Costa Rica is an unusual phenomenon in Central America. Its name is credited to Christopher Columbus and means rich coast. The country has no army, has never been at war with its neighbors, has the region's highest literacy rate and has been a stable democracy since inception. Sometimes called the Switzerland of Central America, its overwhelming mountains make Costa Rica an isolated island of civility in a notoriously unstable region.

Most Europeans came to Costa Rica after the age of the Conquistadors. The local indigenous population was weak, and the mountainous topography prevented the establishment of large landholdings. This resulted in a people focused on commerce not conquest, and a Latin culture less Latin than many of the country's neighbors. This could be why so many from the States work and retire here.

Mi Amigo Tico

Costa Ricans refer to themselves as Ticos -- Tica for women. Never refer to them as Rican. They are warm and friendly, but also relatively reserved, individualistic, proud, self-respecting -- never challenge this in a Costa Rican -- and perhaps not as demonstrative as other Latin Americans. Even the Spanish spoken is seen by some as passionless when compared to Nicaraguan and Panamanian Spanish, which is rich in nuance, colorful pronunciation and words that would make Costa Ricans blush. Many Ticos, especially businesspeople, speak English, but if you know Spanish, use it. Any effort will be appreciated.

How to Say "Hola"

Even the ubiquitous Latin American abrazo, or embrace, is not generally done in Costa Rica. A firm handshake is the preferred greeting between men. Women often greet each other by touching the left forearm lightly. Kissing is done only when women know each other very well.

Two Nombres

As is the region's Hispanic custom, Costa Rican men will often use two, sometimes hyphenated, last names. The first -- their father's family's name -- is used in introductions, and the second -- their mother's family's name -- is used in written correspondence. Never use first names until your Costa Rican colleague suggests you do so, although this may come sooner than in other Latin American countries.

It's All in the Values

Because of the people's respect for law and egalitarianism, Costa Rica has minimal corruption compared to the rest of the region. Never offer a payment to police officers or bureaucrats. Even in local markets, bargaining is not done.

Costa Ricans are relatively punctual, compared to other Latin Americans. Business projects, however, can move slowly since they are also conservative and risk-averse.

The Cuisine

Gallo pinto -- beans and rice, cooked together, served with or without eggs, meat, onions and cilantro -- is a favorite dish for breakfast, lunch or dinner. Another tradition is casado, usually served at lunch and consisting of a main course and dessert with beverage. Picadillos is a blended puree of vegetables and meat. The tip is usually included in the bill in a restaurant, and there is no need to tip taxi drivers in Costa Rica.

Down to Business

Because Costa Ricans were spared 15th-century Madrid's rigid and formal hierarchies, rank and status, while important, do not necessarily carry as much importance as in other nearby cultures. A powerful, high-ranking individual may make final decisions, but usually after input from others. Everyone at a meeting is typically encouraged to share his views.

Machismo between men and women is very strong, and women generally do not play major roles in business. However, foreign businesswomen can do business in Costa Rica as long as authority and credibility is clearly established.

Ticos can discuss things quite openly. There is less need to appear conciliatory, and a greater concern for expressing truth and honesty in order to move things along.

For all these reasons, North Americans typically find working and living in Costa Rica an enjoyable adventure. If you go ready to reveal yourself to your new Costa Rican friends, you will be rewarded many times over.