Properties in Costa Rica Blog

New year’s in Costa Rica, just like in the rest of the world is one of the most festive and celebrated holidays. With that being said, Costa Rica has its own customs and traditional ways in which people celebrate the coming of a new year. These traditions with a mix of your own customs can create a truly eventful and unforgettable start of the new year.

First and foremost, traditionally, New Year’s is very family-oriented, a night that you spend with those who you are closest to. Unlike our North American friends, who like to spend this night out in a bar or club, Costa Ricans party at home. Unless you are in popular beach towns with tourists and vacationers; here you can find parties and events for New Year’s. But usually, you find that most bars and restaurants closed a few hours before midnight, so everyone is able to enjoy New Year’s with family and close friends. Expect a bunch of fireworks, but please be safe, especially since there is usually a lot of alcohol consumed on this night.

Some of Costa Rican traditions may seem a little unorthodox, but the average tico can be extremely superstitious about doing these annual rituals; to make sure the upcoming year brings nothing but luck, prosperity, and love.

Eating 12 Grapes at the stroke of midnight!

Costa Ricans will eat twelve grapes, at midnight, one for each month, as well as add twelve wishes for the upcoming year. This tradition can also be found in other Latin American countries, but Ticos take this tradition to heart!

Wear the color that represents your desire!

It is believed here in Costa Rica, that wearing certain colors will attract certain fortunes for the upcoming year. You can also hang ribbons of a certain color on your front door, to attract these same fortunes. For instance, wearing green underwear will bring you excess money this year. Wearing yellow will attract good luck for the year that is to come. And for those looking for the perfect romantic relationship, you wear non-other than red. People also will carry a suitcase around the block in order to bring you new travel experiences.

Water is good, great, grand!

Costa Ricans will throw water over and behind your shoulder. This is a representation of what you are leaving behind, as you look to start a brand new year, a fresh new year!

People have different ways of celebrating with those close family and friends. Some will celebrate at home. Others may find their way to the beach in order to join spectacular celebrations. Some may even attend the Fiesta Zapote, which is a week-long celebration with drinks, food, games. Whichever way you decide to celebrate here in Costa Rica, make sure you do with the ones you love, and make sure you do it the Tico way and the Kind way!

Costa Rican Christmas is a day filled with festivities and family traditions that go back decades. Christmas decorations can go up as early November, right after the Halloween decorations go down, Christmas ones go up. As holiday preparations kick into high gear, many Costa Ricans decorate their homes with blinking lights, a Christmas tree, as well as your favorite Christmas and religious characters (Santa, Nutcracker, Jesus).

Christmas is a time of bonuses and long vacations from school and work. All employers are required by law to pay an aguinaldo, an annual bonus equivalent to one month’s salary. Students enjoy about 2 months off from school, while many employees get at least a week or two off from work. Most government offices close for the weeks preceding and following Christmas day. Due to the extra vacation time and bonuses, the end of December is one of the most popular times of year to travel. In terms of travel, families from all over the world love to travel to Costa Rica during the holiday season, surging prices to max during this period.

Christmas is a very important tradition for Costa Ricans. Most families, religious or not, display a nativity scene in their home. Tradition states that families who do not own a home may only use gifted nativity scenes so that the Holy Family will help them buy a house in the future. Schools, churches, and town parks also assemble large and elaborate nativity scenes. Both personal and public displays are a source of pride, featuring fresh moss, brown wrapping paper, and treasured figurines to depict the night of Jesus’ birth.

Traditionally, Costa Ricans buy cypress trees for Christmas. Artificial trees are also used and recently have become more common. Most families decorate their trees with ornaments, lights, and a golden star, very similar to our North American friends. A large Christmas Tree displayed at the San Jose Children’s Hospital is perhaps Costa Rica’s most famous Christmas tree. It is said to represent thankfulness for all we have been given especially during that year, and the year that is to come.

