To lead the ‘Pure Life’ – that is the essence of a Costa Rican’s outlook towards his or her world! This Central American nation has over the centuries been visited by the Spanish, American Indians, Africans, Caribbean and more recently, Asians.
Some mixed with the indigenous Indian population while others kept their identity, but those who chose to do so stayed back and made the land their own. These people brought their own cultures with them and with the years passing, there is now a wide variety in the culture seen across the country. It is to be noted however, that Costa Rican culture is unique to that country, with very few matches to that of other neighbouring countries.
The gregarious ‘Ticos’ (as Costa Ricans are called) derive the majority of their religious and cultural activities from the earliest settlers, i.e. the Spanish. The vast majority of Costa Ricans are fair skinned and are Catholic, but the church’s influence on society is minimal. The main language is Spanish, though there are some areas where Creole (Caribbean English), is spoken. Tourist and vacation spots have a sizeable English speaking population. Festivals are generally religious-oriented and there are frequent carnivals and fiestas to showcase a laid back culture where people spend time with friends and family. In a region known for its wars, coups and revolution, the Costa Rican nature of avoiding confrontations has resulted, surprisingly, in the country not having an army and also maintaining a tradition of following democracy. More than a quarter of the budget is spent on education, with excellent schools, colleges and universities; this has resulted in almost 100% literacy. Good medical care is available universally and is within the reach of the common Ticos. Costa Rica has stunning natural locales, both on land and sea and the government has promoted ecotourism in the truest sense, with active and committed community participation. The culture of preserving nature is to be seen to be believed, both at the individual and corporate level.
Typical Costa Rican food is a mix of Spanish, South American and Mexican cuisine. Soups, chicken and rice, beans and rice, pork sandwiches and a single plate combo meal of rice, bean, side dishes and meat are the most common dishes available. There is plenty of fruit available – to be had as is or in juice form. ‘Punto’ is a genre of music distinct to Costa Rica with a distinct rhythm called ‘tambito’. Calypso and reggae are heard more along the Atlantic seaboard and rock is the favourite of Generation Next. Theatre is very important in a Ticos’ calendar with frequent performances of operas, ballet and symphonies, especially in the capital city of San Jose. Non lethal bull fights, horse parades and a host of other cultural activities are available to the tourist and locals alike. This extremely vibrant life and with such a wide variety of options are the reason that tourism is the number one industry and vacations in Costa Rica is a must for you and me!