19. Ticos & Ticas
Costa Ricans refer to themselves Ticos (for men) and Ticas (for women).

18. Eco-Diversity
One of the most eco-minded countries in the world, 25-percent of land in Costa Rica is protected.

17. It’s Pretty Tiny
Costa Rica is smaller than Lake Michigan in the USA.

16. There’s Been A Female President
Costa Rica is one of few countries who has had a female president, Laura Chinchilla, who held the position from 2010 to 2014.

THE CANADIAN PRESS/Adrian Wyld
15. Hummingbird Capital
Approximately 52 species of hummingbirds are native to Costa Rica, making it a hummingbird capital.

14. There’s No Army
Costa Rica has had no standing army since 1949.

13. Expatriates Love It
Costa Rica is a common retirement choice for American expatriates, many own bars and restaurants here.

12. Butterfly Sanctuary
Approximately 10-percent of the world’s butterflies live in Costa Rica.

11. My Other Half…
Costa Ricans playfully refer to their partners as “media naranja,” which means “the other half of my orange.”

10. Public Etiquette
Blowing your nose in public is frowned upon in Costa Rica—in fact it’s seen as downright impolite and disgusting.

9. Education for All
Poor children who can’t go to school take classes via Costa Rica’s national radio station.