Everyone knows that one must get informed and prepared before traveling to another country; this can help you prevent problems and confusion once you are there.

Every culture is different, and it is possible for a simple misunderstanding to become a big thing, so, do your homework, and learn about the basics of life, the culture, and the laws of the country you are visiting to ensure your vacation is uneventful and perfect.

If you are traveling to Costa Rica, this is what you should know:

-How to get around Costa Rica
The main public means of transportation in Costa Rica is the buses.  These are very inexpensive and practical to get around; however, they are small, crowded, and in many cases, not in the best mechanical and physical conditions.  You cannot take a lot of luggage in a bus, and if you are a big guy, you will suffer due to the limited leg space.

There are taxis that can take you virtually anywhere in Costa Rica; however, they are expensive and not the safest way to travel.

You can also rent a car in Costa Rica.  Car rentals are expensive and you must have insurance to cover you in case of an accident.  Most rental cars are standard, so, you must know how to drive one.

-Business hours
These are very similar to those in the United States.  Normally, offices run from 8-9 am to 3-5 pm.  Lunch hours go from noon until 1 or 2 pm.  On Sundays, many offices are closed, but malls are always open and restaurants are in full activity.

Costa Rica runs on Central Standard Time, which is very convenient for many people traveling from the United States.

-Health care
Health care in Costa Rica is top notch.  The system offers modern facilities, the best treatments, and very professional doctors, many of whom speak perfect English.

-Driving in Costa Rica
If you are going to rent a car, you should know that it is easy to have an accident in Costa Rica.  This is a country that does not excel at good driving.  Pay attention to the speed limit signs, which are posted on signs or painted on the pavement.  The speed limits range from 45 to 55 MPH.

-Alcohol
Alcohol is legal for those over 18.  Substances other than alcohol and cigarettes are not legal.

-High/ Low seasons
The high season in Costa Rica, when everything is more expensive and full, is between December and May of each year.  You can very well travel during the low season because, even though there is some rain, the sun always comes out and the beaches and the mountains are perfect all year long.

-Tips
Tips are included in most restaurants and other tourist places. A 10% is automatically added to the bill; however, if they know you are a foreigner, some waiters and other staff may expect an extra tip from you, but you don’t have to give it if it is included.  The locals don’t tip.

-Water
Tap water is safe to drink in Costa Rica, and the sewer systems can handle toilet paper, unlike some other countries.

-Voltage
It is the same as in the United States, however, in some places they don’t use the grounding prong, so you may need an adapter.

-Fun
Costa Ricans, or “ticos”, as they are known, love to dance, so don’t be surprised to see everyone dancing at a bar in between the tables if you go out at night.