About Costa Rica, Jicaral and the Gulf of Nicoya

Costa Rica (literally "Rich Coast") is a country in Central America, bordered by Nicaragua to the north, Panama to the south-southeast, the Pacific Ocean to the west and south, and the Caribbean Sea to the east. Costa Rica was the first country in the world to constitutionally abolish its army.

Costa Rica is a democratic republic with a strong constitution. Although there are claims that the country has had more than 115 years of uninterrupted democracy, their presidential election history shows otherwise. Nonetheless, the country has had at least fifty-nine years of uninterrupted democracy, which is by far the longest in Latin America. It is one of the most stable countries in Latin America. Costa Rica has avoided the violence that has plagued Central America; it is seen as an example of political stability in the region. To learn more general specifics on Costa Rica, click here.

Gulf beaches, surfing, snorkeling and scuba diving off Gulf Islands, ocean fishing, swimming, skiing, windsurfing, kayaking, boating and sailing and exploring nature parks is just the beginning when you speak of Jicaral in the Gulf of Nicyoa, Costa Rica. Visit fascinating Manuel Antonio National Park. Dock your Yacht close by in Gulf lagoons or in the new Marina under development right in Jicaral. You can sail to your new home in exotic Costa Rica from California or Florida.

Beautiful Royal Heights and Jicaral offer stunning views, all the necessary support services (shopping, dining, hospitals), and a lush natural environment where you can relax in peace.

Its climate is different than much of the country. From November through April the plains and low mountains receive little or no rain. Here, the dry season (summer) lingers slightly longer and is drier than else-where in Costa Rica. On the other hand, during the wet season (winter) all is forgiven and lush green flora dominate the landscape as the air delightfully freshens up.

The Nicoya Penninsular region was the center of a vibrant pre-Columbian culture known as the Chorotegas. Descended from the Olmecas of Mexico, they arrived in Costa Rica around the 8th century and soon established themselves as the most advanced culture in what would later become Costa Rica (thanks to Christopher Columbus' christening). They alone for example, developed art and writing schools. This culture was centered on milpas and cornfields. Today, many of their stone sculptures are on display in the National Museum in San Jose. Elaborately carved turtles, crocodiles, monkeys, and jaguars, among others, display the ingenuity and strength of their culture.

No region of Costa Rica displays its cultural heritage as overtly as does ours. This heritage owes much to the blending of the Spanish and the Chorotega peoples. The Campesino life revolves around the horse and cattle ranch. Here the Sabaneros, who would be called cowboys in North America, are really common. Guanacaste has been referred to as Costa Ricas' wild west. Nothing is cheered more than the Corridas de Toros ( a kind of bullfight ) and Topes, the regions' colorful parades, in which Guanacastecos show off their well groomed horses and their regal presence and fancy footwork.

The west coast is indented with scores of bays, penninsulars. and warm sandy white water washed beaches. They are some of the least occupied and in some cases least accessible beaches yet they must be considered some of the most beautiful in the world.

Here you will find a safe environment and friendly native people. There is plenty of good shopping available in Jicaral and Nicoya. Inexpensive world class healthcare is available. The Liberia International Airport is 90 minutes away for a short ride into the area.