Language

Spanish is the official language, but English is widely spoken.

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Money

The Costa Rican Colon (CRC) is divided into 100 centimos and is the official currency, although US Dollars are also widely accepted. US Dollars and travellers cheques can be exchanged in banks and many hotels. Banks charge a service fee for cashing travellers cheques and currency other than US dollars is difficult to exchange. Using black market exchange options is risky as they have been known to pass on counterfeit bills printed in Colombia. Banks close anywhere from 3pm to 6pm. Major credit cards are widely accepted, although American Express and Diners Club might be more limited. ATMs are becoming more widespread throughout the country, but it is advisable to always have some local cash handy, especially outside the major tourist destinations.

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Communications

The international access code for Costa Rica is +506. The outgoing code is 00 followed by the relevant country code (e.g. 0044 for the United Kingdom). City codes are not required. Costa Rica has one of the most advanced telecommunications systems in Latin America. The cheapest way to phone internationally is a direct call using a phone card. Mobile phone operators use AMPS, TDMA and GSM 1800 networks. Internet cafes are available in themain towns.

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Tipping

Hotels add a 10 per cent service charge plus a 3 per cent tourist tax to their bills. In tourist and upmarket restaurants a tip of 10 per cent is usual, however some establishments already include a 17 per cent sales and service tax in the bill. Tipping is rare in smaller restaurants that are frequented by locals. Taxi drivers are not normally tipped, but tour guides usually are. In general if service has beenparticularly good service staff appreciate a 5 to 10 per cent tip.

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Safety

There is no history of terrorism in Costa Rica, however there are incidents of violent crime, occasionally targeting tourists. There has been an increase in attacks on tourists leaving the airport in hired cars in San Jose. Belongings should be watched carefully at all times and in all places, particularly in bus stations and on public transport. Theft of, and from, cars is common. Do not wear jewellery or carry large amounts of cash and avoid street moneychangers. Strikes, protests and blockades have recently taken place without warning and further demonstrations could disrupt travel on main roads, particularly those connecting San Jose with the coast.

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Health

There are no vaccination requirements for Costa Rica but typhoid and Hepatitis A immunisation is recommended. There is a small risk of malaria in some areas all year round and advice should be taken on precautions. Water in cities is generally safe but it is advisable to buy bottled water, especially outside the main townswhere there is a risk of contamination. Medical services are reliable in cities and the standard of hygiene and treatment is veryhigh.

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Electricity

Electrical current is 120 volts, 60Hz. Flat two-pin plugs are standard.

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