Something that was surprising to me when I first got here was that windows and doors are constantly open to the outside in every building. In my room, my window has a screen but no pane, to allow for air to flow through the room. This is because the temperatures are typically moderate throughout the year, so air conditioning is not necessary. This is a big difference from my life at home in the Midwest, where we have such intense seasons and temperature differences! This comfortable temperature makes it pleasant to get fresh air all year long.
The environment of Costa Rica is also responsible for its historical strong economic development through the export of agricultural products like coffee, chocolate, and bananas. While the economy has since shifted away from being primarily agriculture-based, this history is a point of pride in the country.
Earthquakes and seismic activity occur frequently here; however, I have not personally experienced a noticeable event yet. Throughout history, there have been many devastating earthquakes that have destroyed infrastructure and taken many lives. These earthquakes are part of the reason that the railroad system, which was initially built to transport goods for export, fell into disrepair.
Additionally, climate change threatens the population and economic activity of the country. Rising sea levels and changing temperatures threaten to permenently alter some of Costa Rica's most beloved sights and communities.
