10 Cultural Faux Pas to Avoid While Living in Costa Rica

Moving to Costa Rica offers a vibrant cultural experience, but it's important to be mindful of local customs and etiquette to avoid cultural faux pas. As an expat, understanding and respecting the cultural norms can help you integrate more smoothly into the community. Here are 10 tips to help you navigate social situations and show respect for the rich traditions of Costa Rica.

1. Learn Basic Spanish Phrases

While many Costa Ricans, especially in tourist areas, speak English, making an effort to learn Spanish demonstrates respect for the local language. Start with basic greetings and phrases such as "Buenos días" (Good morning), "Por favor" (Please), and "Gracias" (Thank you). This effort will be appreciated and can open doors to deeper cultural experiences.

2. Understand the Concept of "Pura Vida"

"Pura Vida" is a phrase that embodies the Costa Rican way of life, meaning "pure life" or "simple life." It's used as a greeting, a farewell, and to express satisfaction. Embrace this laid-back attitude and use the phrase to connect with locals, showing that you appreciate their lifestyle.

3. Dress Appropriately

Costa Ricans tend to dress modestly, especially outside of beach towns. When visiting churches or more conservative areas, avoid wearing shorts or revealing clothing. Observing and mirroring local attire is a sign of respect and can help you blend in.

4. Be Punctual, But Flexible

Punctuality is valued in business settings, but social events often operate on "Tico time," where being a little late is acceptable. If you're invited to a social gathering, arriving 15-30 minutes after the stated time is common. However, always be on time for professional appointments.

5. Respect Religious Traditions

Costa Rica is predominantly Roman Catholic, and religious events and holidays are taken seriously. Show respect by being considerate during these times, and if you're invited to participate, follow the lead of those around you in terms of behavior and dress.

6. Be Mindful of Your Volume

Costa Ricans are generally not as loud as people from some other cultures. Speaking at a lower volume, especially in public places, is a sign of good manners. Avoid raising your voice unless it's necessary.

7. Learn Table Manners

When dining, wait for everyone to be served before starting to eat, and keep your hands visible by resting your wrists on the edge of the table. It's also polite to say "Buen provecho" (Enjoy your meal) before eating, similar to saying "Bon appétit."

8. Be Respectful When Bargaining

Bargaining is not as common in Costa Rica as it is in other countries. If you do find yourself in a situation where bargaining is appropriate, such as at a market, do so respectfully and without aggression. It's important to recognize the value of the goods and the work that goes into them.

9. Show Appreciation for Invitations

If you're invited to a Costa Rican's home, it's polite to bring a small gift, such as flowers or chocolates. Always express your gratitude for the invitation and the hospitality shown to you, as this is a significant aspect of Costa Rican culture.

10. Be Patient and Open-Minded

Living in a new country can be challenging, and cultural misunderstandings are bound to happen. Approach each situation with patience and an open mind. Take the time to learn from your experiences and from the people you meet. This attitude will help you grow and enjoy your time in Costa Rica to the fullest.

We hope these tips help you navigate the cultural landscape of Costa Rica with ease. Remember, the best way to learn is through experience, and every faux pas is an opportunity for growth. Share your experiences and seek advice on Expat Exchange's Costa Rica forum to connect with fellow expats.

Expats Confess Their Cultural Faux Pas in Costa Rica

"It is important to avoid touching someone's head or using certain nicknames as both are considered offensive in Costa Rica. Additionally, be sure to dress conservatively in public and avoid public displays of affection, as they are seen as disrespectful.Beyond that, it is important to be respectful when discussing religion, particularly since the majority of Costa Ricans are Catholic. Disrespecting local customs and religious ceremonies should also be avoided. Finally, it’s important to be mindful of how much you are drinking in public, as public drunkenness is considered inappropriate," commented an expat living in Costa Rica.