Costa+Rica+Culture

Culture


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Government: Costa Rica functions on a democratic republic form of government. The have a civil law system based on the Spanish civil code. They have Executive, Legislative and Judicial branches of government that work similar to those of our country. The current president of Costa Rica is Laura Chinchilla Miranda. Costa Rica celebrates its Independence from Spain on September 15th. The voting age is 18, all of age are required to participate. The national symbol is the Yiguirro Robin.

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Language & Culture: As you already learned, Spanish is the most popular language spoken in Costa Rica. English is the most commonly taught second language, followed be French, Italian, German and Chinese. The phrase "Pura Vida" is commonly used to greet one another in Costa Rica. It translates to something like "plenty of life" or "full of life." This has been a custom in Costa Rica since 1956. Pura Vida can also be used as goodbye, to say thank you or you're welcome or to express both happiness and satisfaction. Costa Ricans are referred to as "Ticos." Costa Ricans are known for being welcoming and friendly. They know their country is special and they are extra accommodating to visitors and other travelers. Costa Rica is a very diverse country, with inhabitants of all many races and cultures. The most common race in the lowlands is "mestizo" which is a mix of Indigenous blood. Those along the coastlines are commonly of African or full-blooded Indian descent.  Health & Education: Education is regarded with high esteem in Costa Rica. Public schooling from 1st grade through 11th or 12th grade is free and mandatory. Those who can afford it often choose to attend private schools. Higher education is also promoted and the country has six large public universities (Wikipedia, 2011). There are more teachers than policemen in Costa Rica. The emphasis has been on a peaceful nation and multicultural education since Costa Rica officially abolished their armed forces in 1949 (Costa Rican Culture, 2011). There are also various health centers ruled by the government. Even the smallest towns have drinkable water and electricity.

Fine Arts & Customs: Costa Rican art has many European influences, but modern art has shown Costa Rican artists with their own specific style. Many artists attempt new styles and types of art, but a classic staple in Central American art is the use of rich and earthy colors found in the tropical regions and unique terrain known to the isthmus. Besides drawing, Costa Ricans commonly craft with sculpture and stained glass. Music is in rich abundance in Costa Rica, and the Ticos love to dance! Once the sun goes down, Ticos and Ticas flock to discos to dance to Latin, Afro-Carribean and Spanish beats. The national dance is a heal and toe stomping partner dance titled the Punto Guanacaste. Theatre is also a major component of Costa Rica's Fine Arts. It is common to attend shows from Tuesday through Sunday night (Arts and Culture of Costa Rica, 2008).

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More Fun Facts: (Costa Rica Identity, 2011). -The most common sport of Costa Rica is futbol, which means "soccer" in English. -Ticos don't have doorbells, when visitors approach your door, they yell "Upe!" (oo-pay) -Christmas is most Costa Rican's favorite holiday. If you need to make conversation, ask a Tico how their Nativity Scene is coming along! -Carnivals and other street festivals are common in the Costa Rican culture. -Costa Rica is most known for the happy and relaxed atmosphere. When visiting Costa Rica, you are surrounded by the sounds of nature and beautiful scenery, leave your cell phones and watches at home, that's not the Tico custom!

Page created by Eryn Shannon© edshann@ilstu.edu Created: 11/28/11 Last Modified: 12/5/11