Metric Conversions

The Metric System

Like most of the world, Costa Rica operates on the metric system, a system of measurement in which units are always converted by a power of ten. If you are unfamiliar with it, don't be intimidated. Compared to the antiquated English system used in the United States, it is actually very logical.

Distance:

1 kilometer = 3/5 mile
1 mile = 1.6 kilometers

1 meter = 3.3 feet
1 foot = 0.3 meters

Volume:

1 liter = approximately 1 quart, or 1/4 gallon
1 gallon = 3.8 liters

Weight:

1 kilogram = 2.2 pounds
1 pound = 0.45 kilograms

Temperature:

To convert from degrees Celsius to degrees Fahrenheit: multiply by 9, divide by 5, and add 32.