www.CostaRicaTicas.com

Went there the other night in Lindora and the place was packed. This was a Tuesday at like 8pm and there was not a table to be had, inside, outside or even upstairs. I thought there must be a catch as Matsuri is only so-so sushi and the price is too much for most Ticos. I swore up and down while eating across the street at the empty Samurai, that something is up. Of course on the pista on the way home I noticed the 50% off billboard for Credomatico customers. Figures.

Same thing happened a few months ago on a Sunday afternoon at Novillo Allegre. I was like 'wtf?!?! My steak is $30 here, yet the place is packed with Tico families'. Again, 40% off with BCR card.

On a side note, why do Ticos think its ok to bring crying Babi*s and stray Ch*ldren to a decent restaurant? I would feel awkward with a crying baby at McDonalds or on the bus, let alone in an real restaurant. But I digress.

However, after a little thought, this is one sophisticated way to tax both the Gringo and the Tico at the same time.

Even though the Tico is saving upwards of 50%, he will still pay the minimum on his credit card for the next 3-4 year, thus effectively paying for this meal 2 or 3 times with the accumulated interest (about 60% p/a in Costa Rica). The Gringo just pays double, one time.

So again I say the smart thing to do is go with somebody who has a BCR card, pay them 10% above what the check is, and everybody's happy. There's always Paregoric for the crying/teething Babi*s.

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"A man accustomed to hear only the echo of his own sentiments, soon bars all the common avenues of delight, and has no part in the general gratification of mankind"--Dr. Johnson
"Amen, brother"-ED

what is a BCR card? Just a Costa Rican Credit Card?

Yes, issued by the Banco de Costa Rica. Don't know what system it's hooked to but doubtless Brother ID will elucidate. I should have been clearer.

_________________
"A man accustomed to hear only the echo of his own sentiments, soon bars all the common avenues of delight, and has no part in the general gratification of mankind"--Dr. Johnson
"Amen, brother"-ED

Not really seeing how this is a gringo tax. Maybe I missed something by skimming over the thread. Many of my Tico friends use Banco Nacional and don't get this discount either. If ya look for the boogie man around every corner, you will probably find him.

You did not miss anything. It is not a "gringo tax". Same poster said the same thing about Fogo Brazil. I have attached my answer.

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

Now that makes more since instead of a gringo tax (not that dont have those too in some places), but anyone can apply and use the credit card if you want to have a costa rican credit card. If they get some different places that I like to go might almost be worth getting one.