Greetings

• Men shake hands. The abrazo (hug) is rare in Costa Rica. Women may pat each other on the right forearm or shoulder instead of shaking hands.

• Use titles, and be sure you use the correct surname. For example, address Senor Mario Sanchez Garcia as Senor Sanchez. Sanchez is his father's name, Garcia is his mother's.

• Costa Ricans are the most punctual people in Central America.
• Make appointments in advance by mail, fax, e-mail, etc., and reconfirm them before your arrival.

• Business takes place on a personal basis -- relationships are key.
• Decisions are usually made by consensus, and decision makers will generally speak frankly. The process is slow; impatience lowers your credibility.

• Costa Ricans enjoy discussing families, the beauty of Costa Rica and politics. Know about Central American politics, and why their former president, Oscar Arias, won the Nobel Peace Prize.
• Spouses are generally welcome at business dinners.