[vc_row][vc_column width="1/2"][vc_column_text] Wheels to the World - Ox cart of bygone era a cultural treasure today: Although its golden age in Costa Rica’s export trade history has long since faded, the ox cart remains one of the country’s most important ancestral...
Costa Rican Culture: A Rich Blend of Tradition, Family, and ‘Pura Vida’
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...
The “non-adventure” Adventures of Costa Rica
Costa Rica, renowned for its thrilling adventure activities and lush rainforests, also offers a treasure trove of non-adventure experiences for travelers seeking relaxation, cultural enrichment, and indulgence. Beyond zip-lining and surfing, this Central American gem...
CST: Being Green Matters for Diamante Eco Adventure Park
[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text] Being Green Matters for Diamante Eco Adventure Park: We came to Diamante Eco Adventure Park on a somewhat unusual mission: to learn about Diamante’s efforts to be recognized by the Certification for Sustainable Tourism (CST). This...
Veganism, Ecology and Culture
By Captain Paul Watson One of the most striking things about attending the Earth Shot 2025 Awards in Rio de Janeiro last week was the menu. Never before have I been at such a prestigious international event where every meal was 100% vegan. The Prince and Princess of...
Tico Karaoke: The National Sport You Didn’t Know Existed
Where emotions go full throttle, and off-key is part of the charm. When night falls in Costa Rica, and the last spoonful of gallo pinto has long been digested, something magical happens in corner bars, beach joints, and neon-lit cantinas. No, it’s not fútbol. It’s...
Tico Time is Real—And It’s Beautiful
Forget your calendar, silence your alerts, and put down that planner. Welcome to Costa Rica, where time flows like a lazy river, not a bullet train. “Tico Time” isn’t just an excuse for being late—it’s a way of life, a cultural rhythm that beats to the sound of...
The Chisme Café: Why Gossip Is Practically a National Sport
What does “chisme” mean in Costa Rica? In Costa Rica, chisme means gossip—but not the malicious, behind-your-back kind. It’s more like social glue, a warm cup of verbal espresso that connects neighbours, relatives, and strangers in the queue at the pulpería. “Chisme”...
Tico Proverbs You’ll Use: Forget Your Tourist Phrasebook—Here’s What Locals Say
Why should you learn Tico proverbs? Tico proverbs are the key to sounding local, getting smiles, and sometimes even better prices or service. Speaking Spanish is one thing. Speaking Tico Spanish is another level entirely. If you’ve ever been in a sodita and wondered...
Why Costa Ricans Are Proudly Called “Ticos”
If you’ve ever traveled through Costa Rica—or even chatted with someone who has—you’ve probably heard the term “Tico” tossed around with a smile. It’s more than just a nickname. It’s a source of national pride, a cultural fingerprint, and a charming little insight...
10 Advantages of Riding Horses on Costa Rica Beaches
There’s something timeless about exploring Costa Rica’s pristine beaches on horseback. The gentle rhythm of hooves against the sand, the whisper of palm trees, and the glimmer of endless blue water create a dreamlike journey. There’s something timeless about exploring...
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...













