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EXPLORE SOUTH
AMERICA
COSTA RICA
BY: JENNIFER LE
TOP HOTELS
Four Seasons Resort Costa Rica
at Peninsula Papagayo
Rating: 5.0 Pearls
Easily among the most luxurious
resorts in Central America, The
Four Seasons is as close to
perfection as it gets. With two
beautiful beaches, ocean views
from each one of the sumptuous
rooms -- decorated in materials
including wood, bamboo, and
stone -- and an 18-hole golf
course, the resort makes it
possible for guests to spend their
whole vacation on-site. Those
who do choose to explore
beyond Peninsula Papagayo
should note that the roads in
Guanacaste are in poor
condition.
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Luxurious rooms with balconies, ocean
views, and lots of wood
Isthmus location with two beautiful beaches
Three lovely pools, plus a pool at the kids'
club
Four restaurants and a lively bar
18-hole golf course designed by Arnold
Palmer
Free kids' club and teen center
Free-to-use spa plunge pools and saunas
JW Marriott Guanacaste Resort & Spa
Rating: 4.5 Pearls
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Rooms all have deep soaking tubs and
balconies
Gorgeous hacienda-style architecture
Lovely Mansita Beach on-site
Stunning, enormous free-form pool
World-class spa
Cheap 30-minute shuttle to shops and
restaurants in Tamarindo
Free kids club
The JW Marriott is one of the top
luxury properties in Guanacaste,
with beautiful, hacienda-style
architecture (think: lots of wood and
stone, romantic white hammocks,
wrought iron light fixtures and
indigenous art). The stunning freeform pool is the largest in Central
America, and the tranquil spa is
world-class. The only main downside
is the extremely rough, hour-long
drive from Liberia Airport.
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Hotel Punta Islita
Rating: 4.0 Pearls
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Lush, remote location with phenomenal ocean views
Ruggedly beautiful (if rocky) beach
Stunning infinity pool, plus a beach pool, both with swim-up bars
Tasty cuisine at 1492 Restaurant (including free breakfast option)
Rooms have terraces with comfy hammocks and great views
9-hole golf course
Tranquil, beautiful spa
This ultra-remote, rustic luxe hideaway is
worth the bumpy, two-and-a-half hour drive
from Liberia Airport. The rooms aren't as
impressive as those at larger luxury resorts
in the region, but the unparalleled views,
stunning infinity pool, and ruggedly
beautiful (if rocky) beach more than
compensate. Plus, this is a hotel with a
heart: Punta Islita is environmentally
friendly, and gives back to the local
community.
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Gaia Hotel And Reserve
Rating: 4.5 Pearls
Guests will feel truly pampered at
this adults-only, 29-room luxury
hotel. Tucked into the hillside of a
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Only 29 rooms, all luxurious
Attentive, efficient service
Beautiful grounds
Free 20-minute spa treatment for every guest
Freebies galore: breakfast; shuttle; Wi-Fi; lending
library
Amazing views from all over the property
Sits on 14-acre nature reserve
No kids allowed (a con for some)
14-acre nature reserve, Gaia feels
appropriately exclusive and
private, and has the attentive,
personalized service to match.
Rooms are spacious and airy; the
great views are never-ending; and
the freebies abound: breakfast, WiFi, a mini spa treatment (to name a
few). Keep your eyes peeled for
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iguanas, sloths, and the like.
Arenas Del Mar Beach And Nature Resort
Rating: 4.0 Pearls
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Access to two beautiful beaches, Playita and Playa Espadilla
All rooms have large terraces
Lush, beautiful grounds with diverse wildlife
Stunning ocean views from the main pool area
Eco-friendly property built in harmony with nature
Free in-room Internet (both Wi-Fi and wired)
Excellent on-site restaurant, El Mirador
Arenas del Mar is proof that staying at an eco-resort doesn't
mean roughing it: Its 38 contemporary rooms are among the
nicest in Manuel Antonio, its restaurant is excellent, and its
public spaces embody rustic luxury. The property's lush
rainforest, two beautiful white-sand beaches on site -- a rarity
in the area -- and diverse wildlife allow guests to truly connect
with the nature that the resort's design so painstakingly
preserved. But the 11-acre property is steep, so you'll need to
call for a hotel golf cart to go just about anywhere.
