Costa Rica Travel Guide

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Customs

Costa Ricans are conservative when it comes to family values, and roles between male and female are expected to be traditional. 'Machismo' is a key characteristic of Costa Rica culture, although women are quickly becoming more empowered in Tico society. The population is largely middle-class, Catholic and ethnically homegenous.

Tipping

Hotels add a 10% service charge plus a 3% tourist tax to their bills by law. In tourist and upmarket restaurants a tip of 10% is usual, however some establishments already include a 17% sales and service tax in the bill. Taxi drivers are not normally tipped, but tour guides are. In general if service has been particularly good service staff appreciate a 5 to 10% tip.