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About Costa Rica
Officially Republic of Costa Rica, republic (1995 est. pop. 3,301,210), 19,575 sq mi (50,700 sq km), Central America. It is bounded on the north by Nicaragua, on the east by the Caribbean Sea, on the southeast by Panama, and on the south and west by the Pacific Ocean. The capital and largest city is San José. Dubbed as the Hawaii of the new millennium. North Americans have discovered this paradise and according to Explore Magazine (Travel) it is in a Real Estate Boom that has just begun to escalate. With major airlines offering direct flights from US cities travel time is only a few hours and very affordable. If you could go back in time to 1950 would you buy property in Hawaii?
People
One of the most stable countries in Latin America, Costa Rica has a long democratic tradition, a literacy rate of over 90%, and no army. The population is largely of Spanish descent, and the official language is Spanish. The people are very kind and like to be called Ticos (little Costa Ricans) About 95% of the people are Roman Catholics and they actually like North Americans and consider them to be their big brothers who watch over them.
Resources
Costa Rica is an agricultural country, although industry is being developed at a moderate pace. Industries include food processing and the manufacture of textiles and clothing, construction materials, fertilizer, and electronics. Coffee, bananas, sugar, and beef are exported, as well as manufactured goods such as textiles. Petroleum, machinery, consumer durables, chemicals, and foodstuffs are imported. Tourism is the second biggest money-earner, after agriculture but with a 60% increase last year it will soon become # 1.
Government
The country is governed under the 1949 constitution. The president, a strong executive, serves a four-year term and may not be immediately reelected. The unicameral legislature is also elected for four years. There is universal adult suffrage, and voting is compulsory. The country is divided into seven provinces. The exchange rate is -Colonies to a dollar so plan to shop while you are here. You will want to display the beautiful hand crafted bargains and art work in your home and after all, shopping at these prices is fun.
*Columbia Encyclopedia, Sixth Edition, Copyright 2003 (edited July 5, 2005).