Known for its natural beauty, high literacy rate, democratic government, safe streets, and "pura vida" lifestyle, Costa Rica is perhaps one of the most inviting countries in the Americas. Not only will visitors find themselves attracted to the climate and scenery, but they will also find that Costa Ricans are warm, friendly, and helpful towards tourists.

Whether you wish to spend your day hiking through the rain forest and gazing at exotic birds or sipping tropical drinks in a natural hot spring while admiring the explosion of an active volcano, Costa Rica has amazing experiences waiting for everyone. With over 15 different ecosystems, the traveler is exposed to a wide variety of landscapes and climates.

Costa Rica is also famous for having two coasts lined with stunningly beautiful beaches. On the Pacific side, you will enjoy a dry, warm climate with the most spectacular sunsets imaginable, while the Caribbean side hosts a tropical climate with lush flora and fauna and a very laid back atmosphere. Both oceans provide excellent surfing, scuba diving, and snorkeling.

San José, the capital and home of Intensa, is the most cosmopolitan area in the country. It offers world class shopping, a rich variety of restaurants, and museums such as the Museo Nacional which displays Costa Rican archaeology, colonial furniture, and costumes, as well as the Museo de Oro Precolombiano, which exhibits a large collection of Colombian gold artifacts.

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More information about Costa Rica:

Lonely Planet Costa Rica
lonelyplanet.com/worldguide/destinations/central-america/costa-rica
Information about Costa Rica from the famous Lonely Planet travel series

Passport and Visa Information
costarica.com/Trip-Planning/Travelers-Info/Passport-&-Visa-Information
Details on the documentation required to enter the country of Costa Rica

World Heritage Sites in Costa Rica
whc.unesco.org/en/statesparties/cr
Places in Costa Rica designated as World Heritage Sites by the UN

National Parks of Costa Rica
www.costaricabureau.com/nationalparks.htm
Descriptions of protected areas and National Parks in Costa Rica

Wikitravel: Costa Rica
wikitravel.org/en/Costa_Rica
Wikipedia's travel information page on Costa Rica