Costa Rica
Central America · Spanish · Colón
Answer everything with pura vida, navigate by landmarks because street addresses barely exist, and never honk — tico time is real.
Today in Costa Rica
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5 phrases you need in Costa Rica
- HelloHolaOH-lah
- GoodbyeAdiósah-DYOHS
- PleasePor favorpor fah-VOR
- Thank youGraciasGRAH-syahs
- Excuse meDisculpedees-KOOL-peh
The Trovlr app drills all 8 Costa Rica phrases with audio, Duolingo-style. Get the app →
Know before you go
money
US dollars are accepted almost everywhere, but you will get change in colones at a rounded rate; pay small purchases in colones to avoid losing on every transaction.
transport
Rent a 4x4 in the green season; roads to Monteverde and the Nicoya beaches turn rough fast. Budget extra time, because drive times here are double what the map says.
tipping
Restaurants add a mandatory 10% service charge plus tax by law, so extra tipping is optional; leave a little more only for standout service.
safety
Violent crime is rare but theft from parked rental cars and unattended beach bags is the national sport; never leave anything visible in the car.
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