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Los Altos Beach Resort
Rating: 4.0 Pearls
Los Altos' condos -- all 2,300-square-foot, three-bedroom luxury units -- are
probably the most luxurious accommodations in Manuel Antonio. The hotel is
ultra-convenient -- the elevator opens up right into your condo -- but the grounds
aren't as lush or wildlife-rich as at sprawling, less convenient properties like
Arenas del Mar and Buena Vista Luxury Villas. And the on-site beach is rocky, so
you'll probably want to head elsewhere for some sand time.
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Biggest and most luxurious rooms in Manuel Antonio
Ocean views from every room
On-site beach access
Lovely infinity pool with ocean views
Open-air restaurant with rainforest and ocean views
Fitness center and spa
Free Wi-Fi
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Arenal Nayara Hotel & Gardens
Rating: 4.0 Pearls
The beautiful Arenal Nayara's 44 individual bungalows, restaurant, wine bar, and
spa are all tucked into incredibly lush grounds. Some of the amenities are small
(pool, spa, fitness center), but guests come here for the private bungalows with
special touches like an outdoor garden shower and a deck with a Jacuzzi and
hammock. It's more luxurious than nearby Arenal Kioro, but Kioro's rooms have
better volcano views.
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Beautiful, lush grounds with tropical plants everywhere
Very private guest rooms, each in its own bungalow
Big rooms all have outdoor showers and amazing decks
Charming wine bar
Well-designed spa with some great treatment rooms
Free Wi-Fi and free breakfast
Free calls to U.S./Canada from lobby and wine bar phones
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Costa Rica Marriott Hotel San Jose
Rating: 4.5 Pearls
One of the best hotels in Central America and Mexico, the Marriott San Jose, Costa Rica Hotel is
a beautiful colonial hacienda set on a 30 acre coffee plantation. With unique architecture and
elegant antiques, this luxury hotel in San Jose features captivating grounds, exceptional service
and a relaxing ambiance. Whether here for business or an adventurous Costa Rica ecotourism
activity, enjoy magnificent natural attractions such as volcanoes, rainforest trails and canopy
tours. Experience fine dining at La Isabela, a Peruvian experience. Swim in our two outdoor
pools or pamper yourself at our coffee inspired Kuö Spa. For Costa Rica meetings, incentive
groups or social events, the hotel offers 11,350 sq-ft of versatile function space, professional
meeting planners and superb catering. Enjoy the splendor of this country and be assured that the
Marriott San Jose hotel has everything needed for the perfect Costa Rica vacation.
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Butterfly & Orchids
Poas Volcano National Park
Arenal Volcano National Park
Grecia and Sarchi Oxcart Factory
Whitewater Rafting-Pacuare
Combo Tour- Essence of Costa Rica
Tortuga Island-Calypso Cruise
Adventure in Costa Rica
Ecotourism in Costa Rica
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Los Suenos Marriott Ocean & Golf Resort
Rating: 4.6 Pearls
Recognized by Travel & Leisure magazine readers as one of the "World's Best," the Los Suenos
Marriott Ocean & Golf Resort is a luxury Costa Rica resort hotel nestled between the warm
waters of the Pacific and a 1,100 acre tropical rainforest. Our oceanfront Costa Rica
accommodations include luxurious guest rooms and suites with stunning ocean, mountain and
garden views. The indulgent bedding, down comforters, designer duvets and fluffy pillows add
to what is sure to be the ultimate vacation getaway. This luxury resort hotel in Costa Rica also
features 6 restaurants and lounges, La Iguana Golf Course, and our new Sibö Rainforest Spa &
Retreat, all in magnificent settings that heighten the experience. Our 11,900 sq. ft. of versatile
event space are perfect for your wedding or meeting in Costa Rica. A memorable Playa
Herradura, Costa Rica resort vacation awaits, whether you prefer gliding from tree to tree on a
canopy tour or just sitting back and relaxing along our palm lined free-form pool.
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Adventure in Costa Rica
Ecotourism in Costa Rica
Culture in Costa Rica
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Residence Inn San Jose Escazu
Rating: 3.8 Pearls
The Residence Inn San Jose Escazu hotel offers ideal amenities for the business and leisure
traveler in Costa Rica. Located 15 minutes from downtown San Jose, our Costa Rica extendedstay hotel is close to prominent area businesses Avenida Escazu and CIMA Hospital, making it
ideal for families visiting patients. Our San Jose, Costa Rica hotel suites feature a full kitchen,
separate living area and plush bedding. Whether you stay with us for a few days or weeks, you'll
have everything you need at our San Jose extended-stay hotel. Enjoy complimentary breakfast
and stay fit with our gym or heated outdoor pool. Stay connected with free Wi-Fi, business
support services: printing and faxing, 3 meeting rooms and a terrace, ideal for small events in
San Jose. Satisfy midnight cravings at our 24-hour market or enjoy complimentary grocery
service, daily housekeeping, and evening social hours with hors d'oeuvres twice a week. The
Residence Inn San Jose Escazu offers you the best balance for work and life.
