Getting around Monteverde

Getting around Monteverde

The road is shared by cars, tour buses, taxis, motorcycles, ATVs, and pedestrians, including children walking home from school – there are currently few sidewalks (although the construction of sidewalks is one of the projects to which we are most committed at MVI.) There is no pedestrian right of way in Costa Rica, so walk defensively.

Public bus service, known as the periférica, is available throughout the zone. See the MVI bulletin boards for the current bus schedule. There is bus service available to San José and other parts of the country. Check the bus depot, located in downtown Santa Elena, for more information. Private mini-van service, such as Interbus, offers an alternative to the public buses to for getting around the country, but costs about 10 times as much.

Taxi service is widely available from 5:30 am to 10 pm. The price can run from $2 to $10 a ride depending on the hour and distance, but can be shared among multiple passengers. Special arrangements can also be made for a taxi outside of normal hours or for private transportation to places outside of Monteverde. This can be quite expensive.

You can also just walk the roads to get from one place to another – most people do. If you intend to be out after dark be sure to bring a flashlight, and always walk with others.

III. MAKING YOUR EXPERIENCE THE BEST IT CAN BE

To make the most of your experience, there are three things you should try to do when you are abroad, whether in Costa Rica or elsewhere:

2) be culturally sensitive and respectful;

3) expect the unexpected.

Keep an open mind

Be culturally sensitive and respectful

Something happens when we travel to places that are completely out of our normal context and where we think no one will notice: we may do things that might otherwise be unthinkable. This idea of “letting go” when you go abroad is even an area of tourism research, and has been dubbed “swimming in a different sea.” The manifestations of this may be as simple as bathing less (“why bother?” you might ask yourself) to engaging in risky sexual behavior. Consciously or not, we feel we can get away with more when we are elsewhere. This trap has several pitfalls. First, you must remember that wherever you go you represent not only yourself but your school, your country, and your host institution. Your actions leave behind a legacy that can last for years to come. Second, your behavior also demonstrates a lack of respect for your host culture. How is that, you say?
If you are staying with a family in a homestay situation, make sure you read the “Norms and Practices in Costa Rica” section in this handbook (p. 21). It will give you a good overall background for staying with a family. Our philosophy is that international students are treated as visitors in this community and not as typical tourists. The Institute is a community-based organization, and we work hand-in-hand with community members, groups and institutions. As a student at MVI we ask that you join us in our ongoing aim to respect and support the community.
Imagine this situation: a group of young people come to your school or town. They don’t bathe, they are promiscuous, and they are loud. How might you interpret their actions? Well, you may say they are just “letting go.” On the other hand, the fact that they don’t bathe can be seen as not caring how their personal hygiene (or lack thereof) affects other people. Promiscuity can be seen as treating other human beings as objects to be used with no regard for their feelings. And loud behavior can come off as just plain rude. As representatives of their home country, they’ve done a pretty poor job of communicating respect and sensitivity toward their host country. It appears that they just don’t care.

How, then, to be culturally sensitive? First and foremost, it is about getting to know the norms and customs of your host culture and respecting (or at least tolerating) them. While you may be a staunch feminist and it drives you crazy to see your host mother always serving the men first, it is not your role in the brief time you are here to challenge this custom. Second, try to see yourself through the lens of your host culture. For example, Costa Ricans take pride in dressing neatly. Your holey jeans are not the best wardrobe choice, especially if you want to make a good impression. Third, be modest and discreet – now is not the time to exert your individuality. You may love your hair purple, but the shock of it may make you more difficult to approach. The same goes for clothing that is revealing, torn, really different or loud, lots of body piercings, or other things that make you stick out.

Please note: Costa Ricans in general are conservative. Very seldom are sexually related issues even spoken about in homes or amongst family. So, no matter what your personal philosophy is with regards to sexuality Costa Ricans tend not to be comfortable discussing these matters. Please be discreet and culturally sensitive.

Expect the unexpected

Finally, remember to expect the unexpected when you are abroad. The bus may be late; the food you are served may taste different (even if it has the same name); the electricity or water may go out; the itinerary may change. Remember you are in a situation where you have even less control over what goes on, and this is just fine. The more you can be adaptable and approach ambiguity with a sense of humor and ease, the more enjoyable and educational your time will be.

