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ABOUT COSTA RICA
GENERAL INFORMATION
Costa Rica is Central America’s gem. Unlike some of its turbulent neighbors, it is an oasis of clam and an ecotourism paradise. This makes it one of the best places to experience the tropics safely and comfortably. Costa Rica is mostly coastline, with great beaches, surfing and sport fishing. Known for its enlightened approach to environmental conservation, Costa Rica’s lush jungles and rainforests are home to magnificent plants and flowers, three species of playful monkeys, countless lizards, frogs, and colorful exotic birds and butterflies. More than one quarter of Costa Rica’s territory enjoys protection in the expanding network of national parks and reserves. Whether you prefer world-class resort hotels, or simple mountain cabins, you will enjoy your trip to Costa Rica.
Costa Rica is often referred to as the Switzerland of Central America. It is home to one of the oldest democracies in the Americas. The country has been noted for its friendliness and dedication to peace and neutrality. Costa Rica does not maintain an army and maintains a stable government. The official language is Spanish, however, many Ticos (locals) speak at least a little English. The capital city is San Jose.
The climate is tropical, with only two seasons: dry and green. The dry season is generally between late November and early May and the green or wet season is generally between June and October. During the green season, there is still a daily average of five hours of sunshine. Temperatures vary little between seasons.
There are two international airports, one in San Jose and the other in the city of Liberia, in the northwest province of Guanacaste. Two national airlines and over 30 foreign carriers provide regularly scheduled service; others provide charter service. United States and Canadian citizens, as well as citizens of most European and Latin American countries must carry a valid passport to visit Costa Rica. Tourists pay a departure tax of approximately U.S. $26.
GEOGRAPHY & MAPS
Costa Rica is located in Central America. It is bordered to the north by Nicaragua, to the south by Panama, to the west by the Pacific Ocean and to the east by the Caribbean Sea. It is located between 8 and 11 degrees north latitude. Land area of 19,730 square miles (about the size of West Virginia). 288 miles maximum length. 161 miles maximum width along northern border. 74 miles minimum width along southern border. 631 miles of Pacific coastline. 132 miles of Caribbean coastline. Four major mountain ranges run roughly northwest to southeast, all of volcanic origin, with the highest peak being Cerro Chirripo at 12,536 feet. Over two hundred volcanoes have been identified with approximately one dozen classified as active.
CURRENCY & ECONOMY
The Costa Rican Central Bank issues the local currency, called "e;colones"e;. As of september 1, 2009, the exchange rate of the colon against the United States dollar was 520 colones to $1 U.S. The system of national and private banks is stable and modern. It includes most contemporary services, i.e., credit cards, automatic teller machines and computerized banking. Most hotels and tourist oriented businesses accept U.S. dollars and major credit cards. There is a 13% sales tax on all purchases. Restaurants usually add a 10% gratuity to the check, along with the sales tax.
The Costa Rican economy thrives on agricultural and tourism. Coffee, bananas and other produce comprise 50% of the country’s exports. The country also exports ornamental and cut flowers. Although it maintains its large agricultural sector, Costa Rica has expanded its economy to include strong technology and tourism industries. The standard of living is relatively high. Land ownership is widespread. The literacy rate is high.
SPORTS & ACTIVITIES
Costa Rica is a paradise for the outdoor enthusiast. Miles of pristine beaches, surfing, sport fishing, diving, snorkeling, whale watching (in season), white-water rafting, hot springs, hiking, camping, bird watching, horseback riding, yoga retreats, resort hotels, fine dining, tennis, volleyball and world-class golf are just a few of the many options for fun and leisure.
UTILITIES
A modern system of hydroelectric generating plants provides abundant electricity.
Electrical service is the same as in the US: 120V, 60Hz and use the same type of wall plug (220v can be provided with special order)
Water supplies are chlorinated and the quality is controlled by the State, which ensures that water is safe to drink in all cities.
COMMUNICATIONS
The modern telephone system provides direct-dial service to most countries, via satellite; it ranks among the best in Central and South America. Telephone density is 11.1 per 100 with 80% of the population having easy access to telephone services. Telephone Calling Code: 1
There are seven daily newspapers (one belonging to the State), four weekly news magazines (one belonging to the State).
Of 119 radio stations, 102 are commercial and 17 belong to public service institutions.
Twelve color TV broadcasting stations. Various cable and subscription TV services provide programming from satellite feeds.
The efficient postal system includes the central office in San José and branches in all population areas. The current cost to mail a letter to North America is 50 colones.
