Costa Rica Travel and Tourism Guide

Costa Rica, Central America. Its capital is San José. Of all the Central American countries, Costa Rica is generally regarded as the most stable and democratic government. Its 1949 constitution provides for a cooperative legislature, a fair justice system, and an independent electoral body.

In addition, the constitution abolished the country's army, gave women the right to vote, and provided additional social, economic, and educational guarantees for all its citizens. Throughout the 1970s and 1980s, Costa Rica was able to maintain peace compared with its war-torn neighbors.

It has the highest literacy rate (more than nine-ten) in the Western Hemisphere and a strong education system from elementary to university level. Several prestigious universities and an effective network of bookstores and publishing houses often make San José the center of intellectual life in Central America.

Because of the country's reputation for peace and its commitment to human rights, several non-governmental organizations and pro-democracy organizations have their headquarters in San José. Costa Rica is also known for its strong commitment to the environment and the protection of its many national parks.

These factors, along with a strong tourism industry, have attracted foreign investment, transforming a previously agricultural-based economy into a resource-oriented economy by the end of the 20th century.