Costa Rica: two sides of a story

Foto: Helena Prentis

It’s easy to be captivated completely by Costa Rica from the second you arrive, and with good reason. As the country with the world’s highest level of biodiversity there is a plethora of activities that would satisfy even the most eager naturist.

In the two weeks which I have spent here I have wandered through the famous Monteverde cloud rainforest, and searched for sloths in Manuel Antonio. Looking for enormous green turtles laying their eggs in Tortuguero whilst trying to not let the waves crashing around you drag you into the sea was certainly an unforgettable experience; as was the exhausting hile through muddy root-ridden paths up to the eerie misty lake in the crater of the volcano Cerro Chato, although perhaps this is because my legs are still sore from the forty five degree incline!

However whilst Costa Rica has so much to offer in terms of nature, the overbearing presence of the tourism industry can be hugely off putting, giving you the sense that the incredible surroundings are being used to solely make money.

Any visitor should be aware of this if planning to visit, as any tour is bound to take a decent slice of your wallet.

What’s more, although perhaps I’m bias after coming from Mexico anf Guatemala where there is such a strong network of different cultures, but the Tica culture in Costa Rica had been vastly dimished, lending again to the sense that this country is becoming a holiday destination instead of the backpackers’ paradise that I envisionned.

Don’t take my opinion as bible, many people love Costa Rica, there is so much to explore and see that anyone would hugely miss out by not going.