Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
WHAT'S THAT ADDRESS?
Though some larger cities have streets that have been dutifully named, signage is rare in
Costa Rica and finding a Tico (Costa Rican) who knows what street they are standing on
is even rarer. Everybody uses landmarks when providing directions; an address may be
given as 200m south and 150m east of a church. A city block iscien metros- literally
100m - so 250metros al surmeans '2½ blocks south', regardless of the distance.
Churches, parks, office buildings, fast-food joints and car dealerships are the most com-
mon landmarks used - but these are often meaningless to the foreign traveler, who will
have no idea where the Subaru dealership is to begin with. Better yet, Ticos frequently
refer to landmarks that no longer exist. In San Pedro, outside San José, locals still use the
site of an old fig tree(el antiguo higuerón)to provide directions.
Confused? Get used to it…
Legal Matters
If you are arrested your embassy can offer limited assistance. Embassy officials will not
bail you out and you are subject to Costa Rican laws, not the laws of your own country.
In Costa Rica the legal age for driving and voting is 18 years.
Keep in mind that travelers may be subject to the laws of their own country in regard to
sexual relations.
Drivers & Driving Accidents
Drivers should carry their passport and driver's license at all times.
If you have an accident, call the police immediately to make a report (required for insur-
ance purposes).
Leave the vehicles in place until the report has been made and do not make any state-
ments except to members of law-enforcement agencies.
Maps
Detailed maps are, unfortunately, hard to come by in Costa Rica; best to purchase one on-
line before your trip.
