Costa Rica and Nicaragua

The beautiful beach, Playa de Conchal

Pura Vida- the classic catch phrase of Costa Rica. We traveled to Costa Rica in July 2015 to see the beautiful beaches, lush landscapes and to eat delicious fresh seafood! We went in July, which is considered the peak of rainy season. However, like California it only rained once because they are also in a drought.

Costa Rica is Spanish for "Rich Coast."

Some interesting facts about Costa Rica is that it is bordered by Nicaragua, Panama, the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea. It has a large population with the majority of the population living in the capital city of San Jose. 

Delicious fresh fish.

Zip Lining in Costa Rica's rain forest. Rincon de la Vieja, National Park

Like most Latin American countries, Costa Rica was also colonized by Spain, had a revolution and gained independence in 1847. Currently they are considered the most stable, and prosperous country in Central America. What Costa Rica is most known for is its beautiful geography, landforms and landscapes.There are 14 known volcanoes in Costa Rica, and six of them have been active in the last 75 years. The country also experiences earthquakes. It is 8 and 12 degrees north of the Equator, so the climate is tropical year round. However, the country has many micro climates depending on elevation, rainfall, topography, and by the geography of each particular region.

We stayed in the Guanacaste province in the northwestern part of the country, along the Pacific Ocean.  

Nicaragua

We also took a day trip to Nicaragua. Nicaragua is the largest country in Central America. The population of Nicaragua is slightly over 6 million and its capital is Managua.They are a multi-ethnic population that includes: indigenous peoples, Europeans, Africans, Asians, and people from the Middle Eastern. The main language is Spanish. Some native tribes on the eastern coast still speak their own languages.
 It was also conquered by Spain in the 16th century and gained independence in 1821. Since its independence, Nicaragua has undergone periods of political unrest, dictatorship, and fiscal crisis. These periods of crisis led to the Nicaraguan Revolution in the 1960s and 1970s.  They are currently a democracy and are experiencing economic growth and political stability.
 The environment is very diverse: warm tropical climate, with many active volcanoes and is currently becoming an increasingly popular tourist destination. The Colonial city of Granada in Nicaragua, is one of the most visited sites in Central America. 

Nicaragua, Volcano Crater

Where natives would do sacrifices to appease the active volcano.

Active Masaya Volcano

Tamarindo, Costa Rica