubiquitous phrase in Costa Rica, so if you say that to locals, you are very likely to endear yourself to them.
If you want to appear up to date with the local vernacular, use can use the term mae, meaning guy or dude, which some youngsters use to refer to each other, although beware that this might be perceived as insulting to those of an older generation.
Costa Rica has a very diverse history - it was the point where the Mesoamerican and South American native cultures met. The northwest of the country, the Nicoya peninsula, was the southernmost point of Nahuatl cultural influence when the Spanish conquistadors came in the sixteenth century.
In terms of music, popular Costa Rican genres include an indigenous calypso scene which is distinguished from its Caribbean cousin.
American and British rock and roll is popular among local youths, while genres such as soca, salsa, merengue, cumbia and Tex-Mex are favoured among the slightly older set.
Costa Rican Recommended
During Easter Week, many places close down as the local people take part in various celebrations which are popular tourist pullers. These include beauty contests, lively parties and various religious devotions.
On August 2nd is Cartago, which is the festival of the Virgen de los Angeles, which is a nationwide pilgrimage involving large-scale processions to the region of Cartogo.
On September 15th, visitors to San Jose are recommended to participate in the Independence Day celebrations, where runners carry the 'Torch of Freedom' from Guatemala to San Jose to celebrate independence. On October 12th, Columbus day is celebrated throughout the Americas with processions and music, to mark the arrival of Christopher Columbus on American shores.
Costa Rica Weather
The early months of the rainy season (May to July) are a very good time to visit Costa Rica, with some towns experiencing a mini-high season.
For surfing enthusiasts, the Pacific coast sees increased swells and bigger, faster waves during the rainy season, peaking in the worst rainy months of September and October.
December to April is the dry season while November to January are coolest times - but the temperature doesn't really vary much.
Destination Checklist - Costa Rica
Citizens of the UK, the US and Canada can stay up to 90 days without a visa but Australians and New Zealanders can stay only up to 30 days without a visa.
£1 buys approximately 471 Costa Rican colones (CRC) and US dollars are widely accepted.
There are no direct flights from the UK, but other airlines fly there via Latin American countries or through Europe and American Airlines and Continental fly via US cities. Travellers should also note that Costa Rica is six hours behind GMT.
