What cultural faux pas should I try to avoid making in Mal Pais?
We asked people in Mal Pais if they could share any humorous cultural blunders they commited. For new expats, keep in mind that these incidents are an inevitable part of expat life. Learning to laugh about them is the key!...
"In Mal Pais, it is important to be mindful of traditional customs. It is considered rude to talk in a loud or boisterous manner, and proper manners should be used when talking with locals. Refrain from taking photos of people without their permission, as this is typically frowned upon in the community. Additionally, appropriate attire is important when visiting religious sites, as exposing too much skin is seen as disrespectful. Finally, be aware of the cultural norms when interacting with women; in Mal Pais, they may not welcome inappropriate comments or physical contact," commented one expat who made the move to Mal Pais, Costa Rica.

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RelocateNow Costa Rica's clients who run through the RelocateNow Program get quick results in formulating and successfully executing our laid out plan for moving to Costa Rica! Expert consulting for future expats in Costa Rica who wish to fast track the process of their move by receiving the specialized information they need, trustworthy connections within the country, and high level 1:1 support through the entire process.
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RelocateNow Costa Rica's clients who run through the RelocateNow Program get quick results in formulating and successfully executing our laid out plan for moving to Costa Rica! Expert consulting for future expats in Costa Rica who wish to fast track the process of their move by receiving the specialized information they need, trustworthy connections within the country, and high level 1:1 support through the entire process.
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Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.
"During the dry season the water can get turned off at any time. One time I had water, but my neighbors did not. My neighbor and his family stood below my stairs and asked me a question. Using my translator, I believed he asked me if his sister could use my shower? everyone was smiling as I replied. "Yes, of course" The neighbor left and said she would return in a few hours. I quickly went upstairs and cleaned my bathroom and shower. The sister did not return much to my surprise until the next day the sister showed up with all her cleaning supplies. My neighbor actually asked if his sister could clean for me. I thought this was so funny, but declined. My apartment is tiny and the bathroom was already clean. Beware of what you agree to," remarked another expat in Mal Pais, Costa Rica.
Other Questions:
- What should I pack when moving to Mal Pais?
- Where should I setup a bank account in Mal Pais?
- Will I be able to find a job in Mal Pais?
- What is life like in Mal Pais?
- What do expats in Mal Pais appreciate most about the local culture?
- What do expats find most challenging?
- Is there a lot of crime in Mal Pais?
- Is there a lot of diversity? Are people in Mal Pais accepting of differences?
- What are the schools in Mal Pais like?
- What are healthcare services like in Mal Pais?
- What are medical services in Mal Pais like?
- Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Mal Pais?
- What are emergency services like in Mal Pais?
- Will I need to travel to see a specialist?
- Are common prescription medications available in Mal Pais?
- How are local medical facilities in Mal Pais?
- As a foreigner living in Mal Pais, will I have access to public healthcare? What is it like?
- What have your experiences during the pandemic with the local healthcare system been like?
What cultural faux pas should I try to avoid making in Mal Pais?
If you live in Mal Pais, newcomers to Mal Pais would love to hear your answer to this question.