Destination Guides
Costa Rica
By Erin Baker, Certified Travel Associate
Arenal Volcano
Costa Rica offers an easy entry point into adventure travel, rainforest canopy tours, volcano views, and beach time all within a few hours' drive of each other. The dry season (December-April) is the most popular time to visit, though the green season brings lush scenery and fewer crowds. A 7-10 day trip allows a combination of a cloud forest region like Monteverde with a beach stay on either coast. Because road travel between regions can take longer than distances suggest, an advisor's help sequencing the route (and deciding between driving versus a domestic flight) saves real vacation time.
Local Etiquette & Cultural Tips
Costa Rica's "pura vida" philosophy shapes a genuinely relaxed, friendly culture.
Friendly greetings: "Pura vida" is used as a greeting, a farewell, and an all-purpose expression of goodwill, feel free to use it back.
Dress respectfully: Casual and lightweight clothing works almost everywhere, swimwear stays at the beach.
Dining times: Lunch is often the largest meal, typically 12:00-2:00pm, dinner tends to be lighter and earlier than in the US.
Local customs: Time runs more loosely here ("Tico time"), build flexibility into any schedule.
Transportation and timing: Roads can be winding and rural, a private driver or domestic flight is often worth it for longer distances.
Practical tip: Rainforest weather can bring sudden downpours even in dry season, pack a light rain jacket regardless of timing.
Souvenirs
For the Foodies: Costa Rican coffee, one of the country's signature exports, from a local cooperative.
For the Fashionistas: Handwoven textiles or jewelry from a local artisan market.
For the Home: A hand-carved wooden bowl or bird carving, a traditional Costa Rican craft.
Suggested Gratuities
A 10% service charge is often included by law, additional tipping is appreciated but modest.
Private Tour Guides: $20-30 per person for a half-day tour
Shared Group Tour Guides: $10 per person
Taxis: Round up the fare
Restaurants: Check for included service charge, add 5-10% more for great service
Private Drivers: $20-30 per day
Housekeeping: $2-3 per night
Porters: $1-2 per bag
Spa Staff: 10% of the service cost
Practical Travel Notes
Currency: Costa Rican Colón, though US dollars are widely accepted
Language: Spanish, English common in tourist areas
Transportation: Rental car or private driver recommended, domestic flights save time for longer distances
Weather: Dry season December-April, green (rainy) season May-November
Walking: Comfortable, closed-toe shoes recommended for rainforest and volcano excursions
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Last Reviewed
9/18/26