Some countries use a decimal where we in the US would use a comma. For example, 6.000 in Costa Rica would actually mean 6,000 to us. Now figure out how much my Slamwich cost! BTW I believe the exchange rate is about 500 colones for $1 US.
First Glimpses of Costa Rica
As our plane descends over Costa Rica, I see two colors – dark green and darker green, like a thick carpet layered over very hilly terrain. There are lots of tall mountains in the distance. There are rooftops scattered here an there, and even fewer roads. As we get closer to the ground I wonder, where is the runway in this green carpet?
As we land I see that San Jose, the capital city is nestled in a green valley between mountains. The weather is great - very sunny, about mid 80s, and most importantly, not too humid! Every now and then, I see suggestions of American influence.
I will be here in San Jose one night. Tomorrow I fly over these mountains to Tamarindo, which is on the Pacific coast. From there I will join the rest of the Earthwatch team and take a bus ride to our final destination.
What is the Costa Rican unit of currency, and how much did my Grand Slamwich cost in US dollars and cents?




