It is also the perfect base for exploring the country thanks to its central location. One of the best dishes on the menu is the classic chifrijo with pork, rice, beans and lemon, but everything else is good too. Manuel Antonio is close to a national park that’s home to secluded beaches, hiking trails, and is the home of three types of native monkeys. Use Bookaway to find the best deals on bus, plane, train, and ferry tickets. It’s just far enough away that you can avoid the noise and congestion of San José city life. Hotels are more likely to be cliff-side than beachfront, but the views are worth it. As a little hint, you’ll find six of them in the courtyard of Costa Rica’s National Museum in San Jose, but they can be found all over the country. There’s also a jaguar rescue center nearby where wildlife is rehabilitated and returned to the wild. Cloud Forests. With a … With unpaved dirt roads, it feels remote yet looks like a postcard with incredible surfing spots, fishing spots, and fresh seafood. This active volcano is one of the most popular places to visit in Costa Rica. Find the best places to stay in Puntarenas, Costa Rica, using our very fast highlights search Most of the affordable places are found by word of mouth. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Spend some time exploring the garden, and then get a coffee. The city of Heredia is the capital of the Heredia province. It also helps get the dogs used to being among humans again so they can be adopted. Define Expatriate – What is an Expat Anyway? The river itself is located in the Tenorio Volcano National Park, but it curves outside of the park at certain points. Known as the “city of flowers,” Heredia boasts a scenic landscape rich with vegetation. It’s an extremely popular tourist destination, so if you want something more authentic to the local experience, it might not be for you. The color comes from the place where two clearwater rivers combine and their minerals create an optical illusion at a point called El Tenidero or the Dyer. This town has a relaxed town that’s based on surfing, yoga, and food rather than partying. You can go in public bus, called Musoc. Hampton Inn & Suites by Hilton San Jose Airport. The Stray Cat Hostel is located in San Jose, which is a great base for your explorations and offers comfortable and friendly accommodations and amenities. Why it’s so awesome: This garden is one of the most stunning in the world, which is why it’s also one of the most popular places to visit in Costa Rica. It also has everything you need from laundry to the kitchen. Also, sustainability practices that you can see from the front and … What to do there: You can take the tour through this sloth sanctuary and explore it with the help of some very enthusiastic volunteers. Costa Rica’s Safest & Most Unsafe Beaches written by Dan Stevens 2013/03/25 Costa Rica Travel News – When travelling to Costa Rica there are a plethora of gorgeous beaches for you to experience. The rooms are cleaned daily and include a private bathroom with a … It’s an iconic landmark and an established property with its own private hot springs and stunning, unobstructed view of the volcano. Thanks for your support. Latitude 10 Resort is among the Costa Rica luxury resorts deeply rooted in the idea of sustainable living. This is a more rugged park, so you’ll need a good level of physical fitness to make it around. You can also take a great tour of the building that will teach you about the building’s design features and finishes in the café for a drink or snack. You should always have emergency cash hidden on you – pick up this awesome security belt with its hidden pocket before you travel, it’s perfect for hiding money, a passport photocopy. Oh, and if you walk a block away, you’ll find sweet bars and lounges. The provinces of Alajuela and Heredia offer a chance to get up close and personal with Costa Rica’s cloud forests. Its temperatures range from 19° to 34° Celsius (66° to 93° Fahrenheit), making it one of the best climates on earth. It’s a huge country, and people who prefer more established travel destinations may struggle to plan a trip there. A lot of people dream of going to Costa Rica. Just south of Guanacaste, the Nicoya Peninsula is a popular beach destination for surfers and yoga enthusiasts. In fact, they’ve erupted 40 times since 1828, so be alert for more! All these options are located within San Jose, the largest city in Costa Rica and located in the country’s center. The best way to see it is to hike to Laguna Azul and then head back towards the waterfall. Have a look at the unique construction, marvel at how it was made and put together, and make sure you take pictures to silence the skeptics back home. That’s why we’ve created this guide to which places to visit Costa Rica, so you can work out exactly what you want to see while you’re there and how to get the most from your trip. And the restaurant offers a range of locally made beers that will delight your tongue if you’re a beer drinker too. What to do there: This town is basically a road that’s lined with yoga retreats, eateries, surf shops, and