Costa Ricans are much more formal and serious than other Latin Americans. Therefore, keep jackets on during business meetings. The Costa Rican people enjoy discussing politics, particularly with foreigners. Costa Rica's history of stable democracy provides a good topic for conversation. Most business entertaining takes place in the evening, since lunch is the main meal of the day.
Spouses are welcome at business dinners.
Women who are close friends may hug or kiss each other on the cheek. However, Costa Rican men do not usually hug other men. Do not refer to the people as ricans , since this word has a bad connotation. The people of Costa Rica are referred to as ticos . Gestures Making a fist with the thumb sticking out between the middle and index fingers is obscene.