arexneev
 |
I'm assuming you're a gringa, so here's what I'd tell you. I lived in San Jose on a study abroad program for five months (1 semester + 1/2 the summer) back in 2004.
* It's not really expensive. I don't know where she found a pack of gum for 500 colones, but man, talk about precio gringo... If you're earning an American-level income and living in Costa Rica, you will do VERY well. Also, if you don't insist on living like an American, you'll do fine. Don't eat at McDonald's and Pizza Hut, don't insist on the American brand name foods or anything else...
* English saturation isn't bad, but if you don't already speak Spanish, make every effort to learn quickly.
* Most people don't have Internet in their homes, but there are Internet cafes everywhere, and they're not very expensive if you're not there for hours on end.
* I was there in 2004, so take that into account, but there was a fair amount of anti-American sentiment. However, that was almost entirely directed at our government, our trade policies, and our then-President. On a personal level, Americans are not openly disliked, generally. That didn't stop me from pretending to be Canadian a couple of times...
* If you're in San Jose, be very aware of petty crime. That's probably the biggest danger you're in, and it's pretty much unavoidable, as far as I could tell.
* Feminism hasn't quite caught on down there. Sure, you've got women in government and higher education and all that, but as a general way of being - not so much. Expect catcalls and, worse, double standards. The catcall thing is flattering for about 30 minutes. After that...well, I just wanted to punch someone.
* Use the bus system, even if you have your own car. It's good, it's cheap, it's generally even on time. But don't ask the bus drivers where they go. Certainly not all, but a few will say anything it takes to get you onboard, where you must pay whether you ride or not. Ask a fellow bystander. Traffic and road conditions are terrible - our orientation group was told that CR has the 2nd highest per capita traffic fatality rate in the world. I believe it. Holy cow.
* Costa Ricans tend to be a little sensitive about people from the US calling themselves Americans. "Somos todos americanos" (We are all Americans) I was told indignantly on a couple occasions. Fortunately, there's a Spanish word, estadounidense, that will serve you in good stead. I also called myself a gringa a lot, which brought some amused smiles.
* Generally, their values are not so different from those of estadounidenses, but there are some substantial differences you should be aware of. You'll hear real quick about the first: Hora Tica ... which basically amounts to "whenever." Punctuality is not generally a virtue they strive for. It's okay - go with the flow, they do. And second, where we tend to value honesty above all else, they prefer to get along. If you ask whether a job will be ready this afternoon, you're most likely going to be told "Of course! Definitely." whether it is or isn't. So be prepared for that.
* Don't look males directly in the eye for very long. For us, it symbolizes being forthright. For them, it's flirtatious, even sexual, and can lead to some very awkward moments.
Well, that was certainly more than I thought I had when I started writing, but I hope it helps. I also hope it doesn't sound too negative. CR is definitely a beautiful country with very nice people who are generally eager to get along with everyone. They are justifiably proud. But you should be aware of the cultural differences, too. Enjoy your new job! |
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