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Arenal Volcano and National Park
Aerial Tram/Rainforest
Butterfly Farm
Downtown San Jose
Valle Del Sol - Golf
Poas Volcano And National Park
Avenida Escazu
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Restaurants
Pizzeria Cahuita
There are pizzas, pastas, chowders and etc. All meals are freshly
prepared and it taste like “Little Italy” in your mouth. The owners are
very friendly and you always hear the ocean while eating. Definitely the
best times to go are during Lunch or Dinner.
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Sobre las Olas
If you are looking for the best food, view and experience in Cahulta,
Costa Rica you will not be disappointed. This is good for Families with
children, Romance, Local cuisine. Dining options varies for
Breakfast/Brunch, Lunch, Dinner, Reservations, Late Night, and
Dessert. You can come here for a nice dinner. We had fried fish,
cappuccino, and fish in sauce, chocolate cake, and tiramisu. It is a lovely
restaurant for a celebration or a nice night out. The view is tops, the
service is good as is the food.
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Caribbean Coconut
Welcome to Coconuts Caribbean Restaurant & Bar, serving you
authentic dishes inspired by the Caribbean Islands. Come join us, and
enjoy our take on Caribbean-West Indian Cuisine. The jerk pork is a
win! And definitely try the rum punch. Steel drummers on the weekend
are a plus for sure.
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Restaurant la Terrasse
This restaurant is rated the number one restaurant in San Jose. Don't get
me wrong, it is a very good place to eat and the food is very well
presented and well prepared. This is good for Romance, Doing business,
and Special occasions. Dining options varies for Breakfast/Brunch,
Lunch, Dinner, Reservations, Delivery, Late Night, and Private Dining.
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Park Café
A nice electric place which mixes art from Asia, Richard and Louise are
going to impress you. Let them choose for you and enjoy Richard's
show. Arriving at the restaurant, Michelin star Chef Richard Neat meets
you at the door and introduces you to his wife. This is good for
Romance, Doing business, Special occasions, and Entertaining clients.
Dining options varies for Lunch, Dinner, Reservations, and Late Night.
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La Esquina de Buenos Aires
This restaurant is highly recommended. Reservations recommended, but
they seated you promptly without one. The atmosphere was cozy and
warm with excellent music selection (jazzy vocal). Staff was adequately
bilingual. The food is outstanding! If you have been here you know that
there are many "good" restaurants that try to imitate what we all know to
be traditional recipes but seems like people here just don't get it.
However, La Esquina de Buenos Aires has nailed it, their meats and
empanadas are absolutely delicious. This is good for Romance, Doing
business, and Special occasions. Dining options varies for
Breakfast/Brunch, Lunch, Dinner, Reservations, and Late Night.
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Cafe Rico
This a delightful quiet place to enjoy really good coffee and delicious
food. Walking in, you are at once greeted in a friendly English accent by
Roger the proprietor who has an agreeable blend of decorum and
cheerfulness. The cafe has an air of erudition with bookshelves lining
the walls and an occasional "New Yorker" magazine available to read.
There are also inclusive cabins with free coffee, bicycles, snorkeling,
books, and much more. They make a really good coffee and you can
have as much as you want. I highly recommend this cabin for Puerto
Viejo. Their cuisines involve European, Vegan, Healthy, and Café.
Dining options varies for Breakfast/Brunch.
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Como en mi Casa Art Cafe
The café is above a store right next to the Caribbean. The place is really
zany looking yet still nicely decorated. The staff is very attentive. There
is a kind of bread with chocolate spread, fruit and coffee which was
delicious. There were delicious flavors and this is an amazing café. They
have great coffee and organic vegan options for breakfast and lunch.
This place is a must stop when you come.
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Bread & Chocolate
The breakfast and Bread and Chocolate are amazing. Grab a breakfast
sandwich made with quality local ingredients and wash it down with a
French press coffee. Just be sure to take home a piece of cake or a
dessert for later. This is good for Families with children, and Dining on a
budget. Dining options varies for Breakfast/Brunch, Lunch, Takeout,
and Dessert.
