Travelers Tips

Time Zone
Costa Rica does not observe Daylight Saving Time. From March through October, during U.S. Daylight Saving Time, Costa Rica's time zone is equivalent to Mountain Standard Time. November through March, Costa Rica's time zone is equivalent to Central Standard Time.

Electricity
Your North American appliances are compatible with Costa Rica's electrical system, which functions at 110 volts. If you bring 3-pronged appliances to Costa Rica, make sure to bring a converter, as many of Costa Rica's outlets are only 2-pronged.

Drinking Water
Unless specifically labeled "no potable," you can drink Costa Rica's water. This means that you don't have to worry about fruit or vegetable salads, fruit drinks, or any other food item made with water that has not been boiled.

Shots & Inoculations
You do not need any shots or inoculations to come to Costa Rica, despite what people may tell you. However, it’s always wise to make sure you're up-to-date on your tetanus shot.

Driving
Driving Costa Rica's roads can be an adventure sport. Keep your eyes and ears open at all times, budget plenty of driving time, and practice both offensive and defensive driving.

Directions
Costa Ricans do not use North American-style directions. An address or directions will be given by referencing a landmark, and can be a little tricky to understand at first.

Credit Cards
Credit cards are widely accepted in heavily touristed spots, but you can't use them in some of the more rural areas. Hotels and restaurants will generally accept credit cards and dollars and ATMs are scattered throughout the country, and usually offer good exchange rates.

Tipping
Restaurant bills will almost always include tax and tip, except in certain tourist areas. Before you buy, look for I.V.I. on both the menu and bill which means that a 13% sales tax and 10% tip have already been added. Note: 10% can seem like a stingy tip, but in Costa Rica, it's perfectly acceptable. If service is exceptional, feel free to round up or add a small additional tip.

Leaving Costa Rica
On the way out of Costa Rica, you'll have to pay a $26 exit tax, payable with cash or credit card at the international airport. If you're traveling with an underage child without his/her second parent, you will need extensive paperwork to be allowed out of the country. Don't come without it.