Costa Rica is one of the world's best ecotourism destinations. The country is famous for it's national parks which are as diverse as the country itself. Don't miss seeing an active volcano at Arenal or the beautiful green crater lake at Poas. Relax on the beach with monkeys at Manual Antonio and enjoy the Caribbean vibe or Cahuita. If you're looking for cities, then definitely skip Costa Rica, but if you're looking to experience cloud forests at their finest, beaches lined with hatching sea turtles, or volcanoes actively erupting, then Costa Rica is definitely a destination that should be on your list.

Costa Rica has been discovered, but that doesn't mean there aren't places left to be explored. Cheap flights into San Jose make the country a popular destination for Americans and Canadians alike. If you rent a car you'll have access to many places that most travelers don't reach. The popularity of Costa Rica also means that there are plenty of amenities for tourists in the form of cheap hotels, restaurants, and tour packages. There are also tourist buses that make the routes faster than the local buses, if you find yourself short on time. Because of it's small size and easy accessibility, it's possible to see a lot of the country in a short amount of time. Do consider your options though, as Costa Rica should be more than just a highlights tour.

Costa Rican Wildlife: Head to any of the national parks to see some wildlife. Wildlife viewing is one of the most popular activities in the country and you can expect to see anything from quetzals, to monkeys or slothes.
Poas Volcano: A short distance from San Jose, the crater lake in this volcano is a stunning emerald color.
Arenal Volcano: Pictured on many Costa Rican postcards, you can only hope that you're lucky enough to see the volcano actively erupting.

Gallo pinto: A rice and beans dish that is seasoned with cilantro and onion. It's most commonly served as a breakfast dish.
Casado: A lunch dish that usually combines rice, beans, and a meat such as chicken or fish. It is usually accompanied by a salad and fried plantain.
Salsa Lizano: The Costa Rican answer to ketchup, this sauce can be found at almost any restaurant and season every type of Costa Rican food.