GENERAL INFORMATION
- Language:
- Spanish is the native language. English is frequently spoken.
- Time Zone:
- Costa Rica is on Central Standard Time and day-light saving is not observed.
- Electric Services:
- 110 volts, nationwide service
- Water:
- Pure and suitable for drinking throughout the country.
- Proof of Citizenship:
- A valid passport, birth certificate or voter´s registration is required for U.S. citizens.
- Telephone:
- This is one of the most efficient services in Latin America.
- Public Transportation:
- The country has a large fleet of taxis, easily identified by their red color. In rural areas taxis are fourwheel drive.
- Banking and Currency:
- The Colon exchange rate fluctuates with the U.S. Dollar. Dollars can be exchanged at the bank or at most hotels. Major credit cards are widely accepted.
- Clothing:
- The tone here is casual wear – it is not necessary to dress up to go out to dinner. Comfortable light-wight is best. In the higher parts of the country when visiting San José. The volcanoes or Monteverde, temperatures are cool and sweaters or light coatas are suggested.
- Dining and Entertainment:
- Unless specified, meals are not included in our programs. Food is moderately priced and the local cuisine is excellent. Fresh vegetalbes, corn meal tortillas, rice, beans, and fried planains are a speciality. Seafood is plentiful and a daily catch is featured on most restaurant menus. Costa Rican coffee is among the world´s finest.
- Climate:
- Almost ideal all year-round, the climate is a moderate 72´F in the highlands. Lowlands range from the low 70´s F to high 90´s F. Evenings in San José are free of humidity, and beaches are cooled by ocean breezes. Rain may occur in mid-afternoons for short periods of time.