Norms and Practices in Costa Rica

Remember: the best way to know what to do and how to act is through observation and by asking questions. Don’t be shy to ask your program coordinators, host family, or others if you have questions about how things are done in Costa Rica and in Monteverde. Here are some useful tips to get you on the right path.

Language

Most activities in your program will be developed in English or will include interpretation. Most courses do not require prior knowledge of Spanish, and most include Spanish language instruction at the Monteverde Institute. For certain specialized courses or internships Spanish may be required and will be clearly specified.
That said, one of the most frequent comments from students is that they wished they had better Spanish language skills before they came to Costa Rica. If you do not already have a basic mastery of Spanish, we strongly suggest that you learn some elementary phrases. It is a mark of courtesy, will be useful, and will enrich your experience. Costa Ricans are patient, and will appreciate any attempt you make at speaking Spanish. If someone speaks too fast, you need only say “más despacio, por favor” (“slower, please”). If you would like your Spanish to be corrected you must insist; Costa Ricans think correcting people is rude. While there are many slang or vernacular phrases used in Costa Rica, one phrase you may hear frequently is pura vida. While the literal translation is “pure life,” the intention is to denote something that is really great or “cool” – it can be used to describe an experience, a person, or even to cap off a sentence. Listen for it, and you may find you’re using it yourself. Don’t be shy to try: your broken, mispronounced Spanish can be a wonderful icebreaker.

Greetings

Costa Ricans are generally formal in their observance of social customs. It is expected that people will greet everyone when they enter a room. A handshake is expected: men shake hands with men, and on first meeting a woman and man will shake hands. Women are more likely to greet each other with a kiss. Once there is more familiarity, a kiss on the cheek is a common greeting between men and women, and women and other women. If you are uncomfortable with kissing, are in a more formal gathering, or are just unsure, a handshake will suffice. Because of the Quaker influence in Monteverde, a handshake is the more expected greeting among people from the USA.
When you leave a gathering you are expected to tell everyone goodbye – it is considered rude if you leave without doing so. Both formal greetings are expected even if you enter a gathering late or leave early. Don’t be surprised if a meeting is interrupted by a latecomer going around the table to greet everyone.

Food

The most important thing is to be open to trying everything – people appreciate an adventuresome palate. Your time abroad is not the moment to go on a low carbohydrate diet, lay off meat, or become a vegan. This will only limit your cultural experience, and make it more difficult for you and for your hosts. Be prepared to eat lots of rice and beans. Many Costa Ricans eat rice and beans three times a day. Breakfast foods include gallo pinto (rice and beans fried up together), fresh fruit, pancakes, tortillas, eggs, toast, and coffee. Lunches may be sack lunches packed by your homestay family with a typical casado, which includes rice, beans, some meat, vegetable and salad. Dinner may be similar. There are many wonderful vegetables and fruits that you may have never seen or tried. Now is your chance to try them!
One of the best things to drink are the frescos naturales, or natural fruit drinks. These are common accompaniments to a casado. Most are made with fresh tropical fruits, many of which are unavailable in other temperate regions. You can have a soda any time you want, but back in the U.S or Europe you are unlikely to be offered a beverage made of guanábana, naranjilla, maracuyá, or cas, among others like mango, piña or papaya.
While vegetarians can be easily accommodated, more restricted diets – such as a vegan diet – can be harder to manage. Do let MVI and your host family know of dietary restrictions. These aside, we strongly suggest you be open to eating what you are offered. A key part of experiencing another culture is by learning about and eating the national and local cuisine. ¡Buen provecho!

Clothing

Costa Ricans take pride in their clothing. Please show respect by dressing appropriately and keeping your clothes and shoes neat. If you are unsure, conservative clothing is best, while torn jeans, short skirts, and revealing tops are not as acceptable. If you are in a homestay, remember that your clothing will be washed by your host family; ask yourself how your host family might feel when they find your sexy underwear in the laundry or hanging up to dry! During the rainy season it may be hard to keep your shoes clean, especially in Monteverde. If shoes are muddy, take them off before you go inside someone’s home! Most Costa Ricans do not wear outdoor shoes inside the house. Make sure to bring a pair of flip-flops or other slip-ons for indoor use.

