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)