What makes this small Central American country such a good destination for the solo traveler? Well, for starters its people are very friendly - and the happiest in the world, occupying the top spot in the New Economics foundation's “Happy Planet Index,” which evaluates overall sustainable happiness and environmental efforts. Costa Rica lives by the philosophy of pura vida (“pure life”), which is essentially a motto championing a simple, low-stress-life. It's a relatively inexpensive place to travel, and the diverse landscapes will take your breath away, from the rainforest to the beaches to spectacular volcanoes, and if you use common sense during your travels, the country is generally considered to be quite safe.

Read more in Tripatini contributor Carren Dario's post 5 of the World's Best Countries for Solo Travel.

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