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Costa Rica

Central America 

Area: 51,100 sq. km (19,730 sq. mi.) about the size of the states of Vermont and New Hampshire combined.

Cities: Capital--San Jose (greater metropolitan area pop. 2.1 million, the greater metropolitan area as defined by the Ministry of Planning and Economic Policy includes the cities of Alajuela, Cartago, and Heredia). Other major cities outside the San Jose capital area--Puntarenas, Limon, and Liberia.

Terrain: A rugged, central range separates the eastern and western coastal plains.

Climate: Mild in the central highlands, tropical and subtropical in coastal areas.

People

Nationality: Noun and adjective--Costa Rican(s).
Population (2007 est.): 4.13 million.
Annual growth rate (2007 est.): 1.41%.

Ethnic groups: European and some mestizo 94%, African origin 3%, Chinese 1%, Amerindian 1%, other 1%.

Religion: Roman Catholic 76.3%, Evangelical 13.7%, Jehovah's Witnesses 1.3%, other Protestant 0.7%, other 4.8%, none 3.2%.

Languages: Spanish, with a southwestern Caribbean Creole dialect of English spoken around the Limon area.

Education: Years compulsory--9. Attendance--99% grades 1-6, 71% grades 7-9. Literacy--96%.

Health: Infant mortality rate--9.45/1,000. Life expectancy--men 74.61 yrs., women 79.94 yrs.

Work force (2006 est., 1.866 million; this official estimate excludes Nicaraguans living in Costa Rica legally and illegally): Agriculture--13%; industry--22%; services--64%.

Government: Democratically elected republic.

Geography of Costa Rica

  

Costa Rica is basically a towering range of mountains, flanked on both sides with coastal plains. When you consider that the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans are as close as seventy miles apart, and that the highest mountain rises to 12,000 feet, you've got to know that there will be a fantastic variety of geographic features compacted into a relatively small area.

Costa Rica was formed millions of years ago when the continents of North and South America met through the shifting of tectonic plates. The result was amazing. Costa Rico rose out of the ocean in the form of volcanoes, forming a land bridge between the two migrating continents. Through time, a very diverse terrain developed. Costa Rica is often described as a "micro continent" because of the variety of geographic environments.

Located just ten degrees north of the equator, Costa Rica is located within the tropics. The variance of altitude throughout the county adds additional dimensions to the complexity of the geographic environment. A brief descriptive list includes:

Costa Rica is part of the Pacific Rim of Fire. There are four distinct mountain ranges in spite of the small size of the country. There are seven active volcanoes and many more dormant and extinct ones.

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Ecology of Costa Rica

Costa Rica is a natural paradise. The concept of ecotourism was born in Costa Rica; this carries an emphasis on minimizing the impact of tourism on the environment. This concept is heartily endorsed and encouraged by the staff and members of "Travel to Costa Rica."

Costa Rica has twelve distinct ecological zones, more than in all of North America. There is a fantastic proliferation of wildlife; Costa Rica amazingly is home to 5% of all known animals on this planet, including an incredible number of birds and butterflies. There is also an explosive array of vegetation consisting of over 9,000 species found everywhere from the pristine forests and jungle to the brisk, cool mountaintops.

An interesting fact relates to Costa Rico's being the land bridge between North and South America. Through the centuries, animals indigenous to either continent have converged in Costa Rica, enhancing the impressive diversity.

And as a great friend to this planet, Costa Rica had dedicated one quarter of its land area to parklands and wildlife refuges. No other country in the world has devoted so much of its territory to environmental protection.

· 130 species of freshwater fish
· 160 species of amphibians
· 208 species of mammals
· 1,600 species of fresh and salt water fish
· 220 species of reptiles
· 850 species of birds
· 1,000 species of butterflies
· 1,200 varieties of orchids
· 9,000 species of plants
· 34,000 species of insects
· Canal networks through jungles
· Cloud forests
· Coral reefs
· Deciduous forests
· Elevations from sea level to 12,529 feet
· Mangrove swamps
· Rain forests
· Tropical dry forests
· Volcanoes (112 craters)
· White, black, and pink shell beaches on both coasts
· Extensive networks of rivers

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A Brief History of Costa Rica

At the time Christopher Columbus came to Costa Rica in 1502, there were estimated to be only around 20 thousand inhabitants in this region; there were no major civilizations prior to the influx of European influences. Today, only 1% of the population of Costa Rica is indigenous to the time before Columbus.