Groups walk through the streets on some nights, singing Christmas carols and spreading the Christmas spirit. These processions, known as posadas, vary by town. Some are led by two small children carrying a replica of Joseph and Mary on a donkey, while others have their own personal traditions

Though most homes and public places have been decorated for weeks, the Christmas season officially kicks off with the Festival of Lights in San Jose. The event, which annually holds about one million individuals, and usually takes place two weeks before Christmas. The giant parade, which includes floats and bands, also displays hundreds of thousands of lights, including inspiring fireworks displays.

Christmas Eve, known as Noche Buena (Good Night), is a day for the family. After spending the day together, many Catholic families attend a Christmas Mass. After mass, families settle in for a late-night Christmas feast, which can often include turkey, pork leg, tamales, and other traditional foods. Once the children are in bed, the baby Jesus brings gifts that will be opened on Christmas morning. Only until recently has Santa Claus become a part of family Christmas traditions. After the midnight meal, most families place a Baby Jesus figure in their nativity scene manger, symbolizing the one and only holy birth.

The holiday season officially ends on January 6th, the Epiphany Day (Day of Kings and WIzards) Costa Ricans add the three wise men to their displays on this day, representing their arrival to Bethlehem. Religious songs and hymns can be sung, as this marks the end of the festive holiday season in Costa Rica.

As we pass the date of December 10th, we marked International Human Rights Day. Here in Costa Rica, we continue to fortify our model regarding the development and culture of peace and unity. This type of mentality allows individuals to move forward together in order to deliver us free from all types of discrimination.

Trying to reach the full potential of activism in human rights is like a full marathon with a never-ending finish line. It requires a steady dedication and relentless attitude in order to continue the fight against the unfair and unjust. That is why campaigns and movements have been launched in Costa Rica for many years, in order to avoid prejudices towards the physical appearance of people and combat those who judge based off stereotypes; that for years has been an obstacle that does not let our society advance, for achieving a more inclusive and humane society. One of these campaigns was Dare to Know Me, an institutional initiative that recognizes a diverse, multiethnic and multicultural Costa Rica in which we should all be recognized as equals.

Let me introduce to you, a closer look into Costa Rica’s human rights history. In 1945 the United Nations System is created and Costa Rica is one of the founding countries. Since 1947, the country has been committed to the guiding principles of the United Nations, an organization that seeks equality in human rights of all people, without any discrimination when it comes to race, ethnicity, color, gender, sexual orientation, religion, language, political opinion, national or social origin, economic position, birth, gender identity or any other condition that separates you or a group from others. In 2017, the United Nations recognized the efforts of the Costa Rican State to adopt legislative measures on the multiethnic nature of the State, people trafficking, migration, racial discrimination, and other ethical issues. At the same time, Costa Rica welcomed the introduction of several international human rights instruments.

Costa Rica is a country that has stood out since its inception as a defender of human rights, freedom, and equality of people, as well as democracy. Overall Costa Rica, has never as a governed state, lacked the attitude and mentality of demonstrating that we are all one amongst equals. Although we can’t go on without saying that there have been difficult obstacles that we as a nation have faced. Costa Rica, like many countries, must work to deepen equal rights in its population and one of its main challenges is with indigenous communities because they usually have inadequate access to education, health, and employment. Another example of a group that does not yet have equal rights is those of the LGTB community, as is the case of same-sex marriage. This seems to be an issue that needs immediate resolutions, as the world seems to be changing in terms of the general agreement of individuals that same-sex couples have the right to freely express their will. Male abuse on females is another factor that must be worked on, although compared to other Latin American countries, Costa Rica is probably not as bad as others. Despite these conditions, Costa Rica is a country committed to democracy, equality and the guarantee of rights for all people among other facts, because it has comparably low levels of crime, poverty, and illiteracy.

Last year, Costa Rican youth from different provinces in the Central Valley decided to call out society on several topics such as…

• More study opportunities in scientific careers for women
• Promote professional work alternatives in rural areas and with decent wages
• Achieve equality between men and women
• Eradicate femicides and violence against women
• However, young people said that among all Costa Ricans, a society based on peace, equality and human rights-based on elevated values that characterize the inhabitants of this country must continue to be built.

