106. COSTA RICA (English)- IMPORTANT TO KNOW - ROADTRIP -

Costa Rica Must-Know1. Pura Vida Lifestyle




“Pura Vida” means “pure life” and is more than a phrase —
it’s a relaxed, positive way of living and greeting people.






Despite its small size, Costa Rica houses around 5%
of the world’s biodiversity.




National parks and reserves cover over 25% of the
land.






Dry season (December – April): Best time for
beach visits, hiking, and outdoor activities.




Green (rainy) season (May – November): Lush
landscapes, fewer tourists, but expect daily afternoon
showers.






Official language is Spanish, but English is
widely spoken in tourist areas.






Costa Rican Colón (CRC).




US dollars are often accepted in tourist zones, but it’s good
to have local currency.






Renting a 4x4 vehicle is popular for exploring remote areas.




Public buses are cheap but can be slow and less frequent.




Domestic flights save time between distant regions.






Generally safe for travelers, but watch out for petty theft
in crowded places.




Use common sense with valuables and avoid isolated areas at
night.






Don’t feed or touch wild animals.




Stay on marked trails in parks to protect habitats.






Arenal Volcano (hot springs and hiking)




Monteverde Cloud Forest (birdwatching and
ziplining)




Manuel Antonio National Park (beaches and
wildlife)




Tortuguero (sea turtles and canals)




Puerto Viejo & Cahuita (Caribbean vibe,
beaches, and snorkeling)