Costa Rica Travel TIPS

Travel TIPS: Costa Rica

I would say the #1 choice for destinations the past 6 months was Costa Rica. Why? Natural, unadulterated beauty, eco-adventures and the promise of some of the most beautiful beaches in the world draw travelers from all over the world, and our U.S travelers are really taking to the Central American itinerary. From completely planned itineraries to FIT travel where you find your own way via public transportation, private or shared shuttle, or even backpacking, here are some practical tips to pack along with you. These have been gathered from my friends and travelers who have visited recently and I find very helpful to share with clients. For even more information from Costa Rican transplants, view www.costa-rica-guide.com.

Money:  In Costa Rica, a blend of U.S. cash, Costa Rican colones, and credit cards will provide you the flexibility you need to purchase goods, transportation, tasty food and park fees. Remember the exchange rate will be shocking at first blush as one US dollar is worth roughly 500 colones. ATMs are easily accessed at local banks, and remember your cash will be given in colones. Avoid ATMs at smaller off-the-beaten-path stores or those tucked away out of public sight. 

Tours: In your effort to save money by arranging transportation separate from park entrance fees at local and national parks (including the famous Hanging Bridges in the Arenal region: http://www.misticopark.com/tarifas/) you might find bundling these costs to be more effective or at least more convenient. Your shuttle costs might well be $40/per person, and then add to that $25-50/per person for entrance and/or tour. While hiring a guide is great for some, it can be expensive, so chatting with locals or other tourists about their experience and opportunities for wildlife viewing without a guide could be helpful in making your decision.

Transportation Choices: 

Shuttles: If opting not to participate in an organized tour, travelers who are visiting a foreign country for the first time can often take private or shared shuttles to destinations to take away the stress of driving in unfamiliar territory. These transfers to popular destinations and unique stops can be arranged before your trip by your travel agent, or even at the hotel desk upon arrival or during your stay. 

Rental Car: For the more adventurous traveler who wants to see as much as possible in Costa Rica, driving around the more rural areas and small towns is doable and you may see a lot more on your visit. City driving can be absolutely crazy, so plan your countryside rental considering the potential for a required minimum rental period. Remember to research all the local fees and mandatory local insurance you'll have to purchase as part of your rental, and compare the cost to other transportation and tour combination alternatives. 

Air: The regions of Costa Rica are divided by mountains, forests, and in some cases accessible only by ferry (particularly in the southern Puntarenas region). Local air charters are a popular way to traverse destinations from north to south and east to west, but take care to review fares as they are often just like buying a reasonably priced flight from Denver to Pittsburgh. In addition, these are small planes that have to consider total weight of their cargo. For passengers who carry extra weight (200 lbs or more) they will likely be required to purchase an extra seat. Be honest up front when you are arranging your flight, and you can often get a discount off the second seat purchase. If you wait until you’re at the desk and on the scale, you will be charged full price for the second seat. You will also be allowed baggage per each seat so if you plan to haul your souvenirs, this is a bonus.

Internet and Phone: Traveling anywhere outside the U.S requires some research into phone costs. At first blush, your local provider might have a great package for international travel with your phone, but roaming is often unavoidable, and service is often impossible. Consider purchasing a SIM card at your destination, or even more reliable, a local disposable cell phone that is capable of local communication. See http://costa-rica-guide.com/practical/sim-card-local-phone/ for more information. 

We love our TripItPro tools but my phone won't work here! While you might have arranged international service with your phone provider, or even purchased a local SIM card for your trip, you might find accessing your online information and itineraries is difficult if not impossible when you need it most. Always print your itineraries, reservation numbers, and important phone numbers and keep it with you at all times in case your GPS and internet capabilities fail as you are jumping across the cloud forest or lazing in a hidden pool.

People: Travel offers perspective. Travel challenges perceptions. Travel is a magical experience, and particularly made better by ensuring your expectations of the local culture are flexible and you are open to learning and new experiences and awareness. Remember you are a visitor and could be perceived as an interruptor of daily life. Not everyone appreciates a tourist, but all tourists can prepare to appreciate the local culture. Meet people “where they are”, take help when it’s offered, and find humor in less-than-stellar exchanges with local folk who would rather go on with their day than help you find the nearest ATM. Look at your journey as an experience full of teachable moments for you and your journey partners.

Print your itinerary for the days your internet fails you.