hostels. This cathedral is located in a peaceful mountain town around 22 miles outside of San Jose. It is our top pick for expats who enjoy a thriving, vibrant culture. Free private parking and Wi-Fi are also available. No one knows where they came from and now, they can be found on lawns all over Costa Rica. Gang-related crime is on the rise as well, mostly in San Jose, so ask other travelers and hotel staff for advice on areas and locations that you should stay away from. What really stands out about its landscape is that the mountains go right up to the beach. Despite the influx of tourists, it is a small town where the locals know each other by name. This boutique hotel includes a bar and an airport shuttle for your convenience. Over the years, it’s taken in thousands of animals from the more than a million strays in the country, and visitors are an important part of the animals’ rehabilitation. Bordered between Nicaragua and Panama, Costa Rica boasts the world’s largest density of flora and fauna in addition to a varied terrain of mountains, valleys, forests, volcanoes, beaches, lakes and rivers. Created by a single artist, the hedges and shrubs offer the otherworldly experience of walking amongst dinosaurs, religious figures, and abstract human figures. Poas Volcano is an active volcano with twin calderas that are so still they look painted on. This place is right in the middle of Costa Rica’s biggest metropolitan. It’s also important that you stay in a good hostel in San Jose to avoid trouble spots. Atenas is only 45 minutes outside of San José, so when you’re craving a taste of big city life, it’s an easy drive. Once you’ve arrived, why not use what you’ve saved to treat yourself to a cold beer and a bite to eat? Why it’s so awesome: if you’ve ever seen the movie Ice Age and want to see a sloth close up, you’ll have plenty of chances at this sanctuary. Pssssst! The Studio Hotel is one of the best places to stay in Costa Rica for convenience and luxury. The Studio Hotel is one of the best places to stay in Costa Rica for convenience and luxury. Remember, when you are traveling you may need insurance! This restaurant is located in San Jose and offers a relaxed atmosphere along with the traditional foods. But today, it’s just a visually arresting church that’s painted red and white and is definitely more than it seems. The average price per night for a place to stay in Jacó this weekend is $219 (based on Booking.com prices). It’s a fantastic place to live if you work in the city of San José. … It’s a haven for hippie backpackers and is the perfect place to kick back and relax with some surfing and great food. What to do there: When you’re planning to backpack through Costa Rica, find out what’s on at this venue while you’re there and make sure you take in a show. What to do there: If you have a strong stomach, then take the tour for the best experience. You’ll have the company of hundreds of dogs of all kinds, shapes and sizes, and playing with the friendly crowd will probably be one of the highlights of your trip. What to do there: You’ll need a reasonable level of physical fitness to get the most from this destination, but there’s something for everyone there. It is proud to be home to the Costa Rica Institute of Technology—one of the top engineering schools in Central America. The rooms here will provide you with a balcony and a TV with cable channels. This boutique hotel includes a bar and an airport shuttle for your … This makes it a great place to base yourself for explorations into other parts. You’ll also be able to eat some of the best and freshest seafood dishes of your life, so make sure that you’re hungry! It’s so clean, and the bed is freaking heavenly. If you enjoy outdoor activities, you’ll like them even more on the side of the volcano! The best place in Costa Rica to enjoy authentic Costa Rican food. International Retirement: The Best Places to Retire Abroad Expat? You can’t swim in the park, but the river does meander out of it to make natural hot springs where the locals enjoy taking a dip. Whether you prefer a beach on the Pacific coast, a big city, or a remote mountainous region, there are tons of great places to live in Costa Rica. Best, and Safest, Places to Live, or Retire, In Mexico! The Best places to live in Costa Rica including five top expat havens where you can live in your dream in this beautiful country and take advantage of all it. From the safety and comfort of your own canoe, you can paddle along these shrouded waterways in search of hidden wildlife. Why it’s so awesome: Located on the outskirts of Montezuma, this restaurant was founded in 1994 and focuses on seafood with a Mediterranean twist. Some of the best plays, concerts, operas and musical events are held at this venue and there’s also a museum with exhibits based on Italian artworks and sculptures. There are small trails around the area that are easy to navigate and will give you lots of vantage points for sightseeing and pictures. Tamarindo is our top pick for expats looking for an ocean view. If you want to combine your trip with a good deed, then interacting with these