Journey to Costa Rica!

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The culture I plan to study is the people of Costa Rica. I chose this culture for a few reasons. A good friend recently moved from Oregon to Costa Rica with her husband and 2 cats. I will have the opportunity to visit her in October of 2024. I am so excited to learn about this culture before I travel.

This study will give me a look into the customs, experiences, local life, and nature. This deep dive will also prepare me to look at things from another culture's point of view. 

I would like to experience all this culture has, including exploring the natural world, hiking in the rainforest, visiting a bird sanctuary, exploring the beach, and scuba diving. I would like to visit the local hangouts and museums, enjoy the local cuisine, and immerse myself in the culture. I plan to have a fantastic experience, and this blog will be something I will use for learning and to treasure after my trip. 

 "In studying other cultures, we do so very often from the perspective of our own culture." 

(Carter, 2023)

I have lived in a small town in Idaho for most of my life. I have traveled quite a bit but haven't immersed myself in another culture. I have a way of looking at things based on my life perspective. The way I was raised, the things I have experienced, the misunderstanding about other cultures. I plan to receive much of my information through my good friend, who is experiencing this culture firsthand and enjoying every second! I will also research the history of this culture so that as I visit the various local places and museums, I will better understand the people. 

Costa Rica is located in Central America between Nicaragua and Panama.

                                                 https://www.cia.gov/the-world-factbook/

Important dates in Costa Rica's history

 In the early 1600s, the Spanish tried to colonize Costa Rica but were unsuccessful due to the resistance of the indigenous people, heat, disease, and pirate raids.  

  • 1563 The colony of Cartago established a permanent settlement.
  • 1821 Costa Rica declared its independence from Spain
  • 1823 Joined United Provinces of Central America
  • 1838 Costa Rica proclaimed its sovereignty and independence
  • On December 1, 1948, Costa Rica dissolved its armed forces

Costa Rica maintains a large agricultural sector and has expanded its economy through strong technology and tourism. The standard of living is relatively high, and land ownership is widespread. (The World Factbook, 2021)



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