Costa Rica is a destination like no other, from beaches and lush jungle, to volcanoes Costa Rica provides a plethora of landscapes. This little piece of paradise offers travelers the opportunity for any type of vacation – whether relaxing on  the beach to indulging in one of the many adventure activities, Costa Rica is a great destination for any traveler.

Riad is always up for an adventure, and Costa Rica provided him the perfect place to fulfill all his thrill seeking desires. From riding ATVs through Costa Rica’s diverse landscapes to bungee jumping, Riad has done it all. The adventures of our operations manager, from calm to crazy, can be found in this Costa Rica travel tale.

 Horseback riding

Riad horseback riding through Costa Rica.

A perfect way to view the scenery at any age, horseback riding was just one of the activities on Riad’s vacation. Being able to go on a group tour to one of the regions many waterfalls, Riad recommends a horseback riding tour for families, or people who want a peaceful outdoor activity.  He explained that this is definitely a calm activity, the horses are really well trained, having traveled this path many times, and it is a fun way to experience the natural beauty of the area.

Four Wheeling: 

Riad hit the road on an ATV adventure in Costa Rica.

Another way to explore, and one of Riad’s favorite activities, was the ATV tour. A guide led his group through Costa Rica’s many terrains, including beaches, jungles, and mountains. One of his favorite memories from his trip was during the tour; “We were ATV riding, and we had the ocean to our right and this lush valley to our left. We are looking down on this waterfall, and the mist is slowly rising, and it truly felt like we were in an Amazon movie, it was incredible.” Riad highly suggests this if you like a little bit of adventure and want to explore Costa Rica in a unique way.

Zip-Lining:

The zip-lining tour took Riad above the tree tops of the Costa Rica jungle.

Flying above the treetops of the lush forests of Costa Rica, on a zip line tour, was another fond memory from Riad’s adventure vacation. Though the zip line tour wasn’t too crazy, at least for Riad’s tastes, he says it is a great way to get a view above the forests, while getting a little bit of a rush. For those who aren’t as seasoned in adventure activities, zip lining is a great way to add some thrill to your Costa Rica vacation.

Whitewater Rafting:

The group hitting the rapids on an exciting whitewater rafting tour.

An up close and personal experience in nature, whitewater rafting was one of Riad’s more adrenaline pumping activities. From Class II to IV rapids, beginners to experts alike can indulge in whitewater rafting, sure to get the heart racing. Riad had a great time on his tour; he was able to see a wide variety of fauna, birds, snakes, and even a few monkeys. The highlight of his rafting tour was when his group stopped and he and a few of his fellow raft mates climbed the rocks and jumped into the river; with the permission of his guide, of course.

Bungee Jumping:

Riad took the leap into the Costa Rica wilderness on his bungee jumping adventure!

Riad took his adventure trip to the next level by signing up to bungee jump, as the only male in the group of jumpers, Riad couldn’t back out. He watched all the women jump, and was the final one to take the leap. Riad gave us the play by play, “I stepped to the edge and looked over and knew I couldn’t back out, so I just took the leap, and did a superman dive off the platform.” He laughs as he offers some sage advice to those thinking about trying something so crazy, “don’t look down.” For Riad it was the ultimate adrenaline rush, and he definitely recommends it to travelers seeking a truly crazy and one of a kind experience.

If you are looking for an outdoor adventure of any kind, take some of Riad’s tips and mix in a little (or a lot) of adventure into your Costa Rica vacation; find many adventure activities in San Jose or on the coast in Jaco. The perfect destination for any traveler, check out more ideas of what to do on your Costa Rica vacation, and start planning today!

Red is for the sultry details of tango in Buenos Aires, Argentina.

Red is for… the Argentine tango
There is no image that comes clearer to mind upon thought of an Argentina trip than the tango. The energetic but sultry dance was born and fostered in the fringe communities of the country’s magnificent capital, Buenos Aires, and its artistic influence has since spread across the world through all social levels. The moves are fast paced and the dancers’ attitudes are evocative, enchanting every audience member with the dance’s brash sensuality. Whether you choose to experience the heart of tango along La Boca, Buenos Aires’s old port, or in an unmarked milonga venue, you won’t soon forget the blurred whirl of the female’s classic red dress, shoes, and lipstick detail as she plays with her partner on the dance floor.

Orange is for the sweet sun setting on the landscape of the Atacama Desert in Chile.

