Costa Rica—Caribbean coast; Limón
News, entertainment, anthem and a short visitor guide.
Anthem
Recording: United States Navy Band · Public domain (U.S. government work) · Source: Wikimedia Commons
Visitor guide
History
Costa Rica became independent from Spain in 1821 and abolished its army in 1948. Its Caribbean province of Limón was shaped by Afro-Caribbean workers, many from Jamaica, who came to build the railway.
Culture
Limón's Afro-Caribbean heritage gives the coast calypso music and its own carnival in October. The country's 'pura vida' spirit and eco-tourism are world famous.
Languages & Creoles
Spanish is the official language. Limonese Creole English is spoken on the Caribbean coast, along with Bribri and other Indigenous languages.
Currency
The Costa Rican colón (CRC). US dollars are widely accepted.
Popular Attractions
Tortuguero National Park is famous for nesting sea turtles. Puerto Viejo, Cahuita National Park and the Gandoca-Manzanillo refuge offer beaches and wildlife.
Food
Rice and beans cooked in coconut milk with spicy Caribbean chicken is the coast's signature. Gallo pinto and casado are national staples.
Places to Visit
Puerto Viejo de Talamanca, Cahuita, Tortuguero, Limón and Manzanillo.
More of the Caribbean
English-speaking Caribbean
Spanish-speaking Caribbean
French-speaking Caribbean
Dutch-speaking Caribbean
Additional Caribbean Coastal Areas
Colombia—Caribbean coast; San Andrés and Providencia
Venezuela—Caribbean coast and islands
Panama—Caribbean coast; Bocas del Toro- Costa Rica—Caribbean coast; Limón
Nicaragua—Caribbean coast; Corn Islands
Honduras—Caribbean coast; Bay Islands
Guatemala—Caribbean coast; Livingston
Mexico—Caribbean coast; Cozumel and Isla Mujeres