We hope as Costa Ricans to both continue to be a platform for others around the world to follow, as well as continue to learn that we are far from where we need to be.

Over the years Costa Rica has made an enormous effort to protect the rights of companion animals, especially those on the streets without a home. The amount of support that includes shelters and animal clinics have duplicated over the last decades solely on the concept of protecting our furry friends. Also satisfying to animal lovers, the amount of dog parks and gourmet food available for pets has had a significant change for the better as of late. When it comes to our companions at home or strays that are or were on the street, Costa Rica has made huge strides to make sure all the necessary requirements to properly take care of these beautiful animals are met.

Costa Rica has had a steady increase in the number of hotels that are becoming pet-friendly in order to cater to a new generation of pet owners who do not want their companions to miss out during family trips. This approach is beneficial in a few ways. First, this route allows those who care dearly for pets, in general, to be able to give their furry friends an enjoyable experience that they would normally miss out on. On the business side, this gives hotels a more broad amount of potential clients that again, deeply care for their pets and their happiness.

The key to providing a pleasant pet-friendly experience is to be naturally passionate about pets and those who own pets; to care for their contentment, their activities, and the general well-being of the animals. In actuality, just allowing a family to be able to bring their pets without restrictions is the biggest gift you can give the family and their companion.

In Playas del Coco Guanacaste, for example, Hotel Chantel welcomes guests who wish to bring their canine and feline companions along. Ground transportation for pets to Hotel Chantel from the Daniel Oduber Quirós International Airport is very accessible and manageable for all pet-owners. In Esterillos beach, Rancho Coral is a lovely, cozy hotel that sits steps from the beach. They are complete pet-friendly, allowing you to take your pet to the beach during your stay. Other pet-friendly hotels include; the 4 Seasons Resort in Papagayo (no pet fee), Selina in Manuel Antonio, The Sheraton in Escazu (no pet fee), Arenal Lodge (no pet fee). Many more are not mentioned, but it is important to know that there are dozens all over Costa Rica.

In terms of animal rescue, Costa Rica has one of the most famous Dog Sanctuaries in the world. Territorio de Zaguates (Land of the Strays) is a Dog reserve, where over 900 stray dogs have been welcomed. This refuge is a redefined, top-class animal shelter that has miles of open space, lush fields, and even certain indoor areas for sleeping, eating, and bathing. Here, visitors can see hundreds of dogs running free, up and down the grassy hills. All dogs are welcomed, with no restrictions whatsoever. Here any visitor can adopt a dog. With all types of breeds are available, and even unique hybrids can be found. We also encourage those who can, to donate to the cause of maintaining these wonderful creatures. Please visit for more details.

Here in Costa Rica, we have thousands of Expatriates who call this beautiful country home; many of these ex-pats carry on special American traditions, like Thanksgiving.

Thanksgiving is one of the most celebrated American holidays in Costa Rica. Every year many ex-pats and even locals celebrate the traditional Thanksgiving festivities. The Fall Feast is enjoyed with typical Thanksgiving dishes, with a possible twist that can include local cuisine and if you choose compassion then Vegan Thanksgiving meal can be served in many restaurants or you can cook your one plant-based food.

In the Central Valley and other popular towns, several restaurants and local shops make it easy for ex-pats to indulge on traditional Thanksgiving day cooking. You can enjoy salad, sweet potatoes, green bean casserole, mashed potatoes, as well as apple and pumpkin pie. If you dine out, you can share the dining room with many happy families, which helps create an air of festivity and Thanksgiving cheer. If you decide to eat at home, you can still enjoy this delicious feast with those closest and dearest to you. All your favorite Thanksgiving foods are available at local supermarkets.

You can always opt for a typical Costa Rican version of Thanksgiving. Green beans and apples are in their high season in November, so it’s easy to whip up a green bean casserole or apple pie from local ingredients. Ayote, a huge squash that resembles pumpkin in flavor and color, can be used to make a delicious pumpkin pie.

