It is a tropical paradise for your holidays. It is situated in Central America around nine and ten degrees north of the Equator. It is a small country located on the isthmus that links North and South America. The nation is part of the North American continent geographically but culturally it is closer to Latin America. Panama lies on one border and Nicaragua on the other edge of this tiny charismatic country. The Pacific Ocean lies on its western periphery and the Caribbean Sea on the eastern side. Where is Costa Rica is no more a question with tourism attracting thousands of tourists every year!
History
Not much is known about the history of this country before it was colonized by Spanish settlers. This region was home to the pre-Columbian Indians who kept to themselves. It is believed that humans inhabited these rain forests for thousands of years and the region has long been the crossroads for indigenous cultures in America. Ancient artifacts have been unearthed from spread out excavations done here, which indicate a strong sense of aesthetics among the inhabitants. Stunning jade and gold jewelry, creatively designed terracotta items and delicately engraved grinding stones point to a highly skilled populace.
Christopher Columbus who was on this last and fourth journey to the New World in 1502 anchored just beyond the present-day Limón. There is a debate if he really gave this country its name “the rich coast” but the Spaniards never found much mineral or gold deposit here.
The earliest Spanish settlers here realized that the natives were not willing to submit to slavery. Even with a small population, strewn villages and differences among tribes they fought tooth and nail against the Spanish. They were finally conquered by diseases and superior firepower.
Spain granted independence to its Central America colonies in 1821 and Costa Rica with its neighbors formed the Central American Federation. In 1838 Costa Rica withdrew to shape a new country and trail its own interests. With new investments and developing eco-tourism the world now knows where is Costa Rica. If you are searching for an excellent holiday destination, this is the one to go!
Where to Travel in Costa Rica?
There are several places in Costa Rica where you will enjoy traveling to. Relax on the pristine beaches with frolicking dolphins and whales. There is a large diversity of exotic fauna and tropical plants for people who love nature. Emerald rainforests cover the mountains making it a true paradise for eco-tourism. You can check out what the region has on offer including a wide variety of activities.
With sun-kissed silvery sandy beaches and the great Pacific waves visitors can spend hours on the beach or enjoy water sports like riding on the surf. Guanacaste in Costa Rica is teeming with tourist from all over the world. Lovers of the beach can especially relax in Limón, a delightful Caribbean region. Breathtakingly stunning with a mild and arid climate all along the year, it is not surprising that the Central Valley region, Cartago has the highest population. It is green and lush and home to two active volcanoes, Poas and Irazu.
Where is Costa Rica: Caribbean Coast
Most of the coastal towns here offer a Jamaican ambience with calypso music, Rastafarians, piquant Costa Rican-Creole food and reggae. Visitors can spend fascinating time in the national park with marine life, coastal rainforests and amazing coral reefs. Avid surfers must take time to visit Salsa Brava and Puerto Viejo de Talamanca.
Where is Costa Rica: Pacific Coast
Costa Rica’s most attractive beaches are located along the North Pacific Coast such as Tamarindo along the coast. Surfers from around the globe are attracted to this region for its infinite surf breaks
North and South Costa Rica
There are some interesting natural parks and the most active volcano of Central America in La Fortuna in North Costa Rica. It is possible to take day tours to waterfalls, volcano, hot springs and caves. People who are looking for quiet and tranquility can visit Southern part of the country. It offers a charming rustic local experience.
Travel here can be just fantastic and there is no need for concern about where is Costa Rica. This is an oasis of tranquility that attracts over 1.5 million visitors every year.
