10 fun and interesting Costa Rica facts

1. Costa Rica's Soda Restaurants Offer Unique Dining Experience

If you're looking for a unique dining experience while in Costa Rica, be sure to check out a "soda"! These small, informal restaurants are a great way to sample the local cuisine, with traditional dishes such as rice, chicken, salad, and beans. Plus, you'll get to experience the warm hospitality of the locals, making it a truly memorable experience. So, if you're looking for a delicious and authentic meal, be sure to ask for a soda!

Also → San Jose: Costa Rica's Lively Capital

2. Costa Rica Receives Taiwanese Gift - The El Puente de Amistad

Costa Rica is the proud recipient of a Taiwanese gift - the El Puente de Amistad, or the Tempisque River Bridge. This bridge connects the Nicoya Peninsula to the mainland, providing a vital link between the two regions. The bridge is a symbol of friendship between Taiwan and Costa Rica, and is a reminder of the strong ties between the two countries. The bridge is a testament to the generosity of the Taiwanese people, and is a reminder of the importance of international friendship and cooperation.

Also → North America's Many Countries

3. Costa Rica's Unique Climate

Situated just 8-11 degrees north of the equator, Costa Rica experiences a unique climate where the sun rises and sets at almost the same time throughout the year. This phenomenon is due to the country's close proximity to the equator, which results in the sun's rays hitting the country at a more direct angle, creating a consistent sunrise and sunset schedule. As a result, Costa Rica enjoys a tropical climate with warm temperatures and plenty of sunshine year-round.

Also → The Wonders of Honey

4. Costa Rica's Landmark-Loving Directions

In Costa Rica, landmarks are often used when giving directions, even when the landmark no longer exists. For example, someone might tell you to travel 100 meters north from the cathedral, even though the cathedral is no longer there. This is a common practice in Costa Rica, as it is often easier to remember landmarks than street names or other directions.

Also → Colombia: No Traditional Four Seasons!

5. Costa Rican babies grow up on caffeine!

In Costa Rica, men are affectionately referred to as "Ticos" and women as "Ticas". But that's not the only unique thing about the culture - Costa Rican babies grow up on caffeine! Coffee is added to their milk bottles from a young age, and it's not uncommon to see a one-year-old sipping on an espresso! It's a unique way of life that's been passed down through generations, and it's a testament to the country's strong coffee culture.

Also → Brasília: The City That Changed Brazil

6. Plastic Money the Preferred Method of Payment

In Costa Rica, plastic money is the preferred method of payment for even the smallest of purchases. From a candy bar to a pack of gum, and even a newspaper, locals will often pay for these items with a credit card. This is a stark contrast to many other countries, where cash is still the most common form of payment for small items.

Also → Lemons: A Sour Orange & Citron Hybrid!

7. Costa Rican Women Keep Their Last Names After Marriage

In Costa Rica, women do not take on their husband's last name when they marry. Instead, the mother's last name is added to the woman's existing last name, creating a unique combination that she will keep for life. This is a unique tradition that has been in place for centuries, and is a reflection of the strong sense of identity and independence that Costa Rican women have.

Also → The Golden Gate Bridge: A Symbol of San Francisco

8. " 'Media Naranja' - The Other Half of an Orange!"

In Costa Rica, the term "media naranja" is used to refer to one's better-half, literally translating to "the other half of an orange". This phrase is thought to be symbolic of the sweet-tart balance of a relationship, as oranges are known for their combination of sweet and sour flavors. It's a unique way of expressing the importance of finding someone who can bring out the best in you, just like the perfect balance of sweet and sour in an orange.

Also → Ankara: The Safe City with a High Road Safety Problem

9. Costa Rica's Killer Bees Threaten Beekeeping

Costa Rica's native honey bees were wiped out several years ago, replaced by the much more aggressive African 'killer bees'. These bees are known for their defensive behavior and their ability to swarm and sting in large numbers, making them a much more dangerous species than the native honey bees. As a result, beekeeping in Costa Rica has become a much more difficult and dangerous endeavor.

Also → Campbell's Covered Bridge is South Carolina's Only Standing Bridge

10. Costa Rica's Speed Bumps Are Called "Son Muertos"

In Costa Rica, speed bumps are referred to as "son muertos", which translates to "dead people" in English. This is an interesting name for the bumps, which are used to slow down traffic and prevent accidents. The bumps are usually made of asphalt or concrete and are placed across the road in order to reduce the speed of vehicles. They are usually painted yellow or white and are usually about 3-4 inches high. The bumps are an important part of road safety in Costa Rica, helping to reduce the number of accidents and fatalities on the roads.