Art & Artisans—Traditional Costa Rican artisans in Guaitíl hand throw Chorotega pottery while you watch, and the wood carvers of Sarchí transform rainforest hardwoods into every imaginable shape. Drums, baskets, textiles, and pre-Columbian reproductions are just a few of the things you'll want to take home with you.

Bars & Nightclubs—Not surprisingly, bars and clubs are concentrated around the beach areas where people come to relax and unwind. DJ's and live music keep the dance floors hopping in Manuel Antonio, Tamarindo, and Flamingo. In the central valley, San José has lively nightlife.

Beaches—The playas of Costa Rica are rightly famous. They range from miles of deserted golden sand complete with overhanging palms and waterfalls dropping nearly directly into the surf in Corcovado, to the relaxed reggae backdrop of the black sand on Caribbean and the resort areas of the Nicoya Peninsula. Water temperatures are ideal year round, and the weather almost always cooperates for a perfect days.

Bicycling—Mountain bikes are a great way to explore the forests, especially if you arrange for a vehicle to take you to the top and spend all day cruising down hill.

Touring Costa Rica by bicycle is tough but spectacular. Outside San José Ticos respect cyclists and give you a wide berth on rural roads, often shouting encouragement when you're struggling up particularily steep sections.

Road racing is a popular sport in Costa Rica, where not surprisingly the leading riders are climbers. The race over Cerro de la Muerte in December is the highlight of the season.