What's Tico Time?

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"Tico Time" is nowadays more strictly applicable to social situations rather than business dealings.  For example, if you set a meeting with suppliers or subordinates for 3 pm on Thursday, you can expect it to happen on time.  If it doesn't you can take appropriate measures.

However, if you are dealing with a handyman or gardener or the phone company, then "Tico Time" is definitely in play, as well as when going to a party or social gathering.   In fact, it could even be considered rude to show up at 2:30 pm for a party scheduled to start at 3pm !  You have to give the hostess time to freshen up, or get everything completely ready.

Tico Time is basically two hours, three hours, two days ... (jaja), behind regular time.  It refers to the lackadaisical attitude foreigners generally found among the Costa Ricans regarding being on time.  Whereas in North American cultures "5 minutes early is on time", traditional Tico culture regards most any time as good.  Since relationships are valued more highly here, it is more important to catch up with an old friend, for example, than to be on time for an appointment.  For example, your handyman is going to paint your roof and you have an appointment so he can quote you on the job.  But he runs into his _______________ and arrives 2 hours later.  Welcome to Tico Time!