Language: Spanish, but English is spoken widely in tourist businesses and developed areas.

Currency: The Costa Rican colón. U.S. dollars are usually accepted in tourist areas, but you may have to accept a street exchange rate 10 to 20 colones below the official rates. Colones are needed for small purchases. Credit cards may trigger surcharges.

Health: Assume tap water is unsafe to drink and stick to bottled water. Food is generally safe if you follow standard precautions, eating only cooked food and fruits or vegetables you peel yourself.

Electricity: 110 volts, 60 cycles.