Destination Guides
Costa Rica
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
Related Blogs