Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Ticos
Costa Ricans are a friendly people and will make you feel welcome in their country.
Here's some inside info that will make you feel like a local while you're here:
1.You'll probably hear Costa Ricans referred to as “Ticos.” It's a term they adopted and
it's derived from their cultural custom of referring to so many things in the diminutive.
This can take 2 forms; either the suffix “ito/a” or “tico/a.” For instance, at a restaurant
a Tico may ask the waiter for “la cuentita” (the small check). At a store the clerk may
ask you to wait “un momentico” (a tiny moment).
2. Rushing is equivalent to stress in Costa Rica, so don't expect Ticos to rush while
they're serving your meal, checking you out at the cash register, walking in front you
on the sidewalk or at anything else they o (except when they get behind the wheel of a
car). Remember you're here to relax.
3.You must ask for the check at a restaurant because Ticos don't believe in rushing you
either. So enjoy your meal and remember to ask for “la cuentita” or it will never come.
4.Ticos don't like confrontation, so don't get upset and yell when something doesn't go
exactly as you want it to. A smile, a bit of patience and a friendly tone will get much
better results.
