"I like to keep the support staff happy for a great service. Of course, that comes out of Tica's tip bucket!" And you were doing so well!
Couple of things - you wrote a well written post; you are obviously a sharp guy, and you have given it a fair amount of thought
But:
Don't be a shnorrer (it means a really cheap guy) what the Phuck - the tip you give the maid has zero to do with what you pay the
Tica is a word that simply means Costa Rican female - don't use it to also describe prostitutes - in your post you are mis using the term
(Just when you thing, Gee, I'm a pretty smart guy, and I have a pretty good grasp on things, I've even done some research, yet something so basic comes up to bite
)
I have found many Indian guys to be - to use a polite term based on experience from my business career - frugal (use all the East Asian terms you want - basically you are likely Indian or from Packastan - or perhaps Ceylon - just say it
- don't hide what you are)
While frugal does not seem to describe you particularly, know this:
Many Costa Ricans do not expect tips and really look down on Americans for our tip oriented culuture - trying to cover a lot of ground here - you are fine in asking about it, but if you are having a few drinks, maybe you leave 2000 colonies (less than $2) when you leave - know that most Americans way over tip - its not expected.
If I know the hotel maid will be there for <most> of the time of my stay, I'll give her 5000 colonies (like $10) with the understanding I want double the amount of towels every day - if not, I hand he 1000 colonies and get extra towels for that day.
Convert money at the Airport Bank - its across from when you deplane, located in the ticket lobby - DO NOT CHANGE AT THE 2 CAMBIOS - ONLY THE BANK
Right near the bank is the place they sell exit visas - buy one - there will likely not be a line, then its done and one less thing to worry about.
Consider seriously a tour with one of our members - it will really give you the lay of the land in San Jose - contact Esposodebarbie via PM on this site and see what you can arrainge.
So much more to share - you sound like a sharp guy and you will figure most of this stuff out - don't look to set up dates; meet your own and don't take others recommendations, or Phuck a picture. Good luck!