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COSTA RICA |
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| Size km/s | 511,00km/s |
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| Population | 2910,000 | |
| Time Difference | -6 hours from GMT | |
| Currency | Colones or Travellers cheques | |
| GB Embassy number | 00 506 258 2025 | |
| For Kenya/Uganda photo page click here | ||
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Geography |
| Two mountain chains run the length of one of the most beautiful and bio diverse countries of the world. Rains are abundant on the Pacific coast in the wet season, the Caribbean coast has year round precipitation. High volcanic areas overlook the densely populated areas of the Meseta Centrale These areas enjoy warm, temperate climates. For further information on the geography of locations visited click here |
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Culture |
| Very cosmopolitan rather than nationalistic, Costa Rica has welcomed all cultural diversity. Worldwide recognition has come from Costa Rica’s development of large and successful national parks, now major tourist attractions. Ecosystems include tropical rainforest, cloud forest, turtle nesting sites, coral reefs and active volcanoes. |
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Society |
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Predominantly Spanish especially in the Meseta Central. People of African ancestry tend to live in the Caribbean lowlands, as do Chinese and Costa Rican Indians. 90% of Costa Rican’s are Roman Catholic, which is the official religion. Amerindians are an indigenous people who have been given areas to call reserves. These are protected by the govt. but are generally infertile economically. Pop. growth is very high, not least because Costa Rica has become a popular retirement home for Americans. |
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Economy |
| Wealth is well distributed, although Costa Rica is not a wealthy country. There is a mixed market economy and everyone is entitled to free healthcare. The economy is based on coffee and bananas, as well as tourism. Tropical hardwood is now protected. |
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Health, Safety and Crime |
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Petty crime is to be expected as it is in the UK. This
can be a problem if students/tourists don’t think
defensively – Stay in groups, keep passports in a
communal safe, be cautious after dark- whether in urban
or country environments, and stay with or take advice from
local guides- they know the place better than anyone. |
