CostaRicaDreamin.com/At a Glance

ALL YOU NEED TO KNOW BEFORE YOUR DEPARTURE

	Geography?
Costa Rica is situated on the land bridge that joins North and South America, between the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea, giving it a privileged location. This small country covers 20,000 square miles (about the size of West Virginia) and has high and rugged mountains in the center and south that are bisected by a thin line of hills. Pristine beaches on both coasts complete this wonderful setting. Capital: San Jose. Known worldwide for its national parks, diverse forests, especially the rain forest, and active volcanoes, Costa Rica's lush tropical vegetation is also a wildlife preserve.
	How is the Weather?
Weather in Costa Rica will vary depending on the altitude, and temperatures fluctuate between 68oF and 80oF, creating a spring-like climate all year round. The dry season or summer starts in November and lasts through April, while the "green season" runs from May with light rainfall through its peak in October. A short Indian summer is experienced in July and August.
	The Population?
Costa Rica is home to about 4 million people with 90% of the population being of European descent, mostly Spaniards. The rest of the population is a mix of descendants of Jamaicans, Orientals and original natives. Costa Ricans are affectionately called "Ticos".
	Language?
While Costa Rica's main language is Spanish, English is widely spoken throughout the country.
	Religion?
Catholicism is the principal religion in Costa Rica. However, all religions are accepted and all kinds of churches, Christian and non-Christian are found.
	Vaccination and health?
No vaccinations are required, however we recommend checking with the U.S. Center for Disease Control in Washington D.C. (404) 332-4559. While drinking tap water is safe in all major towns, in some areas the water should be boiled before drinking. Bottled water can be found in local supermarkets everywhere.
	Time?
Costa Rica is in the Central Time Zone. No time difference with the United States.
	Electric power?
The outlets are the same as in the U.S.; the current is a 110 volts, 60 cycles AC.
	Driving?
A valid U.S. driver's license allows you to drive in Costa Rica for 90 days and is to be carried at all times. Minimum age is 21 years old. The roads are good to most popular destinations, but we recommend to rent a 4 wheels car for certain parts of the Costa Rica (as Monteverde), during the green season (due to the heavy rain), and just have accessibility to some beach and secret paradises.
	Entry requirement?
Valid passport. Since December 31st 2002, traveling with picture ID + a birth certificate is no longer valid. Traveling children under 18 years old do require a valid passport as well.
	Safety?
Costa Rica is generally a safe destination: Independent democracy since 1848. The nation disbanded its army in 1948. Petty crime does exist as in any other tourist destination. Following common sense and staying alert to your surroundings is an effective way to prevent becoming a victim of crime.
	What to wear?
Cotton shorts and T-shirts, a light foldable raincoat, hiking or tennis shoes, and swimsuits are recommended during the day. Formal wear with light dresses or pants for women and slacks and short sleeve shirts for men are the dress code for evenings at restaurants or parties.
	Tipping and taxes?
As a general rule, hotel and restaurant staff, tour guides and cab drivers accept tipping in appreciation of good service. Hotels, restaurants and nightclubs are required to add a 13% sales tax and a 10% service charge on all bills.
	Currency and Credit cards?
The "colon" is the official monetary unit and its current exchange value can be viewed on http://www.visitcostarica.com/ict/paginas/home.asp?ididioma=2 the local newspaper. Although most major credit cards are widely received, in many smaller establishments only cash is accepted.