Location:
Costa Rica is one of the small nations that together comprise the isthmus of Central America. The country's borders are defined by Nicaragua to the North and Panama to the South. Because it is between two continents, and two oceans, this convergence of land and water makes the region a great bottleneck, rich in ecological diversity.
Time:
Costa Rica is the same as U.S. Central Standard Time, but does not observe daylight savings time.
Language:
The most widely spoken language in Costa Rica is Spanish (97% of the population); although there are other native languages used mostly within the indigenous reserves. Many businesses, in and around San Jose, and resorts throughout the country have employees who also speak English.
Electricity:
It is 110 volts. Plugs are two pronged without the grounding prong.
Currency & Exchange Rate:
The Colon (¢1.00) is the national currency of Costa Rica. The exchange rate against the US dollar can vary day by day, but as of March 16 2006, it was ¢504.81 colones per dollar.
Credit CardsAutomated Teller Machines (ATM's):
can be easily found in most populated areas of Costa Rica. Most international credit cards are accepted throughout the country: Visa, Master Card and American Express.
Tipping:
Most restaurants will include a 10% service charge at the bill. Taxi drivers generally do not receive a tip. If you are satisfied with the service you receive, hotel maids, tour guides and drivers would appreciate a tip.
Departure Tax:
The average rate is US $26.00 as of Mach, 2006.