Located in Central America and surrounded by Panama, Nicaragua, and the beautiful Pacific Ocean, Costa Rica welcomes more than 2 million visitors from the around the world every year. In fact, it has a reputation for being the most visited country in Central America.
To get you in the mood for a relaxing adventure in this beautiful country, here are a few things you may not have known about Costa Rica:
- Costa Rica is Spanish for “Rich Coast”
- The county ranked 1st among all of the countries of North, South, and Central America on the Environmental Performance Index – not surprisingly the country is a very popular destination for ecotourists
- Spanish, English, and French are all widely spoken in the country so visitors from many areas will feel welcomed
- Nearly ¼ of Costa Rica’s land is part of a protected area system – another one of the ways the country is protecting its environment
- Costa Rica is also home to the greatest density of species in the world – an amazing feat for a country of more than 20,000 square miles in area
- Costa Rica gained its independence from Spain in 1821
- San Jose is the country’s capital – one of the youngest capital cities in all of Latin America because it was formed in the late 18th century
- “Pura Vida” is a common phrase spoken in Costa Rica – the Spanish phrase refers the pure and joyful feeling experienced by the people who make the country their home
- Don’t leave Costa Rica without indulging in some of the country’s unusual flavors, including peanut, coconut, blackberry, and mango.
- Make sure to turn on the radio in your hotel room at 7 am so you can hear the country’s national anthem – it’s played at that time on every one of the radio stations.
If you’re ready to visit Costa Rica, you may want to stay at the
La Mariposa Hotel . The hotel has been a staple of tourists coming to Costa Rica for more than three decades, partially because of its fabulous views. The hotel is positioned overlooking the Pacific Ocean so visitors can take in the beautiful view. The hotel also has a great view of the Manuel Antonio National Park. Guests also enjoy watching the sunset from the windows of the hotel’s fine dining restaurant named “Le Papilion.” You can come and see the view for yourself.
