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Pipas and Beyond: The Many Ways Costa Ricans Enjoy Coconut

There’s nothing quite like the satisfying thwack of a machete splitting open a fresh green coconut under the warm Costa Rican sun. Locally known as pipa fría, fresh coconut water is more than just a refreshing drink—it’s an essential part of the culture, a natural...

Fermented Favorites: Chicha and Other Traditional Central American Brews

The Ancient Art of Fermentation in Central America Fermentation has been an integral part of Central American culture for centuries, providing not only a method for preserving food and drinks but also a deeply rooted tradition in social and spiritual gatherings. Among...

Casado: The Ultimate Costa Rican Plate

If you’ve ever dined in Costa Rica, you’ve likely encountered the casado. This hearty dish is the ultimate representation of Costa Rican cuisine—a balanced, affordable, and flavorful meal that locals swear by. Whether you’re grabbing lunch at a small soda (a local...

A Guide to Costa Rica’s Most Unique Food Festivals

Costa Rica is a paradise for food lovers. Beyond the picture-perfect beaches, lush jungles, and abundant wildlife, this small but mighty country knows how to celebrate its culinary heritage. From mouthwatering pejibaye festivals to grand coffee celebrations, every...

Vigorón – Costa Rica’s Crispy Street Food with a History

[vc_row][vc_column width="3/4" css=".vc_custom_1691013008333{background-color: #f9ecc5 !important;}"][vc_column_text] A Flavorful Bite of Costa Rican Tradition Vigorón isn’t just a snack—it’s a crunchy, flavorful piece of Costa Rican history wrapped in a banana leaf....

Agua de Sapo: Costa Rica’s Refreshing Sugarcane & Ginger Drink

[vc_row][vc_column width="3/4" css=".vc_custom_1691013008333{background-color: #f9ecc5 !important;}"][vc_column_text]Agua de Sapo, or "Toad Water," might sound like a questionable choice at first, but don’t let the name fool you! This traditional Costa Rican drink is...

Fire and Flavor: The Art of Costa Rican BBQ and Street Grilled Meats

[vc_row][vc_column width="3/4" css=".vc_custom_1691013008333{background-color: #f9ecc5 !important;}"][vc_column_text]Costa Rica’s food culture is rich with bold flavors, and when it comes to grilled meats, the country takes things to the next level. Whether you’re...

Flavors of Costa Rica: A Culinary Journey Through Its Diverse Regions

[vc_row][vc_column width="3/4" css=".vc_custom_1691013008333{background-color: #f9ecc5 !important;}"][vc_column_text]Embarking on a culinary tour of Costa Rica offers an enchanting blend of flavors that reflect its rich biodiversity and cultural diversity. This...

Artisanal Foods and Beverages: Costa Rica’s Culinary Renaissance

[vc_row][vc_column width="3/4" css=".vc_custom_1691013008333{background-color: #f9ecc5 !important;}"][vc_column_text]Costa Rica is not just a haven for nature lovers but also a vibrant canvas for a flourishing artisanal food and beverage scene. Here, a spirited cadre...

The Vibrant Citrus Palette: Understanding Costa Rica’s Lemons and Limes

[vc_row][vc_column width="3/4" css=".vc_custom_1691013008333{background-color: #f9ecc5 !important;}"][vc_column_text]A Comprehensive Guide to Lemons and Limes in Costa Rica: Varieties, Uses, and Seasonality Costa Rica's fertile landscapes offer a perfect environment...

Why Costa Rica Might as Well Be Called “Costa Pollo”: A Look at the National Obsession with Chicken

[vc_row][vc_column width="3/4" css=".vc_custom_1691013008333{background-color: #f9ecc5 !important;}"][vc_column_text]In Costa Rica, it seems the national bird might as well be a fried chicken. From bustling city streets to sleepy beach towns, you’re never more than a...

Sopa de Tapado: A Taste of the Coast

[vc_row][vc_column width="3/4" css=".vc_custom_1691013008333{background-color: #f9ecc5 !important;}"][vc_column_text]Nestled along the vibrant coasts where the jungle meets the sea, the culinary traditions of Central America bloom with as much diversity and color as...

Tamales: The Heart and Soul of Latin American Festivities and Traditions

[vc_row][vc_column width="3/4" css=".vc_custom_1691013008333{background-color: #f9ecc5 !important;}"][vc_column_text]In the vibrant lands of Latin America, where rich traditions and diverse cultures intertwine, there exists a culinary masterpiece revered for...

Garden to Gourmet: Celebrating Costa Rica’s Vibrant Squash and Pumpkins

[vc_row][vc_column width="3/4" css=".vc_custom_1691013008333{background-color: #f9ecc5 !important;}"][vc_column_text]Exploring Squash and Pumpkins in Costa Rica: Varieties, Seasons, and Culinary Traditions Costa Rica's verdant environment, supported by rich...