animals and helping them get used to humans again is a worthy way to do it. It boasts a restaurant, 24-hour front desk, private bathrooms, and a bar, and is within walking distance of several dining options. What to do there: If you’re wondering where to go in Costa Rica for some peace and quiet, this is the right place for you. The country’s booming tourism industry, which boasts popular attractions … 12 Places To Stay In Costa Rica You Won't Believe Actually Exist Costa Rica has sloths, waterfalls, volcanos, and absolutely incredible resorts. From here you’ll be able to enjoy convenient access to all of Costa Rica’s top landmarks, sightseeing attractions and major tourist centres. Escazu is our top pick for expats who prefer city living. Make sure that you have your camera with you too, so you can get lots of photos to remember your trip by. But in Tamarindo, it’s very easy to find good food and even good healthcare. Quesada. Now that you know what precautions you can take to remain safe while here, it’s time to plan your stay. What you find on the internet is usually vacation rentals or places that are … With our help and guidance, you’ll be able to find all the best places to visit in Costa Rica with a minimum of trouble. It’s an active volcano with twin calderas that are filled with sulfur lakes. Within the building is a museum and theatre that explores the artwork and culture of the country. All of these features make it a great choice when you’re deciding where to stay in Costa Rica. Though in Costa Rica, as long as you have a car, you’re never that far from the beach. Costa Rica may be a dream destination, but it isn’t always easy to travel there. Maybe you’re eager to spy out rare three-toed sloths and howler monkeys in the silk tree canopies, moving as slow as the time ticks over amidst the Rasta shacks of Puerto Viejo? The city of Heredia is the capital of the Heredia province. With a rich history that dates back to the 16th century, you’ll find stunning architecture throughout the province. It’s also a known turtle nesting area, so if you’re there in the right season then make sure you check out this amazing sight! This is our top pick for expats looking to move to a small town. Copyright © 2020, International Citizens Group, Inc. Expat Forums, Twitter and Social Networks, How to Move Abroad to Popular Expat Locations, Work Abroad – Advice for International Jobs, Staying Healthy Abroad While Living abroad, Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window), Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window), Click to share on LinkedIn (Opens in new window), The 5 Safest Places to Live in Mexico as an Expat, Best Places to Live to New Zealand as an Expat, The Best Cities in Italy to Live in as a Foreigner or International Citizen, Best International Countries and Cities to Live in. You can also adopt one of the sloths, though this doesn’t mean you can take it home. All you need to do is to find out where you want to stay in Costa Rica and you’re good to go! Costa Rica has made a name for itself as the adventure capital of Central America thanks primarily to its diversity of land-bound diversions, from rainforest hikes and volcanic sightseeing to zip-lining above the jungle canopy and ATV-ing through the wilderness. International Retirement: The Best Places to Retire Abroad. In Escazu, you’ll find lots of expats from various countries, so there are many English-speaking areas. Recently, she spent several months exploring Africa and South Asia. Whatever you enjoy doing in nature, whether it’s hiking, camping, relaxing on the beach or looking for animals in the ocean, you’ll be able to do it in this park without fighting the crowds. Founded in 1563, Cartago is regarded as the first successful Spanish establishment in the country. Why it’s so awesome: If you’re tired of cities and don’t want to party then you’ll love this small town. Atenas is known for its warm, agreeable climate and is a great place to stay along the scenic “old road” from the central valley to the beaches of … A quiet church located in the city of Grecia. We hope you enjoy this armchair vacation to Costa Rica’s best destinations; the only thing better is actually visiting! Among those 5,000 residents, you will find a community of North American expats and retirees. This country is famous for its laidback atmosphere, amazing natural scenery, and incredible beaches. © 2020, The Broke Backpacker. Review Coverage from the Best Companies and Request a Quote Today, What are the Most Expensive Countries in the World to Live In? Just remember that the volcano is still active, which just adds a touch of excitement to the experience! This is due, in part, to the fact that the local bars close at 10 p.m. to discourage late-night behavior. It’s one of … In Limón, you’ll enjoy a culturally diverse atmosphere with a strong Afro-Caribbean culture. Families traveling in Costa Rica enjoyed their stay at the following beach resorts: Tulemar Resort - Traveler rating: 5.0/5 Golfo Dulce Retreat - Traveler rating: 5.0/5 No matter how good you are on a board, the waves here are suitable for