Monthly Newsletter - March 2009

As we at Latin America For Less unveil our newest Latin American destination, we would like to offer some valuable Costa Rica knowledge and helpful travel tips that will ensure the most enjoyable trip possible in this Central American paradise!

Culture: When traveling to Costa Rica, one of the biggest tourist complaints is the concept of ‘Tico time.’ Like most Latin American cultures, punctuality is not a priority in Costa Rica and the relaxed atmosphere of the ‘rich coast’ only adds to the equation. It is typical for Costa Ricans to arrive 30 minutes late for scheduled meetings and you can expect a lengthy wait for food (and the check) at most restaurants.

It is important to be patient and polite. The ‘Tico’ culture is extremely courteous and non-confrontational. Try to always use the words “please” (“por favor”) and “thank you” (“gracias”). Also, if you are familiar with the Spanish language, you will note that Costa Ricans do not use the informal “tú.” When addressing Costa Ricans, it is more appropriate to use the formal “Usted”.

Elements: Costa Rica is a tropical country in close proximity to the equator. Insect and sun protection are a must! When shopping for insect repellant, look for something with a high DEET (diethyl-metatoluamide) content. We recommend purchasing this before travel to Costa Rica as it can be extremely difficult to find repellent with over 15% DEET within the country. DEET is considered toxic; please be cautious and follow the warnings on the bottle. As far as sunscreen, we recommend SPF 15 or higher. Sunglasses, lip balm and a hat are also indispensable items for protection against the sun.

Clothing: Costa Rica features varied landscapes and on almost any trip, you will visit the beach, mountains, and the Central Valley. Be prepared for temperatures from the low 50s to the low 90s Fahrenheit. We recommend layers of lightweight and fast drying materials. If you plan to hike, choose the appropriate footwear that features ankle support as well as a gripping sole. Padded cycling shorts are suggested for biking as well as a T-shirt, cycling shoes and a jacket. Your knowledgeable Costa Rica Travel Advisor will give you a list of what to bring or how to dress for any excursion that we offer.

It is also important to note that Costa Ricans normally dress quite conservatively. In order to avoid unnecessary attention, it is recommended that women travelers do the same.

Transportation: Traffic conditions in Costa Rica (and especially San Jose) can be dangerous and road conditions are often poor in many rural areas and even within the city. Common traffic laws are regularly not respected and it is typical for drivers to disobey traffic lights at night, compensating with a horn honk as they barrel through the intersection. Be aware that pedestrians, in general, do not have the right of way.

When hailing a cab, look for certified taxis: red or orange cars with yellow triangles on the doors. Ask that the cab driver turn on their meter (“ponga la maria por favor”). If they insist that it is broken (“rota”), decide on a price before departing. Ask the hotel how much it should cost to get to your destination.

Money: In Costa Rica, banks are the best places to exchange money or traveler’s checks. The exchange rate at the airport is quite low. If you get in a bind and must change money with a person on the street, follow these helpful rules: use your own calculator, change the least amount possible and thoroughly revise each bill. It is always a good idea to ask for small bills so that if you are slipped a fake, you will lose less money. Also, in many rural locations it is difficult to get change for larger bills when making small purchases.

Souvenirs: When buying wooden souvenirs, check to see if your item is marked as plantation grown wood. If not, it is likely that you may be contributing to the deforestation of Costa Rica, Nicaragua or Panama. Also, while taking home those sweet and delicious pineapples may seem like a great idea, be aware of your country’s agricultural restrictions; most countries prohibit the entry of raw foods or plants.

The most internationally cherished Costa Rica souvenir is perhaps the country’s rich coffee. For the best bang for your buck, purchase your roasted (not green) coffee in sealed bags of 12 or more ounces at any local supermarket (vs. tourist outlet). If you or your friends and family are coffee lovers, we suggest saving lots of room in your suitcase!

Vocabulary: Here we have provided you with a list of uniquely Costa Rica words and phrases (or slang – “pachuco”).

Pura Vida – is Costa Rica’s national expression and literally translates to ‘pure life’ in English. It is often used as a greeting, a farewell or to answer the question “¿Cómo está?” (“How are you?”).

Tico/a – The amiable habitants of this beautiful country refer to themselves as “Ticos” (the –a ending is used for females).

Tuanis – originates from the English expression “too nice” and is the Costa Rican word for “cool.”

Mae – is used as “dude” between friends or can be used when referring to any man or women. However, be careful, this popular word literally translates to “idiot” when used amongst strangers.

Soda – a small family-run restaurant serving locals the typical Costa Rican dishes such as the popular “casado” (your choice of meat complemented by rice, beans, a salad, a fried plantain and sometimes a fried egg) accompanied by a drink for just US $3 to $6.

Sources: costarica.com, Frommers, Lonely Planet, wikitravel.org

By
Stephanie Byrd

If you have any questions regarding this article, please write to: stephanie@costaricaforless.com. If you are interested in booking a trip to our newest Latin American destination, please write to travel@costaricaforless.com.

PAST NEWSLETTERS:

• Newsletter February 2009
• Newsletter January 2009
• Newsletter December 2008
• Newsletter November 2008
• Newsletter October 2008
• Newsletter September 2008
• Newsletter August 2008
• Newsletter July 2008
• Newsletter June 2008
• Newsletter May 2008
• Newsletter April 2008
• Newsletter February 2008
• Newsletter January 2008