5) Costa Rica
Famed for its biodiversity and plethora of National Parks, Costa Rica is a nature lover’s paradise. Check out Nicoya Peninsula; 80-miles of gorgeous coastline, dense jungle, waterfalls, streams, surfing, sunsets – you name it. It’s a dream world and it’s free. Grab a hostel bed for $30/night and explore the area for days. Guanacaste, Costa Rica’s “Golden Coast” is also a must with its secluded white-sand beaches and secret coves. Check out Rincón de la Vieja National Park, boasting an active volcano, bubbling hot springs and mud pots, and hiking trails for just a $10 entrance fee. Surfers and beach-bums should head to Puerto Viejo de Talamanca. The laid-back reggae atmosphere and bamboo beach bars fit the clientèle perfectly. Check out black-sand beach Playa Negro, get lost in the rain-forest, or just chill out. This is Costa Rica’s Pura Vida at its finest.
