Pura vida

Costa Rica has rainforests, volcanoes, wildlife, and two coasts. You should go if: You want wildlife, from sloths to toucans You like hiking, zip-lining, and surfing You want to travel with an eco-focus Must-visit places: Arenal Volcano and La Fortuna: Hot springs and waterfalls Monteverde: Cloud forest and hanging bridges Manuel Antonio: A national park with beaches and monkeys Tortuguero: Turtle nesting on the Caribbean coast Guanacaste: Sunny Pacific beaches and surf Must-try foods: Gallo pinto: Rice and beans for breakfast Casado: A plate with rice, beans, plantains and meat or fish Ceviche and patacones Tres leches cake and Costa Rican coffee Fun facts: Costa Rica abolished its army in 1948. It holds a few percent of the world's biodiversity in a tiny area. Nearly all its electricity comes from renewable sources. Logistics: Best time: December to April is the dry season; May to November is greener and cheaper Currency: Colón (CRC); US dollars are widely accepted Getting there: San José (SJO) or Liberia (LIR) Getting around: Shuttles, domestic flights, or a 4x4 rental for rough roads Tipping: Restaurants add 10 percent service; extra is optional Must-learn phrases: "Pura vida": Hello, goodbye, all good - it's a way of life! Thank you: Gracias Please: Por favor You're welcome: Con mucho gusto How much is it?: ¿Cuánto cuesta? "Tuanis": Cool