Our guide on the unspoken rules of Costa Rican life that tourists never understand for your next trip.
Costa Rica is a tropical paradise with warm people and a relaxed way of life. However, navigating its cultural nuances can be tricky for first-time visitors.
To help you blend in and understand local customs, here are 15 unspoken rules of Costa Rican life that tourists often overlook.
By embracing these unspoken rules, you’ll enjoy a more authentic experience in Costa Rica and connect more deeply with its culture.
Read here Things to know before visiting Costa Rica, 3 Week Costa Rica Itinerary and best Costa Rica Sim card for tourist
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Tips for Navigating Costa Rican Life
Learn Basic Spanish Phrases: Even a simple “Gracias” (Thank you) or “Pura Vida” shows respect and effort.
Be Patient: Relax and embrace the slower pace of life in Costa Rica.
Respect Nature: Follow eco-friendly practices and support local conservation efforts.
Ask for Directions: Don’t hesitate to ask locals for help with navigation or recommendations.
Unspoken Rules of Costa Rican Life
1. Embrace “Pura Vida”
What to Know:
“Pura Vida” is not just a phrase; it’s a way of life. It means “pure life” and is used as a greeting, farewell, or response to “How are you?” It encapsulates the relaxed, positive attitude of Costa Ricans.
Why Tourists Don’t Get It:
Visitors often don’t realize how deeply embedded this phrase is in daily life and may struggle to interpret its many meanings.
2. Time Is Flexible
What to Know:
Punctuality is not a priority in Costa Rica. “Tico Time” means things often happen later than planned, especially for social gatherings.
Why Tourists Don’t Get It:
Tourists used to strict schedules might find the laid-back approach to time frustrating.
3. Respect for Nature Is Essential
What to Know:
Costa Ricans (Ticos) are proud of their country’s biodiversity and go to great lengths to protect it. Littering or harming wildlife is heavily frowned upon.
Why Tourists Don’t Get It:
Some tourists may not realize how important eco-conscious behavior is and might inadvertently offend locals.
4. Greetings Are Polite
What to Know:
A handshake is common for formal introductions, while friends and acquaintances often greet with a kiss on the cheek (for women) or a hug.
Why Tourists Don’t Get It:
Skipping greetings or being overly casual can come across as disrespectful.
5. Small Talk Matters
What to Know:
Before diving into business or a direct question, it’s customary to engage in small talk about family, the weather, or general well-being.
Why Tourists Don’t Get It:
Tourists might seem too blunt or rushed, which can be perceived as rude.
6. Don’t Expect Fast Service
What to Know:
Meals are meant to be enjoyed, and restaurant service can be slow compared to other countries. Relax and enjoy the pace.
Why Tourists Don’t Get It:
Visitors expecting quick service may think they’re being ignored.
7. Tips Are Appreciated but Modest
What to Know:
A 10% service charge is usually included in restaurant bills. Extra tipping is optional but appreciated for excellent service.
Why Tourists Don’t Get It:
Some tourists over-tip, not realizing the service charge already covers gratuity.
8. Avoid Drinking Tap Water Outside Cities
What to Know:
Tap water is safe in most urban areas but may not be reliable in rural or remote regions.
Why Tourists Don’t Get It:
Tourists who assume tap water is universally safe might get sick in rural areas.
9. Respect Quiet Hours
What to Know:
In many neighborhoods, quiet hours are observed, especially in the early afternoon and late at night.
Why Tourists Don’t Get It:
Visitors may unknowingly disturb locals by playing loud music or talking loudly during these times.
10. “Usted” vs. “Tú”
What to Know:
Costa Ricans often use the formal “usted” instead of “tú” when addressing people, even in casual settings.
Why Tourists Don’t Get It:
Tourists who use “tú” too freely might come across as overly familiar.
11. Don’t Expect Addresses to Be Precise
What to Know:
Costa Rican addresses are often based on landmarks rather than street names or numbers (e.g., “200 meters north of the church”).
Why Tourists Don’t Get It:
Visitors relying on exact addresses might get lost without GPS or local help.
12. Dress Modestly
What to Know:
Costa Ricans dress neatly and modestly, even for casual outings. Beachwear is reserved for the beach.
Why Tourists Don’t Get It:
Tourists walking around town in swimsuits or overly casual attire may stand out or seem disrespectful.
13. The Beach Is for Everyone
What to Know:
All beaches in Costa Rica are public, and locals take pride in sharing these spaces with everyone.
Why Tourists Don’t Get It:
Tourists expecting private beaches might be surprised by the communal atmosphere.
14. Driving Is an Adventure
What to Know:
Roads can be bumpy, signage inconsistent, and drivers unpredictable. Defensive driving and patience are essential.
Why Tourists Don’t Get It:
Visitors expecting smooth highways might be unprepared for the challenges of rural driving.
15. Family Is Everything
What to Know:
Family is central to Costa Rican life, and large family gatherings are common. Sundays are often reserved for family time.
Why Tourists Don’t Get It:
Tourists might not understand why businesses close early or locals prioritize family over work or social plans.
About the Author: Ruben, co-founder of Gamintraveler.com since 2014, is a seasoned traveler from Spain who has explored over 100 countries since 2009. Known for his extensive travel adventures across South America, Europe, the US, Australia, New Zealand, Asia, and Africa, Ruben combines his passion for adventurous yet sustainable living with his love for cycling, highlighted by his remarkable 5-month bicycle journey from Spain to Norway. He currently resides in Spain, where he continues sharing his travel experiences with his partner, Rachel, and their son, Han.