Here are 10 things you should know before you travel to Costa Rica

If you’re considering travelling to Costa Rica, you should know a few things first. Costa Rica is a beautiful country with a lot to offer tourists, but it’s important to be prepared. This blog post will discuss 10 things you need to know before travelling to Costa Rica!

Why Do People Love Costa Rica?

Costa Rica is a small country located in Central America. Nicaragua borders it to the north and Panama to the south. Costa Rica is a popular tourist destination because of its many beaches, rainforests, and volcanoes. The capital of Costa Rica is San Jose. The official language of Costa Rica is Spanish, but English is also widely spoken. The climate in Costa Rica is tropical and humid. The average temperature is around 27 degrees Celsius.

Costa Rica is a nation where nature thrives, from its black smokestacks to its silver-sand beaches and cloud forests where the cries of scarlet macaws echo through the trees. Locals, or “Tikis,” have been named the happiest people on earth. Their environmental approach has allowed them and us to cohabit with over 500,000 distinct species. Pura Vida, or “pure life,” is more than just a saying here- it’s a way of living.

What Should I Know Before Travelling to Costa Rica?

There are the 10 things to know before travelling to Costa Rica:

1. Costa Rica is relatively safe, but some areas remain to avoid.

San Jose, the capital of Costa Rica, is generally safe. However, there are some areas of the city that you should avoid, especially at night. These include La Carpio, San Sebastian, and El Cortezo. It’s also important to be cautious when travelling to other parts of the country. Avoid travelling alone, and always keep your belongings close to you. Joining Costa Rica group tours can minimise these risks.

2. Costa Rica is a nature lover’s paradise. 

If you love nature, you’ll love Costa Rica. The country is filled with rainforests, beaches, and volcanoes. There are also many national parks and reserves to explore. Some of the most popular places to visit include Tortuguero National Park, Corcovado National Park, and Arenal Volcano National Park. Another nature lover’s paradise is the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve. You can even go zip-lining through the rainforest! Fun fact: zip-lining is invented in Costa Rica.

3. Costa Rica is a great place to surf.

Costa Rica has some of the best surfing spots in the world. The most popular surfing spots are Tamarindo, Jaco, and Puerto Viejo. You can also find great surfing conditions in Nosara, Playa Hermosa, and Playa Grande. Bring your surfboard or rent it when you get there.

4. You can find some of the best coffee in Costa Rica.

Costa Rica is home to some of the best coffee in the world. The country’s rich volcanic soil and ideal climate produce high-quality coffee beans. You can find many great cafes in San Jose and other parts of the country.

5. The food in Costa Rica is delicious.

If you enjoy trying new foods, you’ll love the food in Costa Rica. The country has a diverse cuisine that includes influences from many different cultures. Some popular dishes include Gallo pinto (a rice and bean dish), tamales, ceviche, and plantains. You can also find many great restaurants in San Jose and other parts of the country. And let’s talk about Soda. Sodas are small, family-run restaurants that serve traditional Costa Rican food. They’re a great place to get a cheap and delicious meal!

6. You can find some great deals on souvenirs in Costa Rica.

You can find great deals in Costa Rica if you’re looking for souvenirs. You can find many handmade crafts and more. You can also find great deals on coffee, chocolate, and rum.

7. The currency in Costa Rica is the colon.

Costa Rica’s currency is the colon. The exchange rate is around 550 colones to one US dollar. ATMs in most cities and towns accept credit cards. It’s a good idea to have some cash on hand.

8. Knowing some basic Spanish before travelling to Costa Rica is important.

While many people in Costa Rica speak English, it’s still important to know some basic Spanish before travelling to the country. This will help you communicate with locals and make your trip more enjoyable. Some basic phrases you should know include “Hola” (hello), “Por favour” (please), and “Gracias” (thank you). 

9. Costa Rica is a great place to retire.

Costa Rica is a great option if you’re looking for a retirement place. The country has many benefits for retirees, including a low cost of living, good healthcare, and a great climate. There are also many activities and attractions to enjoy. Many retirement communities in Costa Rica, especially in the Central Valley, offer amenities such as swimming pools, golf courses, and tennis courts. 

10. You can take buses or rent a car to get around Costa Rica.

There are many different ways to get around Costa Rica. You can take buses, which are the most popular form of transportation. The bus system is efficient and reasonably priced. You can also rent a car, but remember that driving in Costa Rica can be challenging. The roads are often in poor condition, and traffic can be heavy. If you’re not comfortable driving, it’s best to take the bus.

Even though Costa Rica is relatively small, beware that its inter-city transportation isn’t the most efficient — you’re more likely to see a toucan than a well-made road. If you want to go down the self-drive route, opt for a sturdy set of wheels and book the best insurance you can find. Even better, leave the driving and planning to someone else and choose a group tour of Costa Rica led by a local who knows their way around.

Now that you have read the 10 Things to Know Before Travelling to Costa Rica, it’s time to start planning your trip! The country has something for everyone, so you’re sure to have a great time. Pura Vida!