Banking
Banks are open from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. and do not close for lunch.

Business Hours
Government offices are open from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Commercial offices are open from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Stores and other businesses from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Climate
Costa Rica is a tropical country and experiences only two seasons: wet and dry. The dry season is generally between late December and April, and the wet season lasts the rest of the year. The Caribbean coast tends to be wet all year. Temperatures vary little between seasons; the main influence on temperature is altitude. The coasts are very hot and humid, with the Caribbean averaging 21 degrees Celsius at night and over 30 degrees Celsius during the day; the Pacific is a few degrees warmer still.

Clothing
Pack light for your travels. The highland areas can be very cold, so pack a sweater if you are going there. For the lowland area light, loose-fitting shirts and pants are essential. A wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses are recommended for the beach.

Communications
Direct-dial telephone service, facsimile, telex, radio and cable television are all available. Bilingual operator assistance for international calls is -116, Local information -113, Long distance information -124.

Credit Cards and Travelers Checks
Most major credit cards are accepted throughout the country, but some smaller businesses will only accept local currency. Travelers' checks can be easily cashed but some banks will only accept a certain kind.

Currency Exchange
The official currency is the Colon and is easier to use than dollars. US dollars are accepted throughout the country. Currency can be exchanged at banks. Most hotels have an exchange counter. You can also exchange money at the International Airport. The currency rate fluctuates without notice.

Customs
Arrivals are allowed 500 cigarettes plus three liters of wine or spirits duty free.

Departure Tax
The average rate is US $17 to depart by air. Land and sea exits are not charged. Electricity 110-volt AC is found nationwide. A few outlying areas use their own power source so check ahead before traveling.