By Lynn Farris
View of Arenal Volcano.
Costa Rica's stable democracy, safe drinking water and eco-friendliness make this Central American nation a prime destination for eco-
vacations,
adventure travel or
beach visits. National Parks comprise over a quarter of Costa Rica and many visit to see the wildlife; there are more than 200 species of mammals and 850 species of birds residing here.
Recently ranked the happiest place on the planet, Costa Rica welcomes everyone, including families.
Wows and Woes
Windsurfing on Lake Arenal, the second best place to windsurf in the world.
Wows
Don't miss soaring over the cloud canopy on a zip line, or utilizing the hanging bridges at Monte Verde Cloud Forest
At night, watch the light display as Arenal volcano erupts.
Take a raft trip down the Corobici River, windsurf on Lake Arenal or surf at Playa Hermosa, where the 2009 ISA World Surfing Games were held.
Woes
If you come during the rainy season, April through October, expect rain every day. This may mean that you can get stuck in some areas, even with a four-wheel drive vehicle.
Insider Tips
Tabacón
The thermal hot springs at the Arenal volcano,provide a relaxing day in a normally hectic vacation schedule. Some of the luxury hotels, such as Tabacón, or The Springs have a day rate so that individuals staying in less expensive hotels can enjoy the many thermal pools and gardens at their sites.
Author's Most Memorable Moment
A glimps of Manuel Antonio Beach.
I have found Costa Rica to be a country filled with incredibly breathtaking beaches. Manuel Antonio National Park on the south Pacific coast is arguably the most spectacular. We saw the endangered squirrel monkey which lives in Manuel Antonio. We photographed the white faced capuchin monkey, with all of his antics, a white tailed deer visiting the beach, a sloth hanging in a tree and a wide variety of other wildlife.
Bottom Line
Howler monkey commonly seen and heard in Costa Rica.
A visit to Costa Rica provides an adventure for the entire family. Bring a camera with plenty of film or memory cards.
Resources
About the Author:
Lynn Farris has been conducting management studies, writing technical articles and contributing to local newspapers since 1984. Having traveled throughout the world, Farris now lives in Costa Rica, teaches English and writes a column for the "National Examiner" on Costa Rica. Farris holds a Master of Business Administration and Bachelor of Arts in speech communications and psychology from Case Western Reserve University.
Photo Credits:
Photo by Lynn Farris.
Photo by Donald Farris.
Photo by Donald Farris.
Photo by Donald Farris.
Photo by Donald Farris.