Holiday Favorite: Eggnog

[vc_row][vc_column width="3/4" css=".vc_custom_1691013008333{background-color: #f9ecc5 !important;}"][vc_column_text]To create a delightful eggnog cocktail served in a sugar-rimmed glass, you can follow these popular recipes that incorporate various spirits and...

Two Cream Cheese Holiday Desserts

[vc_row][vc_column width="3/4" css=".vc_custom_1691013008333{background-color: #f9ecc5 !important;}"][vc_column_text]In Costa Rica, if you are looking for a product similar to Philadelphia cream cheese, you might want to try Queso Crema from local brands like Dos...

A Culinary Crawl Through Costa Rica’s Sausage Scene: From Spice to Slicej

[vc_row][vc_column width="3/4" css=".vc_custom_1691013008333{background-color: #f9ecc5 !important;}"][vc_column_text]Let’s embark on a delightful escapade across Costa Rica, where sausages aren't just food; they're a festival of flavors and a true testament to the art...

Exploring the Delights of Sopa de Mariscos: A Costa Rican Culinary Gem

[vc_row][vc_column width="3/4" css=".vc_custom_1691013008333{background-color: #f9ecc5 !important;}"][vc_column_text]Costa Rica, famed for its stunning beaches and biodiverse ecosystems, also boasts a rich culinary tradition that mirrors its natural abundance. Among...

The Culinary Journey of Vigorón: From Nicaragua to Guanacaste

[vc_row][vc_column width="3/4" css=".vc_custom_1691013008333{background-color: #f9ecc5 !important;}"][vc_column_text]Vigorón: A Culinary Journey from Nicaragua to Costa Rica Vigorón, a dish steeped in Central American culinary tradition, has carved its niche as a...

Fresco de Chan: Refreshing Tradition in a Glass

[vc_row][vc_column width="3/4" css=".vc_custom_1691013008333{background-color: #f9ecc5 !important;}"][vc_column_text]When searching for different Central American beverages, Fresco de Chan stands out for its simplicity and refreshing qualities. This traditional drink,...

Gallina de Palo: The Mushroom That Tastes Like Chicken

[vc_row][vc_column width="3/4" css=".vc_custom_1691013008333{background-color: #f9ecc5 !important;}"][vc_column_text]In the diverse culinary landscape of Costa Rica, one intriguing ingredient stands out for its unique taste and versatility—gallina de palo. Known for...

From Ocean to Plate: The Rarity of Black Seafood Dishes

[vc_row][vc_column width="3/4" css=".vc_custom_1691013008333{background-color: #f9ecc5 !important;}"][vc_column_text]Costa Rica, a land enveloped by expansive coastlines, is renowned not only for its verdant landscapes but also for its culinary palette that tantalizes...

Exploring Picadillo de Arracache: A Staple of Costa Rican Cuisine

[vc_row][vc_column width="3/4" css=".vc_custom_1691013008333{background-color: #f9ecc5 !important;}"][vc_column_text]Picadillo de arracache is more than just a meal; it’s a vibrant expression of Costa Rica’s culinary heritage. This traditional dish, rich in flavors...

The Traditional Elixir of Costa Rica: Coyol Wine

[vc_row][vc_column width="3/4" css=".vc_custom_1691013008333{background-color: #f9ecc5 !important;}"][vc_column_text]In the heart of Costa Rica's rural landscapes, a unique and traditional beverage captures the essence of cultural festivity and communal life. Known as...

Exploring the Zesty World of Pati: A Taste of Limón in Every Bite

[vc_row][vc_column width="3/4" css=".vc_custom_1691013008333{background-color: #f9ecc5 !important;}"][vc_column_text]In Costa Rican cuisine, where the lush greenery meets the rhythm of the Caribbean, a humble yet fiery dish makes its mark—Pati. Known for its rich,...

Experience Costa Rica’s 203 Years of Independence with Vandará’s Authentic Celebration

[vc_row][vc_column width="3/4" css=".vc_custom_1691013008333{background-color: #f9ecc5 !important;}"][vc_column_text] In Costa Rica, September 15th marks 203 years of independent life, and in Vandará, we are waiting for you to commemorate together this historic...

Tropical Meets Traditional: The Ultimate Bourbon Pineapple Smash Recipe

[vc_row][vc_column width="3/4" css=".vc_custom_1691013008333{background-color: #f9ecc5 !important;}"][vc_column_text]This refreshing twist on the classic Bourbon Pineapple Smash melds the lush sweetness of pineapple with the smoky depth of bourbon, complemented by a...

