General background: Costa Rica is a Central
American success story: since the late 19th century,
only two brief periods of violence have marred its democratic
development. Although still a largely agricultural country,
it has expanded its economy to include strong technology
and tourism sectors. The standard of living is relatively
high. Land ownership is widespread.
Area
comparative: Slightly smaller than West Virginia
Climate: Tropical and subtropical; dry season
(December to April); rainy season (May to November);
cooler in highlands
Terrain: Coastal
plains separated by rugged mountains
Population: 3,834,934 (July 2002 est.)
Ethnic groups: White (including Mestizo) 94%,
Black 3%, Amerindian 1%, Chinese 1%, other 1%
Religions: Roman Catholic 76.3%, Evangelical
13.7%, other Protestant 0.7%, Jehovah's Witnesses
1.3%, other 4.8%, none 3.2%
Language: Spanish (official), English spoken
around Puerto Limon
Government type: Democratic republic
Capital: San Jose
Legal system: Based on Spanish civil law system;
judicial review of legislative acts in the Supreme
Court; has accepted compulsory ICJ jurisdiction.
Economic overview: Costa Rica's basically
stable economy depends on tourism, agriculture, and
electronics exports. Poverty has been substantially
reduced over the past 15 years, and a strong social
safety net has been put into place. Foreign investors
remain attracted by the country's political stability
and high education levels, and tourism continues to
bring in foreign exchange. However, traditional export
sectors have not kept pace. Low coffee prices and
an overabundance of bananas have hurt the agricultural
sector. The government continues to grapple with its
large deficit and massive internal debt and with the
need to modernize the state-owned electricity and
telecommunications sector.
Communication/Telephone system: Very good telephone
service.
Places of interest: Wildlife and reputation
for enlightened conservation draw tourists from all
over the world. Costa Rica has some of the region's
best surfing. Beaches galore and a climate that encourages
slothfulness in all species.
Travel tips:
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