Seems that this is the only country in this area that's managed to keep itself out of trouble throughout most of its history, due in part to its complete lack of meneral wealth and hence nothing for the Spanish to covet. Coffee is it's major export, and tourism's doing quite nicely, too. Particularly if you're into the outdoors...
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Budget Accommodation in Costa Rica
There are some backpacker hostels in San José. Apart from these the cheapest options are bed and breakfast and the lower end hotels, the former obviously having the advantage of one included meal in the price. If you go between May and November the cost of accommodation will be much lower, as will going in a group and splitting the cost of a room, the more people per room, the cheaper it seems to be per head.
A Traveller's Budget for Costa Rica
Sadly Costa Rica is a little more expensive than it's neighbours. It'll cost around US$30 a day for your basic food and accommodation and you'll need to budget more to take advantage of all the stuff there is to do round here.
Public transport is per the usual bus service, not expensive and fairly reliable but it doesn't cover the more remote areas. If you can travel in a group, or form one there from some drinking buddies, a car will be a good budget option and it'll get you into those national parks (rent a 4WD). If you want to go it alone, a mountain bike is a good option to tour the country if you have the time.
Foodwise, eat locally made dishes and you won't go far wrong with your budget. Again it's more expensive here than in neighbouring countries but sticking to the small restaurants - sodas - should help.
Activities
Mountain biking from coast to coast
Climb the Cerro Chirripó
Check out the turtles in the Parque Nacional Tortuguero
Do the Sky Trek Zip Wire at Monteverde
Visit the museums / nightlife in San José
Spend time surfing or just chillin at the beach, Pacific or Caribbean, you choose.
