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Documents
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DOCUMENTS/PASSPORTS: Please refer to this site for the most current information regarding international travel: http://travel.state.gov/travel/cbpmc/cbpmc_3013.html
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Language
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Spanish. English widely spoken and understood in resort areas.
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Time Zone
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From late October to early April, Costa is one hour ahead of EST. From early April to October, Costa Rica is the same as EST.
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Currency
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Costa Rican Colon. U.S. currency may be exchanged at hotels, banks, and exchange bureaus. Most major credit cards widely accepted.
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Voltage
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110 volts, same as U.S.
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Getting Around
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Taxis available. Bus service connects towns, cities and tourist areas. Car and jeep rentals cost approximately. $60-$80 per day.
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Climate & the "Green Season"
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Costa Rica's temperatures vary little with the season, ranging from the mid-70s to mid 80s. The northern Pacific beaches have the highest temperatures and the most sunshine. On the higher slopes of the mountain cloud forests, you can expect temperatures in the mid 60s to mid 70s. Many visitors go to Costa Ricain our winter, from December to April. However, more and more people are discovering April to October, the Green Season. Morning sunshine and late afternoon showers make the countryside lush and green, reservations are easy to come by, and prices are lowest.
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Culture & Politics
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Costa Ricans are friendly and welcoming people who take great pride in their nation_s beautiful landscapes and well-developed infrastructure. One of the most stable countries in Central and South America. Costa Rica made a commitment to peace nearly 50 years by disbanding a standing army. Since then, the government has invested its resources in education, public health and responsible development. Costa Rica provides the best of both worlds: You can explore pristine wilderness areas, but be assured of a wide choice of clean, modern accommodations.
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Geography
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Despite its small size, Costa Rica has an amazing diversity of landscapes, including: San Jos? & the Central Valley The capital of Costa Rica offers a variety of attractions, including, restaurants, markets, parks, casinos and the world-famous Gold Museum. You can also make an easy day-trip to lush coffee plantations, whitewater rafting, rainforests, even volcanoes.
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