The high season in Costa Rica, December through April, is the
dry season. The rainy season, which lasts from May to November,
usually sees sunny mornings, with rain showers in late afternoon
and evening. Secondary roads can become rutted during those
months, and four-wheeldrive vehicles are strongly recommended.
Overall, the climate is tropical, with an average temperature
of 72°F (22°C). It can be much hotter along the coastal
areas of the country, and much cooler in the mountains.
Economy
and Tourism
In the past, agricultural exports, like bananas, have been
the staple of the Costa Rican economy. However, tourism has
always played an ever increasing role, and now it has become
the dominant economic force. Ecotourism travel is the most
preferred for expansion because it will provide a sustainable
resource for tourism for generations of Costa Ricans to come.
Costa Ricans love to show off their country, and sincerely
welcome all travelers and vacationers.
Currency
Costa
Rican currency is the colon (co-LOAN). It floats daily against
the dollar and can be exchanged at banks and change booths.
American dollars and major credit cards are acceptable almost
everywhere, except in small business establishments or hotels
and restaurants in remote locations. Travelers’ checks
are not exchanged as favorably as cash. If you pay by credit
card, a small surcharge is sometimes added. ATMs are available
in most cities and towns with bank offices.
People
The
population of Costa Rica is now approximately 4,000,000 people,
which includes 40,000 natives who belong to eight different
cultural groups. The official language is Spanish, but many
of the people speak some English, a required course in all schools.
Costa Ricans are affectionately known as Ticos (TEA-coes) –
and you would be hard pressed to find a more friendly and welcoming
culture.
Major
Cities
San José, population one million, is the capital and
cultural heart of Costa Rica. Other major cities (by population)
are: Alajuela, Cartago, Heredia, Liberia, Limón and Puntarenas.
Entry
Requirements (please check with your Embassy/State Department
for updates and changes)
To enter the country you now must have a valid passport. Some
countries now require your passport to be valid for at least
6 more months in order to leave your country to come here. Information
is subject to change, please check with you embassy and / or
airline.
Electricity
The voltage throughout the country is 110, the same as in North
America. However, three-prong outlets are scarce, so bring along
an adapter if you need one. Travelers with appliances set for
220 will need an adapter that changes the voltage and allows
for use of a different plug.
Time
Zone
Costa Rica is on Central Standard Time, six hours behind Greenwich
Mean Time and one hour behind EST in the States. It does not
currently use daylight saving time, although the idea has been
considered.