Initially, even the Spanish colonization of Costa Rica fell behind the rest of the West because of the lack of gold and environmental challenges. Even after Costa Rica was colonized, its way of life differed from that of its Spanish colonial neighbors in that is was known more as "rural democracy" because of the absence of an oppressed mestizo class, due to the lack of intermarrying with native peoples.

Central America was granted independence from Spain in 1821. After a brief civil war over the question of becoming part of Mexico, Costa Rica became a member of a confederation of Central American States. The first head of state was Juan Mora Fernandez in 1824, who was best known for his land reforms, but who also inadvertently created a class of powerful coffee barons who later overthrew the first president of Costa Rica, Jose Maria Castro.

After some political turmoil and periods of military rule, General Tomas Guardia took control of the government in 1870. He is best known for his educational, military, and tax reforms.

1889 brought the first democratic election to the country. Then president Bernardo Soto, who ordered the election, lost, much to his surprise. After first refusing to relinquish power, he caved in to the wishes of the people and the tradition of democracy was born.

In 1948, civil war erupted after incumbent president Rafael Angel Calderón Guardia refused to relinquish power after an election. Calderón was defeated by Jose Maria (Don Pepe) Figueres Ferrer, who later proved to be one of Costa Rica's most influential leaders of all time, instituting ground breaking social and economic progress.

In recent history, governments of Costa Rica have alternated between the two major political parties, evidence that democracy is truly at work.

In 1987, then President Oscar Arias was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for authoring a peace plan for neighboring Nicaragua. Costa Rica's current president is Rafael Angel Calderón Fournier, the son of the legendary Don Pepe.

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Costa Rican Society

Costa Ricans proudly describe their society as a "classless democracy." In contrast to many other societies, Costa Rica lacks the typical tensions of class vs. class. and race relations are much better than in places such as the United States.

The Costa Rican society is considered to be mobile...Ticos have what is similar to the "American dream," that as a result of hard work and dedication, anyone can succeed.

Costa Rica is the most homogeneous of Central American countries in race as well as social class. Most Costa Ricans look European in ancestry and the vast majority of the population is of Spanish decent.

Education is a revered institution in Costa Rica. Many Costa Ricans do studying abroad and thus many are bilingual. Public education and colleges far outshine those in other countries because of the resources and attention provided by the government over many years. Over 90% of Costa Ricans are literate.

Costa Ricans are a peaceful, clean, and cultured people. Ticos proudly keep their little bungalows spick and span, bedecked with flowers. They take pride in being well-dressed, regardless of their social status, and are delighted to don formal wear including fedoras for the men and shawls for the women.

Overall, Costa Rica is a safe, stable place that welcomes visitors with open arms. Educated, and tradition-minded, with excellent health care, Costa Rico begins to match its society to its ecological paradise.

The People of Costa Rica

You would need to search the far corners of the earth to find a people such as the Costa Ricans. Affectionately known as the "Ticos," these are a peace-loving, conscientious, unique group of people.

With a relatively non-violent history, Costa Rica is one of the few new world countries that was founded by people looking for a peaceful, pleasant place to live, rather that a place to be exploited. This mentality has passed itself down through the generations.

Ticos tend to be very critical of themselves, both as individuals and as a society. They aspire to humility and frown on boasting. Leaving a good impression is important. Because of their distaste in appearing rude or unhelpful, Ticos are quite courteous. Visitors to this little nation rarely leave without being touched by the cordial warmth and hospitality of the Costa Rican people.

