What is considered rude in Costa Rica?

Taboos/Unacceptable Behavior

Topics such as pre-marital sex, abortion, and gay marriage are generally avoided. Costa Ricans are very polite, so be sure not to put your feet on furniture; always say please and thank you, and try not raise your voice in anger, at least in public.

What should I avoid in Costa Rica?

Do and don'ts Costa Rica?

How do Costa Ricans greet each other?

What are some cultural norms that Costa Rican have?

In general, Costa Ricans are very well-mannered and taught at a young age to always be polite. The act of confrontation or accusation is considered impolite. Even when there is a time of civil unrest, those involved typically demonstrate dissatisfaction through peaceful and organized marches.

Things NOT To Do in Costa Rica - Part 1

Are Costa Ricans friendly?

Costa Ricans tend to be proud, friendly, and diverse people who enjoy sharing their culture and social activities with newcomers. Costa Rica is the place of pura vida (pure life), a contagious attitude of living life to the fullest.

What are some Costa Rican values?

Costa Ricans are proud of their values. They believe in education and healthcare and make it freely available to its people. They are proud of their long-standing history as a democracy. In fact, they are the oldest and most stable democracy in the region.

Do Costa Ricans kiss on the cheek?

This is not a thing that Americans do, though if you're European you'll be well-accustomed. But it's certainly a thing that Costa Ricans do, and that's THE INFAMOUS CHEEK KISS. It's offered at both hello and goodbye, and—surprise! —even the expats that you meet here do it, too.

What does Pura Vida mean in Costa Rica?

A phrase that you will hear and see everywhere in Costa Rica is “Pura Vida”. The term “Pura Vida” has been present in Costa Rica's vocabulary for over 50 years. It's English translation means “pure life” or “simple life", however its more then just a phrase- it is a way of life.

How English friendly is Costa Rica?

Spanish is the main language spoken in Costa Rica. However, with such an emphasis on tourism, there are many people who speak English in Costa Rica. It's always helpful to know a little bit of Spanish so you can attempt to speak with the locals. They will appreciate it, even if they speak English.

Why you shouldn't go to Costa Rica?

In Central America and The Caribbean overall, Costa Rica is ranked the number one most peaceful country in the region out of 12. However, the homicide rate increased from 11.9 homicides per 100,000 people to 12.3 in the last year, and crime is still a significant threat to travelers in Costa Rica.

Is it OK to wear shorts in Costa Rica?

Shorts and skimpy clothing are common at the beach, but as soon as you head into the mountains you'll want long pants. This isn't just about temperature. In places like San Jose, Costa Rica's capital and largest city, locals almost never wear shorts in public.

When should you not go to Costa Rica?

But if you have just a week or two to get away, there are certain times of year you'll want to avoid. The rainiest months in general are September and October. During this time, you could have several days in a row with prolonged periods of rain, which can make it difficult to get out and explore.

Where should you not stay in Costa Rica?

Are there drug cartels in Costa Rica?

Colombian and Mexican drug cartels, which have been using Honduras, Guatemala and El Salvador as drug-trafficking transit points, have added Costa Rica, according to The Wall Street Journal.

What are the dangers in Costa Rica?

Country Summary: While petty crime is the predominant threat for tourists in Costa Rica, violent crime, including armed robbery, homicide and sexual assault, occurs in Costa Rica. The Costa Rican government provides additional security resources in areas frequented by tourists.

What does Mucho Gusto mean in Costa Rica?

Costa Rica is one of the only countries that regularly uses “mucho gusto” as both “you're welcome” and “nice to meet you.”

How do Costa Ricans say hello?

Hola = Hello. This is the basic way to say hello. Buenas = Shorthand way of saying hello, any time of day. It is more casual and works in the morning, afternoon, or evening.

What is a Tico?

Tico is an idiomatic term used for a native of Costa Rica. Costa Ricans are usually called ticos by themselves as well as by people of other Spanish-speaking countries.

What is the beauty standard in Costa Rica?

In Costa Rica, most people worry about their body image because the media is constantly telling us how we “should” look in order to be “accepted” by society. The ideal woman is supposed to be thin, tall, with nice hair, and should have a beautiful proportional face.

How do you address people in Costa Rica?

Most Costa Ricans have two surnames, one from their father which is written first followed by their mothers' surnames. Only the father's surname is used when addressing someone. Latin countries are more flexible when it comes to punctuality. Being late for an appointment for thirty minutes is acceptable.

How do you say hello and goodbye in Costa Rica?

“Pura Vida” (pronounced poo-rah vee-duh) represents Costa Ricans' relaxed attitude towards life, no matter the circumstance. It's used to say hello, goodbye, to say everything is okay, and to brush off any negativity. It's a way of life and an attitude, and using it can help you fit in with the locals.

What makes Costa Ricans happy?

Researchers have identified Costa Rica's primary sources of happiness as renewable resources—strong social bonds, a clean environment, and investment in education.

What do teenagers do in Costa Rica?

The adventurous experiences for teens in Costa Rica are unparalleled. Your family can go white water rafting, ziplining, horseback riding, quadbike roaming, volcano hiking, waterfall hunting, surfing, snorkeling and kayaking. The possibilities are endless.

What are Costa Rican families like?

In general, Costa Rican families are very tightly knit. Many households are multigenerational – grandparents, parents and grandchildren comprise a common family unit, but great-grandchildren, cousins, and other close family members may live together, as well. Children often live at home until they get married.