COSTA RICA'S HAPPY PEOPLE - THE TICOS
The Costa Rican people call themselves Ticos, and you will find them warm and outgoing. Moreover, they have been ranked as among the happiest people in the world. While traveling throughout the country, it is always possible to find a friendly face ready to offer a helpful hand if you need assistance.
English is becoming more prevalent, but the primary language in Costa Rica is Spanish. Your life here will be greatly enhanced if you learn at least a little Spanish. People always appreciate when you try to speak the language, no matter what country you live in. If you have time we recommend a crash course in Spanish before you come to Costa Rica. There are also some very good Spanish schools in our area. Talk to your RE/MAX Ocean Surf and Sun agent about their favorite Spanish schools. They will be more than happy to make some suggestions.
Since real estate in beautiful Costa Rica is attracting new residents from around the world, populations in towns like Tamarindo are very multi-cultural and multi-lingual. The expats are commonly called The Gringos and are well accepted in the communities. It is not uncommon to hear Spanish, English, Italian, French, and German among others in the span of an hour.