Whether in search of the perfect vacation, work at home opportunities or simply a cheap and enjoyable spot to retire, increasing numbers of people have found Costa Rica to be the ideal place for fun in the sun. Its strategic location, friendly people, warm climate, abundant natural attractions and a very competitive quality lifestyle continue to draw people from everywhere who come seeking to enjoy its many wonders.
People
'Pura Vida' is the expression that probably best sums up the tico (as Costa Ricans may also be known) lifestyle. Roughly translated this means "life is excellent, everything is ok, don't worry be happy". This happy go lucky attitude is readily apparent to visitors exploring this friendly nation, and this coupled with its wealth of natural resources probably explains why so many travelers find yourself making this oasis their house. In a region that historically has been a hotbed of conflict, the Costa Rican people, for the most part, have observed relatively little bloodshed. This is due partly to the country's unique historical, geographical and cultural circumstances, in addition to to the peace loving nature of its people. This coupled with a large middle class has made Costa Rica just about the most democratically stable and prosperous countries in Latin America.
Natural attractions
Recently Costa Rica is rolling out one of the world's most successful ecotourism industries and has been praised for its focus on conservation. Costa Rica's natural diversity is reflected in the wealth and selection of its wildlife. With just 0.03% of the earth's surface area, Costa Rica possesses 6% of its species. Almost 9,000 plant species have been found here along with 800 species of birds. About 27% of the united states is protected within national parks and protected zones. In Costa Rica it's possible for a person to invest the night time in a scenic mountain lodge, then head to a lovely Pacific beach for an early afternoon swim before finding yourself at a Caribbean village partying the night away. A few of Costa Rica's hottest attractions are sport fishing, white water rafting, canopy adventures, jungle lodges, volcanoes and beaches. A well developed tourism industry has already established to quickly adapt to the near a million tourists that go to the country every year. However, you will not find hordes of tourists and cookie cutter resorts dotting the landscape. Costa Rica's is still a land of virgin rainforests, unspoiled beaches and friendly smiles.
Location
Costa Rica's proximity to the United States makes it one of the most visited eco-tourism destinations as well as a favored retirement spot. You're just two . 5 hours from Miami, five hours from NY, four hours from Houston and about six hours from L.A. Add Dominical and all year round spring-like weather and it's no wonder that the U.S. contributes nearly 49% of Costa Rica's foreign visitors with another 9% traveling down from Canada and Mexico.
Cost of Living
Known as the Switzerland of Central America due to the high growth rates, economic stability, and low crime rates, Costa Rica enjoys a per capita GDP of $6,700, literacy rate of 95%, and female life span of nearly 79 years. Costa Rica might not be a cheap place to live compared to most other Central American countries, yet, in the event that you consider its superior infrastructure, comparatively low crime rate and high standard of living, it really is still probably your best option. Expect to pay less than the U.S. and Canada for properties, rent, utilities, health care, help and basic transportation. Most people can live on significantly less than $1,000 monthly excluding rent, and this does not necessarily mean giving up on your own 'northern' comforts. For better or worse, Costa Rica offers visitors lots of the same fast-food chains, stores and services that certain would find up yonder. Included in these are McDonalds, Burger King, Taco Bell, KFC, Office Depot, Payless, in addition to inexpensive Internet and cable services.
Why not?
Still not convinced? Then you will want to head down here and take this tiny nation for a try. Explore its pristine beaches, majestic volcanoes and exotic rainforests. Enjoy its friendly people and peaceful ambience as you savor its world-famous coffee. From wind-swept mountaintops, picturesque towns or perhaps a sidewalk caf�, wherever you go,
Costa Rica has a lot to offer!