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El Refugio Grill
This grill is a delightful place to have dinner. It is in an open air garden
with an intimate atmosphere. Hands down the best food and amazing
staff! They have great quality food, small, romantic ambiance. Although
this place is a bit pricy, it’s a wonder wonderful dinner. Best thing to
order her is STEAK! This is good for Families with children, Romance,
Doing business, Special occasions, and Entertaining clients. Dining
options varies for Lunch, Dinner, Reservations, Late Night, and Dessert.
This is an International Cuisine Restaurant. Jungle them for the tables
outside for dinner or chill out and great atmosphere for romance.
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ATTRACTIONS
Arenal Volcano
Arenal Volcano, in Spanish Volcán Arenal, is an active andesitic stratovolcano in northwestern Costa Rica around 90 km northwest of San José, in the province of Alajuela,
canton of San Carlos, and district of La Fortuna. Arenal is Costa Rica’s best-known
volcano. It’s a stratovolcano which is a large, symmetrical volcano that’s built upon
layers of ash, rock and lava and at 5,437 feet, it stands high above the rest of the
countryside. After nearly 400 of years of inactivity, Arenal began erupting in 1968, when
it exploded and buried over 5 mi² (15 km²) in rocks, lava and ash. That eruptive cycle
took pause in 2010 when the volcano entered into an indefinite resting phrase.
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Manuel Antonio National Park
This park is just south of Quepos on the Pacific Coast, 132 km from San José. Perhaps
It is so popular because of its expansive white sand beaches backed by an evergreen
forest that grows right up to the high tide line. The principal habitants are primary forest,
secondary forest, mangrove swamps, lagoons and beach vegetation. There is quite a
varied fauna with 109 species of mammals and 184 of birds. The park includes 12 little
isles just off the coast; these often visited by a number of dolphins and, at times,
migrating whales can be observed.
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Poás Volcano
The Poás Volcano, is an active stratovolcano in central Costa Rica. It has erupted 39
times since 1828. Considered by most to be one of the most breathtaking sites in the
entire country, the Poas Volcano sits high above 14,000 acres (5,666 ha) of various
habitats and life zones which make up Poas Volcano National.
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Corcovado National Park
Corcovado National Park is a National Park on the Osa Peninsula in Osa, southwestern
Costa Rica, which is part of the Osa Conservation Area. It was established on 24
October 1975, and encompasses an area of 424 square kilometres. Corcovado National
Park is the backpacking experience of a lifetime. It encompases the only remaining old
growth wet forests on the Pacific coast of Central America, and 13 major ecosystems
including lowland rain forest, highland cloud forest, jolillo palm forest, and mangrove
swamps, as well as costal marine and beach habitats. There is a good chance of
spotting some of Costa Rica's shyest and most endangered inhabitants here; Baird's
Tapirs, Jaguars, Scarlet Macaws, Harpy Eagles, Red-backed squirrel monkeys and
White-lipped Peccaries. It is wet, remote and rugged, but the trails are relatively good,
and the camping areas near the ranger stations are grassy and well drained.
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Costa Rican Center of Science and Culture
Centro Costarricense de la Ciencia y la Cultura is a science and culture museum
complex in Costa Rica. It is located in a fortress-like building that once served as the
central penitentiary between 1910 and 1979, the center was inaugurated in 1994. For
the organization is of utmost importance that the venue is in line with the philosophy of
the event and the message of sustainability in the social, environmental and economic
spheres. This time we have chosen the Children's Museum for its importance in the
history of our country as a national heritage, its objectives aimed at strengthening the
education of the Costa Rican population, activation of the proper management and
conservation of natural and cultural resources, as well as the recovery of natural and
cultural heritage of Costa Rica, and the folk traditions and core values.
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Museo Nacional de Costa Rica
The Museo Nacional de Costa Rica is the national museum of Costa Rica, located in
the capital of San José. The Museo Nacional is located inside the old Bellavista
Fortress, which served as the old army headquarters and saw fierce fighting (hence the
pockmarks) in the 1948 civil war. It was here that President José Figueres Ferrer
announced, in 1949, that he was abolishing the country’s military.
The museum provides a quick survey of Costa Rican history, with exhibits of preColumbian pieces from ongoing digs, as well as artifacts from the colony and the early
republic. Among the many notable pieces is the fountain pen that Figueres used to sign
the 1949 constitution. Don’t miss the period galleries in the northeast corner, which
feature turn-of-the-20th-century furnishings and decor from when these rooms served
as the private residences of the fort’s various commanders.