Orange is for… sunset in the Atacama Desert of Chile
If there was ever a place to test your feeling of mortality, it would be the Atacama Desert of northern Chile. This is the driest place on earth with absolutely no record of any rain since recordkeeping began more than 500 years ago. Standing in the middle of this vast desert composed of salt basins, sand, and the occasional hardy vegetation, you’ll want to clutch your water bottle tightly with newfound appreciation for every drop. This otherworldly landscape includes the dramatic Moon Valley and its stunning natural formations that champion out of the barren land around it. At sunset, however, you will forget for a moment the desert’s forsaking circumstance as the orange of the sky enhances every pore of the rocky surface, seeming as if existence itself is going to sleep for the night.

Yellow is for the glorious rays of the Costa Rican sun that blesses the entire country.

Yellow is for… the brilliant sunrays of Costa Rica
The sun defines Costa Rica. Without it, the paradise of tropical beaches would lose their essence, the mist of the jungles would linger less mystifyingly, and the massive volcanoes dotting the land would have less aesthetic faces to show throughout the passage of a day. Thankfully, the brilliant yellow rays persist, helping to showcase the country in all its glory. Whether you wish to kayak in one of Costa Rica’s many rapids, trek the impressive Arenal Volcano, party up in the capital of San José, or discover the unique microclimate of the Monteverde Cloud Forest, the feel and illumination of the sun and its cycles will mark your Costa Rica holiday memories.

Green is for the lush natural wonders of the Pantanal wetlands in Brazil.

Green is for… the Pantanal wetlands of Brazil
A more obvious green point would be the Amazon Rainforest that covers most of South America, but the less frequented freshwater Brazilian Pantanal has well earned its reputation as well. Located in the southwestern state of Mato Grosso do Sol, the large reserve continues to spread into Bolivia and Paraguay as well. The wetland foliage’s gradient of green hues is beautiful to behold, and a boat excursion as part of your Brazil vacation package will take you on the crisp waters for an even more intimate exploration of the Pantanal. Delight in the exotic animals that hide in the verdant foliage and perhaps even spot a jaguar!

Blue is for the stark ripples and reflections of Lake Titicaca in Peru.

Blue is for… the waters of Lake Titicaca in Peru
Lake Titicaca, the highest navigatable lake in the world, can be approached from the Bolivian side as well, but the Puno gateway in Peru remains the more popular access point. From Puno, meander along the waterside, or take a boat tour to one of the reed islands such as Amantaní and Taquile where some traditional families still call home. A most spectacular time to see the lake is during the afternoon barrage of sunlight when the blues of the serene ripples shine brightest.

Purple is for the deep but light chicha morada juice so ubiquitously found throughout Lima, Peru.

Purple is for… chicha morada in Lima, Peru
Lima was once the capital of the Spanish empire in South America and it continues to stand today as a living reminder of colonial history as well as catalyst of contemporary culture. One new reputation the Peruvian metropolis has enjoyed is its status as the gastronomic capital of the Americas. From intimidating platters of ceviche (the national dish of raw seafood marinated in lime juice and spices) to the succulent sandwiches found streetside, dining in Lima is nothing short of an adventure in and of itself. In the end, wash it all down with a chilled glass of dark purple chicha morada, a non-alcoholic corn drink that dates to eras predating even the legendary Inca Empire. Cheers!

Black is for the rich, sleek skin of the sea lions that call the Galapagos Islands of Ecuador their home.

Black is for… the smooth skin of the Galapagos sea lions of Ecuador
To spice up your Ecuador travel plans, fly out to the Galapagos Islands to feel as if you’re an explorer of the old days. As you embark on your Galapagos cruise, admire the vast diversity of wildlife that populate this remote archipelagos, which includes but by no means is limited to its iconic sea lions, ancient sea turtles, marine iguanas, lava lizards, penguins, various colored boobies, and creatures deep underwater such as sharks, rays, dolphins, eels, and more. Finally, of course, you will be able to watch the local finches flit back and forth, the very birds who helped to inspire Charles Darwin and the development of his theory of evolution.

White is for the pristine emptiness of the vast Salar de Uyuni salt lake of Bolivia.

White is for… the Uyuni salt flat in Bolivia
Within Bolivia’s quieter personality lies the conspicuous Salar de Uyuni salt flat, a must-see destination for any Bolivia tour or South America trip. It is the largest of its kind on earth, and the panoramas here will be unlike anything you have ever seen before. A driving expedition will take you into the core of the 4,085-square-mile salt lake where the visage of this alien landscape seemingly extends endlessly into infinity. After a rain, Uyuni becomes the grandest natural mirror in existence when the reflected sky fuses seamlessly with the horizon and the terrain. If you are lucky and come in the right season on your Bolivia vacation, you might even get to see the local flamingoes that breed in this surreal plain.

