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Costa Rica





Known as the Switzerland of Central America, Costa Rica is a small country, about the size of West Virginia. In spite of it's small size it has more than a dozen major climate zones and is best known for it's abundance of birds, mammals, butterflies, and plants. More than 1,000 species of orchids are found in Costa Rica. Wildlife is abundant and includes puma, jaguar, deer, monkeys, and 850 species of birds. The climate of Costa Rica ranges from tropical on the coastal plains to temperate in the interior highlands. Average annual temperatures range from 31.7°C (89°F) on the coast to 16.7°C (62°F) inland. The country enjoys spring-like weather year-round. Temperatures at the school range from 65-70°F at night and 80-85°F during the day. Humidity varies throughout the year but is highest during the green season which runs from May to October.

Costa Rica is the second oldest democracy in the Americas, dating back to the 19th century. Costa Ricans abolished their military in 1848 and prefer to channel their national resources into health and education. This has resulted in one of the highest standards of living and literacy rates in Latin America, along with one of the worlds best health care systems.
Good agricultural soils in Costa Rica are concentrated in the Meseta Central and in the river valleys. About one-third of the total land area is covered by forest, much of which is commercially productive. Mineral resources, including bauxite, are believed to be extensive but remain largely undeveloped. Fishing for tuna, sharks, and turtles is carried out along the coast. Waterpower is abundant and is used to generate electricity for industrial operations.

Orchid

A majority of the people of Costa Rica are of European (largely Spanish) descent. Spanish is the official language, but English is also spoken by many educated people and some of the ethnic Jamaicans. Roman Catholicism is the state religion, but freedom of worship is guaranteed by the constitution.
The richness and diversity of Costa Rica make it an excellent site for students to gain important language and cultural skills and cross cultural understanding.
Want to know more about Costa Rica?
You can visit the official Costa Rica Tourist Board's web site.

Two Parrots


Butterfly