If you are planning to travel to Costa Rica, it is important that you know some aspects about the basic services that you may need during your stay. In this article we explain how transportation, electricity, internet and money work in this Central American country.
Transport: In Costa Rica it is varied and accessible. You can choose between buses, taxis, car rentals or even domestic flights to get around the territory. Buses are the cheapest option and cover most routes, but they are also the slowest and may be subject to delays or cancellations. Taxis are faster and more comfortable, but also more expensive and you should make sure they are metered or negotiate the price before getting in. Car rental gives you more freedom and flexibility, but you must take into account the state of the roads, traffic and the cost of fuel. Domestic flights are the fastest and most comfortable option for traveling between distant regions, but also the most expensive and limited in terms of schedules and availability.
Electricity: In Costa Rica it is 110 volts and 60 hertz, the same as in the United States and Canada. The plugs are type A or B, with two flat pins. If you come from a country with a different voltage or plug type, you will need an adapter or transformer to be able to use your electrical appliances. Most hotels and accommodations have these accessories, but it is recommended that you bring your own just in case. Electricity in Costa Rica is generally stable, but there may be occasional outages in some rural areas or during the rainy season.
Internet: In Costa Rica, it’s pretty good and affordable. Most hotels, restaurants, cafes, and public places offer free or paid wifi. You can also buy a local SIM card or portable modem to have a mobile connection during your trip. The main phone companies are Kolbi, Movistar, and Claro, and they offer prepaid or postpaid plans with different data, calling, and messaging options. The cost of mobile internet varies by company, plan, and area, but is usually reasonable and competitive.
Money: In Costa Rica it is the colon, which is divided into 100 cents. The current exchange rate is approximately 620 colones per US dollar. You can exchange money at banks, exchange offices, hotels or airports, but keep in mind that commissions can vary greatly. You can also use credit or debit cards in most stores and ATMs, but check the conditions and rates of your issuing bank first. Another option is to use electronic payment services such as PayPal or Transferwise, which can offer you better rates and security.
