Tico and Tica (male and female) are colloquial terms that Costa Ricans gave themselves, due to their linguistic tendency to add the diminutive “tico” to the end of words. For example, “un poco” means “a little” – in standard Spanish, the diminutive is “un poquito” (a little bit), but Costa Ricans often say “un poquitico.” 

Costa Ricans have the reputation of being extremely gracious – many will offer a smile, and if you are lost or have any questions, they will do their best to help. Visitors are constantly surprised at the warmth of the Costa Rican people, who will often take as much time as is needed to communicate with a beginning Spanish student.