Costa Rica

Costa Rica

Switzerland of Central America

The number of years since army was abolished in Costa Rica.

2,925,128

The number of foreign visitors who visited Costa Rica pre-pandemic.

27.44

The percentage of protected land in Costa Rica.

Costa Rica Stories, Information, and Opinion

Costa Rica vs Panama: What Made Expats Choose One Over the Other?

by CA Staff
February 20, 2025
Costa Rica, Daily Life, Expat Stories, Opinion

Costa Rica vs Panama through expat/immigrant eyes. Real experiences and honest comparisons from those who chose one country over the other for their new home.

Five Reasons Why Chiliguaro is Costa Rica’s Favorite Drink

by James Dyde
February 19, 2025
Costa Rica, Drinking, Opinion

Discover why chiliguaro is Costa Rica’s favorite drink! Learn about its unique taste and why it’s a must-try for anyone visiting Costa Rica.

Tourist Visas in Costa Rica: How Long Can I Stay Before Before Having To Leave?

by CA Staff
February 18, 2025
Costa Rica, Travel

How long can you expect to stay in the country with a Costa Rica tourist visa? Is the 180-day stay a given?

A Guide to Duty-Free Shopping in Central America

by CA Staff
February 10, 2025
Belize, Costa Rica, Shopping, Travel

A guide to duty-free shopping in Central America. Learn about the Golfito and Corozal Free Zones in Costa Rica and Belize, plus airport and frontier shopping.

Buying a Car in Costa Rica: A Real-World Guide to Making the Right Choice

by CA Staff
January 27, 2025
Costa Rica, Daily Life, Shopping

Expert advice on buying a car in Costa Rica from long-term residents. Learn about popular models, pricing expectations, and why vehicle choice matters.

Living Through the Costa Rica Rainy Season: What Residents Really Think

by CA Staff
January 24, 2025
Costa Rica, Daily Life, Opinion

Is the Costa Rica rainy season really that bad? Current residents share their uncensored thoughts about living through the green season.

The Costa Rica Gentrification Debate: Are Foreign Tourists and Residents Welcome?

by CA Staff
January 20, 2025
Costa Rica, Daily Life, News, Opinion

In the light of recent Costa Rica gentrification protests, we look at the situation from the point of view of locals, foreign residents, and the tourism industry.

Creating the Perfect Costa Rica Itinerary: A Travel Expert’s Guide

by James Dyde
January 17, 2025
Costa Rica, Travel

Planning a Costa Rica vacation? This article offers insider tips from a former travel consultant on creating the perfect itinerary to make the most of this beautiful country, no matter how much time you have.