Essentially a peaceful people, violence is rarely encountered. Most Ticos are law-abiding citizens with a great respect for their laws and government. The one exception is their driving habits, so beware! Costa Rica has no standing army; this military was abolished years ago. Costa Rica is officially a neutral nation.

The one thing that will rile up a Tico, however, is any threat to their freedom or homeland. Costa Ricans treasure their democracy and are quite proud of their personal liberties which becomes obvious when you witness celebrations of national holidays.

Although socially progressive when it comes to education and healthcare, Ticos are a little conservative when it comes to maintaining their Tican traditions. The family and village community are the cornerstones of their society. Ticos are a very hard working people, but also love to play and celebrate holidays.

One characteristic, however, that might take some adjusting to is "tico time." The laid back nature of these people sometimes means arriving fifteen or thirty minutes late for appointments is just fine.

Overall, Ticos are wonderful people, in this amazing country.

 

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Government of Costa Rica

The government of Costa Rica is very similar to that of the United States as there are three branches of government: the executive, the legislative, and the judicial. Costa Rica celebrated its 100th anniversary of democracy in 1989 and has been twelve times nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize.

A democratic republic, all citizens are guaranteed equality before the law in addition to freedom of speech, petition, and assembly. The constitution also extends its guarantee of freedoms to all foreigners living in Costa Rica (with the exception of voting privileges.)

In addition to the three branches of government, there is also a Supreme Tribunal of Elections which holds the responsibility and authority to organize and supervise national elections. This is evidence of the value Costa Rica places upon voting rights and free and fair elections.

The red, white, and blue Costa Rican flag has great meaning to the Costa Rican people. The red represents the warmth of the people, their love of life, the blood shed for freedom, and generosity. The white stand for clear thinking, happiness, wisdom, and peace. The blue represents the sky, opportunity, perseverance, and spiritual ideals.
 

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Travel Tips

Entry Requirements

A valid passport is required. for U.S. citizens. U.S. citizens may no longer enter Costa Rica solely with  a driver’s license and certified birth certificate. A pre-paid airline ticket to exit Costa Rica (either to return to your country or to go to another country) may also be required.

It is required that you carry your passport with you at all times. Officials requesting I.D., during your stay, will usually accept a photocopy of your passport showing photo, passport number, and entry stamp. We suggest you do NOT carry your original passport with you daily while in Costa Rica--carry a copy and leave your original with your homestay family, or at the academy.

United States of America special information U.S. Citizens Do Not Need a Visa to Travel to Costa Rica. Required Entry Documents: U.S. citizens may enter Costa Rica without a tourist visa and can stay up to 90 days. U.S. citizens - regardless of their age (*) - need the following documents to enter Costa Rica: a passport valid for at least ninety (90) days (**) And a pre-paid airline ticket to exit Costa Rica or proof of financial resources ($400.00US - $1,000.00US in cash, traveler checks, and/or ticket (either to return to your home country or to go to another country) (*) If a U.S. minor (U.S. Citizen under the age of 18) does not have his/her own passport, he or she must have a joint passport with one of his/her parents, legal guardian or the person traveling with him/her. (**) Your passport can not expire no earlier than ninety days from the date that you arrive in Costa Rica. For example, if you are going to fly to Costa Rica on January 1st, your passport can not expire before April 1st of the same year. Note: The government of Costa Rica decreed that after November 17, 2003 the practice of accepting U.S. driver licenses/IDs and U.S. birth/naturalization certificates as entry documents is discontinuedpermanent basis. on a

If traveling from a country other that the U.S. or Canada, or if you have any other questions, contact the Costa Rican embassy in your country and they will be more than happy to assist you with any information you need.

When departing, you should be at the airport at least two - three hours before your scheduled flight. There is a departure tax of U.S. $26.
 

Financial Matters

Currency Exchange:

Costa Rica's unit of currency is known as the Colon...named after Christopher Columbus. As of October, 2007:
1 US Dollar = about ¢518. Costa Rican Colons.

