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Government, Healthcare
and Education
Costa Rica is a diplomatic, peaceful country with no standing military.
The current President is Abel Pacheco, who was elected in a runoff
in April of 2002. The country has been fortunate never to have had
a single war or major political turmoil.
With an impressive public healthcare system and strong emphasis on
education, Costa Rica has been successful in creating a happy affluent
culture. Healthcare in Costa Rica is excellent with several ultra-modern
hospitals and English speaking doctors in the greater San José
area.
The Growing Costa Rican Economy
Costa Rica’s agricultural-based economy is built around several
key crops.
Coffee has historically been the country’s most important crop
and Costa Rica still produces some of the finest in the world. Bananas
are the second most important crop export, with vast plantations in
the Caribbean lowlands.
Pineapples, sugar, oranges, rice, hardwoods and ornamental plants,
as well as beef and dairy products are significant contributors to
the country’s economic well-being.
Show Me the Money…Costa Rican Currency
The local currency is on a fixed devaluation schedule with the US
dollar, so you’ll get the best exchange rates if you bring US
dollars to exchange for the local colones. Money can be exchanged
at any local bank, or at most upscale hotels if you are a guest. You
can also get foreign currency with your ATM card. The current exchange
rate is as follows:
420 colones + 1.00 Dollar |
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