Costa Rica is a land of beauty and adventure. Whether you're planning your next travel destination or don't intend on going anywhere, you must go to Costa Rica at least once to experience its rich culture and biodiversity. It's a country you don't want to regret not visiting and here's just a few of the reasons why.

1. The Green

One thing different in Costa Rica than where I'm from in the states is just how green everything is. The leaves, the trees, the flowers, everything is literally so green and vivid it's like looking at everything through an Instagram filter. But instead of needing a filter, it's right before your eyes.

2. The Cathedrals

There are some very beautiful cathedrals throughout Costa Rica, such as this one located in Alajuela. They are decorated with intricately detailed art and are definitely not something you want to miss out on seeing when you're there.

3. The Volcanoes

"Volcanoes" sounds like a word that might make you stay clear of Costa Rica, but it's worth witnessing the beauty of craters like this one at the Poás Volcano National Park. You'll get to enjoy a nature hike on the way up to the top of the volcano. Make sure you go on a sunny day, though. Otherwise it might be too foggy to see the crater.

4. The Food

When you're in Costa Rica, try everything, even if it looks like it won't be good. Chances are, it will be delicious (you can trust my personal experience!). Even if what you eat doesn't meet your standards, at least you can say you tried it in Costa Rica!

5. The Ice Cream

Pops is an ice-cream chain that has stores in cities all over Costa Rica. The interior looks like your typical ice cream shop, but for some reason it's just so much more fun and tastier when you experience ice cream in Costa Rica. When you're walking the downtown streets of a tourist town, pop in to a Pops for a tasty treat to cool down in the heat.

6. The Animals

There's animals everywhere in Costa Rica. Don't be surprised if you spot a toucan or two. If you go on a night tour, you might also see a sloth hanging around (literally). There's 900 kinds of birds and 5,000 species of insects, just to touch on a couple of the thousands of animal species you might see when you're there.

7. The Monkeys

Yeah, I know, monkeys are animals, too, but they are just so special that they deserve a category on their own. In countries like the United States, the only place one usually sees a monkey is in a zoo. But in Costa Rica, you'll get to see them in their natural habitat. Be careful, though; some of these cuties might try to steal your belongings

8. The Canopy Tours

Otherwise known as "ziplining", canopy tours will allow you to experience the nature of Costa Rica from a bird's-eye view. Even if you're deathly afraid of heights (like me), it's something you will regret if you don't do.

9. The Oceans

No, this isn't a picture of a pool, this is the ocean. Beaches like this one at Manuel Antonio National Park have white sand and clear blue waters. However, your sunny day at the beach might quickly be the opposite if you go during the rainy season. During my visit, a rainstorm came along to soak me before I could say "Capuchin monkey stealing my backpack!" But it's all part of the adventure.

10. The Parks

Every park I saw in Costa Rica was filled with plants and well-taken care of. This one here in Zarcero has bushes shaped in various types of creatures. Parks here can make for a romantic evening or just a fun place to explore.

11. The People

Costa Rica holds the spot of twelfth happiest country in the world. It's not surprising considering everyone's kindness during my visit. They also greet each other with the phrase "pura vida", meaning "pure life". Costa Rica and it's people are two things you won't want to miss out on.