After Thanksgiving, you may want to check online for Black Friday deals. Online retailers based in the U.S. offer incredible savings, and Costa Rican private mail services such as Aerocasillas, Jet box, and Mailboxes, Etc. have recently begun to offer Black Friday shipping deals and discounts.

Thanksgiving is an important holiday, and not just to yearn for the past. Those of us who are lucky enough to live in Costa Rica, whether it is temporary or long term, have a lot to be thankful for. To begin with, we don’t have to worry about freezing our tails off during our Thanksgiving festivities. Happy Thanksgiving dinner!

Expats have been moving to the Central Valley of Costa Rica for years and it’s easy to see why.  The spring-like climate, central location, and the ex-pats community are just a few of the reasons more and more ex-pats are continuing to make the Central Valley their overseas destination. The Valley’s altitude of 3,000 to 5,000 feet makes it comfortable all year round, and it has a climate that’s like few others in the world. Daytime highs (Fahrenheit) are usually in the 70s or low 80s, and lows at night are usually in the 60s. With these temperatures, AC or heat is very rarely a necessity.

It’s also hard to beat the Central Valley when you’re looking for a beautiful, friendly place. Many parts of the Central Valley are nestled among forests, mountains, and farms. There are many villages where ex-pats have been living side-by-side with Costa Ricans for generations. This has allowed for strong communities to evolve, providing schools, clubs, sports, and a huge range of cultural activities.

Like the name would suggest, the Central Valley is central. You can be in San José, the country’s capital, and its suburbs within an hour to an hour-and-a-half at most from just about anywhere in the Valley. There you’ll find the best shopping in the country, including North American-style malls and warehouse shopping clubs. It’s quite common for ex-pats living in the Central Valley to pop into San José for shopping, dinner, and a movie. If you want to hit the beach, it’s an hour or so to the Pacific.

The Central Valley holds about 2/3rds of Costa Rica’s population; it is also the place to find high-end residential communities, excellent medical facilities, fascinating restaurants, luxurious hotels, and incredible natural wonders including volcanoes and rainforests.

– Retire in The Central Valley, Costa Rica

Costa Rica’s reputation as a retirement destination is well deserved. Expats are attracted to Costa Rica for numerous reasons, which include the lower cost of living, excellent health care, modern infrastructure, beautiful beaches, rainforests, lush valleys, and cool mountains. By almost any standard, Costa Rica has some of the best healthcare in Latin America. Not only that, but the country’s public and private health systems are constantly being upgraded; with new hospitals, new equipment, and improvements in staff training. San José, the country’s capital located in the Central Valley, has the best public and private medical care in the country, making it very attractive to retirees.

-Lifestyle in The Central Valley, Costa Rica

It’s hard to beat the Central Valley when you’re looking for a beautiful, friendly, and relatively inexpensive place to live. Nestled among forests, mountains, and farms are villages where ex-pats have been living side-by-side with Costa Ricans for many decades. As a result, supportive communities have formed, providing schools, clubs, sports, and a huge range of cultural activities. This built-in ex-pat community will leave you with plenty to keep you busy.

If you find it difficult to choose which climate you prefer, or you want a change from the usual; you will be glad to know that the comfortable temperatures of the Central Valley are just one hour by car from the closest tropical beaches of the Pacific Coast. If you are looking for mountain living, but not willing to relinquish the beach, the Central Valley allows for both lifestyles.

As in many other parts of the country, ex-pats in the Central Valley have the opportunity to socialize with local residents, who happen to be some of the most successful and most educated people in Latin America. In some parts of the Central Valley, you can find suburban communities like those in upscale parts of California or Florida. The west of San José, you’ll also find rural areas where country estates overlook Costa Rica’s stunning mountain ranges. Throughout the Valley there are historic towns that will remind you of another age; some of the most popular towns are Atenas, Grecia, Escazú, Heredia, and San Ramon.

The rich volcanic soil of the Central Valley has also made this an ideal spot for agriculture. Coffee plantations blanket the mountainside; gourmet coffee from this area is highly renowned.

