You come to Costa Rica to relax, so avoid starting off your vacation in stress!
Start planning your vacation by making a list of everything you need to do before you depart and when it has to be done. Only sign off when something is completed.
Check your passport to make sure it is current and valid, otherwise you will never reach your destination.
Once your tickets are ready, double check your arrival and departure time and schedule your time that you have to reach the airport.
The local currency in Costa Rica is the Colon "colones" but U.S. Dollars are widely accepted. Not all stores accept US $50 and $100.
Costa Rica has ATM machines all over and you'll find the first ones right at San Jose Airport. No need to travel with a lot of cash money on you!
Advise neighbors, family or friends of your holiday dates, so they are aware your house will be vacant for a period. Leave a spare set of keys with a trusted one and advise a mobile or other contact number when abroad, if possible.
If you have a medical condition or specific ailment, make sure you bring adequate medicines, lotions, pills etc. as these may not be available abroad (or have the recognized brand names). If your condition is serious, it may be necessary to carry a letter from your Doctor confirming your fitness to travel.
Skin preparation creams and suntan lotions and oils are just as important as clothes. Stock up well in advance so you don't need to look for a store when you arrive on the island. Hawaiian Tropic, Ambre Solaire, Delial, Piz Buin and Nivea are excellent brands, widely available in our shops and pharmacies.
Good sunglasses are a must. The sun is very bright in Costa Rica, especially between 12 and 3 PM, so protect your eyes with proper sunglasses!
At the day of your departure, make sure you turn off the gas, oil etc., water the plants, leave a spare key with a close friend, turn on the alarm (if appropriate) and double check again if you have your:
If you are planning to rent a car, don't bother to go through the hassle yourself. We have been working with several local car companies for years and always get the best offers! Just tell us your requests and we do the rest!
We have an extensive "Information and Activity Guide" available
for you, in which you can find the best tours, activities and beaches
explained. If you have any questions, do not hesitate to ask us any
questions you might have. We will be happy to assist you.