It is recommended that you make your currency exchange in Costa Rica, rather than your country of origin, because you will get a much better exchange rate. It is suggested, however, that you stay away from "street" exchanges because not only are they illegal, but you are subject to being ripped off.

To exchange your money you must show your passport. There is a fee for exchanging dollars in a private bank, usually about $3 or 2% The Banking hours for the National Banks are Monday through Friday from 9 am to 3 pm, in San Jose city until 5 pm; for private banks, Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5:30 pm or 6:00 p.m. All banks are usually closed on weekends.

An ATM card is the best way to get cash in Costa Rica! Check with your bank before travelling for ATM locations.

Be sure to bring bills that are not marked or ripped; banks in Costa Rica are reluctant to accept damaged bills.

Some hotels or establishments will exchange currency for you, but the best rates will be found at the banks, if you can tolerate waiting in line. Government banks typically have long lines, privately owned banks are usually more efficient in this respect and are air conditioned with friendlier service.

To exchange your money you must show your passport. There is a fee for exchanging dollars in a private bank, usually about $3. The Banking hours for the National Banks are Monday through Friday from 9 am to 3 pm; for private banks, Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 3:30 or 4:00 p.m. All banks are usually closed on weekends.

Credit Cards & ATMS:

ATM’s (Cirrus, Star, Plus, etc.) are available in major cities with some accepting Visa and others only Master Card and some accept both. Amex is also fairly well accepted, but not as much as Visa & MC. Don't forget to bring your PIN number!

AMEX, VISA and Master Card credit/debit cards are widely accepted in retail establishments, restaurants, hotels and gas stations etc., with VISA being the most widely accepted. A few ATMs accept foreign credit cards. If you use one of these, count your money; make sure the machine gave you what you paid for. You can use credit cards to get cash from a bank. However, your credit card company might charge you a hefty fee (sometimes 1%) for the favor.

Traveler's Checks - Personal Checks

Do not expect to use personal checks; most places will not accept them. US dollar traveler's checks are accepted at some establishments if they can verify your identity to their satisfaction, but it is typically not preferred.

Tax

There is a 13% sales tax on most services and goods. There is also an extra 3% tourist tax on hotel bills. There is a departure tax of U.S. $20.

Tipping

Restaurants usually add a 10% service charge to your bill to cover the tip so be sure to read your bill before leaving extra money. If you receive unusually good service or are especially pleased with your waiter, you might feel good about slipping them a couple extra bucks.

Taxi drivers are not usually tipped. However, if they help with luggage, or act as a tour guide, a tip is appreciated.

Tours guides are usually tipped anywhere from $3 to $10 depending on the tour and quality of service provided. Hotel maids and tour drivers are also sometimes left a tip, if service is satisfactory.

Porters and bellhops get around $1 per bag.
 

Time Aspects

Time Zone:

Costa Rica operates in the Central Time zone (-6 GMT). They do NOT use daylight savings, so during the summer half of the year, they match U.S. Mountain Daylight Savings Time.

Sunrise / Sunset:

Because they do not change their clocks with daylight savings and because of the geographic location, Costa Rican days and night are almost always evenly divided.

Sunrise is typically around 5:30 a.m. and sunset is typically around 5:30 p.m., varying only by about fifteen minutes during the course of the year.

What To Bring

Costa Rica has a pretty constant range of temperatures because of its geographic location in the tropics. However, because of the presence of so many climate zones, it is suggested that you dress not only for hot, humid weather, but also for the cool breeziness of higher altitudes. The following is a list you might want to choose from:

A small umbrella
Rain jacket or poncho
A couple of bathing suits
Shorts
T-shirts or tank tops
Loose-fitting cottons
Lightweight long sleeved shirt
Rubber sandals
Hats
Lightweight hiking boots with good tread
Athletic shoes for walks
Light sweater and/or jacket
Light cotton pants
Jeans (for horseback riding)
Extra socks
Sunglasses
Insect Repellent (75% DEET recommended)
Waterproof sun block lotion (SPF 30-45)
Towels
Folding sturdy umbrella
Day pack
Cameras
Film for cameras (VERY expensive in Costa Rica)
Camera batteries
Binoculars
Flashlight
Medications
Plastic bags (Ziplocs are suggested--several sizes)
Prepaid phone card to call home

A couple more bits of information:

The capital of San Jose is located at a higher elevation so it may be cool and breezy during the evening.

