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arexneev
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Well, to answer your question completely, I think we'd want to know why you want to go. You want to know if it's a good place to go... for what?
I don't know where you're from, but I'm from the States, and my answer reflects it. All the guidebooks say that Costa Ricans (Ticos) are very friendly, and it's mostly true. However, over the last eight years, anti-Americanism has increased in the country. Generally, any hostility toward US government and policies does NOT convert to hostility toward individual tourists, but there were still times I felt compelled to say I was Canadian. For the most part, though, if you behave politely and modestly (ie, try to blend in and don't be an ugly American), you'll be treated nicely, too. The people I encountered were particularly sweet when I spoke Spanish with them, too.
They have their curious ticks, like any people. They are the whitest people in Central America, for various historical reasons, and are pretty proud of that. They are also extremely proud of their educational system, which is a marvel in the continent. Their literacy rate is higher than that of the US. "We have more teachers than soldiers," you often hear.
My experience in Costa Rica could be described in terms of three geographical areas: the beach, the rainforest, and the city. That's why I ask why you're going - are you going to surf? to hike? to see strange tropical frogs? to study abroad? Any of these things are very enjoyable, but I'd advise differently.
The country is beautiful, and it's small, so you can really see an awful lot of it without too much time. The beach culture between Pacific and Caribbean sides are completely different. The Carib side is a lot more "Bob Marley" if you will, while the Pacific is more about the surfer culture - I'm generalizing terribly, but trying to paint a picture quickly.
The city is generally avoided by tourists, and I largely don't blame them, but it's not at all a bad or overly dangerous place to be so long as you keep your wits about you, particularly by night.
I loved my experience, and I'd highly recommend you go if you have the chance - I hope you choose to update your question a little with more specifics, and I'd be happy to fill you in on what I know. |
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Stunt Stuntin'
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omg the guys are so hot. |
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dytica
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yes I agree with the first answer.
What do you plan on doing here?
If its for like a vacation, then I definitely would reccomend it. There are so many beautiful places to visit. You can have a fun, easy, safe vacation, as long as you are smart about it.
I reccomend researching beforehand where you would like to go, and make reservations, so when you get here, you will have a set schedule, and wont be waisting time looking for places in unfamilar areas.
If you are coming for vacation, I reccomend visiting Manuel Antonio Beach/ Reserve, Arenal Volcano, Jaco, Papagayo area, Monteverde Cloud Forest and so many other places.
In case you didn't know, because many people don't, San Jose is in the middle of the country, and does not reach the coast. If you fly into this airport, the coast would be a few hours away, depending on where you are going. There is also an international airport in Liberia, Guanacaste, which is nearer to the Pacific coast.
Costa Rica has 7 provinces, like states. Here is a map: http://www.1-costaricalink.com/costa_rica_provinces/costa_rica_provinces_map.gif
San Jose is the most populated, and in the middle of the country. Then there is Cartago, which doesn't touch the coast either, but has some volcanos such as Irazu, and also the highest point in Costa Rica, which is a long, hard hike up, only for the most fit.
Then there is the province of Limon, which runs along the whole Carribean coast. In the north of Limon you can find Tortugero, which has many turtle conservation sites that have interesting tours. Then there is the province of Heredia. It is a beautiful, hilly place to live, but doesnt touch the coast. Next Alejuela, here is the airport, only like 30 min from downtown San Jose. Puntarenas covers most of the Pacific coast. There are many hotels and resorts in this area, Jaco is a big surfing city. Guanacaste province covers the Northern pacific. It, in my opinion, has the best beaches. I would say that personally, the Pacific side is nicer than the Carribean side. In Guanacaste, you will find many Americans try to make a living there. The most luxurious resorts are there, such as the Four Seasons, which is owned by Bill Gates, and many celebrities go there. But you will also find many lower price, but still beautiful, resorts.
You will find that most ticos are very nice. Just don't put your self in a situation that could be unsafe. Know where you are going and where you are staying. You will also find that many ticos speak english.
Costa Rica is the favorite place of Americans to vacation at in Central America, because of tico's hospitality, places to go, safety, conservation efforts and so many other reasons.
The best time of the year to visit Costa Rica is during the months of late November, December, and January, maybe early February. This time has the nicest weather. It is always sunny and windy and refreshing. Other times of the year it rains. Still, prices are probably at their peak during this time, since many tourists come.
Maybe, if you want more information, you should ask more specific questions. I would, and many other people, would be happy to answer them. :)
please come here on your vacation!!! you will love it!! :) |
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aryloves2draw
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yah i am from costa rica and what that guy just said is pretty true. |
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