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Nuestra Señora de los Ángeles
The Basílica de Nuestra Señora de los Ángeles is a Roman Catholic basilica in Costa
Rica, located in the city of Cartago and dedicated to the Virgen de los Pardos, officially
known as Virgen de los Ángeles. This church is best known for the 1635 appearance of
the country's patron saint, the Black Virgin. An annual pilgimage takes place in August.
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Celeste River
Celeste River is a river in Tenorio Volcano National Park of Costa Rica. It is notable for
its distinctive turquoise coloration, a phenomenon caused by a chemical reaction
between sulfur and calcium carbonate. You will hike through the rainforest and along
the Celeste River, where you can observe one of nature's most intriguing phenomenon.
Two brooks merge together, turning clear water into a divine hue of turquoise. This
chemical reaction, due to the volcanic minerals present, makes for an astounding sight
that can only be experienced at this unique location.
This challenging hike is a fantastic opportunity for healthy exercise and unforgettable
experiences in one of Costa Rica's most unique hidden gems. Bringing hiking shoes, a
camera, and bug repellent is recommended.
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La Fortuna Waterfall, Costa Rica
La Fortuna Waterfall is located in central Costa Rica, in the Alajuela Province. In
Spanish, it is known as Catarata Fortuna. Those that have brought along swimming
suits and a hearty sense of adventure can swim in the chilly water below the fall. Others
can enjoy a picnic along the rocky shoreline or a round of nature photography – indeed,
it’s hard to take a bad picture in a place as beautiful as this.
The fall can be arrived at by foot or on horseback. The trail runs through pasture and
rainforest, offering up chances to spot toucans, monkeys, and other tropical creatures. It
takes about 15 minutes to hike down the stair set to the waterfall and an hour to arrive
by horse. For more information on visiting the waterfall by horseback, please visit our
page on the Horseback Ride to the La Fortuna Waterfall.
A local non-profit association administers the waterfall. The entrance fee is $8, with all
proceeds being reinvested into local conservation efforts.
If you’re looking for other outdoor activities near the La Fortuna area, you might be
interested in the Río Celeste and Tenorio Volcano Hike. This hike winds through both
primary and secondary rainforest and has rewarding views of a blue-tinted river and
waterfall.
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Chato Volcano
Chato Volcano, sometimes called "Cerro Chato", is an inactive volcano in north-western
Costa Rica north-west of San José, in the province of Alajuela, canton of San Carlos,
and district of La Fortuna. The Chato Volcano first erupted 38,000 years ago during the
Pleistocene period. One of these eruptions paved the way for the waterway that leads to
the La Fortuna waterfall. It has two peaks, named Chatito and Espina, as well as a
1,640-ft (500-m) crater that’s filled with greenish-blue water.
It’s possible to hike up Cerro Chato. Departing from the Arenal Observatory Lodge,
which resides upon Chato’s western slope, the trail leads along a ridge and descends
the eastern slope, exiting near the La Fortuna Waterfall. It’s a steep and sometimes
muddy hike, and is thus only recommended for hikers in good physical condition. Once
at the top, visitors can peer into the emerald pool that fills Chato’s hollowed crater; there
are, however, certain minerals present in the water that make swimming inadvisable.
The route that begins near the Observatory Lodge and ends at the waterfall (which can
also be done in the opposite direction) takes about 4-5 hours. Another option involves
leaving from the waterfall and returning along the same route. That generally takes
about 2 hours of steep climbing to get to the top and another hour to get back down.
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BIOGRAPHY
HISTORY: In 1502 when Christopher Columbus landed in Puerto Limon, less than 20
indigenous tribes occupied the lands which are now Costa Rica. The golden bands that the
region's Carib Indians wore as earrings and nose rings inspired the crew to name the country
Costa Rica, meaning Rich Coast. Columbus' arrival ultimately led to the eradication of these
native populations as exotic diseases and fatal battles took their toll.
While large-scale colonization was rampant in other Central American countries, few Spanish
colonists claimed lands in Costa Rica due to the lack of mineral wealth (gold and silver) and an
abundant Indian population to work the land. Initial attempts to colonize coastal areas were
unsuccessful due to the extreme heat, dense jungle and diseases such as Dengue fever and
malaria. Colonists finally settled in the cooler, central highlands of Cartago in 1563. As most of
the native population had perished, the settlers worked the land themselves and became small
land owners. Cartago remained a provincial capital of colonial Spain for nearly two and a half
centuries.