The Culinary Gem of Costa Rica: Rondón, the Caribbean Delight

[vc_row][vc_column width="3/4" css=".vc_custom_1691013008333{background-color: #f9ecc5 !important;}"][vc_column_text]In Costa Rica, a land lush with culinary traditions, the Caribbean coast offers a vibrant splash of flavors, and leading this flavorful parade is...

Discovering the Sweet Delight of Cajeta: Costa Rica’s Caramel Treasure

[vc_row][vc_column width="3/4" css=".vc_custom_1691013008333{background-color: #f9ecc5 !important;}"][vc_column_text]If you've ever wandered through the charming streets of Guanacaste, you might have stumbled upon a delightful secret tucked away in the local...

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[vc_row][vc_column][vc_btn title="Deals of the Day" color="success" size="lg" align="center" button_block="true" link="url:https%3A%2F%2Famzn.to%2F3A2QgzG|target:_blank"][vc_column_text]When it comes to buying products to remember or prepare for your trip to Costa...

A Culinary Journey Through Costa Rica: Exploring Regional Flavors

[vc_row][vc_column width="3/4" css=".vc_custom_1691013008333{background-color: #f9ecc5 !important;}"][vc_column_text]Costa Rican cuisine is a vivid illustration of its diverse cultural heritage and rich natural bounty, manifesting distinctly across the regions from...

The Diverse Palette of Costa Rican Cheeses: Tradition and Flavor

[vc_row][vc_column width="3/4" css=".vc_custom_1691013008333{background-color: #f9ecc5 !important;}"][vc_column_text]Costa Rica, often celebrated for its lush landscapes and vibrant culture, also offers rich culinary delights, among which cheese plays a quintessential...

The Rise of the Batanga: A Must-Try Cocktail for Sunny Days

[vc_row][vc_column width="3/4" css=".vc_custom_1691013008333{background-color: #f9ecc5 !important;}"][vc_column_text] The Batanga: The Next Big Summer Sensation The quest for the perfect refreshing cocktail becomes paramount as the summer sun warms up the...

Discover the Authentic Taste of Costa Rican Rosquillas: A Traditional Delight

[vc_row][vc_column width="3/4" css=".vc_custom_1691013008333{background-color: #f9ecc5 !important;}"][vc_column_text]Exploring the Delicious World of Costa Rican Rosquillas Rosquillas, a beloved treat originating from Spain, has found a special place in Costa...

Exploring the Tradition of Making Tortillas in Latin America: A Journey Through Regional Flavors

[vc_row][vc_column width="3/4" css=".vc_custom_1691013008333{background-color: #f9ecc5 !important;}"][vc_column_text]Tortillas are a staple in Latin American cuisine, each country bringing its twist to this beloved food. While the basic ingredients might remain...

The Delicacy of Octopus in Costa Rica: Unique Preparations and Culinary Traditions

[vc_row][vc_column width="3/4" css=".vc_custom_1691013008333{background-color: #f9ecc5 !important;}"][vc_column_text]The Delicacy of Octopus in Costa Rica: Unique Preparations and Culinary Traditions Among Costa Rica’s culinary delights, octopus holds a special...

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Costa Rican Culture: A Rich Blend of Tradition, Family, and ‘Pura Vida’

by John Quam | February 1, 2026 | Arts Culture Entertainment | 0 Comments

Costa Rica, though small in size, boasts a culture that’s vibrant, warm, and deeply rooted in both indigenous heritage and Spanish colonial influence. Whether you’re strolling through a lively town during a festival or enjoying a home-cooked casado meal, Costa Rican...

American Crocodile

by Vern Veer | January 30, 2026 | Wildlife | 0 Comments

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text] American Costa Rica Crocodile: Visitors in Costa Rica can view the American crocodile at one of several prime spots, about 50 miles (85 km) west of San José, on the Tarcoles River. Here, they can be seen in abundance from the...

What Circle Of Hell Is This?

by John Quam | January 30, 2026 | Arts Culture Entertainment | 0 Comments

[vc_row][vc_column width="2/3"][vc_column_text The circle of life so lovingly narrated on nature documentaries plays out daily in Costa Rica. Toucans raid nests like feathered burglars. Iguanas—those smug, sunbathing “vegetarians”—will absolutely nibble the wrong...

The Tigrillo (oncilla) of Costa Rica: A Secretive Wild Cat You’ll Rarely See

by Vern Veer | January 30, 2026 | Wildlife | 0 Comments

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text] Costa Rica creature feature oncilla: Oncilla, often referred to as the little spotted cat, or in Costa Rica as the tigrillo. This Costa Rica cat is the smallest species of wildcat in this country. Living in the mountain forests at...

