Things to know when traveling to Costa Rica
Before traveling outside your native country to another country
you should prepare yourself. Learning about the country before
you go can prevent common problems or confusion. Cultures vary
throughout the world and sometimes a simple misunderstanding can
become a big deal. Learning about the basic life, culture and
laws of a country you are traveling to can help you to be
prepared and have an enjoyable vacation.
The basic things you need to know include how to get around,
business hours and various other points. Once you get to Costa
Rica you need to know how to get around from place to place,
especially if you are not within walking distance of your
destination. Buses are the main form of transportation. It is
the most cost efficient and easiest way to get around. Do be
aware that the buses in Costa Rica are small and sometimes
cramped. You will not be able to take along luggage and if you
need a lot of legroom you will be in trouble. Another form of
transportation is a rental car. They are quite more expensive
and you need to have insurance that will cover the rental car in
case of an accident. Also know that most rental cars are
standards, so if you do not know how to drive one you may be out
of luck. Business hours in Costa Rica are much like that in the
United States. Typically they run from 8 or 9 AM to 3 or 5 PM.
Everyday a lunch break takes place between noon and 2PM. Also on
Sundays most places will be closed. Costa Rica runs on Central
Standard time, which means some of those traveling from the US
may get to avoid jet lag all together. The healthcare system in
Costa Rica is very advanced. They have an excellent system that
offers up-to-date medical care in modern hospitals. You can most
often find doctors that speak English as well. These basic facts
will help you to get used to life in Costa Rica, but there are
some more things you should get to know.
In Costa Rica there are some legal things you need to know. If
you are renting a car be aware that Costa Rica is a good place
to have an accident. Drivers here rank low for auto accident
rates. The speed limits are posted either on signs or painted on
the pavement and you should always be aware of them. The speed
limits range from 45 to 55 MPH in general. Costa Rica laws
require that all luggage is screened through customs and
declarations must be filled out for certain items like food and
anything valuable. Alcohol is legal for those over the age of
eighteen. Also be aware that prostitution is legal in Costa Rica
for those over eighteen. When you are ready to leave Costa Rica
you should know you will be required to pay an exit fee approx.
27.00. These helpful hints about legal do's and don'ts will help
you avoid problems while in Costa Rica.
It is always nice to know about little things that are often
overlooked on travel websites or in brochures. The water heaters
in hotels in Costa Rica are not like those in the United States.
You will find they are mostly plastic tubes with an electrical
gadget in the nozzle. This means hot water may not always be
hot. The busiest time in Costa Rica is during what is called the
high season. The high season is between December and May. You
may find that getting reservations can be difficult during this
time. You usually do not have to tip while out in Costa Rica. A
10% tip is added to your bill. Another good thing to know is
that the sewer systems can handle toilet paper unlike those in
other countries. The water system in Costa Rica is treated and
safe to drink. The electricity in Costa Rica is the same as in
the United States. They do not use the grounding prong in some
locations, so be aware of the need for adapters for this reason.
Dancing is big in Costa Rica and you can find dance clubs all
over. Laundry mats are not common in Costa Rica. Most people
send their laundry out to be washed. Some vacation rentals offer
a washer/dryer as an amenity. These helpful little hints can
help you get through your vacation without a mishap.
Costa Rica is a lovely, peaceful country. There is a lot to see
and do. Once you have decided on Costa Rica get to know a little
more about the country so you can enjoy everything it has to
offer.