8 REASONS TO VISIT COSTA RICA

As a flight attendant, people often ask me where they should travel. My first answer is always very easy: Costa Rica! But why?? It’s simple: I have traveled there over 10 times and I’ve even lived there (in Manuel Antonio more specifically).. so I think we can agree that this country has stolen my heart. I could talk about this paradise for days but I have decided to break it down for you. Here are the 8 main reasons why Costa Rica is my favorite country and why you should definitely visit it (in no particular order):

PEOPLE

Some people might think that I am pretty biased because I used to live there, but I started feeling this way a long time ago. Ticos (Costa Ricans) are warm and welcoming people. Their pace of life is a lot slower than what we are used to in North America (which is nice). Spend a week in this stress-free environment and you will feel like a new person!.”Pura Vida” is something you will hear all the time if you visit Costa Rica (it is a popular saying that means “simple life” or “pure life”). They are truly living a pure life in harmony with nature and with each other. If you are eager to learn about their culture, they will gladly be there to welcome you!!

WATERFALLS

Waterfalls are everywhere in Costa Rica! Whether you want to visit the famous Rio Celeste or discover secret and hidden waterfalls in the jungle, you will not be disappointed. In my opinion, the waterfalls in Costa Rica are a big part of what makes this country truly magical.

MOUNTAINS/VOLCANOES

Although I am more of an ocean person myself, I have to admit that the mountains in Costa Rica are extremely impressive (and when I say mountains, I also mean volcanoes)! If you travel to Monteverde (which you should), you need to go zip lining. The views will take your breath away and make you want to stay forever. Also, take a day and go hike around Irazu, Arenal, or Poas volcano! With these incredible mountains and volcanoes, Costa Rica has many activities to offer. You can go zip-lining, bungee jumping, hiking, bird watching, relaxing in hot springs and so much more!!

BEACHES

The mountains are fun and beautiful.. but who doesn’t love a nice beach? If like me you love the beach, the ocean, surfing, etc., you need to go visit Costa Rica! From the Pacific to the Atlantic coast, this country has some of the nicest beaches in the world! Of course, some of them can be very crowded during the more touristic season (December to May). However, it is also possible to find more private and hidden beaches (just ask the locals!!). My best advice to you is to go watch at least one sunrise and one sunset on the beach and to go take surf lessons! You will definitely not regret it!

SUNSETS

Speaking of sunsets,  some of the most amazing ones I have ever seen in my life were in Costa Rica. If you are into photography or you simply want to enjoy a nice sunset with friends, you should add Costa Rica to your travel plans!! Being able to watch the sunset from a beautiful beach is a real luxury.

FOOD

If you are a big foodie, there are a few things you should absolutely try while you are traveling in Costa Rica. Costa Ricans love rice, beans, and meat! My favorite meal are Gallo Pinto, Casados, and Arroz con Camarones! Another thing I absolutely love is fruits! My personal favorites are mamon chinos (little Costa Rican fruits also known as “rambutan”), mangos, pineapple, and passion fruit. After tasting real fresh fruits, you will never want to go back to the big supermarket imported fruits! And, last but not least, you have to try their coffee!!

NATURE

Costa Rica is one of the countries with the highest biodiversity in the world!! It actually contains 5% of earth’s biodiversity (and keep in mind that the country only constitutes 0.03% of earth’s surface)! From incredible jungles to cloud forests to beautiful beaches, this country has it all. The wildlife and scenery are definitely one of the main reasons why people (me!!) fall in love with Costa Rica so easily.

SLOTHS

I have traveled to Costa Rica many times and one thing I never get tired of seeing is sloths. These creatures are everywhere in Costa Rica and you will most likely see a few during your trip. Some tours will even take you in the jungle to see them up close and personal. Learning about sloths is something you will probably only experience in Costa Rica. Make sure your camera is close to you at all times (you wouldn’t want to miss the perfect photo opportunity). Also, make sure you respect them and their environment (this means don’t feed them, touch them, or disturb them).

There are so many other reasons why you should visit Costa Rica, but it would be impossible to fit them all into one blog post. Hopefully, these 8 reasons are enough to convince you. Costa Rica has so much to offer and I truly think that every traveler should experience it! Whether you want to start traveling or are an experienced traveler, this country will be sure to steal your heart!Costa Rica, Central America, America Latina, beach, surf, surfing