Culture and Customs of Costa Rica

Sofia Alvarado’s Costa Rica is a place of conversation, family networks and social conventions as well as scenery. The guide explores the everyday context behind pura vida, politeness and local humour.

Landmark-based directions, grandmothers’ roles, coffee rituals and flexible ideas about time are among its subjects. Folk stories and the abolition of the army appear alongside traffic, queues and other practical experiences that visitors or new residents may encounter.