Personal electronic devices

While you may love your music, your iPod or other music device creates a barrier between you and the world (especially if you are singing along!). Your goal in being abroad is to engage the new environment, not hide from it behind a wall of sound. If you do bring one along, consider only using them for long bus rides or when you’re alone. Remember, you are here to experience.

For women

Interestingly, women make up the majority of students who study abroad. For many of us women are as equally capable and independent as men, with as much right to go anywhere or do anything. Gender should not be a barrier. Nevertheless, these beliefs are not shared by everyone. In countries where machismo persists, women are not necessarily perceived as equal, and gender roles may be quite defined. It is important that you be aware of this before you go – remember, not everyone shares the same beliefs. For example, while it may seem perfectly fine to you that a woman travel or go out alone, in Costa Rica it is generally not done. There are safety reasons for this as well: women are more likely to be victims of harassment or sexual assault. As a woman you will need to exercise even greater caution. Dress conservatively. Avoid being alone in empty areas, and always go out accompanied at night. While you may feel fine being on your own, a woman alone at a bar is likely to send a different signal than you may intend. If you encounter cat calls just ignore them. If someone is being particularly aggressive towards you, do everything possible to deflect their overtures, including calling attention to others that you are being bothered. If you are victim of harassment or sexual assault, do not hesitate to tell your professor, coordinator, or MVI staff.

Personal Hygiene and Bathroom Etiquette

Personal cleanliness is important to Costa Ricans: they generally bathe every day and brush their teeth several times a day, including after meals. Don’t be surprised to see people carrying toothbrushes around after lunch, even at offices (including the Institute!) Please be respectful of these standards and do the same.
Used toilet paper is generally disposed of in wastebaskets unless otherwise indicated. Likewise, do not throw feminine hygiene products, especially “flushable” tampons, in the toilet, as they will likely clog the system. This is true in virtually all of Latin America and a good habit to learn if you intend to travel elsewhere.
Most homes and offices only have cold water out of the tap. In many homes, hot showers are provided by a termoducha, an electrical heating showerhead. While it may look dubious, your best bet is to just not touch it (it shouldn’t need any adjustments). In general, as long as you don’t touch bare wires with wet hands you will not be electrocuted.

Gift-giving

If you are in a homestay we suggest you bring gifts for family members. You might also bring small souvenirs with your university or schools logo to give to people you meet, guest lecturers or others who shared their time with you. Suggested gifts include –
For children:

• 
  School supplies: markers, play dough, crayons, paper
  
• 
  Stuffed animals or small building kits like Legos
  
• 
  Story books and coloring books (in Spanish)
  

For adolescents:

• 
  Games such as dominoes that don’t require much English
  
• 
  Bead kits, model kits, or other lightweight craft kits
  
• 
  Perfume, makeup, hand creams or other special toiletries
  

For women:

• 
  Perfume, makeup, hand creams or other special toiletries
  
• 
  Hair accessories, jewelry
  

For men

• 
  T-shirts, socks
  
• 
  Swiss army knives or small tool kits (packed in your checked luggage)
  

For the whole family

• 
  Kitchen utensils
  
• 
  Photo albums or picture frames
  
• 
  Ornaments for the home, towels
  
• 
  Chocolates or food items from your region
  
• 
  Pens, flashlights, notebooks, stickers, magnets, key chains or other trinkets with logos or photos of your school, university, city, etc.
  

Culture Shock

So you’ve done everything: kept an open mind, dressed modestly, and are really okay with things being different. In fact, you’ve absolutely loved everything. But now it’s the second (or third or fourth) week of your program, and you’re feeling irritable, easily frustrated, tired, and even homesick. Even the novelty of throwing toilet paper in the wastebasket is more a hassle than a cultural difference. What’s going on?
It’s called culture shock, and is part of the normal process of being abroad and adjusting to a new place and culture. After an initial honeymoon period, where everything is exciting and new, you may find the very things you once found charmingly different are now cause for irritation. The degree and duration of culture shock varies from person to person and depends on a number of factors, including the length of time abroad, your own tolerance for ambiguity, your ability to communicate, the degree of difference between your own and the host culture, and even your expectation of culture shock.

What can you do?

