Pura Vida: It's the Good Life!

When I traveled to Costa Rica it was paradise. The people are so welcoming and friendly (especially if you speak Spanish to them), the landscape is so beautiful, and the country has so much to offer. From the volcanoes and mountains to the oceanside to the canals to the tropical rain forests, there is something to see for everyone! In this interesting synopsis, Costa Rica is referred to as the Switzerland of Central America. 
The same website from the link above gives a great comment: "To put things in perspective, consider the fact that prior to 1950, half of the country struggled with grinding poverty, and living beyond the age of 50 was an achievement in itself. Today, less than one in five Ticos (Costa Ricans) lives below the poverty line, and life expectancy is on par with the USA."

I found a great travel blogger! The creator of "Nomadic Matt" quit his job to travel the world and gives tips, places to see, and afantastic and non-overwhleming summary of travel to Costa Rica!

This interactive map may seem too dense to look at, but it is broken down into different regions of the country. After breaking down the regions, you can explore the different sights and even the creatures that inhabit Costa Rica... When I was in Costa Rica I went on a crocodile expedition!