Long characterized as an exceptional country within Latin America, Costa Rica has been hailed as a democratic oasis in a continent scorched by dictatorship and revolution; the ecological mecca of a biosphere laid waste by deforestation and urban blight; and an egalitarian, middle-class society blissfully immune to the violent class and racial conflicts that have haunted the region. Arguing that conceptions of Costa Rica as a happy anomaly downplay its rich heritage and diverse population, The Costa Rica Reader brings together texts and artwork that reveal the complexity of the country’s past and present. It characterizes Costa Rica as a site of alternatives and possibilities that undermine stereotypes about the region’s history and challenge the idea that current dilemmas facing Latin America are inevitable or insoluble. This essential introduction to Costa Rica includes more than fifty texts related to the country’s history, culture, politics, and natural environment. Most of these newspaper accounts, histories, petitions, memoirs, poems, and essays are written by Costa Ricans. Many appear here in English for the first time. The authors are men and women, young and old, scholars, farmers, workers, and activists. The Costa Rica Reader presents a panoply of voices: eloquent working-class raconteurs from San José’s poorest barrios, English-speaking Afro-Antilleans of the Limón province, Nicaraguan immigrants, factory workers, dissident members of the intelligentsia, and indigenous people struggling to preserve their culture. With more than forty images, the collection showcases sculptures, photographs, maps, cartoons, and fliers. From the time before the arrival of the Spanish, through the rise of the coffee plantations and the Civil War of 1948, up to participation in today’s globalized world, Costa Rica’s remarkable history comes alive. The Costa Rica Reader is a necessary resource for scholars, students, and travelers alike.

A collection of 26 remarkable stories by Costa Rican writers--most of which is available in English for the first time. Whether searching for something relevant and entertaining to read on Costa Rica's idyllic beaches or looking for Latin American enchantment back home, this is a fiction reader's cultural guidebook to the country. 2-page map.

Contains primary source material.

A resource for travelers features tips on dining, lodging, transportation, shopping, recreational activities, landmarks, and cultural opportunities.

A guide to both a country and a culture offers essays, sports information, lists of accommodations, restaurants, and shopping tips.

With a wealth of attractions and adventures, Costa Rica is one of the hottest vacation destinations in the Americas. Whether you want relaxation or excitement, you’ll find it. Stroll leisurely on the beach or zip through the treetops on a canopy tour. Explore urban San Jose or incredible national parks with unspoiled wilderness. Choose the Caribbean Coast or the Central Pacific Coast. Lounge beside an infinity pool or battle a billfish. Seek out exuberant nightlife or take in the lush tropical scenery. Go golfing, snorkeling, volcano viewing, river rafting, sea kayaking, mountain biking, or horseback riding. Stay in a luxurious resort or a rustic wooden cabin . . . a Mediterranean villa or an Ecolodge tent. This friendly guide clues you in, with: The lowdown on how to get to Costa Rica and how to get around after you arrive Details on San Jose and the Central Valley; the Guanacaste area, Costa Rica’s “Gold Coast”; the Manuel Antonio area, the most popular ecotourism destination; the Monteverde area with its misty cloud forests; and the rest of the country Suggested itineraries to help you make the most of your time A “Quick Concierge” section with key phone numbers, Web addresses, and other handy how-to’s for traveling in Costa Rica Like every For Dummies travel guide, Costa Rica For Dummies, 3rd Edition includes: Down-to-earth trip-planning advice What you shouldn’t miss — and what you can skip The best hotels and restaurants for every budget Lots of detailed maps