First, remember that you will get through it. The negative feelings you are having are part of grappling with the differences between your own world view and experience and that of your host country and culture. Rather than retreating into yourself, your iPod, and other students, plunge ahead and immerse yourself. You will gain much more by engaging in rather than retreating from your host culture. Second, give yourself some time to process your feelings. Keeping a journal can be helpful, as can talking to others about how you feel. There is nothing wrong in sharing how you’re feeling, and it may actually be a relief for other students to hear that someone else is going through the same thing.

Finally, get enough rest. Lack of sleep and fatigue have a big influence on your entire wellbeing. It is common during courses to push yourself mentally and physically – giving your body and spirit some down time can do wonders.

If you feel you’ve done everything you can, find that you still want to sleep all the time, but just can’t seem to feel better, please talk to your Professor or Course Coordinator or Homestay Coordinator.

IV. HOW TO STAY HEALTHY AND SAFE

The Monteverde Institute wants you to have a healthy, safe time in Costa Rica. While realistically it would be impossible to prevent everything, there are many things you can do that will help minimize your risk of personal harm and illness. Use common sense, and when in doubt err on the side of safety!

Personal safety and crime

Costa Rica is a safe country, as safe, or safer than large urban areas of the U.S. or other countries. Be reassured that physical assault of tourists is uncommon. Nevertheless, the possibility for nonviolent and violent crime exists everywhere, and no one can guarantee you immunity. Theft is a particular problem. As a foreigner, you are likely to have money and items (like a digital camera or laptop) that are attractive to thieves. Never leave your things unattended, and keep an eye on each other when traveling in a group. Never set your backpack down in a public or semipublic area, especially in a crowd. Do not put valuables in the outer pocket of a backpack. Carry your wallet in your front pocket, and keep your purse under your arm. Consider keeping your money and passport in a lap belt or a neck purse that you can keep under your clothes.
Even in Monteverde theft is an issue for both visitors and residents. Practice the same caution as you would in a big city like San José. While you should trust your homestay family, their home is as much a target as any other. At the Institute, we do our best to watch out for the well-being of students and visitors. Nevertheless, do not leave your things lying around unattended, especially laptops, wallets and purses. If you must get up, have a friend or someone nearby watch over your belongings. MVI is not responsible for any items that may be lost or stolen during your course. Be particularly cautious while riding on public transport. People have had their belongings stolen from the overhead bins and from their laps while on the bus, especially on long rides where you may fall asleep.
You should be especially vigilant at night time. If you go out at night be sure to go accompanied, and do not walk the roads alone in dark. In Monteverde always take a flashlight- there are few streetlights and it can get very dark. A small pocket or keychain flashlight should be enough, or if you plan on doing nighttime field activities a headlamp is useful or may even be required. If you are a victim of crime, let your program leader or course coordinator know immediately. Write down as much information as possible: what happened, where it happened, a description of persons involved, what was stolen, etc. While we cannot guarantee recovery of goods or identification of perpetrators, at the very least it will help the police and MVI keep a record of what happened.

Alcohol

The legal drinking age in Costa Rica is 18. If you are above age and decide to drink, we ask that you be sensitive to the consequences your behavior may have on those around you. Be respectful of your homestay families, especially those with small children, and do not drink at home or come home drunk. We also ask that you respect the beliefs of the Quaker and Adventists communities in the area who strongly disapprove of drinking.

Smoking

Smoking is not a common habit, especially in rural areas and among women. We discourage smoking on Institute courses. If you are a smoker, please respect those who do not smoke by only doing so when and where appropriate (outside, but not on the trails, and apart from the group) and do not smoke inside your host family’s home unless other family members do so. The Monteverde Institute campus is a non-smoking site.

Illicit Drugs

Do not bring or buy illicit drugs while in Costa Rica. A single conviction would be a disaster for you and could mean spending 6 to 12 years in a Costa Rican prison. Anyone found using illegal drugs, or with illegal drugs in their possession, will be sent home immediately at their own expense.

Personal hygiene and appearance

Personal cleanliness is important to Costa Ricans. Most people bathe daily, dress neatly and keep their shoes clean. Dirty, wrinkled clothes, muddy shoes, unkempt hair and body odor are negative stereotypes given to travelers. We strongly encourage you to be culturally sensitive and to help break this image by paying attention to your appearance and hygiene. See “Be culturally sensitive and respectful.”

