Costa Rica Services

Banks and Currency

Local and International banking services are available at private and public banks. Banking hours are Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. and some banks are open Saturday 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. The official currency is the "colón". The exchange rate against the dollar varies a bit daily. Credit cards are accepted throughout the country at most establishments.

Medical Facilities

Any foreigner who is temporarily in the country has the right to receive health care at hospitals and clinics in the case of an emergency, sudden illness or chronic disease. The social security hospitals provide free emergency services to everyone, including visitors.

Some social security hospitals in San José are:

Hospital San Juan de Dios (tel: 222-0166) at Calle 14 and Avenida Central
Hospital México (tel: 232-6122)
Hospital Dr. Calderón Guardia (tel: 222-4133)
Hospital Nacional de Niños (tel: 222-0122)
Hospital Cima (tel: 208-1000)

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