Culture.    Before the tourism industry began to thrive here, this was a fishing and farming culture.  Cacao trees decorate the under-story of the rainforest canopy.  Small fishing boats adorn the calmer waters above the reefs.  Banana trees are a part of every front yard.  
The culture in the southern Caribbean coast of Costa Rica is now as bio-diverse as its own rainforest.  The local population is a mix of the indigenous Bri Bri tribe, the Ticos of Spanish decent, and the Ticos of Afro-Caribbean decent.  In the last 25 years as Costa Rica became a popular Eco-tourism destination, there have been migrants coming from several corners of the globe, creating a melting pot of Locals ,Europeans, North Americans, South Americans etc.

   It is said that there are 55 different countries represented amidst the 2500 people living from Cahuita to Gandoca.  It seems there is something for everyone here.  Its a relaxed atmosphere where one can go barefoot anywhere they dare and take time out to relax at the beach whenever necessary.   On any giving day one might find them self speaking three languages (or trying to) and eating rice and beans for lunch, then gourmet Italian cuisine for dinner.  
      Reggae music is prevalent on all corners of the towns around here, but do not be surprised to hear a car pass with Celia Cruz or even Tina Turner blaring from the speakers.   People  here take their time with everything and smile and wave at one another as the pass by.