Costa Rica

General Information and Tips for Travelers

Rhythmic pounding of waves on breezy shores; deserted beaches lined with palm trees and lush rain forests; velvety rolling hills of tropical vegetation; cottony clouds kissing the treetops; raging rivers cutting through virgin jungle; waterfalls feeding clear blue lagoons...These are just a few of the wonders visitors enjoy in the country called Costa Rica.

The population of Costa Rica is predominately of European origin, particularly Spanish. The ethnic diversity which has resulted from settlement patterns in Costa Rica give the country a rich cultural tapestry that is every bit as interesting as the ecological diversity for which it is better known.

Costa Ricans are proud of their Republic, one of the most stable and democratic political systems in all of Latin America. The country abolished its military in 1948 and is forbidden by its constitution to establish another. Peace is not only a political concept in Costa Rica, but is evident in the spirit and generosity of the people themselves. The she negotiating and constructive dialogue which guide the political process in Costa Rica also guide the country's citizens in their searching for mutually beneficial solutions to their problems. In accordance with the democratic tradition in Costa Rica, education is free and mandatory, and the government's expenditures for health and education are hong the highest in the budget. Costa Rica's literacy rate is 96%, and the average life expectancy exceeds 70 years.

Natural areas are one of its greatest sources of national pride. With 46 national parks, reserves and wildlife refuges, Costa Rica long ago established ecological conservation as one of the country's top priorities. The result of its concentrated efforts at preservation is a rich biosystem in which diverse animal and plant species flourish. Costa Rica's natural areas are cherished by the country's citizens as well as by visitors from all over the world.

Costa Rica is a small country by most standards, 125 kilometers (77 miles) wide at it narrowest point and 300 kilometers (185 miles) at its widest. It is situated 10 degrees north of the equator and has a territory of 51.000 square kilometers ( about 20,000 square miles), roughly the size of West Virginia, in the U.S.A. The population of Costa Rica is approximately 3.5 millions.

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Tips for Travelers

IMMIGRATION POLICIES

Citizens from Western European and EEC countries or from the United States or Canada need only a valid passport to enter Costa Rica.

WEATHER/TOURIST SEASONS

Tourists enjoy Costa Rica all year long, but the favorite period of the year is the dry season, from November to April. More and more many tourists enjoy the beauty of the Green Season between May and October when Nature reaches its highest peak. The average temperature is 21 degrees Centigrade (70 degrees Fahrenheit) in the highlands and 28 degrees Centigrade (82 degrees Fahrenheit) in the lowlands along the coast. The weather is temperate throughout the year; Costa Rica is said to have an eternal spring. Even in the rainy season the mornings are dry and sunny.

PUBLIC SERVICES

Electricity is 120V / 60 Hz, and North American electrical items can be used with no adapter necessary. The potable water is fresh and drinkable across the country. Costa Rican boasts a state-of-the art telecommunications system, the most advanced of any country in Latin America. It is inexpensive and convenient; direct-dial calls can be made to nearly any country in the world. Post offices can be found in almost all cities and towns, and public telephones are nearly always accessible.

TAXES AND TIPS

The hotels, in accordance with the law, charge a 13% consumer tax and a 3% tourist tax on the price of the room. In restaurants a 13% tax and a 10% service charge; if the service is excellent, you are welcome to leave an additional tip. Tourists must pay an airport tax, about US $17.00 at the airport upon leaving the country. (Stand July 2000).

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HEALTH

No vaccinations are required in order to enter Costa Rica. Cholera and malaria do not represent a danger in the country. For those who are planning trips into the jungle and are concerned about the risk of disease, preventive measures are recommended. Public health services in Costa Rica are hong the best in the world; excellent medical care is available in hospitals and clinics in all the larger population centers in the country.

BANKS, CURRENCY EXCHANGE AND CREDIT CARDS

Banks are normally open from 8:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. (some offer a late afternoon service until 5:00 p.m.) for all types of international financial transactions. The colón is the national currency of Costa Rica and is easily exchangeable in hotels and banks, usually for a minimal fee. Traveler's checks are usually treated as cash, and major credit cards are welcomed in most establishments.

TRANSPORTATION

Costa Rica's bus system is extensive, and regular routes run between cities; taxis are also easy to find in most cities. Likewise, car rental agencies have offices in convenient locations across the country. Flights within the country are also available and relatively inexpensive on SANSA or TRAVELAIR.

COMMUNICATION MEDIA

Costa Rica has over six television stations which broadcast in Spanish. Satellite television service is also available in most places and offers a worldwide programing (U.S., European, Asian and other channels). Internet is wide-spread and e-mail service offered free of charge for costarrican citizens. More than 100 radio stations broadcast in Costa Rica. Eight daily newspapers are published in Spanish and two weekly are published in English. There are also several monthly magazines and newspapers published in the country. Foreign publications can be purchased at most bookstores.

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TELECOMMUNICATIONS SYSTEM

Costa Rica has a state-of-the-art telecommunications system which is consider one of the best in Latin America. From almost every part of the country you can dial direct to almost every point in the world. PLEASE DIAL 124 FOR FURTHER BILINGUAL INFORMATION (Spanish/English)

FOOD AND DRINKS

A variety of delicious dishes can be enjoyed in Costa Rica. Typical restaurants usually offer dishes with beef, chicken, pork, seafood and/or fresh vegetables. Particularly in the larger cities, Italian, French and Chinese restaurants are easy to find; Costa Ricans enjoy their share of "haute cuisine". Rice, beans and tortillas are the staples in most households, but supermarkets and "mercados" offer nearly anything you might use in your own kitchen. Because of Costa Rica's climate, fresh fruits and vegetables are plentiful all year round.

Source and further information:

TOC San José, Costa Rica
Tel: 00506-2222560
Fax: 00506-2552395
e-mail: info@centralamerica-tourism.com

Further information offers the Tourist Board of Costa Rica ICT at: www.visitcostarica.com

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