Within these soaring mountains and dense mystical rain forests lived small non unified groups of
Indians with diverse language and culture. They hunted and fished, and lived off the land by
cultivating corn and yucca. They were skilled in the art of ceramics, metal work, weaving, and
stone carvings. Historians state that there were approximately 60,000 indigenous people in
Costa Rica when Christopher Columbus arrived.
ETHNIC FOODS: Most traditional dishes in Costa Rica consist of rice and beans with other
ingredients like chicken or fish and different sorts of vegetables, which is why they are really
cheap.
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1. Gallo Pinto is the most common dish for breakfast is Gallo Pinto which consists of rice
mixed with black beans, served with natilla (sour cream), eggs (scrambled) and fried
plantain. Costa Ricans usually drink a cup of coffee or fresh fruit juice with it.
2. For lunch, Casados (beans, rice) are served with some sort of meat or fish and a salad,
fried plantains, white cheese and corn tortilla. The difference between Gallo Pinto and
Casado is that in Casados, rice and the bean are served side by side and not mixed.
3. There is no typical meal for dinner, but another typical main dish in Costa Rica is arroz
con pollo (rice with chicken) which can be served with different vegetables from the area
like camote, chayote and yuca. Seafood is also common thanks to the country’s proximity
to both the Pacific and Caribbean.
4. Small dishes before or in between meals are called Bocas, like black bean dip,
chimichurri (tomatoes and onions in lime juice) served with tortilla chips or ceviche (fish/
shrimp with onion in lime juice).
5. Tamale is a seasoned corn meal which is covered in plantains leaves. In the inside it has
rice, beans, vegetables and meat.
6. There are also other traditional sweet corn dishes like pozol (corn soup) or chorreadas
(corn pancakes).
7. Typical soups in Costa Rica are also very popular, such as olla de carne which is a soup
with beef, potatoes, carrots, chayote, plantains and yucca, and the sopa negra, black bean
soup.
8. There are a lot of traditional Costa Rican desserts like arroz con leche (rice with milk).
The rice is cooked in milk with sugar, cinnamon and other ingredients.
9. Ensalada de frutas (fruit salad) consists of different pieces of tropical fruits, like papaya,
banana, maracuya and many more.
10. One of the most common desserts is called Tres Leches, a cake bathed in evaporated,
condensed and regular milk with a whipped cream top.
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CLOTHES: Like most countries, Costa Rica has their own traditional clothing. These traditional
garments are worn on holidays and special occasions. During other times, Ticos wear normal
western clothing like shorts and t-shirts. A strange fact is that though the weather is warm (for
more information on climate check the page Family Life and Climate!) men always wear long
pants instead of shorts. Still don’t be afraid to wear shorts on the beach, no one will look at you
strangely! Costa Ricans, especially working-class people, sometimes eat less to get good stylish
clothing because they believe that good clothing leaves a good first impression and that dress is
most important, especially when meeting new people. Everyone is expected to wear clean,
unwrinkled clothing, especially boys and men. Many people wear jeans and t-shirts and other
common clothes, but girls still in grade school can only wear their school uniform during the day
because they consider it proper for a girl.
For women traditional garments is a dress with no sleeves and thick, frilly ruffles sticking out
from the shoulders. The most popular colors are rojo, azul, and amarillo, but any bright color will
do. The dresses have long skirts made of flowered, shiny material that reaches all the way to the
woman’s ankles. Although the skirt is fancy, the clothing from the waist up is plain white cotton
top (which sometimes has frills round the color, it’s a sheer, low cut, u-neck top) and a wide red
cloth is wrapped around the shirt and skirt like a cummerbund to make a dress. As a final touch
many woman put flowers in their ears or wrap cotton or silk shawls called a rebozo.
Men’s clothing is simple and elegant. The man wears a plain, solid colored top (it’s usually
white, but any bright color other than red would do) and long pants (once again, usually white,
but any bright color excepting red would be fine, but it should, to be perfectly traditional, be the
same color as the top). As a dash of color, once again a wide red cloth, usually silk would be tied
like a cummerbund between the top and pants. As a final touch men wear straw cowboy hats and
a red handkerchief fashionably tied around the neck.
TRADITIONS:
VIRGEN DE LOS ANGELES, AUGUST 2ND
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The legend holds that in 1636 The Virgin of Angels appeared to a girl from Cartago many
times as a small stone statue. The Virgin asked the girl to build a church in her honor in the
spot where she kept finding the statue. The people did so and many miracles started
happening. Presumably the stone statue was found the 2nd of August in 1940. Celebrating this
date with great joy every year, people walk from their homes to this church, no matter how far
they live, to pay respects to the patron saint of Costa Rica.
