www.CostaRicaTicas.com

I just got back from CR after a beautiful 14-day vacation there. I met many fellow CRT members and had a great time. But no matter how hard I tried to forget, there was one incident that put a blemish on my trip. I know I'm going to get hammered for this but I've got to get it off my chest. So, here's a little advice that I politely offer to those who might be in need of it: No matter how much fun you are having, please refrain from providing any public in-depth analysis and comment about your bank account, especially in earshot of hard-working barkeeps and taxi drivers. The reason I offer this advice is simple: In my opinion, it's not only rude to those who politely listen (and who try to quickly move on to other topics) but it appears to be an affront to Costa Ricans and, for some, only perpetuates some biases that are not true about the overwhelming majority of Gringos who visit Costa Rica. I won't go into details why I offer this advice. Suffice to say, it was not the result of a conversation I had with any CRT member or anyone from the US. I think loudly discussing one's financial status (good or bad) from the vantage point of a shot glass is in poor taste and should not be tendered while visiting Paradise.

Is boorish and in poor taste anywhere in the world.

_________________
Pura Vida
Only Irish coffee provides in a single glass all four
essential food groups:
alcohol, caffeine, sugar and fat.
Alex Levine

What if my bank account is really low because my gov't assistance hasn't arrived, can I say anything about not having anything in it?

The majority of people in these more impoverished countries, do not even have a bank account. The live from hand to mouth daily.
Along these same lines, it is also impolite, or just plan crappy to brag about the first class seats you flew in from the USA.
I cannot claim to have never offended someone while overseas, so for me it is also good to be reminded of where we are and for that I thank you.

- Boink'd

There's no need to mention it if you're from California because you know it'll end up in your account, probably sooner than later