Costa Rican culture is in many ways a reflection of its racial mix. The predominant influence has long been European, which is reflected in everything from the official language -- Spanish -- to the architecture of the country's churches and other historic buildings. The indigenous influence is less apparent, but can be found in everything from the tortillas that are served with a typical Costa Rican meal to the handmade ceramics sold at roadside stands. A more recent cultural influence is that of the United States, which can be noted in everything from the movie selection at San Jose's theaters to the fast food chains that line some of the capital's streets.

Costa Rica has more than one hundred years of democratic tradition, and almost half a century without an army. The army was abolished in 1948, and the resources the country saves by not having a military are invested in improving the standard of living for Costa Ricans, which has fostered the social harmony that makes it such a pleasant country to visit.