COSTA RICA: A DIVERSE DESTINATION
We will agree every country has its own charm. But we guarantee you that when you will visit Costa Rica, your days will not be enough because of the many natural beauties and unique experiences the country has to offer.
With an area of only 51,000 square kilometers, Costa Rica is home for more than 500,000 different species, which represents nearly 4% of the total species estimated worldwide. This makes Costa Rica one of the countries with the highest biodiversity in the world. Besides this magnificent biodiversity, the beauty of its beaches, mountains, rivers, make of Costa Rica a wonderful natural treasure. Our name casually honors the treasure of our land: Costa Rica (“Rich Coast”).
Some interesting facts about the “Rich Coast”:
1. The distances that separate San José (where Hotel Grano de Oro is located) from many of these natural beauties, are not far. Some of the furthest destinations are reached in 4-5 hours by car or 45 minutes by plane.
This means you can leave our hotel just after breakfast and be basking in the sun by the beginning of the afternoon.
Traveling by car has its interesting points. In the middle of the trip you can stop at one of the many fruit stands that sell typical Costa Rican snacks such as Cajeta (made with sweet cane sugar and coconut). You will enjoy seeing Costa Rican families with their cars full of mattresses, chairs, sun umbrellas, etc. on their way to enjoy the beach or the mountains. Even their pets often accompany them … no one wants to miss the wonders of Costa Rica. You can take in the views of the exuberant mountains, cattle grazing in pastures, carts with their oxen carrying some kind of merchandise for people in small towns. The trip will definitely be a unique cultural experience.
2. Costa Rica is the safest country in all of Central America. Unfortunately petty crime is a problem all over the world, so it is also important to be a smart traveler by not flashing around your money, keeping an eye on your belongings, not walking alone at night or in remote areas. Keeping these tips in mind and being aware of your surroundings you can visit any city, beach, volcano or National Park with total freedom and tranquility.
3. Weather. Costa Rica is also recognized for being a country with an outstanding and diverse climate. If you want it a little cooler, head to the mountains and visit the Monteverde Cloud forest (just three hours from our Hotel) where it is cooler year round. If it is heat you are looking for try Guanacaste with its beautiful beaches (and amazing sunsets). The Central Valley, where the Hotel Grano de Oro is located has an amazing climate with an average temperature of 22 ° C (71 ° F) year round.
Costa Rica maintains a constant growth of visitors year after year and continues as the main destination of Central American tourism. Two million tourists visit Costa Rica each year. Be one of them! We assure you Costa Rica will become one of your favorite destinations.