The intense, tropical sun

Costa Rica is a tropical country; it is closer to the equator and the sun’s rays are much more intense than in North America or Europe. Even if the temperature may seem mild, such as in the higher elevations of Monteverde, the sun’s rays are still strong. All this is to say that your skin will burn much more quickly than you may think, especially if you are fair-skinned or have not been in the sun for a while. One of the healthiest things you can do is to always use sunscreen with a recommended minimum of SPF 30. Even if you are darker skinned you are still susceptible. And while the noon day sun may seem the most attractive for sunbathing, it is also the most damaging. A nasty, uncomfortable sunburn, or worse yet heatstroke, can impact your health and your disposition!

Food and beverages

While we encourage you to try everything, you should still exercise the same precautions as you would anywhere. When eating out, avoid foods that seem undercooked or rancid, or if you have doubts about the hygiene conditions where it was prepared. Always wash fruits and vegetables before you eat them. Be particularly cautious of food and beverages prepared or sold on the street or at stoplights, especially in metropolitan and coastal areas.

Road safety and motorized vehicles

For safety and liability reasons (and in some cases Costa Rican law) students are not allowed to drive or ride on a motorcycle or all-terrain vehicle, regardless of age. In addition, students may not drive a vehicle (car or truck) during the duration of a course. Naturally, if you are of legal driving age you may rent/drive before or after your MVI course at your own risk.

Snakes and scorpions and spiders (Oh my!)

More than any other creatures, snakes, scorpions and spiders have a hold on the fear factor. Truth is, people are more dangerous to them than they are to us – if you don’t bother them they won’t bother you. Only a few of the hundreds of snake species in the world are poisonous. You are more likely to encounter snakes in dry, tropical lowlands than you are in Monteverde. If you encounter a snake, back away slowly. While you may think the small green snake in the tree would make a nice photo subject, it is best to keep your distance.
If you are bitten by a snake, let your course leader or coordinator know immediately. Remain calm while treatment is given or sought out, as it will slow the absorption of any venom. Try to remember identifying features – color, patterns, length, or width. If you are traveling to an isolated field station, at least one person in the group will have received training on how to treat snakebites.
Scorpions (alacranes or escorpiones in Spanish) are much more common, especially in Monteverde. They are not deadly, and their sting is about as painful as a wasp sting. It is best to shake out your clothes, shoes, and check under your sheets for scorpions (and other insects) each night. They are more common in the dry season, and favor wood homes and buildings. The tropics are home to many types of spiders, many of them large and beautiful. While they may “creep you out,” you are much more dangerous to them than they are to you! In general you will experience more insect and wildlife than you would elsewhere. Part of what makes Costa Rica so lush and beautiful is the abundance of life to be found – it is more than home to cute monkeys and fragrant orchids. While the palm-sized moth and the finger-long scorpion may make you uncomfortable, remember that you are in their environment, not the other way around.

Medical needs, health insurance coverage, medications and pre-existing conditions

Reliable medical services are available throughout Costa Rica. That said, keep in mind that Monteverde and some of the places you may be traveling to are fairly isolated. While minor medical problems can be handled in the Monteverde zone at the clinic or by private doctors, more serious medical needs will need to be attended in either Puntarenas (2 hours away) or San José (3-4 hours).
Be sure your immunizations are up-to-date. Ask your doctor, check the Center for Disease Control website, or find out from your study abroad office what the current immunization requirements are for Costa Rica. Remember that some vaccines take at least eight weeks for effectiveness, and may require more than one application.
You must carry international health insurance before you come down on an MVI course – your school or university may already have this as a requirement for participation in study abroad. Be sure to bring any pertinent health insurance and medical information with you. If you already have health coverage, make sure that there is provision for being overseas. You will be responsible for any out of pocket medical expenses, and transportations costs associated with medical visits, while on an MVI course.
If you take prescription medications bring enough for the duration of your travels. Make sure they are in the original containers, and bring a copy of your prescription just in case. While it is always wise to travel with some over-the-counter medicines (OTCs), the most common ones can be purchased in Costa Rica. Also, bring extra eyeglasses and contact lenses if you wear them, along with a prescription.
Please let your home institution and the Monteverde Institute know of any pre-existing medical conditions that could affect your well-being. All information will be treated as confidential. If you are allergic to certain foods or insect bites, be sure to bring an Epi-pen or other allergy kit along with you. Whether or not you have a preexisting condition, we recommend bringing down the names and emergency phone numbers of your health care providers, including your dentist.

