The Costa Rican people speak a clear accentuated Spanish, which makes this country ideal surroundings to learn Spanish, and a truly unforgettable experience close to Nature.

Costa Rica has a serene transparent air, where the colors of the mountains, trees and flowers are always as brilliant as the first day of spring.

Climate

With an agreeable climate year round, the average temperature in San José is 21ºC. There are only 2 seasons in Costa Rica, the dry season and the wet season. The dry season is from December through April and the rainy season is from May to November.

Clothing

We recommend light natural fabrics throughout the year. A jacket or sweater would be useful for colder nights and for places with air conditioning. Shorts and a bathing suit are acceptable on the beach. Otherwise more formal attire is recommended.

Currency

The monetary unit is the Colón, which is also divided into 100 cents. Credit cards are widely accepted in the majority of the tourist establishments and stores, although they are not generally accepted in the small arts and crafts establishments. In any case, we recommend carrying some US dollars in cash and travelers checks in US dollars, since this is the easiest currency to exchange.

Gastronomy

Highlights are fish and seafood, tropical fruits, black soup made with back beans and egg, fruit juices and coffee.

The traditional gastronomy of this country is the reflection of the cultural fusion, which took place in Central America. Legumes accompanied by grilled meats and corn tortillas form the base for the main dishes of the region.

Shopping

Hand painted miniature wagons are the most popular souvenir from Costa Rica. Other popular items to take home are coffee cultivated in the mountains, craft items made of tropical woods such as small boxes, plates, bowls, frames furniture,... and ceramic replicas of pre-Columbian figures.

Internet

Costa Rica is well connected to Internet through RASCA, the country’s telecommunications company.