How to be a Sustainable Traveler
Sustainable travel involves making conscious choices to minimize your environmental impact, support local communities, and preserve the destinations you visit for future generations. By adopting eco-friendly practices and being mindful of your footprint, you can contribute to more responsible tourism.
Benefits of Travel
Travel offers a myriad of benefits that extend far beyond simply visiting new places. It has the power to enrich lives, broaden perspectives, and contribute to personal growth in profound ways.
Carnival Season in Costa Rica
If you’ve never experienced carnival in Costa Rica, prepare to be amazed by the energy, colors, and cultural pride that spill onto the streets during this exciting time. From coast to coast, Costa Ricans celebrate their heritage with music, dancing, and parades that bring together entire communities.
A Deep Dive into Costa Rican Coffee & Cocoa
Costa Rica’s rich volcanic soil and favorable climate make it an ideal location for cultivating high-quality coffee and cocoa, two of the country’s most cherished agricultural products. Both industries are deeply intertwined with Costa Rican culture and economy, offering a unique insight into the nation’s agricultural heritage and commitment to sustainability.
Costa Rica’s Neighbors to the South
Costa Rica, celebrated for its lush rainforests, stunning biodiversity, and commitment to sustainability, shares its southern borders with two intriguing countries: Panama and Colombia. Exploring these neighboring nations provides travelers with diverse landscapes and rich cultural experiences. This guide delves into what you need to know about Panama and Colombia, offering practical travel tips and highlighting must-see destinations.
Costa Rica’s Neighbors to the North
Costa Rica, renowned for its commitment to peace, ecological sustainability, and vibrant culture, occupies a unique position in Central America. To the north, it shares borders with two countries—Nicaragua and, further afield, Honduras. Understanding Costa Rica’s relationships with its northern neighbors offers travelers insights into the region’s rich history, shared cultural heritage, and distinct landscapes. Whether you’re planning to extend your trip beyond Costa Rica or simply curious about the broader geography of the region, this guide offers an overview of Nicaragua and Honduras, with practical tips for travelers considering cross-border visits.
Rion Explores: A Grand Tour of Costa Rica in a Week (pt.2)
Welcome back to Rion Explores! In this second edition, I’m continuing my depiction of my first week in Costa Rica, exploring it from southern to northern tip on its western half. In the previous issue (published on September 16th, 2024), I shared my adventures with my partner in Atenas, Jacó, Uvita, Nicoya and Cabuya. This issue shares the second half of our week as we explored Guanacaste Province’s most famous and hidden spots, Playa Portero, Liberia, Rincón de la Vieja, Nuevo Arenal, and La Fortuna.
International Beach Cleanup Week: Preserving Costa Rica’s Pristine Coastlines
Every year, during the third week of September, volunteers from around the world unite to tackle the pollution that threatens marine life and beach ecosystems. As a country deeply invested in ecotourism and environmental preservation, Costa Rica’s participation in International Beach Cleanup Week is a testament to its ongoing commitment to sustainability. If you’re planning a trip to Costa Rica during this time, or if you’re already there, you can get involved and contribute to preserving the country’s pristine coastlines.
Costa Rican Independence Day: Celebrating Freedom and Unity
Independence Day is a time when the Costa Rican values of democracy, peace, and unity shine. As a traveler, you’ll not only witness these celebrations but also feel the deep sense of national pride that unites communities across the country, from bustling cities to tranquil rural areas.
Rion Explores: A Grand Tour of Costa Rica in a Week (pt.1)
This first edition of Rion Explores is a two-parter, sharing my fast-paced journey scaling from south to north tip of Costa Rica’s West half in 6 days. On average, each day my partner (the driver) and I (the passenger) drove for five to six hours on everything from major and toll highways, to dirt and gravel roads, as well as through a small but aggressively-flowing river.
A Look at Arenal Park: Exploring the Volcano and Surrounding Towns
Arenal Volcano National Park is one of Costa Rica’s most iconic destinations, attracting adventurers, nature lovers, and tourists from around the world. The park, located in the northern region of the country, is home to the majestic Arenal Volcano, a perfect cone-shaped peak that dominates the landscape. Beyond the volcano itself, the surrounding towns offer a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural experiences, and outdoor activities, making this region a must-visit for anyone exploring Costa Rica.