Common illnesses and what to do if you get sick

It is not uncommon to experience mild stomach discomfort, a slight cold, allergies, sleeplessness, or other minor illnesses when you are in a new place – it takes time for your body and mind to adjust to different foods, the water and a different environment. If you are feeling “under the weather,” give yourself some down time to recover. You may react more strongly to insect bites than you would at home. Anti-itch creams and gels, as well as allergy medications, will help lessen the irritation. Mosquitoes are more common in lower elevations; in Monteverde you may find the occasional mosquito, but are more likely to encounter chiggers or other biting/stinging creatures. Using an insect repellant or sulfur powder can help deter them.
While malaria is not very common in Costa Rica, there have been cases of dengue fever, which are also mosquito-borne. Both are characterized by high-fevers. In general, using long sleeved shirts, insect repellant, and sleeping under a net are the best deterrents. If you experience fever, chills, or diarrhea that lasts several days or is accompanied by vomiting, or have a strong allergic reaction, be sure to inform your course leader and/or coordinator. It may be necessary to seek to medical treatment.
Sexually-transmitted illnesses occur everywhere in the world. Just because you are abroad does not mean you are immune – some people erroneously engage in more risky behavior when they are traveling. This has two negative effects: 1) exposing you to a higher risk of STDs and even HIV/AIDS; 2) propagating the image of the promiscuous foreigner. If you do engage in sexual activity, a latex condom is the most effective means of prevention. They are readily available in grocery stores and pharmacies.

Water and sanitation

Tap water is generally safe in most major towns. If your group will be visiting a location where potable tap water is not available, your MVI course coordinator will advise you beforehand. Bottled water is readily available in supermarkets, convenience stores, and restaurants everywhere. In Monteverde the tap water is safe to drink. The water supply comes from springs in the cloud forest that are regularly monitored. Unless your particular course takes you to isolated locations, you can expect to find flush toilets everywhere. It is a good idea to carry a tissue packet in your purse or backpack as some places do not have toilet paper.

V. General information on Costa Rica

The more you know about a country before you arrive, the more you will get out of you experience. There are many wonderful books on Costa Rica. At the very least, pick up a travel guide, or do an online search. If your Spanish is up to it, check out La Nación online, Costa Rica’s largest circulating daily newspaper (http://www.nacion.co.cr/) or the Tico Times, the leading weekly English language newspaper (http://www.ticotimes.net).

Country background

Bordered by the Pacific Ocean on the west and the Caribbean on the east, Costa Rica is part of the land bridge between North and South America; its nearest neighbors are Panama to the southeast and Nicaragua to the northwest. It is Central America’s second-smallest nation. Costa Rica covers 51,100 square km (about 32,000 square miles, or almost the size of South Carolina), but its geographic location and climatic conditions give rise to incredible diversity of ecosystems. A mountainous spine, also known as the continental divide, runs the length of the country dividing it into three general areas: the Pacific coastal plains, the Central Valley and the Caribbean coastal lowlands.
Translated from Spanish, Costa Rica means ‘rich coast’ – a name originating from rumors of vast gold treasures that never materialized. Spaniards explored and colonized the country throughout the 1500s. Costa Rica achieved independence from Spain in 1821 by joining the Central American Federation, and in 1823 the capital was established in San José. The country’s National Liberation movement abolished the Costa Rican army in 1948 and established a tradition of democratic elections and a free, democratic and independent republic. Costa Rica enjoys a stable government and has not suffered from the civil wars that have affected other Latin American countries.
The country is often referred to as the ‘Switzerland of Central America’. Costa Rica has a population of about 4.43 million people who call themselves ticos (or ticas). The population is largely made up of mestizos, people of mixed European and indigenous origin, as well as a very small indigenous population. There is a sizeable black Creole population on the Atlantic coast. In addition, about 300,000 Nicaraguan immigrants reside in the country, many of them working in the agricultural sector. The literacy rate in Costa Rica is 95% (close to the U.S. rate of 98%) the highest in Central America and among the highest in the world. The constitution guarantees universal public education, and elementary and high schools are found throughout the country in practically every community. The country also guarantees access to health care for all. Ticos maintain a strong sense of national pride in their educational, health and governmental accomplishments.