One of the most popular travel destinations in the world, Costa Rica is like heaven on earth for most travelers. Magnificent sandy beaches, tropical waters, and lush national parks filled with exotic flora and fauna, are only a few of the country’s many attractions. This year, Costa Rica is evern more in the spotlight as it has been ranked in the top “happiest places in the world” by both the New Economic Foundation and the Gallup World Index of The World Happiest Countries.

Costa Rica, between the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea, offers variety to suit every vacationer's dream.

If this is not reason enough for you to visit Costa Rica, maybe you’ll want to enter the race to win an all inclusive week-long trip for your family. Recently launched by the Costa Rica Tourism Board, this gigantic ad campaign titled Costa Rica’s Million Dollar Gift of Happiness is sure to make many very happy travelers. From October 6, 2011, to February 5, 2012, all citizens of the United States and Canada are welcomed to enter the run and get a chance to win a spectacular Costa Rica vacation!

The winners will have the opportunity to choose between a selection of themed-vacations, from adventure, family, and culture, to romantic and nature. Check out Costa Rica’s official Facebook page and to learn more about this exciting contest.

Check out some of the best Costa Rica destinations!

What would you like to see on your Costa Rica holiday? This extraordinary country has something to offer to each and every visitorone. Whether you like relaxing on the beach and basking in the sun, or you enjoy wildlife and hiking in sumptuous natural reserves, you can’t find a more delightful destination. Even if you’re not part of the happy few that will win a free trip, it’s definitely worth a visit!

Is this isn't paradise, what is?

Playa del Coco: This tiny country nestled between the Caribbean Sea and the Pacific Ocean is home to many of the world’s most stunning beaches. Playa del Coco, located near the Gulf of Papagayo in the Guanacaste region, is among the most well-known beaches in Costa Rica. It’s the ideal spot for sports activities such as surfing, diving, andor sport fishing. But it’s also perfect for those who like to take it easy on their vacation, as they’ll delight in the great variety of hotels, restaurants, bars, shops, and clubs available.

Monteverde Cloud Forest: As the Nnumber one destination for eco-tourism in Costa Rica, the Monteverde Cloud Forest Natural Reserve is dotted with spectacular wildlife and untouched forests. Located above the charming small towns that line the coast of Costa Rica, Monteverde is a world of nature and exotic species. This the perfect place for nature hikes in search of monkeys, birds, and many more species. The best way to explore the reserve is start from the small village of Santa Elena, where travelers will find an array of hotels, restaurants, and other amenities available.

Costa Rica absolutely teems with exotic wildlife.

Manuel Antonio National Park: Located just south of Quepos on the Pacific Coast, and about 132 kilometers from the capital, San Jose, the magnificent Manuel Antonio National Park is probably the greatest in the country for all nature lovers. Expansive white sandy beaches, crystalline waters, and evergreen forests make the park one of the most popular attractions in Costa Rica. Hundreds of species of birds and mammals can be witnessed in the various natural habitats that comprise the reserve. Visit some of the park’s 12 islands and maybe you’ll be lucky enough to spot some dolphins or even a whale!

For nature lovers and lovers of beauty, there's no better place to find happiness than in Costa Rica.

Costa Rica is often considered one of the most environmentally friendly countries, with more than 27% of its land protected by wildlife refuges, biological reserves, and national parks. Costa Rica is smaller than West Virginia, but offers a surprisingly diverse range of ecosystems and activities. Coral-lined beaches, active volcanoes, and cloud forests characterize this beautiful country which surfers, nature enthusiasts, and adventure addicts alike can enjoy on a Costa Rica vacation.

Green vegetation surrounds this picturesque stream in Monteverde

While this tiny nation draws over 1.5 million visitors every year, no efforts are spared to protect nature and its wonders. The number one destination offering eco-friendly travel opportunities, Monteverde, is located in the northern region of the Puntarenas province in the Cordillera de Tilarán. Monteverde, or “Green Mountain”, is home to the famous Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve.

