Travel Tips
COSTA RICA TRAVEL TIPS
It’s always a great time to visit Costa Rica, but our most popular months are during summer, also known as the dry season, from January to April. It will be rare to see any rain at all during that time. The rest of the year might bring some rain, but outside of October/September, the rain shouldn’t affect your vacation too much, expect sunshine in the mornings through the early afternoon, and the weather will remain nice and warm!
*Christmas and Easter week are peak weeks, which are extremely busy. If you plan to visit Costa Rica at that time of year, be sure to make reservations well in advance and be prepared for full occupancy and higher rates.
WHAT TO BRING
Sunblock. SPF 25 or higher is recommended, and use it; we are much closer to the equator, so you’ll need some protection. We see it all the time, don’t ruin your vacation with a nasty sunburn, USE SUNBLOCK!
REPELLENT
Mosquitos aren’t usually too bad, but always a good idea.
SOME PATIENCE
The laidback and easygoing pace is what you’ll love but remember that mean’s that nobody here is ever in a rush. So keep that in mind when traveling and try to relax.
LIQUOR.
Okay, well, don’t bring it, but if you are a drinker, buy your liquor at the airport when you are just arriving. Don’t worry about beer. It’s the same price everywhere, but the duty-free store will save you some money on the hard stuff!
SECURITY/SAFETY
Unlike Mexico and some other countries in Latin America, Costa Rica is safe. Petty theft is something you do need to watch for throughout Costa Rica. Be smart, don’t leave items unattended or left out in the open where everyone can see (example, laptops left in the front seat of a car). Pay attention, and you should have no problems.
Something else you need to look out for is the riptides at the beaches. Use caution when swimming, check for any warnings and if you don’t know how to swim, stick with the pool!
JACO WEATHER
The temperature throughout the year does not vary too much. Plan on 80-90 degrees during the day, with evening temperatures dipping down to 70-75. The ocean water is always lovely and warm. And don’t get caught up with weather reports as it will ALWAYS show thunderstorms, even when it might be clear and sunny.
COSTA RICA CURRENCY
Be sure to check current rates, but typically the exchange is around 550 colones to $1. Most merchants/restaurants take Debit/Credit cards, and most will accept U.S. Dollars as long as bills are smaller than $20. ATMs are a good choice for getting local money, but you should be fine if you have smaller U.S. Dollar bills. Whatever you do, do not exchange money at the airport, where they will charge 10-15%!
IS THE WATER SAFE TO DRINK?
Tap water in Costa Rica is safe to drink however many prefer to stick with bottled water. We suggest a mix, pick up some bottled water for your stay but don’t be afraid to drink the tap water.
WHAT ELSE SHOULD I KNOW
When booking tours, stick with certified tour operators. Restaurants in Costa Rica include a 10% service charge.
Typically it’s custom to tip an additional 5-10%.
La cuenta por favor, (the bill please). At restaurants, don’t expect your server to bring you the bill. In Costa Rica, that is considered rude, and will only get the bill when you ask for it.
U.S. products can be expensive in Costa Rica. If you are on a budget, shop locally, and stick with Costa Rican brands.
Bring an old cell phone, or buy one here, and you can get pre-paid cards for as little as $5. Pre-paid sim cards are available at most grocery stores.
Official taxis are red, with a yellow triangle on the door. Stick with official taxis and avoid the others.
Costa Rica’s electrical system and plug configuration are the same as in the U.S. Any devices you wish to bring
should work fine.