Not every trip taken to Costa Rica is meant for pleasure. Many times, it is business that beckons. Travelling for business and travelling for pleasure are worlds apart, and so are the “rules” that need to be abided by. While natives and locals are more than willing to cut the typical tourist some slack when it comes to customs, manners and etiquette, when you’re visiting Costa Rica on business it pays to do a little homework.

Whether this will be your first visit to the tropical paradise or merely one in a series, by paying attention to a few simple cultural considerations you can save yourself a great deal of time, frustration and potential embarrassment.

Tip #1: Costa Rica has a VERY high intolerance of uncertainty. Because of this aversion towards uncertainty, the local laws, policies and other regulations tend to be very clear, very strict and widely implemented. What you may see simply as “control”, is really a natural response with the goal of eliminating or at least minimizing the unexpected. The society as a whole doesn’t warmly receive change and trirs to avoid risks at all costs. Keep this in mind when you are asked a question or probed for details on a matter. Be decisive, confident and back up any of your opinions or forecasts with facts, figures and other forms of “hard evidence.”

Tip #2: Unlike a number of other Latin American countries, Costa Rica doesn’t place a lot of weight in personal power, individual wealth, or citizen “status”. Instead, there’s much more focus on equality and opportunities offered across the board. Appealing to celebrity or dynastic tendencies will do little to further your arguments.

Tip #3: Like many other Latin American countries, in Costa Rica there is a greater emphasis on collectivism versus the individualism of the nation. This means that relationships are often based on group membership, regardless of whether the group is a family, an extended family, your company, etc. Loyalty is highly prized and individuals take not only responsibility for themselves, but for the other members of their groups as well.

Tip #4: In business, in life and in society, Costa Rica has proven to be a big believer in Women’s Rights. Women are just as equal as men not only on “paper” but in application as well. Women are avid in politics and other arenas typically reserved for men in other countries. Save those chauvinistic jokes for some other country!

Tip #5: When dressing for a meeting, lean towards conservative. While women tend to prefer pant suits versus skirts or dresses, there is nothing “casual” about Costa Rican professional appearance. The nation prefers a more formal approach to business than many of their other Central American neighbors, so don’t make the mistake of taking off a jacket during a meeting or showing up in sandals and a polo shirt.

Tip #6: Because the climate can get hot and sticky, all guests are expected to shower AT LEAST daily. No skipping showers, even if you can’t get your hair wet. Grab a shower cap and wash up!

Tip #7: Don’t make a fig of yourself! While in America it’s rude to give someone the finger, in Costa Rica, it’s equally rude to give someone a “fig” – where you ball up a fist with your thumb inserted between your index and middle fingers. Watch yourself!

Tip #8: Don’t fidget in your seat, wiggle around or play around with your hands. It’s considered both rude and distracting and will be frowned upon in a professional setting.

Tip #9: Costa Ricans are probably the most punctual people in Central America, and they expect EVERYONE to be on time – including you! This not only applies to showing up at the office, but to business luncheons, dinners and other events as well. At lunch this is especially important because lunch breaks are short with very little time to waste waiting on late guests or associates.

Tip #10: If you’re invited to be a guest at the home of one of your hosts or colleagues, plan on bringing any of the following gifts along with you (it’s expected): flowers, chocolates, scotch or wine. However, when you’re selecting your flowers, be sure to avoid the calla lily, since it’s most often associated with death and funerals.

Tip #11: If you’re bringing along business cards, resumes, brochures or any other marketing or promotional collateral, be sure to bring two versions of each: one in English and one in Spanish.

Tip #12: Safe conversation starters include: children, art and history (it’s acceptable to talk about politics, since their political system is so stable and well liked). Topics to avoid at all costs include: religion and any PERSONAL criticisms.

Costa Rica is a beautiful country with a strong political system and economy. Don’t be fooled by the lazy, laid-back image you’ve picked up from commercials and advertisements. While tourism is the nation’s #1 resource, if you’re visiting on business, you’re in for a whole new ball game! By putting these twelve simple tips into practice on your next professional visit, you’ll earn respect and acceptance in all of your dealings.