Costa Rica"s friendly three million people, or Ticos as they affectionately call themselves, invite you to come and experience their tranquil country, with its long and beautiful coastlines, alluring waters of the Caribbean and the Pacific, pristine beaches and some of the most picturesque surroundings you have ever laid your eyes on. Many visitors say Costa Rica is even more beautiful than Hawaii, and best of all, still unspoiled. In Fact, Costa Rica took over Hawaii"s place as best adventure destination last year, as revealed by the publication Pacific Business News, of Honolulu. Costa Rica has Hawaii"s weather, spectacular green mountains, and beaches without the high prices. The country offers more beauty and adventure per acre than any other place in the world. In the heart of the Central Valley, surrounded by beautiful rolling mountains and volcanoes, sits San José, today"s capital and largest city in the country. Viewed from above, this area looks like some parts of Switzerland. Downtown San José is always bustling with activity.