Dating
Dating across cultures can be both fascinating and challenging. In a romantic relationship, there’s not only verbal communication but also a subtle, non-verbal language that can lead to misinterpretations. Relationships in a different cultural context can sometimes be more volatile than what you may be accustomed to, but they can also be incredibly rewarding.
In Costa Rica, there are some basic differences in dating norms:
- Initiating a date: Men are generally expected to ask women out. Women rarely ask men.
- Paying for dates: Men are typically expected to cover the costs of a date, except when in a group, where everyone pays their share.
- First date etiquette: Never invite someone to dinner at your apartment alone on the first date. It is more common to go out in groups to get to know each other.
In Costa Rica, a “date” is almost always seen as a romantic gesture, unlike in countries like the U.S. or Europe, where a first date may simply be an opportunity to get to know someone better. The best advice is to start by showing your interest in friendship first. Costa Ricans are generally open to talking with strangers, and you may find that a relationship blossoms naturally from this initial connection.
Departure
Before you leave Costa Rica, please note:
- Exit Tax: There is a $29 exit tax per person, payable in dollars or colones at the airport.
- Transportation to the Airport: ILISA can arrange for a driver to take you for $35, or you can opt for a taxi or uber, which usually costs between $12 and $18, depening on the time of the day.
Dress Code
Costa Rica is not a wealthy country, but its people take pride in looking well-dressed. While casual or “grunge” styles may be common in some universities, Costa Ricans generally prefer a neat and tidy appearance. For your time here, pack comfortable clothes and shoes for school and travel, as well as something nice for evenings out or business meetings.
ILISA provides email services for all students. You can send and receive emails using the lab’s computers. You can either create a personal account on ILISA’s server or access your internet-based email (e.g., Gmail, Yahoo). For communication with the ILISA staff, please send emails to: spanish@ilisa.com.
Electricity
Costa Rica uses a 110-volt AC electrical system with American-style sockets, but they typically do not accommodate a grounding prong. Appliances from the U.S. or Canada without a grounding prong should work, but always double-check with your accommodation or family about the voltage before plugging anything in.
Embassies & Consulates
For embassy or consulate addresses and contact numbers, please inquire at the ILISA office.
Emergency Numbers
- In case of an emergency during working hours, contact the ILISA staff at 506-2280-0700.
- On the weekends, try our on-call cell phone at +506-6278-7058 (Hellen).
Entry and Exit
Upon arrival in Costa Rica, most tourists are granted 90 days to stay. If you need to extend your stay, you must request an extension before the 90-day period ends by visiting the Immigration office in La Uruca (on the road to the airport).
For stays longer than 90 days, we recommend a quick 3-day trip to Panama or Nicaragua (by bus or car). Alternatively, consider visiting the San Andres Islands in Colombia, which are safe and popular among Costa Ricans for short getaways.
If you overstay your visa, you’ll need an exit visa. Most travel agencies can handle the paperwork for a small fee. Please check with the ILISA front desk for advice on where to go. Exit visas are valid for only 10 days, so be sure to allow time for processing.
Fax Service
If you need to send a fax, please request a cover sheet from the ILISA office. Current fax rates can be found at the reception.
First Day
Your first Monday at ILISA is unique. In the morning, we assess your Spanish proficiency level and assign you to a class. You’ll be asked to fill out a personal information form and take care of any remaining payments. After your test, our Program Director and teachers will place you in the appropriate group, and classes will begin.
If you feel that your group placement isn’t ideal, please let us know within the first few days, and we’ll make adjustments. After the first Monday, you won’t need to go through the interview process again. Simply check the weekly class schedule posted at the reception.
Every Monday, after the placement exams, we host a brief orientation session to help new students adjust to life in Costa Rica and address any questions you may have. If a large group of students starts that day, your class will begin after the 10 a.m. coffee break; otherwise, it will start around 9 a.m.
Fitness
For those interested in fitness, here are a few local options:
- Gimnasio Sindy: Located above Sindy supermarket in Cedros. Offers free weights, machines, and a small aerobic studio.
- Victoria Gym: Located in San Pedro. Offers weight training, aerobics, and physical conditioning. Students receive a discount.
- Spa San Pedro: Located in the Arte Plaza, 300 meters north of Fuente de la Hispanidad in San Pedro. Great for a workout.
- Gimnasio Cipreses: A large gym located in Curridabat with a variety of fitness activities, including aerobics, tennis courts, and swimming pools. ILISA students get discounted rates. Ask the office for details.