The Caribbean side of Costa Rica - its People and Culture
The Caribbean side of Costa Rica is quite unique in many ways, not only in its topography and ecology but also in respect to its culture and background.
A large part of its cultural history stems from the establishment of the Atlantic seaport of Limon. The United Fruit Company was headquartered in Limon and to this day a huge part of the Costa Rican agricultural economy is based on the Bananas, Plantains and Pineapples which are produced in the Limon Province.
United Fruit utilized Jamaican and Chinese labor to build the railroad to San Jose. The vestiges of those days have had an impact on the cultural makeup and cuisine of this once forgotten Province.
I have lived on the Caribbean side of Costa Rica for quite a few years and can see several distinct areas.
As you travel through Brauillo Carillo National park on your way from the airport in San Jose you will cross over into the very distinct Caribbean Plain and into Limon Province.
The towns of Guapiles out to Siquirres are typical Costa Rican type of towns with agriculture and ranching being the main source of employment. Every year we have plenty of town parties with Topes'- a reason for people to gather around with their horses and party!
My local town of Siquirres is somewhat of a mix of Ticos' and Jamaican descendents but still a very Tico sort of town.
Moving out into the port city of Limon you will get a real feel for the way things used to be based on some of the old architecture and colors schemes. Limon has certainly become a little run down over the years and as a port city it has its own unique feel. All of this is changing however as literally billions of dollars are being poured into the area. There is a new container port being built, a mega-marina and the cruise ship ports are being enlarged. You can already see the changes taking place as some of the old rundown buildings are being torn down and replaced by nice new buildings.
Many of the Jamaican and Chinese descendents have dispersed throughout the country over the years but the great flavors in the local cuisine remain. A favorite is rice and beans--a delicious mixture of rice, beans and coconut milk. Also a favorite is Rondon (from anything you can run down!) it can be any fish or even Iguana that is cooked in fresh coconut milk and spices.
Going south from Limon you will head towards the Southern Caribbean beaches and towns of Costa Rica.
For many years this has been a secret haven of Europeans. With many countries having 6 weeks' vacation the remote nature of this area 20 years ago attracted many visitors who wanted to be off the beaten path and be able to find lodging on some of the most beautiful beaches in the world for only a few dollars a night!
The area has changed with a new road and electricty from those times but still maintains its own mix of cultures and unique charm.
The Caribbean side of Costa Rica is a nice blend of cultures and cuisines so please make sure to visit this once "Forgotten Province".