almost every level. It’s important that you stay vigilant when you’re traveling in Costa Rica. Located just a few kilometers from the center of town, Latitude 10 Resort quickly became one of the best places to stay in Costa Rica in our books. Located on the Caribbean Coast, this area is popular amongst backpacker for its surfing and nightlife. Malpais, Carmen Beach, Santa Teresa, Hermosa Beach, and Manzanillo Beach are the string of beaches that back up the little beach towns of Malpais and Santa Teresa. An entire sanctuary dedicated to the world’s cutest and slowest animal. Best, and Safest, Places to Live, or Retire, In Mexico! Take a few hours to explore this garden and the genius of its creator. Report inappropriate content. The best mountain towns, beach towns and cities in Costa Rica are detailed below. What to do there: If you’re wondering where to go in Costa Rica for a bit of romantic vibes, this is the perfect place for a dinner date with your partner. What to do there: This area includes the Tortuguero National Park, which is one of the most well-known hotspots in Costa Rica for animals. Invest in an eco-friendly travel backpack for 2021 and help preserve the environment. Surrounded by the vast Pacific to the west and the magnificent Caribbean to the east, Costa Rica one of the most beautiful countries in Central America. Why it’s so awesome: This church was constructed in the 1890s and was a technological marvel at the time. What to do there: This is one of the best places to visit in Costa Rica if you want to enjoy some great nightlife. Located just outside of San Jose, it’s ideal for expats who prefer city life to beach living. It’s a lively place where backpackers congregate to swim, surf, and party, but there are also several beach resorts in the area if you want to enjoy the beach without the noise. People who visit Costa Rica rave about the natural scenery, the friendly people, and the beaches and you will too after a trip, especially if you stay in one of these epic treehouses in Costa Rica! Close. But even if you visit at other times of the year, you can also go hiking, take a canal cruise, or look for the other animals that live in this remarkable area. This is the home of the elusive quetzal bird and most people travel to this forest in search of this rare sight. You Might Also Like: The 5 Safest Places to Live in Mexico as an Expat, Need International Health Insurance? Located just outside of San Jose, it’s ideal for expats who prefer city life to beach living. This makes it the second best place to live in Costa Rica. It was opened in 1897 and features a neoclassical façade and ornate, gilded interior which have made it a cultural icon and source of national pride. The zip lines are a very popular option and will allow you to explore the area in the most exciting way possible. This restaurant is said to be one of the best in Costa Rica. This is what makes it one of the best places to stay in Costa Rica for convenience at a price that won’t stretch your budget. With its beautiful landscapes, tropical climate, and affordable cost of living, you can live any type of lifestyle you want. It’s also one of the most important religious landmarks in Costa Rica, with thousands of locals making the journey there to pray every year on August 2. There’s also a small museum and garden attached to the church that are worth exploring. Costa Rica is a developing nation and it does experience some of the same problems that afflict this part of the world such as poverty, crimes and drug trafficking. Check out our ultimate Costa Rica Packing List to know what to bring with you on your Costa Rica adventure! Also, make sure that you always listen to your gut when visiting this country, and if you feel like something is wrong then listen to your instincts and get out of there. San Jose, the capital city, is very vibrant and has a lot to offer. If you enjoy fresh seafood, then you’ll enjoy your meal at this restaurant. There isn’t much nightlife in this area because most people like to get up early and hit the waves, which is why it’s the perfect place to recover if you’ve had a busy travel schedule. If you want to learn more about the darker side of this tropical paradise, then this is definitely the place to come. With Nicaragua (another expat hotspot) to its north, the Alajuela province is located in the north-central part of the country. They may also let you buy or extend a policy once you’ve started your trip and are already abroad which is super handy. What to do there: Big cities are great, but sometimes it’s nice to visit a small town and get a glimpse of regular, everyday life. Notify me of followup comments via e-mail. It’s best described as a beach town with modern amenities. This location is right on the continental divide and experiences high winds and unusual weather patterns, which is why it’s an incredibly verdant area. Why it’s so awesome: You probably don’t think about Costa Rica in connection with food. Often the best place to stay in Costa Rica for first-time visitors is the Pacific beach town of Manuel Antonio. You can get away from the bustle of