Situated between Nicaragua (North) and Panama (Southeast). Discovered by Columbus in 1502. Remained a colony of Spain until 1847 when it declared its independence [a Unitary Presidential Constitutional Republic].
Its largest city is San Jose. It has a diversified economy; Finance, Pharmaceuticals and Ecotourism. It abolished its Army after the 44 day Costarican Civil War in 1948. The official language is Spanish and primary export is Coffee.
There are 14 known volcanoes; six of which have been active within the last 75 years. Costa Rica has a high level of Social Services, long life expectancy and low corruption. There is a 97% literacy level and English is widely spoken.

San Jose
One of the safest cities in Latin America, fairly centrally located in country. Elevation 3840 feet above sea level and has a moderate climate year round.
Avenida Centrale is an eleven block long pedestrian only street packed with shops.