Includes bibliographical references (page 141-142) and index.

Costa Rica today -- Geography. Geographical regions -- Geography and climate -- Environment and wildlife -- Human habitats -- History. Discovering Costa Rica -- Spanish conquest -- Early elite -- Colonial period -- A move for independence -- Simón Bolívar -- A young nation -- Civil war and revolution -- The modern period -- Political and economic crises -- Government. National government -- Foundations and regulations -- Local government -- National security -- Economy. Facts and figures -- Economic setbacks -- Exports and assets -- Industry -- Tourism -- Transportation and communications -- Environment. Natural protection -- Deforestation -- National parks and conservation -- Waste management -- Drinking water and marine life -- Agricultural impact -- Costa Ricans. Diversity -- Indigenous peoples -- Other cultures -- Society and status -- Socioeconomic classes -- Dress -- Lifestyle. Etiquette -- Friends and family -- Gender roles -- Rural and urban lifestyles -- Housing -- Health and longevity -- Major events -- Religion. National religion -- Spiritual revival -- Places of worship -- Other religions -- Traditional beliefs and folklore -- Folk medicine -- Language. Evolution of a language -- Ticos -- Cultural norms -- Common expressions -- Forms of address -- Arts. Performing arts -- Music -- Dance -- Theater -- Literature -- Visual art -- Folk arts -- Leisure. Recreation -- Community and communications -- Diversions -- Festivals. Religious holidays -- Secular holidays -- Celebrating with family and friends -- Fiestas cívicas -- Fiestas patronales -- Food. Cooking at home -- Common ingredients -- A typical meal -- Specialties -- Beverages -- Holiday meals -- Marketplaces -- Map of Costa Rica -- About the economy -- About the culture -- Timeline -- Glossary.