Costa Rica
Cesar Cruz-World Geography-11/7/2014
Paradise
Costa Rica is the definition of paradise. The country contains biodiversity and environmental attractions. It is home to majestic volcanoes, misty cloud forests, stunning river valleys, and hundreds of beaches along the Pacific and Caribbean coasts. Costa Rica carries a fascinating ecological story, woven into the history of a peaceful and family-oriented culture.
Religion
Catholicism is the dominant religion in Costa Rica. More than 70% of the population follow Catholicism. Under Catholicism is the religion of Protestantism with more than 13% of the population following it. The third most popular religion in Costa Rica is Irreligion with about 11% of the population following this religion.
Language
The main and official language in Costa Rica is Spanish. The majority of the population speak it. In Spanish "Hola" is how you say hello.
Ethnic Groups
White / Castizo are the largest ethnic group in Costa Rica with about 65% of the population being classified as this group. Mestizos are the second largest group with approximately 13% of the population, and Mulattos are the third largest with about 6% of the Costa Rican population.
Customs/Traditions
Costa Rica is home to unique and exciting holidays and festivals. The "Dia de los Boyeros", "Juan Santamaria Day", "Virgin de Los Angeles Day", and "Festival de la Luz" are some of the most important festivals and holidays that are celebrated in Costa Rica. This wonderful country also has a unique taste for music. Merengue, Salsa, and Cumbia are the most important dance and music genre. Costa Rican cuisine is known for being flavorful, with high reliance on fresh fruit and vegetables. Rice and black beans are the most traditional ingredients in Costa Rican meals.Gallo Pinto, a dish of rice and beans mixed together with onions and bell peppers, is considered the national dish.
Economy
Costa Rica is a developing country. It has a big poverty percentage. The economy of the country is influenced a lot by agriculture. The two main cash crops are coffee and bananas. The main industries in Costa Rica are agriculture, microprocessors, food processing, medical equipment, textiles and clothing, construction materials, fertilizer, and plastic products.
Holidays/Festivals
The "Dia de los Boyeros", and "Juan Santamaria Day" are two of the most important festivals and holidays that are celebrated in Costa Rica. The "Dia de los Boyeros" is celebrated every year on the second Sunday of March to celebrate the agricultural heritage of the region. Juan Santamaria Day is held every 11th of April to commemorate the death of Juan Santamaria, a former Costa Rican soldier.
COSTA RICA - Official Trailer