The document discusses the cultural norms and gender roles in Costa Rica, highlighting the traditional expectations for women to handle housework and childcare while men often depend on them or hired help. It also covers social and business etiquette, noting the importance of small talk and the expectation of punctuality in professional settings. Additionally, it includes trivia about local customs, such as the naming of taxi meters.

1. COSTA RICA
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2. Family Life
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8
It is a macho culture
and women are often
treated differently men.
Most women are
expected to do all the
housework, cooking,
etc.
Women still take
care of the food,
childcare, and
cleaning.
Men rely on their
mothers and wives
or hired help.

3. Men shake hands and
maintain direct eye contact
when greeting one another
and sometimes with slight
touches on the arms and/or
elbows.
Women shake hands or
give a light touch to the
forearm.
Close friends kiss each other
once on the cheek.
Social Etiquette
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21

4. Business Etiquette
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28
In business situations, running
late is considered irresponsible
unless the organizational culture
and/or the superiors are
permissive or indifferent.
Expect some small talk
before getting down to
business, and always allow
your host to begin the
business discussion.

5. Trivia
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32
The taxicab meters are
named Maria reflecting
Upon the Virgin Mary and
her presumed honesty.
In Costa Rica, the Spanish
word for pedestrian is “target”.
Be alert when walking around
in San José and at street
corners.

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