TASTE OF THE TROPICS: How to make Chorreadas with Palmito Cheese and Guacamango

When I was growing up, faroles – the handmade lanterns meant to symbolize the 19th-century journey that brought the message of Central American independence to Costa Rica – were simple constructions, made of paper.

Preparing for the Independence Day feast, I could not help but wonder what it should be. Typical tamal and rompope with guaro? Gallos, grilled...

When I was growing up, faroles – the handmade lanterns meant to symbolize the 19th-century journey that brought the message of Central American independence to Costa Rica – were simple constructions, made of paper.

An elaborate ceremony at the National Stadium celebrated Costa Rica’s independence and its bicentennial.

From Costa Rica to wherever you are in the world, happy Independence Day!

Hundreds of children and their families visited Parque Central in San José to watch the arrival of the independence torch on Monday. The torch, which has been traveling through Central America, made its way to the colonial capital of Cartago, east of San José, on Monday, a day before Costa Rica celebrates 194 years of independence.

The image only shows up for Google users current in Costa Rica. The four other Central American countries celebrating Independence Day this Monday -- El Salvador, Guatemala, Nicaragua and Honduras -- also received their own doodles.

The U.S. Embassy announced it will close Thursday – as will many other businesses and services through out the country –  for Costa Rica independence day....

On September 15, Costa Rica will celebrate Independence Day, a public holiday in the country. Many will choose to head to the beach and...