Monteverde’s settlement dates back to the 1930s when a few “Tico” – Costa Ricans’ nickname – families left the gold-mining settlement of Juntas, and headed up the mountain to try their hand at logging and farming. In 1949, four Quakers were jailed in Alabama for their refusal to be drafted into the Korean War. They were eventually released from prison, but in response 44 Quakers from 11 families left the United States for greener grass – namely Monteverde. The Quakers adopted a simple life of dairy farming and cheese production in the cool mountain climate. Monteverde remains a Quaker dairy farming community which produces some of the finest cheeses in Costa Rica. Don’t leave without sampling some of their tasty treats!  In appreciation of watershed above the 1500-hectacre plot in Monteverde, the Quaker community agreed to preserve the mountaintop rainforests.

When ecologists investigated the preserve, they discovered that the cloud forests were actually two different ecosystems that straddled both sides of the Continental Divide. As a result of the temperature differential between the Santa Elena and Monteverde Reserves, each of the ecosystems boasts several distinct species.  In 1983, National Geographic featured an article stating the area as the best place to view Central America’s famous quetzal bird. Quakers were shocked when hordes of tourists arrived, and in response, lobbied to stop developers from paving the roads. As of today only dirt roads lead to Monteverde, while the local community continues to fight against the threat of overdevelopment.

Monteverde is a 4-hour journey from Costa Rica’s capital, San Jose. The best time to go depends on your personal interests. Consider visiting this lush area during Monteverde Music Festival, between January and February. The best time for bird watching is February through May when flocks of birds migrate and nest in the area. Prices may be lower during May to November, as it is rainy season and hiking opportunities are lessened.

Cleverly placed bird feeders on our Hummingbird Tour give you a chance to observe them in action

Many travelers come to the reserve to see big mammals living in the wild, such as jaguars, ocelots, and tapirs. These sights are fairly rare; however you are bound to see other captivating plants and animals. Monkeys, sloths, and birds will whisk by overhead, while you may have to look more carefully for miniature orchids which are no more than a millimeter or two across and can be found along hiking trails in the reserve. Another way to experience the local flora and fauna is on a skywalk or rappelling canopy tour.

From organic farming to alternative energy sources, Monteverde works hard to balance environmentally conscious thinking with tourism. You don’t have to be a Quaker or an environmental biologist to appreciate one of the few places left on the planet where the human footprint is kept to a minimum.

To plan an eco-friendly vacation in beautiful Costa Rica contact one of our expert travel advisors who can help customize your travel plans.

The striking Rio Celeste Waterfall. Photo courtesy of Hortense Soulier.

If you want to get away from the crowds, you should make a small detour to the Tenorio Volcano National Park, located in the northwestern part of the country not far from La Fortuna. This often-forgotten park is a true oasis of nature, and holds astonishing sights that will leave you speechless.

Perhaps the most spectacular of these natural wonders is Rio Celeste, a river situated in the heart of the Tenorio National Park, and one of Costa Rica’s prime secret spots. In the past, travelers tended to bypass the park because of its remote location and the previous lack of adequate public transportation. More often than not travel guides didn’t even mention the location which also contributed to its lack of popularity.

Even today there is only one way to reach Rio Celeste and that is from the Rio Celeste Lodge. This small, unattractive construction lost in the rainforest, with its rustic rooms, can hardly be called a lodge. However, if you are ready to leave comfort aside for one night, you will not regret it. With better access and more travelers visiting, the lodge is progressively improving its infrastructure. The lodge’s charming owner will invite you to join his family for a typical local dinner before you head out on your hike to Rio Celeste the next morning.

Rio Celeste is known for its magnificent turquoise color, almost artificial looking, which comes from a natural blend of water and various minerals from the ground (for the chemists out there, the mix comes from sulfur from the volcanic activity and calcium carbonate). This otherwise ordinary river suddenly turns into a magical light blue stream before precipitating into a striking waterfall.

A trek to Rio Celeste involves a pleasant, yet somewhat challenging hike through the cool rainforest of the Tenorio Volcano National Park. The four-hour hike to and from the Rio Celeste Waterfall is sprinkled with astonishing views. Admire the blue lagoon, a natural pool filled with turquoise water, and los Tenideros, where the water suddenly takes on a striking sky-blue color, and any number of natural hot springs located along the banks of the rivers.

The beautiful Laguna Azul. Photo courtesy of Hortense Soulier.

The trail then stumbles onto the great Rio Celeste Waterfall, one of the most beautiful sights in all of Costa Rica. Descend the steep stairs that take you to the bottom of the waterfall, and just take in the enchanting beauty of the scene for a while before getting back onto the trail.

Legend has it that when the world’s creator painted the skies, he dipped his paint brush into the river, giving it its striking light blue hue. Biologists still haven’t been able to determine the effects of the combination of minerals, so it is recommended not to swim in these waters, although some do at their own risk. You can take a swim a little further away where the water regains its clarity, and enjoy a relaxing dip in the hot springs.

