Taxis:
Taxis are very inexpensive and a great way to get around San José if you follow these general guidelines and use common sense:

• When you arrive at the airport, if you are going to take a cab, negotiate the price BEFORE getting into the taxi. The prices for taxis to and from the airport and other locations outside of the city will be based on an official rate (which you can ask to see) and not on the meter.

• Be aware of “independent” drivers, called piratas, who may offer you a ride. Make sure the red taxi displays an official yellow triangle with an identification number on the door or window.

• In San José, taxi drivers are known to overcharge foreigners, sometimes charging 3 or 4 times the amount that they should. Be alert! Also make sure that the driver has a meter, called a maría. When you get into the taxi ask the driver, “¿Tiene maría?” Then make sure that the driver actually turns on the maría (“¿Puede poner la maría, por favor?”) as this will alleviate any possible problems when you arrive.

• Before you get into the car, you should tell the driver where you want to go to make sure they know how to get there.

• If you find a taxi driver that you like from a reputable company, ask for his card. The next time you need a taxi, call ahead and request the same driver.

• If at any time you feel unsafe because of the driving techniques or get bad vibes from the driver, do not hesitate to ask the driver to stop, pay him, and then get out of the taxi.

Buses:
Costa Rica has an extensive and inexpensive bus system for travel both inside and outside of San José. There are several levels of bus service available, and it will vary depending on where you are and how far you are going in the country. Prices are generally fixed no matter how far you go, and price cards are located in the front of the bus.

In San José, payment for the bus rides is made to the driver upon entering the bus. The drivers are generally very friendly and willing to take the time to answer questions. Confirm with the driver the destination before you get on the bus.

Outside of San José, bus service in the Central Valley is similar to the service in San José. Buses traveling from San José to the far points of the country are somewhat similar to Greyhound buses in the United States. The buses generally are not air-conditioned, but are usually clean and in good working order. Long-distance bus tickets may be bought in advance (some must be), and this is recommended for travel over the weekend. Rural buses stop more frequently, stopping often to pick up the local farmer heading to market with his vegetables or other items for sale.

Your resident directors will have bus schedules, stops, and station information available in the ISA office.