Dress in Costa Rica is typically casual, but traditionally, shorts are not worn to nice restaurants or parties.

Health Issues

Costa Rica has excellent heath care and sanitary standards are high. Hospitals and private clinics are similar in quality to those in the United States, but not as expensive.

Costa Rica's socialized medicine and public education has served to effectively control those illnesses and diseases that typically affect tropical countries. The standard of health is quite high.

Vaccinations are not required, nor are they considered necessary.

Be sure to bring with you a medical history if you have any health condition that would require special attention or consideration in the event of illness or accident. Costa Rica does use a 911 emergency call system that uses bilingual operators.

Some health tips:

When participating in outdoor activities, avoid using fragrant shampoos or perfume; these will act as mosquito magnets!

Don't try getting your suntan all in one day! The Costa Rican sun is tropical; pace yourself with appropriate sunscreens.

Bring bottled water with you on your outdoor excursions and keep yourself hydrated early in your activities.
 

Driving

You should have a valid American, Canadian or international driver's license before driving in Costa Rica.

You should always carry your license with you, while driving.

Costa Rica has very tough drunk driving laws.

Warning! Costa Rica has one of the highest accident rates in the world; drivers tend to be very aggressive, so be prepared to get out of the way.

Speeding tickets run about U.S. $150. Do not try bribing your way out of it, you will be opening a can of worms. Oncoming drivers will typically warn you of speed traps by flashing their lights.

Most rental cars are stick shift.

Taxis and Buses

Taxis:

While in San Jose, taxis can either be hailed or ordered by phone. Taxis are typically red with white number plates. When taking a taxi in the city, be sure ask if the electronic meter "maria" is working before entering the cab. After 9 p.m. a 20-50% surcharge is added to the fare.

When traveling outside the city limits, it is recommended that you check fixed rates in advance. Tipping is unnecessary.

Buses:

Costa Rica has an extensive bus system that services not only the metropolitan areas, but travels to most sections of the country. Fares are relatively cheap.

Telephones and Electricity

Telephones:

Direct dial to most countries is available. You may also use telephone credits cards through the appropriate operators including ATT, MCI, Sprint, and Bell Canada or simply dial the access code to your carrier and then the number.

AT&T operator by dialing 0-800-011-4114, MCI by calling 0-800-012-2222, Sprint by dialing 0-800-013-0123, Canada Bell by dialing 0-800-015-1161, British Telecom by dialing 0-800-044-1044

To make a collect call from any phone, dial 09, the international access code of the country being called, and then the number. If you ever need an English speaking operator, simply dial 116.

Making international calls from pay phones is difficult because of the amount of coins you have to feed into the phone. Also, waiting in line to use a phone might be fruitless as it is not customary for a person to rush off the phone, even if someone is obviously waiting. A lot of pay phones in Costa Rica are out of order, so be sure you know a phone is working before investing coins into it.

Electricity:

Standard current is 110volts, 60 Hertz. Same as in the U.S and Canada with 110V, 60Hz current and the same wall outlets. Sometimes outlets only have 2 slots w/o the 3rd 'ground' receptacle, so an adapter can be handy.
 

The Water

Unlike most Latin American countries, Costa Rica has a reputation for having good clean water. Most tap water is pure. Salads are safe because crops are grown with clean irrigated water.

Even though the water quality is good, you still may want to stick to the readily available, relatively inexpensive, bottled water, especially in rural or remote areas. In San Jose, you may find it is nearly impossible to avoid drinking tap water, or eating foods washed in tap water. The water in San Jose is relatively safe, but we suggest the following. Take one pepto bismol tablet each morning to coat your stomach. This old traveler's trick will help avoid unpleasantness that may occur as your body is becoming accustomed to a new water supply.

