Costa Rica Blog

Home
Costa Rica Blog
Tamales in Costa Rica

Tamales of Costa Rica

One thing that makes Costa Ricans truly happy and they spend a lot of family time doing is making Tamales. This is a very foreign thing to most North Americans and Europeans. You might have heard of the Looney Tunes version of…
Read More
No army in Costa Rica

70 years without an Army

December 1st, 1948 was one of Costa Rica's biggest accomplishments, that of abolishing its army. This one move brought an era of peace to Costa Rica that has lasted for over seventy years. Instead of pooling its extra resources into military…
Read More
Marina Seating Area

The Quepos Pez Vela Marina

The Pez Vela Marina located in Quepos is the largest and by far the best marina on the Central Pacific side of Costa Rica. The Marina has 195 wet slips available, 91 of them being newly added. They accommodate vessels…
Read More
Titi monkey on tree

Saving the Titi Monkey

What threatens the Titi Monkey? Visiting Costa Rica you will come to see that there are four different types of Monkeys, the lengthy Spider Monkey, the Howler, the Capuchin Monkey, and of course the smallest but cutest Titi Monkey. Each…
Read More
Trumpet umbrella plant

Flowers of Costa Rica

The Flora of Costa Rica is astonishing the number of different species of plants that live here, give a new hope for this earth and what will be happening in the near future. Costa Rica includes a whopping Nine thousand different species…
Read More
green flash

Amazing wonders of Costa Rica

Green Flash Imagine sitting on one of Manuel Antonio's restaurant patios at sunset enjoying a refreshing beverage and cool ocean breeze when suddenly the sky turns green. It's called the green flash, a phenomenon that occurs when conditions are just…
Read More
flower

Costa Rica Rainforests

The Costa Rica Jungle and Costa Rica Rainforests make up the biggest part of the country. They are the reason we have national parks and such a diversity of flora and fauna. They are the reason why animals are in such…
Read More

Facts about the Costa Rica Independence Day

196 years This year, Costa Rica celebrates its 196th year of independence from Spain on Sept. 15. The country shares its independence day with Guatemala, El Salvador, Honduras, and Nicaragua. All over the country from Manuel Antonio to San Jose to Limon people…
Read More
Poas Volcano

The Poas Volcano Reopening

Poas Volcano is certainly one of the most iconic Volcanos in Costa Rica and Latin America. This perfectly shaped Volcano was closed in April of 2017, and due to this closure caused a difficult economic situation for residents and store owners. Click…
Read More
Manuel Antonio Costa Rica

Affordable trails of Costa Rica

Costa Rica has many great trails and paths for walking adventures, here are just a few. Manuel Antonio One trail you will enjoy is through the Manuel Antonio National park. There are several kilometers of trail you can enjoy a beautiful…
Read More
Fruit in Costa Rica

The Different Fruits and vegetables of Costa Rica

Visiting Tropical Countries is a unique pleasure, Especially with visiting Costa Rica. This country, in particular, produces the majority of its own fruits and vegetables and the varieties may surprise you. The different shapes, sizes, tastes, and textures give you…
Read More
Costa Rica earthquake early warning system.

Costa Rica Earthquake Early Warning System

Keeping safe is of top priority when you are traveling, and Costa Rica is in the works of making you even safer while visiting here.  The Volcanology and Seismology Research Institute (OVSICORI) stated the inception of a test run to implement…
Read More
Costa Rica Music

Music in Costa Rica

There are many styles of music which are famous in Latin America. Thanks to its shared language and history. Parts of culture such as music flow freely across the region with borders being no limit. When an artist or kind…
Read More
Policia of Costa Rica

Staying Safe in Costa Rica

Safety while on vacation is a considerable concern in Costa Rica, and that dream vacation can be ruined if something silly happens. It isn't just theft we are talking about either. It is also just as important to keep your…
Read More
Bird Watching while on your National Park Tour

Famous birds of Costa Rica

Wings of paradise Costa Rica is possibly the number one eco spot to visit worldwide. This country is amazing for its diversity and one of the biggest attractions is Birding or Bird watching. With so many different species this is…
Read More
Isla del Coco side view.

