Today we were able to learn a bit more about the history of Costa Rica as well as its traditions, typical food and games, and much more when guest speaker Dr. Laura Ramirez came to teach us. When learning about Costa Rica’s history and culture it was almost impossible not to compare it to American culture that I am used to at home.

When Dr. Ramirez was teaching us about typical Costa Rican foods I realized that almost none of them were typical foods at home. The only food I really recognized was rice pudding, which here they call arroz con leche. A lot of their food here includes corn as an ingredient, which is not typical at home. I learned that Costa Rica produces its own corn, so that is why it is used so prominently. They also produce their own bananas, potatoes, and coffee which is why those are also such a large part of their cuisine. Their typical breakfast foods are especially different from ours at home as at home we may typically eat pancakes, waffles, or other sweet breakfasts, while here they normally eat more savory breakfast such as eggs with rice and beans.

The games that Dr. Ramirez told us were typical of Costa Rica were pretty similar to those I played as a kid at home. These included games identical to the ones at home known as jump rope, hula hoop, and yoyo. There were also games similar to marco polo, cornhole, games played with hobby horses, and much more. It is interesting to see that kids in such different cultures all play such similar games!

I really enjoyed learning more about Costa Rican history and culture from Dr. Ramirez, and I am so excited to continue to learn more! Adios!