Día de los Niños in Costa Rica: Celebrating Childhood in the Land of Pura Vida
Día de los Niños, or Children’s Day, is a cherished holiday in Costa Rica, reflecting the nation's deep appreciation for childhood and family. Celebrated on September 9th each year, this day is dedicated to honoring the youngest members of society, emphasizing the importance of their rights, well-being, and happiness. To understand the significance of Día de los Niños in Costa Rica, it’s essential to explore not only the holiday itself but also what childhood is like in this vibrant country.
Costa Rica’s Reputation for Peace: A Legacy of Stability and Neutrality
Costa Rica stands out globally as a beacon of peace and stability in a region often marked by political turmoil and conflict. This small Central American nation has earned its reputation for peace through a combination of historical decisions, legal frameworks, and a steadfast commitment to neutrality, setting it apart from many other countries.
La Amistad National Park: Costa Rica’s Shared Natural Reserve with Panama
Straddling the border between Costa Rica and Panama, the Amistad International Park is a remarkable testament to the beauty and ecological diversity of Central America. Covering an impressive 202,000 hectares, this vast protected area is one of the largest and most ecologically significant parks in the region. Established to preserve the unique flora and fauna of the area, Amistad International Park is a haven for nature lovers and an essential component of the Central American ecological network.
Discover Liberia, Costa Rica: Gateway to the North
Nestled in the heart of Costa Rica’s northwestern region, Liberia is a city rich in history and natural beauty, often referred to as the “White City” due to its colonial-style whitewashed buildings. As the capital of the Guanacaste Province, Liberia serves as a crucial gateway to both the country’s natural wonders and its vibrant culture. With its strategic location and welcoming atmosphere, Liberia offers travelers a unique blend of cultural heritage and stunning landscapes.
National Parks Day: Celebrating Nature and Conservation
Costa Rica is a global leader in environmental conservation, and this commitment is celebrated every year on August 24th with **National Parks Day**. This day is dedicated to honoring the country's extensive network of national parks and protected areas, which cover nearly 25% of its landmass. It’s a day to appreciate Costa Rica's rich biodiversity and the efforts made to preserve its unique natural heritage. National Parks Day is not only a celebration of Costa Rica’s natural beauty but also a reminder of the importance of conservation for future generations.
Fiesta Patronal de Asserí
The Fiesta Patronal de Asserí is a vibrant and culturally rich festival that takes place annually in the town of Asserí, Costa Rica, on August 19th. This event, dedicated to Saint Louis, the town's patron saint, offers a fascinating glimpse into the traditions, religious devotion, and communal spirit that define Costa Rican culture. As a key celebration within the country's calendar of patronal feasts, the Fiesta Patronal de Asserí showcases the blending of religious observance with local customs, making it a unique and unforgettable experience for both residents and visitors alike.
Día de la Madre: Celebrating Mother and Women’s Rights in Costa Rica
In Costa Rica, Día de la Madre is celebrated on August 15, a date that coincides with the Catholic Feast of the Assumption, marking the Virgin Mary's ascension into heaven. This dual celebration underscores the deep respect and reverence for motherhood within Costa Rican society, blending religious devotion with family traditions. The day is recognized as a national holiday, emphasizing its significance in Costa Rican culture.
Manuel Antonio National Park
Nestled along Costa Rica’s stunning Pacific coast, Manuel Antonio National Park is a tropical gem that captivates visitors with its rich biodiversity, pristine beaches, and lush rainforests. This park, one of the smallest in Costa Rica, covers just over 1,680 acres of land and 135,906 acres of marine area. Despite its modest size, it is packed with natural beauty and wildlife, making it one of the country’s most popular tourist destinations.
Fiesta Ciudad Colón: A Celebration of Culture and Community
Fiesta Ciudad Colón, held on the 10th of August each year, is one of Costa Rica’s most vibrant and exhilarating festivals. Located in the charming town of Ciudad Colón in the province of San José, this event encapsulates the lively spirit of Costa Rican culture with a unique blend of tradition, festivity, and local pride.