40 years of Isla Del Coco

Isla del Coco National Park located about as far away as an island can get from Costa Rica in the Pacific. This stunning piece of beauty is celebrating 40 years of amazing achievements including the ecological blue flag for beaches,…
Read More
Several Costa Rica beach areas offered by Escape Villas

Attractive areas for Expats to live in Costa Rica

Costa Rica boasts so many wonderful things, including a green initiative, animal conservation, no army, a true democracy, and many other things. This makes it an ideal country to live in if you are an expat. Pura Vida is the…
Read More
3 toed sloth very common in Costa Rica wildlife

The New Universal trail at Manuel Antonio National Park

The Manuel Antonio national park has been an iconic nature preserve in Costa Rica for years. This is because of how accessible it is to the public. Being located just outside of Quepos on the Pacific side of the Country. In…
Read More
tortuguero-national-park-frog

Facts about the Red-Eyed Tree Frog

The Red-Eyed Tree Frog is a favorite among many people all over the world this is especially true of us here in Manuel Antonio. This is because of their unique coloration and beautiful big eyes. Check out some of the…
Read More
The la Paz waterfall gardens in Costa Rica

Top Waterfalls of Costa Rica

There are so many waterfalls in Costa Rica, almost too many to count. They come in all shapes and sizes ranging from hundreds of feet tall to having colorful pools below the cascading falls. We have reviewed some of the finest…
Read More
Flamingo Beach Costa Rica

Five of our favorite Beaches

Costa Rica holds so many different beaches to have fun in the sun. Literally, thousands of Kilometers of the beautiful coast for you to sit back relax and enjoy a beach day. We have some favorites to, and to give…
Read More
Money of Costa Rica

Top Things to pack for Costa Rica

So you made the decision, you have all your money saved up, and you are ready to visit Costa Rica. That is why we have put a list together of things you will need when you come here. Well, let's…
Read More
Jaguar sitting in Jungle

Our Favorite Animals of Costa Rica

With the travel season just ramping up, you will be looking forward to planning that next trip to Costa Rica. There are so many questions that come to mind when we travel, but one of the most fun ones is…
Read More

Foodie Destination in Guanacaste

Costa Rica's Guanacaste province makes up the northwest region of the country and is famed for its many Pacific Ocean resorts. In many coastal communities around the world, once-sleepy areas beloved by locals, surfers, and a few ex-pats "in the…
Read More

Costa Rica’s Caribbean Coast a Top Destination, Says Lonely Planet

Lonely Planet—the world’s biggest and most successful travel guide series—ranks Costa Rica’s lush Caribbean coast as one of 2016’s best vacation destinations. The respected publication claims the region offers unbeatable value, and a taste of everything that makes Costa Rica one of the greatest…
Read More

Shopping your way through San Jose – 5 Best Spots

San Jose is the vibrant capital city of Costa Rica – the go-to destination for a memorable day of culture, arts, and theater. The city is also fantastic for a bit of retail therapy, whether you’re picking up some souvenirs for friends…
Read More

Costa Rica at a Glance – Interesting Stats & Facts

In the context of memorable vacations, Costa Rica evokes images of palm-fringed beaches, sultry rainforests brimming with wildlife, and the delighted yips of zip-line adventurers as they hurl their bodies from one platform to the next. But did you know that Costa Rica is also a…
Read More

Costa Rica Ranked Among Top Whale-Watching Destinations

Costa Rica has garnered numerous accolades for its earth-friendly policies, pristine beaches and incredible biodiversity. 2016 is shaping up to be another banner year for this popular eco-tourism haven. According to a recent article in National Geographic magazine, Costa Rica’s…
Read More

Wildlife Photography Tips from the Pros

Opportunities for amazing nature photography abound in Costa Rica – whether you’re trekking through Manuel Antonio National Park or meandering the dark river canals of Tortuguero. Follow these tips and tricks to ensure plenty of captivating wildlife shots during your…
Read More

Annual Envision Festival Epitomizes Costa Rican Pura Vida

Seeking an Enlightenment of Consciousness Since 2011, the Envision Festival, set to kick off February 25th, has brought thousands of people seeking an enlightenment of consciousness mixed with fun and excitement to Costa Rica’s southern Pacific coast. The venue, located…
Read More

Souvenir Shopping in Costa Rica

Your Costa Rica vacation is everything you’d ever hoped for, but what about some keepsakes for friends and family back home…or a little token to remind yourself of the Pura Vida you enjoyed.   You will find great Costa Rican souvenirs…
Read More

Responsible Travel in Costa Rica

Costa Rica aims to become the first carbon-neutral nation by balancing its carbon dioxide (CO2) inputs and emissions. This lofty goal, which is set for 2021, will undoubtedly require cooperation by industry officials, the government and individuals – both residents…
Read More

Must Have Apps for Your Costa Rica Travels

Be prepared for every contingency with this year’s best travel apps that put critical information at your fingertips. Installing a few of these on your smartphone may prevent hassle and headaches, which nobody wants to deal with on their much…
Read More

5 Tips for Whitewater Rafting in Costa Rica

Costa Rica’s frothing, wild rivers have been rated among the best in the world for whitewater rafting and kayaking.  Whether you’re tackling Class IV rapids on the Pacuare River or taking a more leisurely paddle down the tamer Sarapiqui, you’re…
Read More

