Costa Rican Spanish

In Costa Rica, it's impossible not to get caught up in the feeling of Pura Vida, 'pure life'. So whether selecting from the huge range of traditional dishes, dancing the merenge at a fiesta, or cheering a toro brava, 'fighting bull', this book will help you get into the swing.

• join in the crowd at a rodeo, street festival or salsa club
• loads of cultural & traveling tips, whether you go by bus, scooter or donkey
• sections on diving, hiking and surfing
• includes Lim n Creole, the language of Costa Rica's Caribbean coast
• music, food, shopping, art & more

Due to its great ecological diversity, pleasant climate, variety of activities, stable politics and friendly people, Costa Rica is fast becoming one of the most popular travel destinations in Latin America. As the number of foreigners travelling to this small nation increases, it's important that visitors respect the local culture. By attempting to speak Spanish, especially the local dialect, you'll have the opportunity to experience the beauty of Costa Rican culture, and not just use the country as a playground. This phrasebook is a tool for opening doors between you and the warmth and friendliness of the Costa Rican people.

Spanish is one of the most widely spoken languages in the world. Widespread colonization by Spain in the 16th and 17th centuries ensured Spanish became the predominant language throughout 19 countries on the American continent and in the Caribbean. However, just as the cultures and nations of Latin America didn't develop in a uniform way, the Spanish language now varies from country to country.

Language reflects culture, and the tone of Costa Rican Spanish, like the people of the country, is straightforward and up-beat yet relaxed. The language is relatively informal, yet polite and peppered with colorful, friendly sayings. Pura Vida is a very popular saying which characterizes Costa Rican life well. Literally translated as "pure life", it's really a more profound concept which expresses the positive attitude of the Costa Rican experience.

Costa Ricans are as fascinated by foreigners and their background as you may be with Costa Rican culture and lifestyles. It isn't unusual to be plied with questions when meeting someone for the first time, and any effort to reply in Spanish will be appreciated. For those who already speak Spanish, this phrasebook will help tailor your speech to the local dialect. Good luck and Pura Vida!