Laundry:

Costa Rica is not known for its Laundromats! Most people pay other people to do their laundry; payment is usually by the kilo.

Tico Culture & Customs

The Costa Rican people are affectionately known as "Ticos." Here are a couple of tips.

Language:

Spanish is the primary language of Costa Rica, but English is spoken in many areas, especially those visited by tourists.

Family:

Mothers are regarded as the leading family figures. Grandparents and the elderly are highly respected.

National Pastimes:

"Football" (Soccer) and politics. The Costa Rican people are quite proud of their democracy.

Food:

The main Costa Rican dish is rice and beans which can be eaten for breakfast, lunch and dinner. The typical Costa Rican breakfast is "Gallo Pinto" literally translated as painted rooster. This dish consists of rice and black beans, sometimes served with a fried egg on top. Also, a typical lunch or dinner is known as a "casado" literally translated as a married man. This dish usually consists of meat or fish with rice, vegetables and beans.

Costa Ricans also enjoy a lot of meat, mostly beef, chicken, and pork. Eating fish is considered a luxury although fish marinated in lemon juice and spices is a cheap delicacy. Vegetables and fruits are also popular and cheap. Imported apples and grapes are considered a special treat.

There are restaurants in all the major towns serving a variety of cuisines. Local food can be found in small 'sodas'. Popular restaurant dishes include: olla de carne (soup of beef, plantain, yuca, nampi and chayote), sopa negra (black beans and poached egg); and picadillo (meat and vegetable stew).

Dancing:

Costa Ricans love to dance! Males typically lead the dance.

Women:

Costa Ricans are unaccustomed to seeing women traveling alone. Males will see unaccompanied females as not spoken for and will traditionally "hiss" and express compliments...this is just a macho cultural thing and appropriate to ignore if unwelcome.

When a couple walks down the street, a woman should walk to the inside with the man next to the curb, otherwise the impression will be that the woman is "available."

Security

All wise and seasoned travelers know that whether you are at home or abroad, there are always precautions you can take to insure the safety and well-being of your trip. Some tips are as follows:

Always be alert to what is going on around you.

Especially after dark, be very cautious of your surroundings in San Jose. This is a big city and there is petty crime so use common sense: don't walk alone after dark, know where you are going, use cabs after dark to get around the city--they are very cheap and can save you from having your trip ruined.

If you are lost, find the closest public place, like a service station to ask directions or seek assistance in reading a map.

When using an ATM, make sure it is in a well lit area. Do not count your money until you are in a safe place.

If you carry a purse or backpack, keep it close and secured to your body, tucked under your arm. Never carry a wallet in your back pocket.

If faced with the choice of giving up your possessions as opposed to confronting a hostile person, your objects are not worth as much as your life or health.

Leave your suitcases in your homestay families house or your hotel; take only what you need when you go out and keep a close eye on your possessions.

Keep your passport at the homestay families house or hotel and carry a copy with you, a laminated copy would be fine; the copy should include your photo, passport number, and entry stamp.

Ticos (CR Nationals) are arguably the friendliest people in the world. They are super family oriented and also very physically affectionate -but only when they get to know you! With strangers, although they are more than kind with directions, advice an such, they do not touch. Even your handshake is accepted timidly at times.

Therefore: if you are approached on the street by an overly friendly stranger (TICO or NICA) who wants to shake your hand, put his arm around you or get physical, be cautious! Best case scenario is that you are getting hit up for a cigarette or money. Worst case is you are being distracted so an accomplice can snatch your valuables. Be aware - but do not be paranoid. This is a great place with a more than average amount of good people.

Enjoy this beautiful country!!!

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United States Embassy, in front Centro Comercial, on the road to Pavas
(506/220-3939).

Canadian Consulate: Oficentro Ejecutivo la Sabana, Edificio 5
(506/296-4149).

British Embassy: Paseo Colón between Calles 38 and 40
(506/258-2025)

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Bureau of Public Affairs, U.S. Department of State Information about Costa Rica.