The amazing sceneries of Rio Celeste are definitely a must-see for travelers to Costa Rica, and are certainly worth the little extra effort. This is truly one of the most magical places in the country, if not in the world. Don’t miss out on one of nature’s amazing wonders while it is still a relatively unknown tourist attraction.

For more Costa Rica travel opportunities and information, contact a Costa Rica For Less travel advisor.

The best time to hit the water is during the rainy season, from late August to November. At this time of year, the rivers are swollen and fast flowing, offering a bigger variety of options for all levels.

White water rafting on the Pacuare River, Costa Rica

One of Costa Rica’s most popular rafting spots is the Pacuare River, widely recognized as one of the top rafting rivers in the world thanks to a perfect combination of jaw-droppingly beautiful natural scenery and fast-flowing waters.

The waters are warm, the cascades are stunning and the river meanders through the dense tropical Costa Rican rainforest, surrounded by a huge diversity of wildlife. The river is generally Class III to IV, which means unpredictable waves, narrow waterways and long patches of white water, getting wet out here is a certainty!

Exploring the Pacuare River is all the more enjoyable on rafting trips departing from the Rio Tropicales Lodge, who has partnered with Costa Rica For Less to offer an adventurer’s dream trip; rafting down whitewater rapids, zip lining through the tree tops, and exploring deep into the jungle to get up close and personal with the rainforest’s countless inhabitants.

The lodge, built from ecologically sourced local materials, is set amid a large reserve of tropical gardens and untouched jungle, complete with swaying hammocks and viewing platforms from which the local colony of toucans can be spotted. A vast network of trails are perfect for exploring, while a series of freshwater pools stemming from the Pacuare River itself allow blissful and relaxing bathing.

Costa Rica For Less’ exclusive Rafting Odyssey travel deal allows visitors to arrive at this splendid lodge by raft, spend two full days exploring the rainforest reserve before leaving for another full day on the water. Visit the Costa Rica For Less site for more information.

Frommers South America travel guide. Image from Frommers.com

This time, we’re with Neil Schlecht, who in addition to being co-author of Frommer’s vast South America guide, is the author of Frommer’s Peru and the author and photographer of Buenos Aires Day By Day.

Also, see below to find details of a 15% discount on Frommer’s South America guide book.

LAFL: Is there anywhere in particular that sticks in your memory during your time researching the South America guide?

Neil Schlecht: There are so many places and so many memorable moments; it’s a huge and wildly colorful and fascinating continent, with an overload of spectacular places to experience. Over 25 years I’ve had the great fortune to travel extensively across Latin America: from Mexico to Cuba and the Caribbean coast of Colombia all the way down to Patagonia and back up to the northeast coast of Brazil.

Off the top of my head, two recent experiences stick in my mind: hiking to the top of the hill on tiny, privately owned Isla Suasi in the middle of Lake Titicaca, experiencing a surreal and mesmerizing sunset stretching out over the sea-like lake; and driving hours over one of the bumpiest dirt roads I’ve every driven, white-knuckled, through stunning high-desert topography to at last arrive at a gorgeous winery in Argentina’s northern Calchaqui Valley, beyond Salta, and have a memorable birthday lunch with Argentine friends.

But a couple of glasses of Argentine malbec today would provoke a half-dozen more memories, I’m sure.

LAFL: How would you describe the Latin American character? Is there such a thing? How about its variations and vagaries as you travel across the continent?

NS: It’s tempting, but dangerous to generalize, and I’m not sure how you delve into such a question without writing a dissertation (that would be ultimately picked apart by everyone who read it!).

Even the Spanish spoken across South America has myriad country-by-country nuances and presents plenty of opportunities to trip up even fluent speakers. And then you get to Brazil and realize that not only is the language wholly different, of course, but Brazilians are very, very different people from most of their Latin brethren; I learned that the first time I arrived in Rio in the midst of carnaval and flipped on the TV — which is not an exercise for prudes.

I’d prefer to leave a question like that to Latin Americans themselves to answer, but if I can say anything about commonalities, it would be the Latin welcoming spirit and cheerful, almost playful disregard of rules and strict adherence to things like deadlines and expectations that restrict so many of us in northern countries.  Of course, like any nation or people, there are complicated aspects to character, too, and one need only look at Latin America’s troubled political past for an indication of that.

LAFL: This is a continent famed for its fiestas. Are there any that stick in your memory as being well worth a visit during a vacation?

