The fact that more than one million tourists visit Costa Rica each year is not a coincidence. This country, which is located in Central America, is an isthmus where life seems to have its roots. Covering only 0.03% of the surface of the planet, Costa Rica possesses approximately 6% of the world's biodiversity. It includes 12 different life zones and 5% of all life forms on Earth.

Costa Rica offers a very good standard of life, infrastructure, excellent climate, and all the facilities of the modern world. In addition, this country is characterized by its impressive scenic beauty, a consolidated system of protected areas, social and political stability, high educational levels, and efficient infrastructure and services. All of this offered in a territory of 51,100 square kilometers, surrounded by both the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans

There are also many tax advantages to living in Costa Rica: Investors pay no capital gains taxes on real estate; and business and property taxes are minimal, compared to those in Europe or the USA. In addition, foreigners are not required to pay taxes on external income.

Geography

At the west of Costa Rica lies the Pacific ocean and at the east the Caribbean. Also the Coco island belongs to Costa Rica. The area is mainly flat, but in the middle a mount chain runs through, which are part of the Central American cordillera. The highest point is the Cerro Chirripo (3810 meters). There are other types of nature in Costa Rica besides the rain forest. There are also dry forest and grass land, and along the coast is possible to find mangroves. Costa Rica has nine volcanoes, from which 2 are active.

Climate

Costa Rica is unquestionably a tropical country, situated between 8° and 11° North latitude, fairly close to the equator. The average annual temperature for most of the country lies between 21.7°C (71°F) and 27°C (81°F). The coolest months are from November through January, and the warmest from March through May. There are two major seasons: rainy and dry. The dry season runs from January through May and the rainy season from May to December.

Food and Beverage

Costa Rican cuisine is known for being tasty, yet fairly mild, and the diet includes fresh fruits and vegetables. It consists mainly on rice and black beans, corn, vegetables, meat, chicken or fish, and the food is usually accompanied by tortillas. Furthermore, and very important, you will never pay too much!

Health

Costa Rica has been considered by numerous international medical authorities as having one of the best low-cost medical care systems in the world, when considering preventive and curative medicine. Many diseases of third world countries have been successfully treated and prevented and some are almost eradicated, such as malaria, yellow fever, leprosy, and tuberculosis. The medical facilities, the availability of technical equipment, and the level of medical expertise have allowed the country to offer heart and liver transplants, cosmetic surgery and modern dental interventions.

Education

There is a literacy rate of 95%, because the government of Costa Rica gives high attention to the education system. Many of the country’s early fathers like the first president, Jose Maria Castro, were former teachers who were highly concerned about education. In 1869, the country became one of the first in the world to make the education both free and obligatory.

Money

The local currency is colones. However, paying with US dollars is widely accepted in Costa Rica. Checks and credit cards are also commonly used. Travel checks are also accepted and can be changed in each bank or hotel reception.

Electricity

The electricity in Costa Rica is 110 volt. We advise you to bring an electrical adapter when traveling from Europe, if you are planning to bring some personal electrical appliances.