the city and enjoy the local culture and agricultural traditions in the charming small towns of Costa Rica. Getting an estimate from World Nomads is simple – just click the button or image below, fill out the necessary info, and you’re on your way! This is an absolutely beautiful looking river that looks unbelievable in pics, so make sure you bring your camera with you. San Mateo was the safest area of Alajuela while Turrubares, Tarrazú and Dota are the safest towns of San Jose and Montes de Oro and Cotos Brus are the safest places of Puntarenas, according to the police report. Why it’s so awesome: This mountainside sanctuary otherwise known as the Land of Strays has been saving the stray dogs of Costa Rica for years. It’s all about helping out our tribe of awesome backpacker readers [that’s you!]. The best place for finding boutique Costa Rica hotels is either in Manuel Antonio or on the Nicoya Peninsula. But the truth is that they have a much longer history than that. Mysterious spheres that were created by a civilization that has since been lost to time. If it's just a place for the night after flying in, definitely stay in Alajuela. When you’re backpacking Costa Rica, you’ll be spoiled for choice when it comes to accommodation. So, just show up, enjoy the beach, do some yoga, and have leisurely meals to the sounds of the waves. It has only 5,000 inhabitants, making it an authentic and real Costa Rican experience. 1. The volcanos are very active and last erupted in 2017. Your best option is probably to stay in a hotel for your first week or so and look for something when you get here. Some of the better places for solo travelers in Costa Rica are Santa Teresa, Nosara, Puerto Viejo and of course Tamarindo – perhaps the safest place in costa rica.Excursions and tours are a good way to meet other people and there are plenty of places to go in Costa Rica for awesome adventures, like the Arenal … One of the best investments you can make is a worldwide travel adapter that will work anywhere! There’s a huge variety of accommodation options at every price point in this country, which is why we’ve given you some recommendations. I have been using World Nomads for some time now and made a few claims over the years. It’s located just outside of San Jose and is one of the most popular places to visit in Costa Rica. Visit a few times and spend some extended periods of time in each province to determine which one you like the best. Hi Stephanie, Finding an affordable furnished rental can be difficult in Costa Rica. What to do there: You need to visit this place in Cost Rica early in the morning to avoid the crowds and before the clouds block the view. It is also one of the few places where expats can buy land and property. Why it’s so awesome: If you’re in Cartago, then you must visit this stunning basilica. They’re easy to use, professional and relatively affordable. Why it’s so awesome: For more than a century, this island housed Costa Rica’s most brutal prison. For a long time, people wondered why Belgian steel was used in its construction, though the reason turned out to be fairly ordinary. Take your camera and make sure you get lots of photos of the famous lakes before exploring the area in more depth. It’s an incredibly atmospheric spot where you can sit at a rickety wooden table and dine by candlelight. I only link to stuff I’ve actually used and never endorse products or services that are not up to scratch. Check out our sample itinerary for Costa Rica before visiting! This condo makes you feel right at home, and safe with 24-hour security. There’s nothing like swimming in clear blue, warm waters and enjoying the sunshine and white sands. Because take the road at night, it's not the best thing to do. Probably one of the most beautiful and startling looking rivers in the world. Unlike some larger areas, it is home to some very good schools, making it an ideal option for expats with children. Each province is unique, and there are things we love about all of them. It’s truly a masterpiece and deserves all the attention it gets. Your email address will not be published. Costa Rica is rich with natural beauty and scenic landscapes, but Limón stands out as one of the absolute most impressive places to live. It’s a great spot to visit if you’re not sure where to go in Costa Rica. Request a Quote today, what are the most popular places to Retire Abroad the Coolest to... Expats and retirees magical city traditional foods than in areas with less traffic its local agriculture, so you make! Gold Coast, this is the life ’ s Essential Costa Rica before visiting s truly a masterpiece deserves... Among humans again so they can be difficult in Costa Rica ’ s world Nomads for some now... A lively town that ’ s a fantastic place to stay won ’ t leave home without one,! In 1563, Cartago ’ s Essential Costa Rica, as long as you have a meal at this is. Crime, Cartago also has everything you need from laundry to the sounds of the volcano Spanish in. You make your move which one you like dogs, then this is the capital of the park certain! 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