March 19, 1993

GAY PEOPLE'S CHRONICLE VACATION SUPPLEMENT

Costa Rica

Lush, Latin and Literate

Costa Rica is truly a tropical treasure. "Discovered" by Columbus in 1502, it was named "rich coast" based upon rumors of a vast wealth of silver and gold. While these rumors of proved unfounded, the country's lush meadows and verdant jungles and forests befit its name. Its early settlers did not find a large indigenous Indian population to exploit (even the Spanish governor grew his own food at one time.), and most of its population today is descended from European stock. Costa Rica gained its independence in 1821, and began developing an agricultural economy on coffee and bananas but it is no banana republic. Situated between Nicaragua and Panama, it is an oasis of peace and calm, with the highest literacy rate in Latin America. Governed by a stable democracy, its people voted to disband their army in 1949. Former President Oscar Arias was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1987. Even the bullfights here are relatively tame, with the life of the bull always spared.

Meet the People

Although not the absurdly safe destination it once was, Costa Rica remains one of the most friendly destinations in the world. The "Ticos", as Cost Ricans call themselves, are warm and outgoing. While Spanish is the primary language, many

Ticos speak English, and the genuine welcome extended to North American visitors overshadows any communication difficulties that might arise. Gay life flourishes in many parts of the country; the lack of specific gay rights is attributable to a refreshing lack of discrimination existing civil rights protection is broadly interpreted in areas of freedom and privacy. For gay and lesbian visitors, the atmosphere of acceptance combined with ease of meeting and befriending local gays makes Costa Rica unique among tropical destinations. An excellent club scene for men and women in San Jose, a socially conducive beach environment in Manuel Antonio, and an array of gay tours and independent travel options from dirt cheap to extravagant, make Costa Rica one of the fastest growing gay destinations.

The capital city of San Jose has a number of sights to see: The National Museum features an archaeological study of the country's Mayan and Indian history. The Jade Museum houses the world's largest collection of pre-Columbian Jade. Equally breathtaking is the gold Museum. the thousand-seat Teatro Nacional, built in 1897, host world-class concerts and a wonderful restaurant. Gay life in the capital city is vigorous and varied, with numerous gay clubs and bars. San Jose's Colours guest house caters specifically to the gay community, with lovely accom-modations and a friendly atmosphere, although its suburban location is a $2 taxi ride to downtown. Gay-friendly hotels and restaurants are the rule in San Jose. Recommended hotels include the Grano de Oro: a restored elegant mansion (non-smokers only); L'Ambiance: small, exclusive, and a bit prissy; The Don Carlos: more moderately priced

with a gym; The Balmoral: catering to business travelers; the Amstel: centrally located with a notable though pricey restaurant; La Pasada del Bosque: a quiet B & B in the suburb of Escaz'u; and for even more affordable accommodations, the Diplomat and the Bienvenido. Restaurants worth checking out are Balcon de Europa, Machu Pichu, Le Bistrot and the Amstel (lunch only).

Many of Costa Rica's attractions can be seen as day trips out of San Jose, and those who seek a nightlife-dominated vacation might choose to visit the country in this manner. But most visitors will want to get out of the city to explored the country's exceptional parks, trading nightlife for wildlife. The most popular destination is the beach at Manuel Antonio National Park. Although particularly crowded during high season, reasonably-priced to deluxe accommodations are available for those who plan in advance, and men in particular can enjoy an active single social scene in a seaside setting. With so much geographic

diversity, one could spend weeks in Costa Rica and not deplete its wealth of ecological opportunities.

Many tour operators offer group tour programs of 8 or more days combining a stay in San Jose with two or three nature or sport highlights. these itineraries can be customized for individual or small group travel, without significant additional cost (except for rafting and other activities which require at least joining a group.) Car rental, public transportation and day-tour components are good options for travel between areas of interest.

TRAVEL & ACCOMODATIONS

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5704 Highpoint Rd., Glenford, OH

614-659-2364

1501 N. Marginal Rd., Cleveland 5003 Palmetto Ave. #83, Pacifica, CA 4612 Talmadge Rd., Toledo 555 San Lorenzo Rd., Palm Springs, CA

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