Costa Rica

Overview

• Language: The official language of Costa Rica is Spanish. English is also widely spoken, especially in tourist areas.
• Useful phrases: In Spanish: Hello (Hola), Thank you (Gracias).
• Currency: Costa Rican Colón (see current exchange rates here).
• Payment methods: Most restaurants and stores accept major credit cards; however, smaller shops, cafes, or local taxis may only take cash, so I always like to have a few Colónes on me just in case. ATMs are common and the easiest way to get cash upon arrival.
• Electric plugs: Costa Rica uses type A or type B electrical outlet plugs. Type A is a standard American plug with two pin holes; type B looks the same as type A, but with an additional optional third pin hole below the main two. Additionally, standard voltage is 120V with a standard frequency of 60Hz. This voltage is common in the United States, but if you are coming from Europe, you will likely need a converter. Check out my favorite converter and adaptor!
• Measurement systems: Like most of the world, Costa Rica uses the Metric System, measuring distances in kilometers and temperature in Celsius.
• Weather: Weather in Costa Rica is notoriously hard to predict because of its incredibly diverse climate. There are very few weather recording stations throughout the country, so don’t panic if you see rain in the forecast before visiting! That said, May to November is generally rainy season, with December to April being the hot, dry season (except for around Arenal Volcano, where this is flipped!).
• Bonus tip: Due to the large amount of American tourists that visit, prices are often listed in Colónes as well as USD and dollars are accepted as cash in many locations.

Logistics

• Visa needs: Upon entry to Costa Rica, US citizens and those from most Western countries will not need a formal visa, and will instead get a transit visa at the airport upon entry to the country. These citizens are allowed to stay a maximum of 90 days; therefore, you must have at least three months validity left in your passport upon entry. You must also have evidence of an onward flight within that time frame. For additional details and a full listing of countries requiring formal visas, click here.
• Getting there: The capital city of San José and the SJO airport is where most international flights will come in. Given its place in the Central America, flying into the country is best option for most travelers.
• Getting around: Costa Rica does not have a comprehensive public transportation system, so it is best to rent a car or book a tour that includes transportation.
• Driving: Residents of Costa Rica drive on the right side of the road. Visitors typically do not require an International Driving Permit to rent a car in Costa Rica.

LGBTQ+ Safety

Overall safety ranking: B-

Costa Rica is one of the best Central American countries in terms of LGBTQ+ rights, making it a great place for queer visitors. Same-sex marriage became legal in 2020 and the country has adopted several anti-discrimination laws in the past several years.

• Are same sex relations illegal? No
• Is same sex marriage legal? Yes
• Are there protections against discrimination? Some
• Is there the right to change physical gender? Yes

Check out this post for more safety tips for queer travelers!