Banking & Currency
Local and international services are available at both state and private banking institutions. Banking hours are from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. (without a break). Evening banking services are also available from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. The official currency is the "colón" and the exchange rate against the dollar can vary. Dollars can be changed at any one of the National Banking System hanks. International credit cards are accepted in most establishments throughout the country.Electric Power
110 volts. Nationwide service.
Office Hours
These vary according to the company or institution. Most government offices are open to the public from 8:00 a.m. up until 4:00 p.m. Private companies open from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Shops and business open from 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. in most cases. Others keep a 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. working day. In the Capital, there are supermarkets which are open right round the clock.Postal Systems
National network of offices. Central Post and Telegraph Office.
Public Transport
Costa Rica has a large fleet of taxis, easily identified by their red color. In rural areas the taxis are four-wheel drive models for travel off-the-beaten track. Orange colored taxis provide service to and from the Juan Santa María International Airport. Bus services are available, both within and between provinces, as well as internationally. Similarly, Inter-urban train services cover the Heredia -San José and Pavas-San José routes. A river ferry provides regular service across the Tempisque River and seagoing ferry services (Salinero) departs from Puntarenas to cross the Gulf of Nicoya.Real Estate
The Costa Rica Real Estate Board was founded in 1974 and it is the most professional realty institution. Board members are professionals in different specialties including appraisers, advisors, sales and rental agents. Their expertise cover all areas of residential, commercial and industrial real estate in Costa Rica.
Road Network
Costa Rica has a good network of paved roads and highways which makes for easy traveling throughout the country and links the country with other Central American countries. There is also an extensive network of secondary roads.Telephone Network
This is one of the most efficient services in Latin America. International calls can be dialed direct from any point in Costa Rica. There are public telephones throughout the entire country and when these are not available, operator assisted telephones.
Water
Pure and suitable for drinking throughout most of Costa Rica.
