Costa Rica Culture and Etiquette: A Traveler's Guide to Pura Vida

Pura vida: more than a phrase

In Costa Rica, pura vida (pure life) is a greeting, a thank-you, a goodbye and a whole worldview. Locals, known as Ticos and Ticas, use it constantly. Reply with a smile and the same words and you will instantly feel more welcome.

Costa Rican culture prizes warmth, patience and avoiding open conflict. Things often run on tico time (a relaxed pace), so build buffer into your plans and stay easygoing.

Greetings and social etiquette

• Greet with a light handshake; friends and women often exchange one kiss on the right cheek.
• Use usted with elders and strangers; buenos dias, buenas tardes and a polite con permiso go a long way.
• Address people with don or dona plus their first name as a sign of respect.
• Ticos rarely say a blunt no. A vague answer often means no, so read between the lines.

Dos and donts

• Do dress neatly; sloppy clothing in towns reads as disrespectful.
• Do ask before photographing people, especially Indigenous communities like the Bribri or Boruca.
• Dont raise your voice or show anger in public; calm wins respect.
• Dont call locals *Costa Ricans* dismissively or lump them with other nationalities.
• Dont flaunt valuables; keep things low-key in San Jose and tourist hubs.

Tipping norms

Restaurants legally add a 10% service charge plus 13% tax, shown as *impuesto* and *servicio* on the bill. Leaving a little extra for great service is appreciated but not required. For guides and drivers, tip in colones or US dollars; 2,000 to 5,000 colones or a few dollars per day is generous. Round up for taxis.

Food and dining

The national dish is gallo pinto (rice and beans) for breakfast, and casado at lunch. A common toast is salud. Wait for the host to start, keep both hands above the table, and accept coffee when offered. Costa Rican coffee, especially from Tarrazu, is a point of national pride.

A few cultural touchstones

• Costa Rica abolished its army in 1948 and is proud of its peace and democracy.
• Sundays are for family; many businesses close.
• Respect nature: this country protects over a quarter of its land. Never disturb wildlife or remove anything from national parks like Manuel Antonio.

Stay connected in Costa Rica

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