Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
When paying in US dollars at a local restaurant, bar or shop the exchange rate can be
unfavorable.
DOLLARS VERSUS COLONES
While colones are the official currency of Costa Rica, US dollars are virtually legal tender.
Case in point: most ATMs in large towns and cities will dispense both currencies.
However, it pays to know where and when you should be paying with each currency.
In Costa Rica you can use US dollars to pay for hotel rooms, midrange to top-end
meals, admission fees for sights, tours, domestic flights, international buses, car hire,
private shuttle buses and large-ticket purchase items. Local meals and drinks, domestic
bus fares, taxis and small-ticket purchase items should be paid for in colones.
All of our listings have prices in US dollars.
Credit Cards
Expect a transaction fee on all international credit-card purchases.
Holders of credit and debit cards can buy colones in some banks, though you can expect
to pay a high transaction fee.
Cards are widely accepted at midrange and top-end hotels, as well as at top-end restaur-
ants and some travel agencies.
All car-rental agencies require drivers to have a credit card.
Exchanging Money
All banks will exchange US dollars, and some will exchange euros and British pounds; oth-
er currencies are more difficult. Most banks have excruciatingly long lines, especially at the
state-run institutions (Banco Nacional, Banco de Costa Rica, Banco Popular), though they
don't charge commission on cash exchanges. Private banks (Banex, Banco Interfin, Scoti-
abank) tend to be faster. Make sure the bills you want to exchange are in good condition or
they may be refused.
Taxes
Travelers will notice a 13% sales tax at hotels and restaurants, although many smaller
budget and midrange businesses waive the tax (shhh) if you pay in cash.