Visa and passport requirements

All visitors to Costa Rica must have a valid passport. Passports must be valid for at least six months beyond dates of your trip. Always carry a photocopy of your passport, specifically the pages bearing your photo, passport number and entry stamp.
Citizens of the United States, Canada, or of the European Union are automatically given a 90-day tourist visa upon entry. Citizens of other countries should check with their study abroad office or the Costa Rican consulate for visa requirements. The process may take as long as six months, so start the process early. You are responsible for obtaining your passport and visa; MVI is not responsible for any delays that you may experience as the result of visa or passport requirements. Nationals of some countries may have greater difficulty in both obtaining a visa and in the amount of time allowed in Costa Rica. It is very important that you contact your consulate and the Costa Rican consulate far in advance. In some cases you may be required to make a substantial refundable deposit (upwards of $1500) to obtain a visa, and may only be allowed a shorter stay (e.g., 30 days). Please let your study abroad office and MVI know as soon as possible if your visa is shorter than the length of your course, as special arrangements may need to be made.
When you leave Costa Rica you will be required to pay a $28 exit tax at the airport. Cash (dollars and colones) and credit cards are accepted forms of payment.

U.S. and other embassies in Costa Rica

All embassies, including the U.S., are located in the capital city of San José. Contact information for the U.S. embassy is:
Apartado 920-1200

Pavas, San José, Costa Rica Tel: (506) 2220-3939

Email: info@usembassy.or.cr

Fax:(506) 2232-7944
If your passport is lost or stolen, we recommend contacting the appropriate embassy for replacement. If you are national of a country other than the U.S., be sure to bring down contact information for your consulate.

Telecommunications and cell phones

Most international calls can be made using a calling card, which can be purchased in pharmacies, grocery stores, and ICE offices. Internet cafés are scattered throughout the country, and some places even offer WiFi. The Monteverde Institute has both computers and wireless access for all students.

Your cell phone may work in Costa Rica, but be warned that roaming fees can be very expensive. You may need to obtain a SIM card to use your cell phone. Be sure to bring contact information for your provider in case your cell phone is lost or stolen. You may be better off leaving your phone at home.

Money and banking

The Costa Rican currency is the colón (plural: colones). Groups often do not have the opportunity to change money during the first few days of the trip. Most places accept US dollars, so bring some cash with you - $40 in small bills is a good start. Places with lots of tourism, like Monteverde, widely accept US dollars at the going exchange rate.

ATM machines are located throughout Costa Rica. You can use your ATM card or credit card in most machines to withdraw colones. It is a good idea to call your bank and/or credit card companies to let them know you will be out of the country. There is a nominal fee for using your ATM or credit card, but it is easier and safer than carrying lots of cash. Check with your bank or credit card company regarding fees for withdrawals, purchases and cash advances overseas, and to let them know that you will be using your cards abroad. While travelers’ checks are safe and convenient, not every business accepts them. You will have to change them in the bank. Always have your passport with you when go to the bank, and expect to spend a while in line. You may be charged an exchange fee.

There are two national banks: the Banco Nacional (BN) and the Banco de Costa Rica (BCR), both of which have offices in Monteverde. In San José you will find a number of private banks as well. Most of your accommodations and meals were included in your course fee (unless otherwise specified), so most money you spend will be on snacks, souvenirs, and other extras. We recommend you budget $20 per day.

Time zone

Costa Rica is in the Central Time Zone. There is no daylight savings time. Because of its proximity to the equator, the length of day is relative consistent through the year, with sunrise around 6:00 am and sunset around 6:00 pm.

Voltage and outlet types

Costa Rica uses the same 110 volts and plugs as the U.S. You do not need a converter if you are coming from the U.S.

Weights and measurements

Like most of the world, Costa Rica uses the metric system. Below are some easy conversions for everyday use; if you need accurate conversions for scientific or research needs use conversion formulas. In Costa Rica there are a few exceptions to the metric measurements. For example, land may be measured by hectáreas (hectares) or manzanas (1.72 acres). Cut wood is measured in pulgadas (inches), and some recipes measure dry good weight in pounds.

Metric Conversion Chart

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