EASTER WEEK
Through-out the entire “semana santa” there are church celebrations and family parties. The
first activity in church is the “Domingo de Ramos” where the priest gives everyone a blessed
palm leaf, which is reminiscent of the day Jesus walked into Jerusalem and people greeted
him with palm leaves. The following Sunday is the last celebration of the resurrection of
Jesus, three days after he was crucified. Thursday all businesses are closed and people start to
party at the beach, but attend church on Sunday when they get back home.
CHRISTMAS
The most important Christmas tree in Costa Rica is the tree of the Children’s National
Hospital. People arrive there the first day they light up the tree to be with the sick children.
This brings hope to the sick children and makes them happy in spite of their situation. A very
popular part of Christmas is El Portal, a miniature scene of Jesus being born in the stall made
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out of figurines and decorations. Most people put it up in early December and keep it until
January, but the little Jesus is not to be placed in the scene until midnight on December 24th.
That's also when the adults open their gifts. The children are told that the Baby Jesus brings
their gifts while they are sleeping. To remove El Portal, a group of neighbors get together at a
different person’s house each day to act out the pilgrimage of Joseph and Mary to Bethlehem.
They pray the Rosary and drink Rompope (eggnog) with all kinds of snacks including, of
course, tamales – a traditional plate made out of maiz, potatoes, meat, rice and paprika. The
Misa de Gallo, Christmas Mass, takes place at midnight on December twenty-fifth. On this
night many families enjoy their traditional Christmas dinner.
“DAY OF THE CULTURE ENCOUNTER” OR “DISCOVERY OF AMERICA”
Every year in mid-October the Costa Rican population celebrates the arrival of Christopher
Columbus, who arrived in 1502 to Uvita, an island about 1 km from the port of Limon. For
nearly a week the city of Limon fills with people, color and music. In the streets you can find
concerts, beauty contests, parades and huge pots of hot “Rondon” (fishstew/fishmulligan).
This celebration’s highlight is the “Gran Desfile” where different colorfully costumed dancing
groups along with acrobats are featured in the streets, and are evaluated by a jury. There are
many drinks and dances; the whole city moves to reggae, roots, calypso, salsa and socca
rhythms. The carnival is a very afro-Caribbean event, but occasionally there are also
indigenous groups who warn against Columbus with fight-dances. In the rest of Costa Rica
this event is celebrated by the schoolchildren, who dress up as diverse figures, such as
indigenous people or Columbus.
“FIESTA DE LOS DIABLITOS”
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On the 30th of December at midnight Borucas awake with grim devilmasks. This ethnic
festival of the native people of the south of the country recreates a fight to the death between
the Indians (Diablitos) and the invading Spaniards. The tradition goes back to colonial times
and has been passed down from generation to generation. It is a great display of native
traditions, customs, and beliefs. The battle is stylized with masked and costumed "Diablitos"
taking on a bull, which represents the Spanish. Amid much ceremony and play-acting,
accompanied by flutes, drums, guitars, violins and accordions, the bull eventually meets a
gory end in the center of the village. The meat is offered for sale and there are craft stalls and
fireworks to add to the festive occasion. “Chicha”, a fermented beverage derived from maize,
is the favored drink during the party.
DANCES: Although the most common dance is salsa, Tico's also enjoy the hypnotic and
rhythmic Latin beats combined with sensual movements of cumbia, lambada, marcado,
merengue, soca, and the Costa Rican swing, danced with sure-footed grace.
MUSIC:
Folk Music
Costa Rican folk music is defined as traditional rhythms created by everyday citizens, for the
enjoyment of the masses. By definition, folk music is imitated and evolves over the years. In
Costa Rica, the four powerhouses for folk music are Guanacaste, the Central Valley, Limon, and
San Isidro del General; these styles are known respectively as musica guanacasteca, musica
aldeana, musica limonense, and musica generalena. Popular folk music from other areas of the
country is considered to copy these four principal styles.
Guanacaste
The rhythms of Guanacaste are an integral part of the nation's musical heritage. Folkloric music
from Guanacaste features Spanish, Nicaraguan, Cuban, Panamanian and Colombian influences.
It employs use of the marimba, a type of large wooden xylophone, and encompasses many styles
– puntos, tambitos, callejeras, and parranderas are among the most popular. Guanacaste's music
is inseparably interwoven with the region's dances, which incorporate old-world flourishes and
traditional costume; popular Guancastecan dances include the Punto Guanacasteco and Los
Amores de Laco.
