Communication: Quepos

Local SIM Cards and Mobile Providers

Costa Rica has three main mobile service providers: Kolbi, Claro, and Movistar. Airalo eSIMs provide a digital alternative for immediate connectivity.

Information

Kolbi generally offers the best coverage in remote areas.
Present your passport for SIM card registration.
Prepaid SIM cards are inexpensive, with affordable data and call packages.

Internet Access and Wi-Fi Availability

Most hotels, restaurants, cafes, and many tour operators in Quepos and Manuel Antonio provide free Wi-Fi access for their guests.

Access Details

Wi-Fi quality and speed vary, but usually suffice for browsing and email.
Public Wi-Fi hotspots are less common outside of established businesses.
Consider bringing a Solis Wi-Fi portable hotspot for consistent internet, especially in remote areas.

Language Barriers and Translation Resources

Helpful Apps

Download an offline Spanish language pack for Google Translate on your Smartphone for offline use.
Learning some basic Spanish phrases is always appreciated by locals.
The official language of Costa Rica is Spanish; English is widely spoken in tourist areas.
"Pura Vida!" is a quintessential Costa Rican phrase used widely.

Important Phrases

Hola (OH-lah) - Hello
Gracias (GRAH-see-ahs) - Thank you
¿Cuánto cuesta? (KWahn-toh KWEH-stah?) - How much does it cost?
¿Dónde está...? (DOHN-deh es-TAH...?) - Where is...?

Postal Services Note

Postal services in Costa Rica are operated by Correos de Costa Rica. International mail service can be slow and unreliable, so most tourists do not rely on it for sending items back home.

Business Hours & Schedules

Banks

Generally open Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Some larger branches might have limited Saturday hours.

Shops

Most shops operate Monday to Saturday, around 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Tourist-oriented shops might stay open later.

Supermarkets

Major supermarkets are typically open daily, from early morning (around 7:00 AM) until late evening (around 9:00 PM).

Banking Hours and ATM Locations

ATMs are widely available in Quepos town and along the Manuel Antonio road.

Practical Info

Major banks like Banco Nacional and Banco de Costa Rica have branches with ATMs.
Remember to bring your passport for any branch banking services.
Access Costa Rican Colones easily from ATMs.

Religious and Public Holidays

Costa Rica observes several public holidays throughout the year.

Impact on Services

Banks and government offices close on public holidays.
Many local businesses might have reduced hours or close entirely.
Tourist services generally remain open, though some may operate on a modified schedule.

Seasonal Adjustments

Wet Season Operations

During the lowest part of the wet season (September and October), some smaller businesses might reduce hours or close due to fewer tourists.
Larger hotels and tour operators generally remain open year-round.
Shoulder season (May-July, November) balances good weather and lower prices.

Airport Services

Priority Pass offers frequent travelers independent airport lounge access globally.
Compensair assists customers in claiming compensation for flight delays, cancellations, or denied boarding.
These services support travelers with common airport challenges.

Travel Notice

Plan accordingly for banking or administrative needs during public holidays to avoid disruptions.

Etiquette & Cultural Norms

Embracing local customs enriches your travel experience.

Greeting Customs

A simple "Hola" (Hello) is always appropriate. "Pura Vida" (Pure Life) is a common greeting and farewell.

Details

Handshakes are common when meeting someone for the first time or in formal settings.
Close friends and family often greet each other with a light kiss on one cheek.
As a tourist, observe and follow the lead of locals.

Appropriate Attire for Different Settings

Costa Rica maintains a generally casual dress code.

Dress Guide

Lightweight, comfortable, and casual clothing is appropriate for most situations.
Swimwear is fine at the beach and pool; cover up when entering towns or local businesses.
If you visit a church, dressing respectfully (shoulders and knees covered) shows consideration.

Dining and Tipping Practices

Remember that a 10% service charge and 13% sales tax are usually included in restaurant bills.

Dining Norms

A 10% service charge and 13% sales tax are usually included in restaurant bills.
Embrace the relaxed pace of dining; do not rush your meal.
Tipping on top of the included service charge is customary for good service.

Photography Permissions and Restrictions

Always ask for permission before photographing individuals, specifically children. Respect their decision if they decline.

Photography Ethics

Always ask for permission before photographing individuals, especially children.
Respect any signs prohibiting photography, notably in certain religious sites or private properties.
Be mindful of privacy and avoid intrusive photography.

Taboos and Sensitive Topics

Social Conduct

Avoid discussing local politics or internal affairs unless invited to do so.
Respect environmental regulations and wildlife; do not litter or disturb animals.
Practice patience; things may operate on "Tico time," a more relaxed schedule.

Gender and LGBTQ+ Information

Costa Rica is generally progressive; same-sex marriage is legal.
Quepos/Manuel Antonio is a popular and welcoming destination for LGBTQ+ travelers.
Public displays of affection are generally accepted for all couples.

Inclusivity and Language

Language Learning

Learning a few Spanish phrases goes a long way.
Consider using Rosetta Stone for language preparation.
Locals appreciate the effort to speak their language.

Cultural Respect

Embracing the "Pura Vida" lifestyle shows cultural appreciation.
Always ask permission for photos, especially of people.

Cultural Immersion

Learning a few Spanish phrases, observing local customs, and demonstrating patience greatly enriches interactions and conveys respect for the culture.

Accessibility Information

While Costa Rica works to improve accessibility, infrastructure still presents challenges for some travelers.

Infrastructure for Mobility Challenges

Older parts of Quepos town may have uneven sidewalks, lack of ramps, and other barriers for wheelchair users.

Considerations

Newer constructions, especially luxury hotels and Marina Pez Vela, are more likely to have accessible features.
Many side roads leading to hotels or attractions in the hills can be steep and unpaved.
Independent mobility can be challenging in some areas.

Accessible Attractions and Transportation

Improvements for accessibility are ongoing in tourist locations.

Accessible Locations

Manuel Antonio National Park: The Universal Access Trail (Sendero El Manglar) is flat and paved, suitable for wheelchairs.
Marina Pez Vela: The promenade and many associated restaurants and shops are generally accessible.
Private transfer services may offer accessible vehicles if requested in advance; public buses are generally not accessible.

Support Services & Resources

Visual or Hearing Impairments

Specialized services for travelers with visual or hearing impairments are limited.
Travel with a companion or book through specialized tour operators.
Some national parks may have accessible information (e.g., Braille maps).

Accessibility Information Resources

Consult travel agencies specializing in accessible travel for specific knowledge.
Online forums and communities provide valuable first-hand accounts and recommendations.
Always inquire directly with hotels and tour operators about specific accessibility features.

Direct Inquiry Advice

Always directly confirm accessibility features and services with accommodations and tour operators prior to making reservations to ensure your needs are met.

Communication