About Costa Rica

Costa Rica is a tropical country full of waterfalls, volcanos, white sand beaches, rocky coves, rain-forests, and amazing pink and orange sunsets. Located in Central America below Nicaragua and above Panama, Costa Rica has the charm of an island with its small town feel and is ranked as the happiest country on earth. With no army since 1949, it is a democratic and peaceful nation and is one of the most visited international destinations. Although the country is small and it covers only 0.03% of the surface of the globe, it is home to 6% of the existing biodiversity in the world. Costa Rica is also home to many important multinational companies, thanks to the outstanding academic level of its population, as well as the high standard of modern services and social and political stability.

Climate

Costa Rica’s climate is generally very pleasant and comfortable, not only during the dry season from November to April/early May but also during the rainy season from late May to November. During the rainy season, you can expect an hour to a few hours of rain in the afternoon, while sunny mornings are common. Costa Rica has a tropical climate with an average temperature of 22 degrees C (72 degrees F) that increases on the coastal areas. However, as you reach the coastal towns, the temperature can increase considerably.

What to pack

  • Sunscreen
  • Bug spray
  • Sunglasses
  • Sun hat
  • Umbrella (depending on season)
  • Rain Jacket (depending on season)
  • Rainboots (depending on season and your planned activities)

Using Your Phone

  • Everyone in Costa Rica uses “WhatsApp”.  It is recommended that you download it to communicate with anyone, including, but not limited to, your shuttle driver, rental management, family at home, tours, etc.
  • Be sure to talk to your cell phone provider to get international calling.
  • Dialing in and out of the country:
    • To Costa Rica from the States
      • Dial +506 followed by the number.
    • To the United States from Costa Rica
      • Dial +1 followed by the number.
  • Important Costa Rican Numbers:
    • U.S. Embassy of CR: (506) 2510-2280 or (506) 2519-2279
    • Emergencies:  911 or 128
    • Ambulance:  118
    • Police: 117 

Driving/Rental Cars

  • GET THE INSURANCE THE RENTAL COMPANY OFFERS!  There are many things that can happen in Costa Rica, not all the roads are paved and driving here is not like the United States. Also, credit card insurance coverage is no longer accepted by most rental car companies.
  • When picking up your rental car, check for any markings/scratches on the exterior of the car, in fact, make a video.
  • If you are pulled over by a Police Officer, TAKE THE TICKET.  It is better to deal with the rental company.

Helpful Tips

  • Petty theft is very common no matter where you travel.  Use common sense when traveling with your belongings.
    • Do not leave your possessions on the beach without supervision.
    • Be careful leaving items in your car. If you can’t hide it, don’t take it.
    • Beware of pick-pocketing in crowded areas, primarily bars.
  • Make a copy of your passport photo and entry date.  When you arrive at your final destination, lock or put away your passport, and always carry the copies.
  • When eating out, tips are commonly added onto the final bill, as well as, the tax.  Here are some helpful hints:
    • Tip on final bill=10%
      • It is recommended to add 5-8% onto the final bill, for a total of 18%.
    • Tax on final bill=13%
    • At small local restaurants (called “sodas” in CR) it is acceptable to leave change.
    • On the rare occasion that tax and tip are not on the final bill, give between 10-18%.

Helpful Tips

  • Petty theft is very common no matter where you travel.  Use common sense when traveling with your belongings.
    • Do not leave your possessions on the beach without supervision.
    • Be careful leaving items in your car. If you can’t hide it, don’t take it.
    • Beware of pick-pocketing in crowded areas, primarily bars.
  • Make a copy of your passport photo and entry date.  When you arrive at your final destination, lock or put away your passport, and always carry the copies.
  • When eating out, tips are commonly added onto the final bill, as well as, the tax.  Here are some helpful hints:
    • Tip on final bill=10%
      • It is recommended to add 5-8% onto the final bill, for a total of 18%.
    • Tax on final bill=13%
    • At small local restaurants (called “sodas” in CR) it is acceptable to leave change.
    • On the rare occasion that tax and tip are not on the final bill, give between 10-18%.

Stay Healthy

  • The tap water in Costa Rica is safe to drink, however, sensitive stomachs can be affected.  To be on the safe side, drink bottled water and save the tap water for brushing your teeth, showering, etc.
  • There is no malaria in Costa Rica!  You will, however, want to bring plenty of bug spray.  Wear it everyday and wherever you go.
  • No vaccines are required for travel to Costa Rica from the United States. The CDC recommends that most travelers to Costa Rica be up to date on routine vaccines and consider addition vaccinations for COVID-19, Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, and Typhoid.
  • Costa Rica is nine degrees from the equator and the sun is very strong.  Even with the darkest complexion, one can burn in an hour. Wear sunscreen everyday, all day!

Leaving Costa Rica

Because anything can happen, it is important to arrive at the airport about 2.5 hours before your departure time.

If you use common sense, are courteous, and are prepared, it will make your vacation only that much more enjoyable and relaxing.  Have a safe flight and we’ll see you soon!