Costa Rica is renowned for its Pura Vida lifestyle. The Central Valley, with its lush mountain ranges, exquisite coffee, and friendly locals offers the perfect lifestyle for those looking to slow down and enjoy life.

-Real Estate in The Central Valley, Costa Rica

Real estate prices in Costa Rica and the Central Valley, in particular, remain reasonable. The most popular areas for foreigners are to the west of San José, including towns like Grecia, Atenas, San Ramon, Sarchi, Escazu, Santa Ana, Puriscal, and Ciudad Colon.  But if you head east of the capital, you’ll also find attractive towns and neighborhoods like San Pedro, Pinares, the Granadilla/Altamonte area, Curridabat, Tres Ríos, Barrio Escalante, the Orosi Valley, and Cartago. Prices in the second set of towns can run relatively cheaper than the first list. Throughout the Central Valley, you’ll find quick access to private schools, restaurants, shopping malls, and excellent medical facilities.

Moving to the Central Valley of Costa Rica will make the experience of transitioning to a new country, an incredible one. You will be able to experience the pleasures of a new culture and new terrain, while still being able to have world-class commodities and infrastructures in place for you to live your best life!

Tamarindo Beach

Tamarindo Bay is formed by the conversion of Playa Grande and Playa Ventanas. It is an area known for its beautiful beaches, which attracts millions of visitors each year. You have a variety of places you can stay; hotels, condos, privates homes all great options, for all types of budgets. Within the tourist area, you will find many restaurants with a wide range of international cuisine and a very active nightlife. Here you can also go surfing, as it is famous for having awesome waves. Tamarindo Beach has been awarded the Blue Flag Award on a consistent basis, this award recognizes the commitment to the environment by providing a clean and safe place for visitors.

National Park Rincón de La Vieja

The National Park Rincon de la Vieja has an area of nearly 35,000 acres. It is a volcanic mountain of 9 cones and a lagoon called La Jilgueros. The park can be accessed through both Liberia and Upala Buenos Aires. The Volcano has two distinct sectors: Las Pailas and Santa Maria. The first includes a set of trails that take you to various points of the volcano, including the path to the summit, and the path to Las Pailas; the trail to the falls La Cangreja and Escondidas, the path to the White River pool, and the trail to fumaroles and mud volcanoes. The second sector, Santa Maria, includes a set of paths among which are: the path to the waterfall enchanted forest, the path to the Pailas sector, the path to the pails of cold water, and the trail to the hot springs.

National Park Marino Las Baulas

The National Park Marino Baulas is located on the Nicoya Peninsula and includes several attractions that will catch your eye as Carbon Beach, Ventanas and Langosta, the Morro and Hermoso hills and mangroves San Francisco and Ventanas. It is a place of special importance because in this sector spawns the leatherback turtle, hence the name of the national park which translates to ‘The Leatherback Marine National Park.’ The leatherback is the world’s largest sea turtle and is in danger of extinction. Costa Rica protects these turtles to keep their populations the healthy and growing number of individuals.

Samara Beach

Samara Beach is a bay about 4 kilometers long, with clear sand, gentle waves and an area of mangroves. It is recognized as one of the safest and most beautiful beaches in Costa Rica. On the horizon is Chora Island, right in front of the Punta Indio, where one can spot an area of coral reefs. The vegetation of the area is landlocked, so you can appreciate trees like the manzanillo, coconut palms, and creepers such as beach bean plants, among others. This beach, like Tamarindo, has received the Blue Flag Award for its commitment to the environment. In addition to its beautiful beach, the town of Samara offers many attractions and water activities such as surfing, fishing, snorkeling, diving, etc.

Nosara Beach and Guiones Beach

These beautiful beaches are characterized by their size and clear sand, in addition to its strong waves. Nosara Beach has a length of 3 kilometers and forms a beautiful mangrove in the Nosara River. One of the most outstanding tourist attractions in the area is Nosara Point, formed by a set of rocks where the waves break. Both Guiones and Nosara beaches have a good tourist offer that will allow you to enjoy horseback riding and boat trips through the estuary. Their strong waves make these beaches an ideal place for surfing, thanks to their beautiful landscape they have become a home for yoga and spiritual tourism.

