Background:

Costa Rica is a Central American success story: since the late 19th century, only two brief periods of violence have marred its democratic development. Although still a largely agricultural country, it has expanded its economy to include strong technology and tourism sectors. The standard of living is relatively high and land ownership is widespread. Costa Rica is well known for its abundant rain forests and large populations of plants and animals. The country has a number of diverse eco-systems, from the cool cloud forests in the interior to warm costal beaches, it is one of the most admired territories on the planet when it comes to biodiversity. More than 200 species of mammals, 850 species of birds, 200 types of amphibians, and 220 species of reptiles inhabit these lands. Culturally, an interest in the arts has been slow to develop and until recently Costa Rica has not produced significant native crafts. Few villages are dedicated to a single craft, such as in Mexico or Guatemala. There are some noteable exceptions, Guaitil retains the Chorotega Indian tradition of pottery and Santa Ana is famous for its ceramics. In recent years, artists and craftsmen have started reconnecting with their history and as a result traditional crafts are gaining in quality and popularity.

• Population: 3,896,092
• Ethnic Groups: white (including mestizo) 94%, black 3%, Amerindian 1%, other 2.0%
• Religions: Roman Catholic 76.3%, Evangelical 13.7%, Jehovah's Witnesses 1.3%, other 8.7%

Geography:

• Area: total: 51,100 sq km. water: 440 sq km, land: 50,660 sq km
• Borders: Nicaragua, Panama
• Climate: tropical and subtropical; rainy season (May to November); cooler in highlands
• Terrain: coastal plains separated by rugged mountains including over 100 volcanic cones

• Costa Rica Tourism Board
• Embassy of Costa Rica, USA,
• Costa Rica Art and Culture
• Tico Times, Online Newspaper

• Industries: microprocessors, food processing, textiles and clothing, construction materials, fertilizer, plastic products

• Imports: raw materials, consumer goods, capital equipment, petroleum

• Exports: coffee, bananas, sugar; pineapples; textiles, electronic components, medical equipment