 Howler Monkey in Costa Rica While planning my own trip to Costa Rica, I have learned some interesting and amazing things about this glorious country! Costa Rica is so beautiful and lush that, literally translated, it means "Rich Coast". This country is full of sunny beaches, thriving rainforests, and stunning volcanoes. Costa Rica is also famous for rushing waterfalls, where visitors can hike and go for a dip in the surrounding water, or do white water rafting in the rivers heading downhill, offering innumerable moments where this country will take your breath away! Because the country is naturally so beautiful, the people of Costa Rica are intent upon protecting their land and taking care of what this resource. As such, 25% of the land is made up of protected national parks and refuges (Schriever) and the nation continues to progress towards a greener future, being an example for sustainable energy by already running 80% of its electricity from hydroelectric power. In 2017, Costa Rica went over 300 days using only renewable energy, making it a leader in sustainability (Embury-Dennis).  Luscious palm trees in Costa Rica Even though Costa Rica is such a small country, it contains over 5% of the worlds biodiversity (Schriever). The rainforests, mountains, rivers, beaches, reefs and waters of Costa Rica are full of different animal, plant, and insect species, ranging from crocodiles to butterflies to monkeys, and everything in between. All around Costa Rica, different types of fruit grow, including bananas, pineapples, mangos, coffee, and many more. Wondering what to do in your free time in Costa Rica? There are activities in abundance that will either relax you or give you the rush of adrenaline you've been looking for. Thrill seekers can zip line through rainforests and feel connected to the surroundings, then take a hike and pay attention to the wildlife in every direction. For those looking for something that will help them unwind, a deep tissue massage or horseback ride down the beach or mountain awaits! To experience more of what the beaches, Pacific Ocean and Caribbean Sea have to offer, you could paddle board at sunrise, spend hours surfing, and maybe end the day with yoga on the beach!  Sunset in Costa Rica Above everything I've learned about this gorgeous country, one specific thing has stuck with me. The people of Costa Rica are so happy that the country is nicknamed "the happiest country on earth". Residents are very family and community focused, giving them a sense of support and purpose. Because of the climate, many people spend constant time outside, which supplies their bodies with sunshine and vitamin D, making them feel better both mentally and physically. The culture, food, connection to nature, and community may be part of the reason the nation is home to some of the oldest living people on the planet! Finally, one can’t escape the Costa Rican saying, "Pura Vida" (and they wouldn’t want to if they could)! "Pure Life" is the way of life for those in this wonderful country who try to be happy, relaxed, peaceful (they disbanded their military), and friendly! by Mary Eggert
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