Hornillas y Miravalles Volcano

Miravalles Volcano is located in the Guanacaste Volcanic Mountain Range, at an altitude of 2028 m.s.n.m. It is protected within the Protected Area. Near the town of Guayabo, several places offer hot springs of a yellowish color, laden with volcanic minerals to help you relax. In addition to its natural attractions, the Miravalles volcano is also used for geothermal energy, because it is one of the 7 active volcanoes of the country. In the Hornillas sector, you can walk by a volcanic crater where you can see hot mud, fumaroles, and Sulfur Rivers while enjoying the healing benefits of these minerals.

Llanos del Cortez Waterfalls

Costa Rica is a country rich in natural beauty and because of its many rivers, you can find beautiful waterfalls. One of the most beautiful in the country is the series of waterfalls, Llanos del Cortez. They are located near the town of Bagaces on the way to Liberia. To enter the place, one must detour on a dirt road for a few kilometers, and walk through a transitional forest. Among the peculiarities of this waterfall is the white sand beach that is formed by the sedimentation of the river and the pool of clear water to enjoy the sun and nature.

Cavernas de Barra Honda

The Barra Honda National Park, in addition to offering several trails within the dry forest, also features one of the most beautiful caves in the country. It is a cave located a few kilometers from Nicoya and 450 meters high; therefore, in order to visit, one must descend several meters on a vertical ladder. The cave system of Barra Honda combines ancient coral reefs that emerged from the normal lifting of the tectonic plates and the stalactite and stalagmite formations. Although the cave system has not yet been fully explored, one of which is open to the public (Velvet sector).

 Santa Rosa National Park

Located in the northern part of Guanacaste, Santa Rosa National Park protects a very important area of dry forest, characterized by being unique in Central America. It also has two sectors: Murciélago and Santa Rosa, each has beautiful beaches rarely visited, among which are: the Hachal, Danta, Coquito, Santa Elena, Blanca Naranjo and Nancite. The park is recognized for its wildlife; thus, in the vicinity, there is a biological station that monitors animals such as white-tailed deer, howler and white-faced monkeys, sea turtles, reptiles and amphibians, among others. On the other hand, the park has great historical importance for the country, because here is where we find Casona de Santa Rosa, where the Battle of Santa Rosa occurred, and the Monument to the Heroes of 1856 and 1955.

Reeds and archaeological site El Farallon

The Reeds sector and its surroundings are rarely visited by foreign tourists but it is an area rich in tourist attractions. The city of Reeds is located in the plains of Guanacaste, on the road to Liberia. Some of the activities available in the area are: rafting on the Corobici River, hikes in the Pelado Volcano, and visit the archaeological site El Farallon which has great historical importance for the petroglyphs located on the stone wall near a river. It is a place that surely allows you to connect with the history of our people.

Guanacaste has become one of, if not the most popular attraction Costa Rica has to offer. It is a tropical paradise filled with beautiful sandy beaches, lush mountain ranges, and exotic volcanoes. Visitors of this region are drawn by the diversity of incredibly appealing scenes, wildlife, and culture that Guanacaste provides.

Located on the Northern Pacific Coast of Costa Rica, Guanacaste has risen to the top as Costa Rica’s favorite vacation destination. The peak season for visiting Guanacaste is between December and April, this is Costa Rica’s dry season. Although, Guanacaste is unique in Costa Rica for its dryer, tropical climate. Guanacaste does still experience a rainy season, but it is still the driest part of the country. That means more time sunbathing on white sandy beaches or adventuring through lush rainforests. The dry tropical climate and proximity to both beaches and mountains make the ideal location for travelers seeking anything from sun and relaxation to mountain adventure to nature and birding tours. In fact, Guanacaste vacation tours are some of the best in the country. Guanacaste extraordinary natural diversity, great climate, stunning beaches, and vacation tours make it the ideal vacation destination for you and your whole family.
Guanacaste is home to world-class vacation destinations, hotels, and all-inclusive resorts. It is also easily accessible thanks to the Daniel Oduber International Airport located in Libera, the capital city of Guanacaste. Every year tourists from all over the world flock to Guanacaste to experience the pristine beaches, abundant rainforests, and a variety of boutique, eco, 5-star and romantic Guanacaste hotels.

