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Background
Although explored by the Spanish early in the 16th century, initial attempts at colonizing Costa Rica proved unsuccessful due to a combination of factors, including: disease from mosquito-infested swamps, brutal heat, resistance by natives, and pirate raids. It was not until 1563 that a permanent settlement of Cartago was established in the cooler, fertile central highlands. The area remained a colony for some two and a half centuries. In 1821, Costa Rica became one of several Central American provinces that jointly declared their independence from Spain. Two years later it joined the United Provinces of Central America, but this federation disintegrated in 1838, at which time Costa Rica proclaimed its sovereignty and independence. Since the late 19th century, only two brief periods of violence have marred the country's 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.
Climate
Tropical and subtropical; dry season (December to April); rainy season (May to November); cooler in highlands.
Terrain
Coastal plains separated by rugged mountains including over 100 volcanic cones, of which several are major volcanoes
Major Regions:
* San José and the Central Valley
* The North
* Guanacaste
* Nicoya Peninsula
* The Central Pacific
* The South
* The Caribbean
* Cocos Island National Park
Major Cities:
* Alajuela - location of Juan Santamaría International Airport
* Cartago
* Heredia
* Jacó - Surfing paradise and superb dining
* Liberia - Location of Danuel Oduber International Airport and gateway to the beaches of Guanacaste
* Pochote - On Whale Bay, across the Bay from Puntarenas
* Puerto Limón - Main city on the Caribbean side
* Puntarenas - Ferry to Nicoya peninsula
* Parismina - Village on the Tortuguero Canals
* Quepos - Central Pacific coast; entry point to Manuel Antonio National Park.
* San José - The capital.
* Tamarindo - Small town on the North Pacific coast, famous for its beaches, a popular destination for tourists.
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