What Brings People To Live in Costa Rica?
Costa Rica living – what draws people to this country? Let's look at just a few of the many things that make people decide Costa Rica is where they want to call home.
1. Sand and sea
Because the country is so small, you're never too terribly far from one of its amazing beaches. Whether you like to surf, party, or just soak up the sun, you're guaranteed to find a beach (or five) that suits your needs. Even better, there are very few Costa Rican beaches that are clogged with tourists, meaning that getting your own spot of sand and sea is completely within the realm of possibility.
2. Away from it all
Hikers, nature enthusiasts, and photographers alike won't be able to get enough of Costa Rica's endless green mountains. If you know where to go, you can find some beautiful waterfalls and rivers nestled between them. Those looking to spend a few days — or more — away from society can rent rooms in fincas (basically agricultural summer homes) and trade in the real world for some peace and quiet.
3. Fresh — and sometimes crazy-looking — fruit
A trip to the feria (farmers market), or verdureria (corner fruit and vegetable stand) will make your visits to the produce aisle in the U.S.A. seem incredibly lackluster. In addition to having the sweetest, most flavorful “normal” fruits, such as bananas, mangoes and pineapples, you can also find some pretty alien-looking treats in Costa Rica. Even if they look a bit crazy, trust me — they're all delicious. And best of all, they are dirt-cheap. Now that's how you encourage people to stay healthy!
4. Wildlife
Some travel companies like to exaggerate the number of cool, exotic animals you'll see while on vacation, but here, there is no exaggeration. A trip to Manuel Antonio National Park is guaranteed to get you up close and personal to sloths, colorful birds, raccoons, and monkeys (which may try to steal your food).
But no matter where you go, chances are you'll encounter some incredible fauna. After all, even though it covers only 0.03% of the earth's surface, Costa Rica contains 5% of the planet's biodiversity!
5. Cloud forests
Traveling to the cloud forests of Monteverde might be the closest you ever get to walking through a fairytale forest. Their high altitude, abundant foliage, and chilly, damp air might surprise those who think that Costa Rica is all beaches. But the most beautiful characteristic of the cloud forests is the fog that rolls in over the trees and mountain tops. Sometimes, it's so thick that you can only see up to a few meters in front of you.
6. Foodie’s delight
Like many Latin American countries, Costa Rican meals normally have a base of rice and beans. Gallo pinto, possibly the country's most famous dish, is a breakfast made of rice, beans, cilantro, peppers, onion and the drool-worthy Lizano sauce. It's normally consumed with corn tortillas, eggs, white cheese, and sweet fried plantains.
Lunch and dinner also include rice and beans, frequently alongside chicken, pork or beef. The dishes are all rooted in simplicity, but something about them tastes absolutely magical. Sampling them at a local “soda” will enhance your enjoyment.
Now that’s how you encourage people to stay
healthy!
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Plus: take the survey, "What brought YOU to Costa Rica?"