Central Valley
The Central Valley's folk music has no known composers, but these beautiful, Spanishinfluenced melodies are known as "serenatas campesinas," or peasant serenades. Batambas are a
common type of Central Valley folk music that feature guitarists and marimba players, and a
harmonic and irresistible beat. The Central Valley's traditional songs can be easily identified,
since each stanza continues for several counts longer than the music. Two popular examples of
"musica aldeana" are "Despierta nina" (Wake up, child) and "No puede haber amor como el
primero" (There can be no love like the first).
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Caribbean
There are four basic branches of Caribbean folkloric music, which is rooted in the rhythms of
Spain, the Central Valley, and the Caribbean islands. The first type features comparsas, or lively
bands that play during parades and celebrations. The second form, known as sinkit, is a famed
Costa Rican musical genre that has base drums, snare drums, and clarinets. The third branch of
Limon's musical heritage is known as "son," and is rooted in the syncopated rhythms of Spain,
Puerto Rico, Cuba, Panama and the Dominican Republic. Finally, "Afrotica," also known as
Afro-Costa Rican or Afro-Limonese music, is the result of blending traditional Christian music
with the so-called profane sounds of plebeian Costa Rica.
San Isidro del General
San Isidro del General is a small city located in south-central Costa Rica. Historically, this region
was both physically and culturally separated from the rest of Costa Rica, allowing for the
emergence of unique folkloric rhythms. Popular regional music includes Campera, a
combination of peasant music and creole beats; Tambito, an upbeat guitar tune; Southern Son,
which features a three-four meter with accents on the first and third beats; and Tonadas, which
are romantic songs inspired by local legends, incorporating guitar, violin, accordion, and
mandolin harmonies.
Classical Music
The National Symphony Orchestra (Orquesta Sinfonica Nacional) has received international
acclaim under the direction of its current conductor, Chosei Komatsu. The Costa Rican Youth
Symphony Orchestra, National Symphony Choir – one of the first professional choirs in Central
America – and the Costa Rican Chamber Opera are also important fonts of the nation's classical
music. San Jose's National Theater hosts a variety of concerts, from classical guitar to solo
pianists and grand symphony orchestras. Other venues of interest include the Teatro Mozart and
the Costa Rican and North American Cultural Center.
Jazz
Several jazz cafes and restaurants in and around the Escazu and San Jose area are excellent
options to watch new musicians play acoustic and jazz sets. The nation's most famous jazz
ensemble, Editus, has found international acclaim and won a Grammy award in 2000 for Best
Latin Pop Presentation. To nurture the nation's burgeoning jazz scene, Costa Rica hosts the semiannual International Jazz Festival, which celebrates some of the world's most talented musicians.
Calypso
Calypso is a style of Afro-Caribbean music that originated in Trinidad among slaves who used
the music as a means to communicate and tell stories. In Costa Rica, Cahuita's Walter Ferguson
is a popular calypso musician whose songs include anecdotes about his childhood in povertystricken Panama, and are an excellent illustration of Afro-Caribbean culture.
Reggae
Reggae, which first developed in Jamaica in the 1960s, is very popular in Costa Rica, especially
along the Caribbean coast. Local artists include C-Sharp and Fuerza Dread, who perform at local
bars like La Mochila, which hosts Costa Rica Reggae Nites every Friday. In 2011, Damian
Marley honored Costa Rica as the only Central American country to make his tour list.
Reggaeton blends urban beats with Jamaican dancehall and Latin rhythms to create Spanish-
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language songs popular among the nation's teenagers and dance club regulars. Reggaeton is also
the music of choice for catchy ad campaigns and San Jose street music.
Tropical
Costa Rica's dance clubs boogie to the beats of merengue, salsa, cumbia and other Latin
American rhythms. Interestingly, while Costa Ricans dance salsa and merengue in the traditional
styles, they exchange the popular Colombian-style cumbia dance steps for "swing criollo," or
creole swing, which features a series of hops and bouncing steps to accompany cumbia's
infectious beat.
Contemporary Costa Rican Musicians
Popular Costa Rican contemporary musicians include Ghandi, Cantares, Balerom, Evolucion,
Akasha, El Parque, Gaviota, Percance, and Debi Nova. In August 2011, Malpais, one of Costa
Rica's favorite bands, suffered the loss of Fidel Gamboa, a founding member and lead singer.
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