Facts of Costa Rica

HERITAGE AND CULTURE

Costa Rican culture is in many ways a reflection of its racial mix. The predominant influence has long been European, which is reflected in everything from the official language -- Spanish -- to the architecture of the country's churches and other historic buildings. The indigenous influence is less apparent, but can be found in everything from the tortillas that are served with a typical Costa Rican meal to the handmade ceramics sold at roadside stands. A more recent cultural influence is that of the United States, which can be noted in everything from the movie selection at San Jose's theaters to the fast food chains that line some of the capital's streets.

LOCATION

Costa Rica borders to the North with Nicaragua, to the South with Panama, and to the East and West with the Caribbean Sea and Pacific Ocean respectively. The Caribbean coast is 255 kms. long, while the Pacific coast is 1.103 kms long. Both coasts are abundant with first class beaches and vegetation.

HEALTH & EDUCATION

The Costa Rican government has long dedicated a significant portion of the national budget to the health and education of its citizens; a policy that has benefited its citizens over the years and improved their quality of life. The country has a literacy rate and average life expectancy that are much closer to those of Western European nations than most Latin American countries. Costa Rica has had a socialized medical system for nearly half a century, and while schools and clinics are found throughout the country, the Central Valley has several specialized Hospitals, public universities and dozens of private universities.

Tap water is safe to drink in most of the country, but bottled beverages are recommended in rural areas. For those few travelers that do become sick or injured while in Costa Rica, hospitals and private clinics in San Jose offer a level of care comparable to what they would expect at home, and for considerably less money.

CLIMATE

Costa Rica enjoys spring-like weather all year round. The average temperature in the Central Valley is 72 F (22 C). The temperature near the coasts and on the beaches ranges between 70 and 90 F (21 to 32 C).

According to the scale of Holdrieschl, because of the abundance of microclimates, Costa Rica has more than 12 ecosystems. The abundance of microclimates has produced one of the richest fauna and flora found on the planet. The greenery and climate provides Costa Rica with an everlasting spring.