The colon is the Costa Rican unit of currency the exchange varies between 505 and 520 colones per dollar.
US currency is accepted almost everywhere in Costa Rica with many but expect to receive your change in colones.
To keep things simple it is easiest to equate 500 colones to the dollar, however the Costa Ricans will use the daily exchange rate and pocket calculator to issue correct change.
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If you want to change cash, stick to US dollars (but make sure they're in decent condition and avoid US$100 bills - due to a counterfeiting scam, most Costa Ricans won't touch them).
US dollars are your best bet for traveler's checks as well, as other currencies will rarely be accepted - any of the major brands will do. If you buy colones with your credit card, expect to get hit with a huge interest bill.
Banco Popular, ATH and Credomatic have the largest number of ATMs and their networks often extend as far as the smaller towns and cities. Some banks though, like branches of Banco Nacional, accept cards held by their customers only.
Visa and MasterCard’s are the most widely-accepted credit cards; you may have some trouble with American Express.
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