Gallo Pinto
Those who stay in Costa Rica for a while develop a noble affection for the bean. This affection grows even more when you try the national breakfast dish known as Gallo Pinto. Made with a mixture of black beans and rice, it’s seasoned with onions, sweet peppers, and fresh coriander. It’s a delicious, traditional dish, and soon you’ll find yourself craving it every morning!
Gays and Lesbians
Costa Rica is known for being one of the more open and welcoming places in Central America for gay and lesbian travelers. The country has a vibrant gay scene, especially in San José, where you’ll find various resources and a thriving nightlife. However, outside the capital, there are fewer establishments that specifically cater to the gay community.
That said, Costa Rica’s resort areas are generally very accommodating to gay and lesbian couples. You can easily find comfortable accommodations, and the overall atmosphere is tolerant. For more information, consider checking out publications like Gente 10 (which includes some English articles) or YKE Noticias Boletín, which reports on LGBTQ+ politics in Costa Rica and across Latin America.
You can also explore guides such as The New Key to Costa Rica or the Exploring Costa Rica Guide from the Tico Times. ILISA provides a list of gay-friendly restaurants, bars, and hotels. Additional resources are available at Gay Costa Rica.
Holidays
The official holidays in Costa Rica are as follows:
- January 1 – New Year’s Day
- Easter – Wednesday noon through Easter Sunday
- April 11 – Battle of Rivas
- May 1 – Labor Day
- July 25 – Guanacaste Day (celebrating its annexation)
- August 2 – Virgin of Los Angeles
- August 15 – Mother’s Day
- September 15 – Independence Day
- October 12 – Day of the Races
- December 24 & 25 – Christmas Eve and Christmas Day
During the Christmas and Easter holidays, most of the country shuts down. Banks and offices close, and even buses may not be running on some days. It’s important to plan ahead for your travel needs and make reservations during these busy periods.
ILISA observes the following holidays when the school is closed: January 1, the Thursday and Friday before Easter, May 1, July 25, August 15, September 15, and December 25. There are no classes on these days, but private lessons may be rescheduled.
Host Families
Our homestay program is an important part of your language learning experience. We carefully select families who are friendly, welcoming, and offer a comfortable living environment that is not too different from what you might find in your home country. Although our host families receive compensation, they enjoy having international students and are eager to make you feel at home. With mutual flexibility, you’ll form a strong, beneficial relationship with your family.
Meals
Your family will provide you with breakfast and dinner. Costa Rica is known for its abundant and delicious fresh fruits and vegetables, so make sure to ask for plenty of both! If you feel you need more food, feel free to ask, but avoid going to the refrigerator to serve yourself unless your host specifically invites you to do so. Most of the time, you will find that your family offers more food than you can eat.
If you have special dietary needs, you should inform the Homestay Coordinator beforehand, as your family is unlikely to make special meals for you unless requested. If you did not mention this when applying, let the coordinator know so they can speak with your family.
If you’re eating somewhere else, be courteous and notify your host family ahead of time.
In Costa Rica, families typically do not eat together as a rule, so dinner may not have the social character that it might in North American or European homes. We encourage families to share meals with students, but sometimes this is not possible. If you find yourself eating alone often, please let us know, and we will address it.
Costa Ricans Are Early Risers
In Costa Rica, daily life typically begins early, with most people waking up between 5:00 a.m. and 6:00 a.m. As a result, many Costa Ricans go to bed between 8:30 p.m. and 10:00 p.m. Keep this in mind if you plan on staying out late, as your host family may be asleep when you return.
Personal Hygiene
Costa Ricans maintain high standards of hygiene. They typically bathe daily and change clothes regularly, and they try to maintain a neat appearance. Meeting or exceeding these expectations will be appreciated.
Room-Keeping & Laundry Service
Your host family will keep your room and bathroom clean. To make it easier for your family, please help by keeping your own room tidy. They will also provide laundry service, including changing your linens weekly. However, note that women are usually expected to wash their own underwear. If your family doesn’t explain this when you arrive, don’t hesitate to ask them how and where to wash these items. Some families may offer to wash them for you.
Hot Water
Because of the mild climate in Costa Rica, most homes only have hot water in the shower. Many families use an electric heating device for this, which might not always provide the steaming hot water you’re used to. Since these devices work by heating water instantly, the more you open the faucet, the colder the water will become. For best results, open the faucet slightly to allow the water to heat up and find a balance between water temperature and flow. If you find the water too cold, talk to your family or contact the Homestay Coordinator for assistance.
Keys
Your host family will provide you with keys to both the front door and the gate. Feel free to come and go as you wish, but always lock up when you leave. Be considerate if you return late at night, and always lock the doors behind you.
Family Telephone
Local calls in Costa Rica are charged by the minute, so be mindful when using your host family’s phone. Use a calling card or make collect calls to avoid charges. If you need to make international calls, there’s a phone office in downtown San José, where you can make calls using a credit card. ILISA also provides phone cards for students, which can be used to make calls from the school’s pay phone.
Guests
It’s courteous to inform your family in advance if you plan to have visitors. However, please note that overnight guests are not allowed in the homestay.
Friendship
Every family is different, and your experience may vary depending on your host. If you show cultural respect and adapt to the house rules, your family may include you in their social activities. With time, your homestay could evolve into a meaningful friendship.
Length of Stay
Your stay with the host family will last for the duration of your program. If you wish to extend your stay beyond the planned departure date, please make arrangements with the school in advance. We aim to place students with families well before their arrival.
Gifts
If you’re considering bringing a gift for your host family, it’s a nice gesture to thank them for their hospitality. A small gift from your home country—such as chocolates, a souvenir, or a photo book—will be appreciated. The symbolic value of the gift is far more important than its monetary worth.
Note: Dutch students, avoid bringing “drop” (licorice), as Costa Ricans don’t seem to enjoy it!
Family Evaluation
We frequently receive questions about how we select our host families. One key reason for our success is the constant evaluation of families by students. On your first Thursday at ILISA, you’ll be asked to fill out a survey about your homestay experience. Your feedback—whether positive or constructive—helps us maintain high standards and ensures that our host families continue to offer quality experiences.
Families are expected to provide a quiet study area, meals, keys, laundry services, and to make an effort to involve you in family activities. What happens next is up to you!
Junk to Bring
Musts:
- Camera/film, sunscreen (SPF 15+), pocket alarm clock or watch, comfortable shoes, beach towel, toiletries, umbrella, comfortable clothes, dictionary, pen and paper, valid passport, sweater, rain poncho, sunglasses, insect repellent.
Optional:
- Swiss army knife, snorkel and mask, flashlight, daypack, hiking boots, ziploc bags, first aid kit, washcloth, sun hat, gortex parka/pants.
If you forget anything, most essentials can be bought locally in Costa Rica.