Costa Rica

Costa Rica – the home to a diverse culture and biology is a country that bursts with history and life. It is here that Spaniards, Mesoamericans and South American cultures have all met and converged upon one another, developing a rich way of life in the process.

It isn't just the society of people who are varied; many different species of bird, animal and plant live in this country and within the three large wildlife parks that seek to preserve this life. From Capuchin monkeys to orchids, sloth to the extremely endangered green turtle, Costa Rica and its ecologists seek to understand and develop their research of these organisms.

Officially the Republic of Costa Rica , this country is bordered by Nicaragua to the North, Panama to the South, the Pacific Ocean to the West and South, and the Caribbean Sea to the East.

Geography:

Costa Rica is split up into seven provinces, which are divided into 81 regions (cantons) – each of these is directed by a Mayor. The seven provinces are: Alajuela, Cartago, Guanacaste, Heredia, Limón, Puntarenas, and San José .

The Rio Pacuare and Rio Reventerzan are two of the country's most renowned rivers and provide whitewater rafting and kayaking opportunities. Being one of the most biologically diverse countries in the world, Costa Rica offers horse back riding, biking and tame to extreme surfing opportunities.

Government:

Costa Rica runs under a democratic system. Executive power is retained by the President, who is supported by two Vice Presidents, as well as a Cabinet of Ministers.

The President, Vice-President and Legislative Assembly members, of which there are fifty seven, are all elected for four year terms. Although there used to be, there are now no constitutional laws to prevent re-election of the President.

There is no provincial legislature apart from the direction of a Mayor. Each Mayor is elected every four years by the people of the 81 regions (cantons).

Foreign Relations:

The country is an active member of the UN, the Organization of American States, and many other organizations. Costa Rica also hosts the Inter-American Court of Human Rights and the United Nations University of Peace.

Did You Know?

• Costa Rica was the first country in the world to abolish its army constitutionally.
• Costa Rica is Spanish for ‘rich coast'.

© Written by E.J.Clarke.