Essential Information

Language

The language of Costa Rica is Spanish – though you will be pleasantly surprised to discover that many people in this highly educated country speak more than one language, and, of course, people serving you at the better hotels and restaurants will almost always speak English.

Health/Water

Tap water is safe to drink almost everywhere in the country, but bottled beverages are recommended in rural areas. For those few travelers that do become sick or injured while in Costa Rica, there are hospitals and private clinics in San Jose that provide a level of care comparable to that found in the United States.

Safety

Statistically, Costa Rica has a low crime rate in comparison to many other countries. On the other hand, as it happens in most places, tourists are better targets for petty theft than local citizens, so please don't show large amounts of cash or flashy jewelry. Remember that San Jose as any other capital city also has this petty theft problem. Never leave belongings in sight in your car, even if you locked the car.

Climate

Costa Rica’s year round climate is pleasant with naturally occurring breezes, cooling down most of the coastal areas. Temperatures in the highlands and mountains are not so cold, especially during the day, producing an “eternal spring” feeling. The average annual temperatures range from 31.7°C (89°F) on the coast to 16.7°C (62°F) inland. The rainy or green season lasts from May to December with noticeably drier days during the rest of the year.

Time Zone

Costa Rica is one hour behind the United States’ Eastern Standard Time and eight hours ahead of Central European Time. Daylight savings time is not used.

Electricity and Public Services

Electric service is the same as in the United States: 110 volts; 60 cycles. European electrical items need an adapter.

Currency

The national currency is the Colon. Dollars and travelers checks can be exchanged only at banks and hotels. The exchange rate fluctuates in small increments daily. If you want to change cash, stick to US dollars. The best bet for travelers’ checks is also US dollars, as other currencies will rarely be accepted. Major credit cards are accepted in most of the larger hotels, stores, restaurants and car rental agencies; but at smaller, and more remote businesses, one should be prepared to pay in local currency. You will find ATM machines distributed throughout the country. Also, please note the local sales tax is 13%.

Tipping

A 10% service charge and 13% sales tax are always included in restaurant bills. An additional 10% tip is suggested, if service is particularly good. Taxi drivers do not expect a tip; porters should receive $2 to 4 IN/OUT depending on hotel, and chambermaids $2 per room per day.

Business Hours

The Costa Rican world of commerce watches the same clock as the rest of world. Typical business hours:

Banks:
Monday - Friday 9 am to 3 pm

Government offices:
Monday - Friday 8 am to 5 pm

Retail Stores:
Monday - Friday 9 am to 6 pm or 7 pm

Schedule your activities to accommodate the traditional Latin American Siesta. Almost everything shuts down between 12 and 2 pm for a sandwich and snooze.

Questions, please contact IFSA Headquarters at 404-252-3663 or ifsa@kellencompany.com