Costa Rica remains one of the most popular and visited countries in Central America. Due to its diverse topography, Costa Rica is the perfect destination for groups with varied interests. Wildlife enthusiasts will certainly enjoy Costa Rica’s biodiversity: over four hundred types of birds have been identified to be living in Costa Rica, as well as over a hundred mammals. Adventure travelers can look forward to white water rafting on Costa Rica’s rapids, or hiking in the dense forests and mountains, or marvel at the majestic Mt. Arenal, Costa Rica’s active volcano. Surfers and sun-lovers are given two choices: the Pacific or the Caribbean sea? Whether they head east or west, the coast is lined with powder white sand beaches, with waves suitable for both beginner and professional surfers.
The name Costa Rica comes from Christopher Columbus, who landed in the country in 1502. He was amazed at the gold ornaments worn by the natives, prompting him to call the land costa rica, which is Spanish for “rich coast.” The Spaniards weren’t able to colonize Costa Rica quite so quickly and easily. Due to the country’s thick and lush forest, the invading Europeans were held back for over six decades. When they finally did come into the country, the population of the indigenous Costa Ricans dwindled, due to the diseases carried by the Europeans to which the natives aren’t immune to.
The Spaniards were dismayed: the much anticipated gold repository never materialized. After this disappointment, Costa Rica was left alone, forgotten by the invaders. Things started picking up again in the 18th century, when settlement in various areas flourished. Costa Rica’s economy boomed with the introduction of the coffee. This commodity was as good as gold for the Europeans and other opportunists who seized this moment to build their businesses and empire.
Coffee brought wealth, status, recognition and eventually, independence to the Costa Ricans. When the US troops came in to invade Costa Rica, then President Juan Rafael Mora, a former coffee-grower, was able to unite the Costa Ricans to repel the invading forces. Costa Rica had its fair share of civil wars throughout its history, but in recent years, the country became the model for peace with the abolition of its army. This brings Costa Rica in such contrast with the ongoing unrest in the neighboring Central American countries.
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