Culture
Customs
Welcoming to foreigners? Yes LGBTQ friendly? Puerto Viejo is fairly LGBTQ+ friendly and you will enjoy an open-minded environment, at least within the digital nomad community.
Etiquette tips
Costa Rican culture is very polite, and public confrontation is not common. Additionally, locals often say “Maybe” even when they mean “No”.
How to great people
With a handshake! Friends often kiss each other cheek as a greeting, but men usually do so with a handshake or one-armed hug.
Tipping norms
Tipping is optional but appreciated (10-20%).
Food
Costa Rican cuisine is known for its reliance on fruits and vegetables. Rice and black beans are a staple of most dishes.
National dish
Gallo pinto — fried rice and black beans most often served as a breakfast meal.
Must try local food
Traditional Costa Rican lunch with rice, beans, meat and vegetables.
Beans in broth topped with chicharrón (pork belly), chimichurri, avocado and chili peppers.
Ceviche with picadillos, Costa Rica's version of the taco.
Beef and vegetable stew.
Traditional Costa Rican lunch with rice, beans, meat and vegetables.
Beans in broth topped with chicharrón (pork belly), chimichurri, avocado and chili peppers.
Ceviche with picadillos, Costa Rica's version of the taco.
Beef and vegetable stew.
Traditional Costa Rican lunch with rice, beans, meat and vegetables.
Beans in broth topped with chicharrón (pork belly), chimichurri, avocado and chili peppers.
Ceviche with picadillos, Costa Rica's version of the taco.
Beef and vegetable stew.
Restaurants to try
Restaurant recommendations from nomads & locals. 4.0+ rating, great atmosphere and authentic food.
Food festivals & markets
Food delivery apps
Uber Eats Rappi DiDi Food PedidosYa
Art & music