The main international airports in Costa Rica are Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO) in San José and Daniel Oduber Quirós International Airport (LIR) in Liberia. Domestic airlines like Sansa and Nature Air fly between major cities and tourist destinations, saving time on long journeys. 

Buses are the most economical way to travel around Costa Rica. They connect most towns and cities, though they can be slow. Directo buses offer faster travel compared to collectivo buses, which stop frequently. Taxis are available in cities and towns. Ensure the taxi has a meter or agree on your fare before setting off. Uber is available in San José. 

• Semana Santa (Holy Week): Occurs the week before Easter. It is one of the most important religious celebrations, with processions, reenactments of the Passion of Christ, with most businesses closing. 
• Juan Santamaría Day (April 11): Honours the national hero Juan Santamaría, who played a key role in the Battle of Rivas in 1856. 
• Labor Day (May 1): Known as Día de los Trabajadores, it celebrates workers with parades and public events. 
• Virgen de Los Angeles Day (August 2): A religious holiday honouring Costa Rica's patron saint, La Negrita. Thousands of pilgrims walk to the Basilica in Cartago to pay their respects. 
• Independence Day (September 15): Marks Costa Rica's independence from Spain in 1821. 

The official currency is the Costa Rican Colón (CRC). US Dollars (USD) are widely accepted, especially in tourist areas. However, it's advisable to carry some colones for smaller purchases and when travelling in rural areas. 

Tipping is appreciated in Costa Rica, especially when you’ve received good service. Tips can be given in either colones or US Dollars. A 10% service charge is usually included on restaurant bills by law, but an additional tip for excellent service is welcomed. Tip hotel porters the equivalent of US$1-2 per bag and tip your tour guide US$10-20 per day and drivers US$5-10 per day, depending on the service and length of the tour. 

Popular markets for souvenir shopping include the Mercado Central in San José and the Mercado de Artesanias. Popular items include: 

• Costa Rican coffee, renowned for its high quality because of the country's volcanic soil. Popular brands include Tarrazú and Tres Ríos. 

• A traditional Costa Rican coffee maker made from a wooden stand and a cloth filter (bolsita). 

• Colourful, hand-carved masks made by the indigenous Boruca people used during traditional festivals. 

• Costa Rican chocolate is made from locally grown cacao and is known for its rich flavour.  

• Simple, colourful bracelets that embody the "Pura Vida" lifestyle, which means "pure life" reflecting the Costa Rican way of living.