Costa Rica is ranked among the top 10 developing nations in the world.
Costa Ricans call themselves Ticos.
La Carpio is a slum area outside of the capitol of San Jose where nearly half of the population is made of Nicaraguan refugees who left their home country to find a better life. Most live in houses made of corrugated tin and dirt floors.
Costa Ricans pride them in their education, health care, national parks and history of governmental stability.
The largest slum area in San Jose is Guarari, which is populated by squatters and not recognized by the city government.
The military was abolished in 1948 after a civil war. Security forces such as police, civil and rural guards, and other smaller units remain in place.
Costa Rica provides free education for children, provided that families can afford to buy uniforms and school supplies which can amount to $100-$150 per child.
After a child is born, he or she is dressed warmly because the air is considered harmful to the infant.
Close to 1/4th of college aged students enroll in higher education.
Many of the people living in La Carpio live on approximately $80/ month. Because of this, many children remain uneducated since their families cannot afford to send them to school and provide meals.
