I lived in Tamarindo, Costa Rica for about a year, and kept hearing about these three great Costa Rica lies. Every Tico (Costa Rican) knew them, but no one came right out and told me what they were. But over time, as I became more local and blended in with the Costa Rican culture, I pieced them together.
If you are going to Costa Rica on vacation, to live as an expat, or just on a surfing trip, it’s fun to know the three great lies. Recite them to a Tico and you’re guaranteed to get a laugh and some “local” respect. But just make sure you don’t fall for them!
1) El zarpe.
Just one last drink, before we call it a night.
I learned this one early on, that one last drink turns into two and three and next thing you know its 4 a.m. El zarpe basically means you’re not allowed to leave when you’re out having a good time with your friends!
2) Te pago mañana.
I’ll pay you the money I owe you tomorrow.
In fact, if someone owes you money, you’re never going to see a cent (which was consistent with what I’d seen in the States, too.) This is the Costa Rica equivalent of “I’ll gladly pay you Tuesday for a hamburger today!”
3) Solemente la puntita.
We won’t have sex—I’ll just put the tip in.
Ummm...no explanation needed, but if you fall for this one, ladies, then I think you fell for it on purpose! Lol.
***
Enjoy your time in the beautiful country of Costa Rica now that you know the three great lies! And if you want more, check out 30 Fun Facts About Costa Rica and be sure to read the best-selling book, South of Normal.
Pura Vida!
-Norm :-)
If you are going to Costa Rica on vacation, to live as an expat, or just on a surfing trip, it’s fun to know the three great lies. Recite them to a Tico and you’re guaranteed to get a laugh and some “local” respect. But just make sure you don’t fall for them!
1) El zarpe.
Just one last drink, before we call it a night.
I learned this one early on, that one last drink turns into two and three and next thing you know its 4 a.m. El zarpe basically means you’re not allowed to leave when you’re out having a good time with your friends!
2) Te pago mañana.
I’ll pay you the money I owe you tomorrow.
In fact, if someone owes you money, you’re never going to see a cent (which was consistent with what I’d seen in the States, too.) This is the Costa Rica equivalent of “I’ll gladly pay you Tuesday for a hamburger today!”
3) Solemente la puntita.
We won’t have sex—I’ll just put the tip in.
Ummm...no explanation needed, but if you fall for this one, ladies, then I think you fell for it on purpose! Lol.
***
Enjoy your time in the beautiful country of Costa Rica now that you know the three great lies! And if you want more, check out 30 Fun Facts About Costa Rica and be sure to read the best-selling book, South of Normal.
Pura Vida!
-Norm :-)
 | Check out South of Normal, the best-selling gonzo blast of laughter and adventure about my year living in Tamarindo, Costa Rica! |
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