QCOSTARICA – The majority of public institutions, business and banks close shop for the holidays at the end of business today.
Private and public (state) banks will be open normal hours except for the December 24, 25 and 31 and January 1.
When it comes to utilities and institutions like the Registro Nacional and Civil (property and civil registries), many shut down for the end of year, re-opening for business on January 5.
The exceptions are the Compañía Nacional de Fuerza y Luz (CNFL) will continue with normal business hours in the metropolitan area, but closed on the 24th, 25th and the 1st.
The Acueductos y Alcantarillados (AyA) – water and sewers – says it will be open only on the 26th, 29th an 30th in Autofores, Desamparados, Santa Ana, Goicoechea and Tejar de El Guarco. All offices will be open starting Monday January 5.
The Instituto Costarricense de Ferrocarriles (Incofer) – railway – says it will suspend all urban trains until January 5. The Incofer added it will use the service down time to perform track and car maintenance.
The Poder Judicial (Judiciary) – courts – will be closed until January 5. However, the Ministerio de Seguridad Publica, OIJ, domestic violence centres, coroners and other essential services will continue normal operations during the holidays.
Many businesses, professional offices such as doctors, dentists, lawyers and accountants will be closed for the holidays. A good practice is to call ahead if you have an appointment between now and January 5.
Most major retailers, supermarkets and shopping malls will be open. Some may have special hours for Christmas and New Year’s Day. Smaller retailers may be closed, ask for a holiday schedule and take into account the closed days with respect to warranty periods.
The vehicular restrictions have been lifted for this week and next, back to normal starting plates ending in 1 and 2 on Monday, January 5, 2105.
Despite the holiday season, keep in mind several happenings around San José that may be the cause of traffic congestion and or chaos.
At 11:00am Thursday, the Zapote Fair opens on the east side. Traffic congestion in the areas of Zapote, and Curridabat are normal.
On Friday, December 26 is the “tope” (horse parade) in San José, and the closure of Paseo Colón and Avenida Segunda.
In Desamparados, the annual “Carnaval” takes place, traffic conditions on the south side of San José will be affected.
