Climate
Costa Rica enjoys two climatic seasons. The dry season lasts from December to April and is considered the best time to visit for a beach holiday, although the Caribbean coast is wet all year round. 

Temperatures (mid-to-high twenties centigrade) and humidity are high on the coasts but lower at the higher altitude locations inland. Rainfall varies dramatically according to topography but usually falls in bursts of a couple of hours.

Festivals and Holidays
The principal holidays of the Christian calendar are celebrated with enthusiasm in Costa Rica, especially over Christmas, New Year and Easter. Otherwise, local fiestas involve colourful processions, costumes, marching bands and even horse-racing and bull-fighting. 

May Day around Puerto Limón entails dancing and cricket matches. In July, the Fiesta de La Virgen del Mar is celebrated in Punta Arenas and Playa del Coco with many festivities including a regatta and boat parade.

Currency
Colón. See www.oanda.com for exchange rates.

Visas
British citizens can find up-to-date travel advice on the Foreign & Commonwealth Office website. Citizens of other countries can find visa information here.

Vaccinations
See www.MASTA.org for up-to-date health advice for travellers.