Sunday, November 18, 2012

Top Reasons Why Visit Costa Rica

By Donna Beley


The tourist will find many great places to visit in Central America. When considering why visit Costa Rica, they should consider all the country has to offer. There are many wonders to view, both living and nonliving in this nation of only 20,000 square miles. There are many varieties of animal and plant life, rainforests and beautiful water.

The nation offers opportunities to spend quality time on both a Pacific and Caribbean coastline with a combined total of more than 750 miles. The location, near the equator, provides warm waters all year long. On the eastern side there are many white sandy beaches. On the Pacific side, surfers will find excellent waves for their sport.

Birders will find more than 850 bird species that make this a popular activity. In Carara Biological Reserve there are Scarlet Macaws. Rare spider monkeys along with more than 100 other mammals call Manuel Antoino Park home. Nesting turtles can be found in Tortugero Park.

In addition to the ocean, lakes and rivers provide ample opportunities for water sports, such as whitewater rafting, kite and windsurfing. Additionally, zipline tours offer a unique way to observe the canopy of the rainforests. Many visitors enjoy snorkeling and angling due to the wide variety of fish.

Several of the nation's parks feature volcanoes. Arenal rises to over 5,500 feet. It is one of the most active volcanoes in the world and appears more vibrant if viewed at night. Irazu, is the country's tallest volcano and reaches over 11,000 feet above sea level. Poas Volcano Park is the most popular with visitors.

Several plantations raise Cacao fruit, used to produce fine chocolates. Visitors can tour these plantations and factories, learning the processes used in making chocolate. They can enjoy tasting the finished products at the end of the tours. Products make excellent gifts to bring back home.

Several museums in the area welcome tourist by featuring local art and culture. Additionally, natural specimens and artifacts from archaeologists are on display. Guayabo offers a visitor site that dates back to 300 BC, centuries before the first white explorers visited the Americas. In addition, it is possible to view a 700 year old aqueduct that remains functional even today.

While there is more than enough to keep one busy, there are also excellent opportunities for relaxing. Luxury spas provide the opportunity to view and contemplate the ocean while soaking in warm water with a touch of chocolate and essential oils. Geothermal spas offer warm relaxing water. Volcanic mud is available for wraps and coconut for exfoliation.

Why visit Costa Rica? The reasons are numerous. There are opportunities an active vacation enjoying water sports or visiting the many sites available in the country. Additionally, tourists can relax at the ocean and enjoy a spa treatment. There is no lack of things to do and see in this Central American country.




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