In the “Ask a local” series we talk to natives to get the best insights and travel advice on a particular destination. In this article we’ve talked to Adrianne about Costa Rica!
About Adrianne and Costa Rica
Where in Costa Rica are you from?
- San José
What do you do for a living?
- Digital Marketing
What do you enjoy most about Costa Rica?
- The mountains (and volcanoes) surrounding Central Valley, variety of weather, birds and the fruits!
Costa Rica is generally considered to be a happy country, what do you think makes Costa Ricans so happy?
- I think the weather and nature are very important. Also the Costa Rican personality, as we can make a joke and laugh about almost everything.
Is there any trivia (and/or little known facts) you find interesting about Costa Rica?
- No army since 1948
- Variety of weather in a small area: cloudy forests, tropical rain forests, warm beaches and cool mountain
Is it necessary to speak Spanish to get by in Costa Rica?
- No
Is Costa Rica a safe country? Anything to watch out for?
- Yes, it is safe, but you have to keep an eye on your belongings. Do not leave the car door open, or get distracted in crowded places.
Places to go and things to try
What are the must see places in Costa Rica?
- San José: Mercado Central, National Theatre, Museum circuit, Barrio Escalante (gastronomic street)
- Poás or Irazú volcano
- Río Celeste and La Fortuna therms (hot springs) in the north
- Barra Honda and Playa Negra in Guanacaste
- Tortuguero and Puerto Viejo in Limón
- Manuel Antonio, Playa Dominical and Corcovado Area in the Mid- and South Pacific coast
- San Gerardo de Dota
Are there any cheap places for great value in Costa Rica?
- Tip: The ferry to Paquera (departing from Puntarenas) is only 810 colones (less than 2 US Dollars) per person and the trip is awesome. Check the Navierat Ambor website for fares and schedules.
If money was no object, where would you go (or stay) in Costa Rica?
- Isla del Coco, not necessarily because of the budget, but the planning it takes
- Punta Islita in Guanacaste
- Los sueños resort in Playa Herradura
- El remanso Lodge or similar in the Corcovado Area
What are the foods or drinks someone visiting Costa Rica should try?
- Typical breakfast gallo pinto eggs and cheese
- Casado
- Picadillo de papa y de plátano verde
- Riceland beans and caribbean chicken
- Guaro Sour
