Current Time in CostaRica
The culture of time in Costa Rica
The culture of time in Costa Rica
A unique sense of time called "Tico Time"
In Costa Rica, there is a sense of time called "Tico Time", and it is not a problem if you are a few minutes or even a few tens of minutes late for an appointment. This is widespread in everyday life and business.
Relaxed daily rhythm
Mornings start relatively early, but time generally flows slowly. Especially in rural areas, people place importance on living in accordance with the rhythm of nature, and there is little sense of being pressed for time.
Enjoying meals and conversations over time
It is important to enjoy conversations during lunch and dinner, and it is common to spend time slowly rather than finishing things in a short time. The way people spend their time strongly reflects their awareness of "nurturing relationships with people".
Costa Rican values regarding time
Time sense that emphasizes human relationships
People tend to value human relationships more than punctuality, and even if you are a little late, it is often not a problem as long as you have polite conversation and consideration. Feelings are more important than formality.
Flexible schedule
Even in the business world, there is a culture of tolerance for schedule changes and delays. This is also connected to the realist idea of "focusing on what you can do now".
Time consciousness that reflects coexistence with nature
It is important to spend time in accordance with the rhythm of nature, such as being active with the sunrise and being quiet after sunset. This tendency is particularly noticeable in rural areas.
Things about time that foreigners should know when traveling or moving to Costa Rica
Be punctual with plenty of time for appointments
In business, being punctual makes a good impression, but in everyday life, being 10 to 15 minutes late is considered normal. Scheduling with plenty of time is required.
Public transport may not always be on time
Even if there is a timetable, public transport such as buses often do not arrive on schedule, so it is important to act early. You need to plan with waiting times in mind.
Be aware of bank and government closing times
Public facilities tend to close early, and may not be operational during lunch breaks. It is safe to do your errands early in the morning.
Interesting trivia about time in Costa Rica
"Tico time" appears in tourist brochures
The relaxed time is known as a symbol of Costa Rican culture, so much so that the term "Tico time" is introduced in local tourist guidebooks.
Daylight saving time is not implemented
Costa Rica does not have a daylight saving time system, so the time difference is stable throughout the year. This makes it easy to make adjustments for international conferences, etc.
Costa Rican holidays are particularly flexible in terms of timing.
If a public holiday falls on a weekend, it may be moved to a weekday at the government's discretion, resulting in a "moving holiday culture" that also affects travel plans.