Blog, Culture, Environment

Destination of the Year 2024: Costa Rica 

Experience the Costa Rican Highlights 

Costa Rica, the jewel of Central America, has been crowned the Destination of the Year by the renowned travel and leisure online travel catalogue for 2024, and it’s no wonder why. Picture yourself on a pristine white-sand beach, where palm trees sway in the gentle breeze, and surfers ride the exhilarating breaking waves. Welcome to a paradise that transcends imagination and captures the essence of natural beauty – welcome to Costa Rica.  

A Cultural Odyssey 

Venture inland, and the landscape transforms into the Guanacaste pampas, where sabaneros, the Costa Rican cowboys, embody a rich pre-Columbian and colonial history. Explore the charming town of Nicoya, one of the first Spanish settlements and the home of the Chorotega people, offering a glimpse into the nation’s storied past. 

Caribbean Charms 

On the Caribbean side, discover freshwater canals and serene rivers weaving through the rainforests of Barra del Colorado National Wildlife Refuge and Tortuguero National Park. Immerse yourself in the vibrant Afro-Caribbean culture of Limón, where calypso beats and aromatic cuisine create an unforgettable sensory experience. 

 

Hiking Through Costa Rica  

For the avid hiker, the Camino de Costa Rica beckons—a 174-mile trail t

 

hat cuts across the country, from the Atlantic coast to the Dota Mountains. Experience the author’s hometown, where every step is a journey through lush landscapes and cultural richness. 

 

Marine Marvels off Osa Peninsula 

Off the Osa Peninsula lies Golfo Dulce, a sanctuary for Pacific humpback whales. Explore mangrove swamps and Corcovado National Park, protecting one of the world’s most diverse ecosystems. Here, the possibility of spotting a jaguar strolling along a white-sand beach adds an element of wild wonder to your Costa Rican adventure. 

 

Pura Vida Spirit 

Costa Ricans, affectionately known as Ticos, welcome you with a shared belief that life is beautiful, and things will always turn out fine. This spirit is woven into the very fabric of the nation, making every encounter a celebration of the pure life—Pura Vida. 

 

Nature’s Bounty and Conservation 

Costa Rica, the “rich coast,” lives up to its name with world-class beaches and some of the most bio-diverse ecosystems on Earth. With 28 National Parks and a quarter of the country dedicated to conservation, it’s a haven for nature lovers. Indeed, scientists estimate that five percent of the world’s species inhabit this region. To put it into perspective, the country’s size is equivalent to that of West Virginia. Explore diverse flora, fauna, and geothermal wonders, all in a day’s journey.  

 

What to do? 

For surf enthusiasts, Tamarindo offers waves for all skill levels, while the Nicoya Peninsula promises powerful waves and a bohemian atmosphere in Santa Teresa. Experience self-care with spa treatments at Vida Mía Healing Center & Spa, perched atop a “high vibrational crystal mountain.” 

Costa Rica, considered the birthplace of ziplining, offers canopy tours and hanging bridges amid its lush forests. In the Monteverde cloud forest, Selvatura Park boasts nearly two miles of treetop walkways. 

 

Hidden Gems in the Pacuare Region 

For the intrepid traveler, embark on a private hike through the Talamanca Mountains with a guide from the indigenous Cabécar community. The Pacuare River, as endorsed by experts, is Central America’s premier destination for whitewater rafting. 

 

Plan your trip with us and discover the Pura Vida spirit 

With nonstop flights from over a dozen U.S. cities, we invite you to experience a blend of adventure, culture, and natural wonders. Whether you seek relaxation on sun-kissed beaches, adrenaline-pumping activities, or cultural immersion, Costa Rica promises a journey that transcends expectations. 

Camila León
Marketing Assistant
I am a passionate journalist and dedicated English teacher, and my love for writing has been a lifelong fascination. Born and raised in the breathtaking landscapes of Costa Rica, I find myself naturally drawn to the wonders of nature, nurturing a profound love for animals and a fierce commitment to conservation efforts, which inspire my writing.

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