A Guide to Duty-Free Shopping in Central America
A guide to duty-free shopping in Central America. Learn about the Golfito and Corozal Free Zones in Costa Rica and Belize, plus airport and frontier shopping.
Costa Rica
Costa Rica
Switzerland of Central America
73
The number of years since army was abolished in Costa Rica.
2,925,128
The number of foreign visitors who visited Costa Rica pre-pandemic.
27.44
The percentage of protected land in Costa Rica.
Costa Rica Stories, Information, and Opinion
Buying a Car in Costa Rica: A Real-World Guide to Making the Right Choice
Expert advice on buying a car in Costa Rica from long-term residents. Learn about popular models, pricing expectations, and why vehicle choice matters.
Living Through the Costa Rica Rainy Season: What Residents Really Think
Is the Costa Rica rainy season really that bad? Current residents share their uncensored thoughts about living through the green season.
The Costa Rica Gentrification Debate: Are Foreign Tourists and Residents Welcome?
In the light of recent Costa Rica gentrification protests, we look at the situation from the point of view of locals, foreign residents, and the tourism industry.
Creating the Perfect Costa Rica Itinerary: A Travel Expert’s Guide
Planning a Costa Rica vacation? This article offers insider tips from a former travel consultant on creating the perfect itinerary to make the most of this beautiful country, no matter how much time you have.
Costa Rica Records 2.66 Million Tourist Arrivals in 2024
Tourism Minister announces Costa Rica hit 2.66 million air arrivals in 2024, the highest tourism numbers in 16 years.
Moving to Costa Rica: 10 Reasons to Make the Move (And 10 Reasons to Think Twice)
Considering moving to Costa Rica? Get a balanced perspective with 10 reasons to make the move and 10 factors that might make you think twice.
Bitcoin Jungle, Bitcoin Beach, and Lake Bitcoin: Three Crytpo Communities Reshaping Central American Tourism
Three innovative crypto communities in Central America are showing how digital currency can enhance rather than change traditional tourist destinations. Learn about Bitcoin Beach, Bitcoin Jungle, and Lake Bitcoin.
A Quick Guide to Our Favorite Costa Rica Waterfalls
A guide to our favorite Costa Rica waterfalls, highlighting the best features of each cascade with practical tips and local insights.
Costa Rica Tourism Professionals Analyze Recent Low-Season Visitor Decline
Costa Rica tourism professionals discuss multiple factors behind recent visitor decline, from currency issues to infrastructure challenges, while some argue numbers simply show return to normal seasonal patterns.