Costa Rica Travel Guide

Facts & Figures

Total Area:51,100 sq km                           Land Borders: Nicaragua, Panama
Population: 4,075,261                               
Life Expectancy: 77 years                        HIV % Total Poulation:0.6%
Ethnic Groups: white (including mestizo) 94%, black 3%, Amerindian 1%, Chinese 1%, other 1%
Languages:Spanish (official), English
President:Oscar ARIAS Sanchez               GDP - Per Capita: $11,100

History

Costa Rica is a Central American success story: since the late 19th century, only two brief periods of violence have marred its democratic development. Although it still maintains a large agricultural sector, Costa Rica has expanded its economy to include strong technology and tourism industries. The standard of living is relatively high. Land ownership is widespread.