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Read on for Family Travel Forum's overview of travel to Costa Rica, including general regions, cautions, customs, and basic, practical facts.

Bordered by Nicaragua, Panama, the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea, Costa Rica is the most well developed country in Central America for adventure tourism and is known throughout the world for its bio-diversity and its incredible variety of wildlife. About 30% of the country is protected land, many of the hotels and tour programs are geared toward eco-tourism, and the certified wildlife guides in Costa Rica are among the most well trained in Latin America.

Costa Rica is also a very peaceful and democratic land and has been so for many years. There are no armed forces and democratic elections have been conducted since the 19th century. Costa Ricans also enjoy one of the highest standards of health care in Latin America as well as an excellent educational program, with a literacy rate of over 90%, and, like all Central American countries, the people are warm and friendly and eager to show you their beautiful country.

Regions of Costa Rica

San José and Area:
Besides the capital city of San José, this area includes the picturesque mountain towns of Barva, Alajuela, Sarchi, and Zarcero, plus the national parks of Poas Volcano, Braulio Carrillo, Irazu Volcano, and the Rain Forest Aerial Tram.

Caribbean Coast:
This region includes Puerto Limon and Tortuguero National Park, famous for its extensive wildlife and turtle nesting site.

Pacific Coast:
This lush coastal area encompasses many places such as Guanacaste, Jaco Beach and Manuel Antonio National Park.

Monteverde Area:
This region includes the town an cloud forest of Monteverde as well as surrounding attractions such as Arenal Volcano.

[FTF note: Check out our feature stories by Brenda Elwell on each of these unique areas of Costa Rica by searching the site]

Be Aware

Dangers - Petty thievery, which can occur both in the city and in outlying areas. Be particularly careful in San José, especially after dark. Do not display your wealth. Leave expensive jewelry at home and wear a cheap plastic watch. Keep car doors locked and windows up when driving in the city.

Tap Water- Safe to drink in San Jose and major cities only. Avoid uncooked fruits and vegetables unless you can peel them.

Money- Take cash, some travelers checks, and bring fifty $1 bills. They come in handy. You can easily draw cash off your credit card in all the major cities and tourist areas. U.S. dollars are accepted if you are short on colones.

Credit Card Acceptance - Because of the well-developed tourism infrastructure credit cards tend to be more widely accepted here than in other Central American countries. Prices tend to be a little higher as well, although still cheaper than the U.S. Some ATM machines in the major cities will accept your credit card for withdrawing cash.

Necessities - take flashlights, batteries, Kleenex pocket packs (for use in public toilets) and rain gear (for the rainy season).

Languages and Customs

There are three Spanish phrases you should know before you enter Costa Rica.

The first phrase is "Pura Vida" (Poo rah vee dah) which literally translated means "Pure Life" but actually means "Way to Go!" or "Awesome!" To the Costa Ricans it is a joyful way of expressing approval.

The second two phrases are "Por aquí" (poor ah key) and "Por allí" (poor ahl yee) - "This way" and "That way." When you drive through the mountains of Costa Rica, with your trusty map and guidebook you will find that most roads and decision points are unmarked. When you ask directions to a place, people often ignore your maps and say simply "Por aquí" or "Por allí."

One word to be familiar with is "Tico" (Tee Coh) which is the nickname for Costa Ricans. The word is used frequently throughout the country and is not considered derogatory.

Note: December 1 is a Christmas bonus payday in Costa Rica. It is impossible to get a taxi in the afternoon or evening in any of the cities without at least a one to two hour wait. Plan accordingly.