Recipe for Sweet Plantains, a Costa Rican Favorite

A larger and starchier cousin of the banana, plantains are a staple in most Central American homes. In Costa Rica, plantains are enjoyed in a number of ways, and at different levels of ripeness. One time-honored dish in many households…
Read More

Day Trip to La Paz Waterfall Gardens

Often described as “Disney-esque” for its majestic qualities, La Paz Waterfall Gardens is a great spot to experience magnificent waterfalls and the flora and fauna of Costa Rica. Equal parts wildlife refuge,  nature park and conservatory, La Paz makes for…
Read More

Relocating to Costa Rica? FAQs and Answers

Consistently ranked one of the happiest, greenest and healthiest places on Earth, it’s no wonder Costa Rica has evolved into one of the world’s top vacation and retirement destinations. Drawn by the country’s verdant landscapes, low cost of living, pleasant…
Read More

Diving with Sharks at Cocos Island

Situated 340 miles off the coast of Costa Rica, Cocos Island is one of the world’s greatest spots for scuba diving with sharks. A 34-hour boat ride takes thrill seekers to this lush and secluded island, where scalloped hammerheads and…
Read More

Top 5 Activities in Manuel Antonio

Need inspiration planning your Manuel Antonio beach vacation? From wildlife watching and jet skiing to sipping fruity cocktails at sunset, there’s no shortage of things to do and see in this dreamy beach town. And if you’re searching for a…
Read More

Stand Up Paddle Boarding in Costa Rica

Stand up Paddle (SUP) boarding is making waves in Costa Rica, where this burgeoning sport has proven an excellent way to explore scenic waterways while improving your balance. If you’re new to SUP, don’t fear. Paddle boarding is a fun…
Read More

Statistics Indicate another Banner Year for Costa Rica Tourism

The Costa Rican Tourism Board (ICT) reports that tourism is up this year, with 4.4 percent more visitors arriving in the country’s two international airports during the first six months of 2015. The bulk of travelers hail from the United…
Read More

Indulge Your Senses in a Costa Rica Spa Day

 Heading to Costa Rica for a family vacation but crave some personal pampering? If so, you’re in for a treat… Costa Rica boasts numerous award-winning spas that promise to melt away tension, make your skin glow and ease the sunburn…
Read More

Dominical Beckons with Wildlife & Adventure

Dominical's palm-kissed beaches feel worlds away from civilization. Perched in a hammock overlooking the shore, travelers are lulled by the surging crashes of water against rock and sand. Yet this burgeoning Costa Rica vacation destination is more accessible than ever,…
Read More

Tortuguero — the Ultimate Spot for Viewing Nesting Sea Turtles

A recent feature in Forbes magazine extolls the many charms of Tortuguero, the crown jewel of Costa Rica’s northern Caribbean coast. Author Sherrie Nachman was enamored with the sloths, howler monkeys and toucans of this authentic hamlet, but was truly…
Read More
Costa Rica people known as Ticos

2015: Costa Rica Ranked the Happiest Country in the World

[caption id="attachment_2876" align="alignright" width="300"] Check Here For More About Costa Rica[/caption]   Want to live in one of the greenest, happiest places on Earth? Then you may want to consider moving to Costa Rica!  Once again, Costa Rica tops the…
Read More

Ceviche Festival Returns to Manuel Antonio This November

A memorable weekend bash will celebrate the many flavors and varieties of ceviche this November, in the second annual Ceviche Festival. The event is scheduled to take place November 13 – 15 at the Marina Pez Vela in Quepos, where…
Read More

Costa Rica Vacations – Perfect for Every Traveler

Whether looking for the perfect family vacation spot, honeymoon destination or your next girls’ getaway, Costa Rica fits the bill and then some! The relaxing, tropical ambiance of Costa Rica sets the perfect backdrop for a romantic anniversary or honeymoon,…
Read More

Costa Rica Garners Accolades as Top Travel, Honeymoon Destination

Featuring lush landscapes, smoking volcanos and exceptional beaches, Costa Rica is one of Central America’s most visited vacation destinations. Mysterious caves, majestic cloud forests, mineral-rich hot springs, virgin rainforests and rugged mountains are just some of the natural wonders travelers…
Read More
Bright and sunny Pavones one of many Costa Rica beaches

7 Reasons to Visit Costa Rica in the Green Season

Want to immerse yourself in ecotourism at its finest?  Costa Rica offers unmatched opportunities to explore the wild wonders of its tropical jungles, lowland estuaries and biodiverse cloud forests, largely in part to its extensive national park system. With May…
Read More
Cano Island Costa Rica national park

Snorkeling Cano Island

Second only to Costa Rica’s Cocos Island, Cano Island (Isla del Cano) is widely considered one of the country’s top diving and snorkeling destinations. Its unspoiled beaches, rainforest spilling down to the shoreline, and lack of infrastructure remind you of…
Read More