Costa Rica's Pura Vida

By: Amy Greber Source: AARP.org Date Posted: 2006-04-04 16:47:00-04:00

by Amy Greber

A getaway to the Central American oasis of Costa Rica will leave you with a lasting appreciation of what locals call the pura vida, or "pure life." The country's thriving eco-tourism industry invites visitors to trek through lush rain forest canopies, paddle down peaceful estuaries, hike beneath grumbling volcanoes, or dip toes in aquamarine waters. Less than four hours from Houston by plane, this Switzerland-sized country can feel as exotic as the farthest reaches of the earth.

Natural Attractions

Beaches

Costa Rica's 1,290 kilometers of pristine coastline attract introspective beachcombers and thrill-seeking wave riders alike. At popular destinations like Playa Tamarindo on the Pacific coast, local outfitters offer snorkeling and scuba diving trips as well as relaxing boat cruises. At the end of the day, settle into a beachfront café with a frothy pineapple shake and drink in a mesmerizing sunset. Then travel north to the protected beaches of Playa Grande after dark to observe endangered leatherback turtles as they emerge from the ocean to dig their nests.

Mountains

Costa Rica has some of the world's most biodiverse cloud and rain forests, such as those in the highlands of Monteverde and Santa Elena. If you seek leisurely exploration, stroll across lofty suspension bridges for glimpses of spider monkeys or the resplendent quetzal. More adventurous visitors can soar through the vast forest canopy along zip wires. Experienced guides delight in sharing knowledge about local flora and fauna, and offer a variety of natural history and bird watching tours.

Volcanoes

Volcán Arenal has continued to spit lava since its eruption in 1968. The sleepy town of La Fortuna sits at its base and offers a convenient starting point for hiking or horseback riding tours to the volcano. Hotels can also arrange trips to prime spots for viewing lava flows, followed by a visit to local hot springs. Most of these "spas" offer discounts in the evening after all the day-trippers have headed back to the capital, San José. Splurge on a massage for a soothing end to a travel-weary day!

What to Pack

Costa Rica is about 10 degrees north of the equator so hats, sunscreen, and sunglasses are all smart travel companions. Pack for a variety of climates—think layers—so that you'll be ready for sudden showers and plummeting temperatures at dusk. From the forest footpath, a three-toed sloth can resemble a coconut so save room in your daypack for binoculars. Insects, on the other hand, are impressively large and are best avoided using repellents containing DEET.

Cuisine

Costa Rican food is not particularly spicy or otherwise memorable. A traditional breakfast consists of gallo pinto (beans and rice), eggs, fresh fruit, and coffee with steamed milk. Considering that many tours and bus transfers get hopping around 8:00am, it pays to choose lodging that includes a cozy breakfast. For lunch, try a variety of casados: meat with rice, beans, fried plantains, cheese, and salad.

Money

The local currency is the Costa Rican colón (CRC), but you'll find that most restaurants and merchants accept U.S. dollars. Some budget and moderate-rate hotels offer discounts for paying in cash, so be sure to ask at the front desk. ATM machines are easy to find at most tourist destinations throughout Costa Rica, but be prepared for international withdrawal fees.

Transportation

The good thing about traveling within Costa Rica is that road conditions compel you to slow down and appreciate the journey. If you are not on a tour, you have several options for getting around. Shuttle bus companies like Grayline's Fantasy Bus provide transfers between popular destinations. Their private minivans are safer than the public bus system and have seats reserved for disabled passengers.

Braver souls might consider renting four-wheel-drive vehicles, but allow extra time for negotiating unpaved or pothole-pocked roads. Local air carrier Sansa also offers affordable connecting flights to major cities, but don't attempt this route if you are claustrophobic or the least bit jittery about flying the friendly skies.

Additional Information

www.ticotimes.net – Costa Rica's English Language Newspaper

www.monteverdeinfo.com – Features travel message boards managed by helpful Monteverde residents

www.costaricabureau.com/ – Costa Rica tourism and travel bureau

Books

Find these books online at Borders.com.

Frommer's Costa Rica 2006 . Eliot Greenspan. Wiley, John & Sons, Incorporated. August 2005
Costa Rica (Lonely Planet Travel Guide Series) . Miranda A. Carolina and Paige R. Penland. Lonely Planet Publications. November 2004
Costa Rican Wildlife . Waterford Press, Raymond Leung (Illustrator). Waterford Press, Ltd. January 2001