NS: Oh, boy. I have to say I’m particularly fond of Brazil’s ability to oil its collective hips and throw a dance party in the middle of the street. I’ve probably never had a better time in my life than living and breathing carnaval in a rented house in Olinda with 3 dozen Brazilians, all of us catching catnaps on mattresses on the floor and spending every other waking moment dancing in the streets and drinking cachaça in 42-degree heat.

Every country in Latin America has its own unique, amazingly vibrant and photogenic fiestas. I’m particularly fond of the deeply rooted indigenous folkloric festivals in Peru and Bolivia. The diablada (masked demon dance) during La Candelaria in Puno, on the shores of Titicaca, and the surreally costumed celebrations of La Virgen del Carmen, in Paucartambo, a remote village in the highlands beyond Cusco, are true revelations.

Traditional costumes during the Diablada dance in Puno, Peru. Photograph: Matthew Barker 2009.

LAFL: Can you recommend a journey for someone with just two weeks to spare?

NS: My immediate counsel is always not to try to do too much. It’s a temptation to see as much as one can in a limited time span — it’s certainly how I started traveling myself as a college bum — but often you see and experience so much more by slowing down and taking in the detail of one country (or less, a particular region!).

I’d concentrate regionally. Quito and the Galapagos plus a rainforest excursion in Ecuador. Cusco, the Sacred Valley of the Incas, Machu Picchu, a bit of trekking and Lake Titicaca in Peru. Buenos Aires, the wine country of Mendoza plus Bariloche and a quick taste of Patagonia.

The immense territory and terrain of South America makes it tough (although the good thing is that it practically demands you return again and again). If you’re certain this is your one and only shot at South America and you have no choice but to zip from country to country by plane, I guess I’d pick out three absolute highlights: Rio de Janeiro and its coast (such as the gorgeous colonial town of Parati); Cusco and its incredible Inca ruins and culture; and perhaps a detour to the Peruvian Amazon.

Talk to three people who know South America well, and I’m sure you’d get three different recommendations. But that’s what makes discovering places for oneself so great.

Get a 15% discount off Frommer’s South America guide.

To claim your 15% discount, visit http://www.frommers.com/store, and enter the code “south” in your basket.

Celebrated on 15 September, Independence Day is a major national event with parades and fiestas that can provide lifelong memories of any Costa Rica vacations that happen to coincide with this important day.

Old traditions on show, Costa Rica

Costa Rica achieved its independence along with the rest of Central America, as part of the Federal Republic of Central America, governed by Guatemala. The new republic proved to be fragile, ungovernable and short-lived and Costa Rica soon decided to go it alone.

For holiday makers planning a trip to Costa Rica, timing your vacation to match up with Independence Day is sure to give a fascinating perspective on this fun-loving nation in their most jubilant hour.

Celebrations occur up and down the entire country and can last for an entire week. The highlight is the arrival of the Freedom Torch which is delivered on relay from Nicaragua on its route right across Central America.

The night before Independence Day is marked with a series of lantern parades, marking the moment that news of independence arrived in the country.

On the big day itself, every town and village hosts its own parade, with participants in traditional dress and marching bands playing national songs which culminate in the national anthem.

Traditional food – especially the national dish of gallo pinto, a colorful concoction of rice and beans – takes pride of place, along with other national symbols such as the colorfully decorated oxcarts that epitomize the country’s agricultural heritage.

In typical Tico spirit, parades are peaceful and family-orientated events that involve elderly and young Costa Ricans as much as the adult party-goers.

Downtown San Jose is host to the country’s biggest parade, while other popular Costa Rica travel destinations all host their own local parties, including the small town of Santa Elena near the Monteverde cloud forest and the old capital city of Cartago.

How To Celebrate Independence Day During A Costa Rica Vacation

Independence Day is a great time to visit Costa Rica, when you’ll be sure to catch one of the best fiestas in the annual calendar. To have the best fun visitors should bear the following points in mind:

- Independence Day is a national holiday and most services will be closed for the day. This includes banks, money changers and certain stores, although restaurants should remain open. Don’t be caught out without any cash, and make sure you’ve changed enough money the previous day.

- Most Costa Rica hotels will become booked up well in advance of the holiday, so plan ahead and make your reservations early.

- Local parades are held on and around the central plaza of any town, but in San Jose head for Avenida Central, where most of the action occurs.

- Parades and fiestas are invariably peaceful and safe, but as with a large crowd in any country, beware of pickpockets and keep your valuables concealed.