In Guanacaste, there are plenty of activities to do. From surfing to ziplining, to scuba diving you can fill your need for adventure. Active Volcanoes allow you to once again experience the natural beauty that is one of a kind. Waterfalls and national parks can also be part of your adventure in Guanacaste. With 400 miles of coastline and plenty of activities to enjoy, Guanacaste is sure to provide an experience of a lifetime.

The Costa Rica crocodile bridge is 73 kilometers (45 miles) from San Jose, about a 1 hour/20 min drive. You have to pass this bridge if you are going to Jaco, Manuel Antonio, the South Pacific or the Osa Peninsula if you plan to drive on the Costanera Sur (Route 34). The crocodile bridge is in the small town of Tarcoles, about a 20-minute drive north of Jaco.

The entire river watershed covers over 2000 kilometers (1242 miles) and empties into the Pacific Ocean. Additionally, Tarcoles River begins at the point where two different rivers meet creating the border of the Carara National Park. Unfortunately, the Tarcoles River is contaminated and polluted. Despite the contamination, an abundance of wildlife depends on the river for survival due to its key location. Furthermore, the river also helps irrigate agricultural lands and generates electricity. The government and local community have implemented programs to clean up the river but it has already had many years of contamination and it will take a long process to clean. It is considered an unsafe place to swim obviously. It is best to check it out from a distance, especially because of the large amounts of crocodiles in this river.

You’ll know you have reached the bridge when you see lots of cars, a hotel, a small market, several souvenir shops and lots of people walking around. You can walk onto the bridge and make sure to use the handrail. One should be very careful when you walk on this bridge because there is no dedicated pedestrian lane and cars drive fast. The best side to see the crocodiles is on the left (coming north from San Jose). When you look down slowly, you will be blown away by the number of huge crocodiles laying right under the bridge.

The amount of American crocodiles in this river is simply amazing. So much so that this river is considered to have the highest population of crocodiles in the world. And these guys are massive. Thanks to the large numbers of these reptiles, the crocodile bridge is a fascinating stop and people love to see these animals.

Every year on October 12th, Costa Rica celebrates Dia de las Culturas, also known as Columbus Day in the United States of America. In Spanish speaking countries and communities, it is often known as Dia de la Raza, the Day of Race. This national holiday marks the anniversary of Christopher Columbus’s first journey and the discovery of the Americas.

Since 1994, Costa Rica has changed the name of the official holiday from Dia de la Raza to Dia de las Culturas (Day of Culture). This change recognizes the mix of cultures that has contributed to the development and culture of Costa Rica. A diverse fusion of European, American, African and Asian influences shape Costa Rican, and Latin American, culture. Therefore, Dia de las Culturas is now a celebration of the heritage, colonization, and cultural diversity that is found throughout Costa Rica.

This celebration in Costa Rica is a lively event. The province of Limon celebrates this day in the week prior to the 12th with a colorful carnival full of dancing and cultural demonstrations. Throughout Costa Rica, you may see dancing and singing, but for the full Dia de la Culturas experience, Limon is the place to be. A good time is pretty much guaranteed, and it’s all in the name of history and the merging of cultures. Expect to see people lining the streets to watch and cheer on the “beauty queens,” marching bands and brightly colored costumes, along with very colorfully dressed and extremely coordinated dance troupes.

If traveling in Costa Rica during this time, tourists and locals go out into the streets and are greeted by a colorful mix of streamers, dancers, and celebration. It is important to note that Dia de la Culturas is a national holiday. Government offices, the post office, and public schools will be closed.