Costa Rica Whitewater Rafting Guide: Which River Should You Choose (and When)?

by Terry Carlile | January 30, 2026 | Travel & Adventure | 0 Comments

“During high water, the ‘Aye, mami!’ rapids become ‘Oh, crap!’ rapids,” my guide informed me — and honestly, that’s the most accurate river forecast you’ll ever get in Costa Rica. Whitewater rafting here is a beautiful contradiction. One minute you’re folded into the...

Protecting One Species at a Time

by Howler Staff | January 30, 2026 | Wildlife | 0 Comments

Protecting One Species at a Time. The theme of Earth Day 2019 is “Protect our Species.” With over 500,000 wildlife species in Costa Rica, it is vital to keep the biodiversity alive and thriving in this Central American isthmus. Thanks to the preservation efforts of...

What Brings People to Live In Costa Rica

by Howlers Staff | January 30, 2026 | Real Estate | 0 Comments

Costa Rica living – what draws people to this country? Let’s look at just a few of the many things that make people decide Costa Rica is where they want to call home. 1. Sand and sea Because the country is so small, you’re never too terribly far from one of its...

Chasing Costa Rica’s Green Flash: The One-Second Sunset Secret

by Terry Carlile | January 30, 2026 | Pura Vida | 0 Comments

[vc_row][vc_column width="2/3"][vc_column_text] What is the green flash? The green flash is a brief burst of green light that can appear on the very top edge of the sun for roughly one to three seconds as it meets the horizon. It’s most often spotted at sunset over...

Costa Rica Cacao and Dark Chocolate: A Local Story With Global Flavour (and Real Health Perks)

by John Quam | January 30, 2026 | Cover Stories, Pura Vida | 0 Comments

Cacao in Costa Rica isn’t just “the ingredient before chocolate” — it’s a living thread that runs through rainforest ecology, Indigenous heritage, smallholder livelihoods, and the modern obsession with seriously good dark chocolate. If you’ve ever snapped a square of...

Stand-Up Paddle Surfing: From Ancient Watercraft to Modern Wave-Riding

by Valarie K Taylor | January 30, 2026 | Travel & Adventure | 0 Comments

...historically, humans have regarded paddling small watercraft while standing up as an efficient and ergonomic way to fish and travel in the ocean... Stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) looks modern, but the idea is ancient: humans have been standing to paddle small craft...

Diamante Eco Adventure Park: Ziplining, Wildlife and 10% Off With Code HOWLER

by John Quam | January 30, 2026 | Travel & Adventure | 0 Comments

Planning a trip to Guanacaste or staying near Liberia, Coco, Hermosa or the Riu hotels? Diamante Eco Adventure Park is the one place where you can tick off Costa Rica adrenaline, wildlife, beach time and proper food in a single day – and when you book directly or pay...

Torunes: Founded by Fatigue, Fueled by Coffee, Haunted by Excellence

by John Quam | January 30, 2026 | Arts Culture Entertainment, UP FRONT | 0 Comments

(and Now Buzzing with Bees, Beans, and Global Bragging Rights) Let’s rewind to 1897, when a man named Jacinto Avila Araya decided to climb a hill in Palmares so steep even the local goats looked up and said, “Hard pass.” After dragging himself up from the...

Explore the digital magazine in full screen:

February’s Howler Real Escapes is Costa Rica as it’s actually lived: a “quick drive” that turns into a roadside saga near Liberia—smoke, standstills, single-lane bridges, and the choice to honk…or help. We walk Rohrmoser’s layered story from coffee fields to 1960s planning to today’s high-rise rhythm, then head to Palmares for Torunes Farms—volcanic Arabica, stubborn founders, and Melipona bees turning blossoms into liquid gold. Cacao takes the spotlight too, linking sacred traditions and Caribbean resilience to modern fine-flavour chocolate and smarter bar choices.

Adventure runs through every page: SUP history and beginner-proof tips, ziplining and wildlife at Diamante Eco Adventure Park (code HOWLER saves 10%), and rafting picks from Río Pacuare to Río Tenorio by region, season, and nerve. Surfers get plain-English swell angle, the Galápagos energy effect, and Papagayo winds that can polish waves—or steal your towel. Practical life guides cover ATM mishaps, verdurería shopping, packing kids, fiesta-season style, epiphanies, decluttering, and self-respect that doesn’t feel cheesy. Business and real estate get clarity on RTBF filing changes, who powers the economy, beachfront rules, and financing paths. Food and wildlife round it out: micheladas, mamón chino ceviche, special-diet travel, the elusive oncilla, American crocodiles, and conservation inside private reserves. Plus: brass coffee fichas, telenovelas, Lake Arenal Condos, organic shrimp, and the green flash

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