Visit Costa Rica, the Happiest Place on Earth

One of the most popular travel destinations in the world, Costa Rica is like heaven on earth for most travelers. Magnificent sandy beaches, tropical waters, and lush national parks filled with exotic flora and fauna, are only a few of the country’s many attractions. This year, Costa Rica is evern more in the spotlight as it has been ranked in the top “happiest places in the world” by both the New Economic Foundation and the Gallup World Index of The World Happiest Countries.

If this is not reason enough for you to visit Costa Rica, maybe you’ll want to enter the race to win an all inclusive week-long trip for your family. Recently launched by the Costa Rica Tourism Board, this gigantic ad campaign titled Costa Rica’s Million Dollar Gift of Happiness is sure to make many very happy travelers. From October 6, 2011, to February 5, 2012, all citizens of the United States and Canada are welcomed to enter the run and get a chance to win a spectacular Costa Rica vacation!

The winners will have the opportunity to choose between a selection of themed-vacations, from adventure, family, and culture, to romantic and nature. Check out Costa Rica’s official Facebook page and to learn more about this exciting contest.

Check out some of the best Costa Rica destinations!

What would you like to see on your Costa Rica holiday? This extraordinary country has something to offer to each and every visitorone. Whether you like relaxing on the beach and basking in the sun, or you enjoy wildlife and hiking in sumptuous natural reserves, you can’t find a more delightful destination. Even if you’re not part of the happy few that will win a free trip, it’s definitely worth a visit!

If this isn’t paradise, what is?

Playa del Coco: This tiny country nestled between the Caribbean Sea and the Pacific Ocean is home to many of the world’s most stunning beaches. Playa del Coco, located near the Gulf of Papagayo in the Guanacaste region, is among the most well-known beaches in Costa Rica. It’s the ideal spot for sports activities such as surfing, diving, andor sport fishing. But it’s also perfect for those who like to take it easy on their vacation, as they’ll delight in the great variety of hotels, restaurants, bars, shops, and clubs available.

Monteverde Cloud Forest: As the Nnumber one destination for eco-tourism in Costa Rica, the Monteverde Cloud Forest Natural Reserve is dotted with spectacular wildlife and untouched forests. Located above the charming small towns that line the coast of Costa Rica, Monteverde is a world of nature and exotic species. This the perfect place for nature hikes in search of monkeys, birds, and many more species. The best way to explore the reserve is start from the small village of Santa Elena, where travelers will find an array of hotels, restaurants, and other amenities available.

Costa Rica absolutely teems with exotic wildlife.

Manuel Antonio National Park: Located just south of Quepos on the Pacific Coast, and about 132 kilometers from the capital, San Jose, the magnificent Manuel Antonio National Park is probably the greatest in the country for all nature lovers. Expansive white sandy beaches, crystalline waters, and evergreen forests make the park one of the most popular attractions in Costa Rica. Hundreds of species of birds and mammals can be witnessed in the various natural habitats that comprise the reserve. Visit some of the park’s 12 islands and maybe you’ll be lucky enough to spot some dolphins or even a whale!

Latin America For Less

Latin America for Less is a group of travel experts who live, work, eat, and breathe all things South America. Their inspiration stems from a deep appreciation for the beauty and diversity that make this continent so special.