FAQ's - Costarica4u

1- Do I need a passport to go to Costa Rica?
A valid passport is mandatory to enter Costa Rica. It should be valid during the following 6 months from the entry date to Costa Rica.

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2- Is a visa required to go to Costa Rica?
USA, Canada and most European countries do not need a visa to enter Costa Rica. It is always advisable to check in advance.

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3- Is an international driver’s license required to drive in Costa Rica?
You are allowed to drive with your normal driver’s license for three months.

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4- Can I enter Costa Rica with a one way ticket?
All visitors must have a round trip ticket as an entry requirement.

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5- What is the currency in Costa Rica?
The Colon is the national currency; dollars can be exchanged at banks and hotels. The exchange rate fluctuates in small increments daily. Bills come in denominations of 1000, 2000, 5000, 10,000 colones, and coins are minted in 5, 10, 20, 25, 50, 100 and 500 colon pieces. Traveler's checks in dollars can be changed at any bank and at most hotels.

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6- Are credit cards accepted in Costa Rica?
Major international credit cards (Master Card/Visa/AMEX) are accepted at most hotels, stores, restaurants and car rental agencies -- at smaller businesses be prepared to pay in local currency.

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7- Is Costa Rica a safe destination?
Costa Rica has been the most politically stable country in Central America for many years. Unlike many other countries in the region, Costa Rica has enjoyed over one hundred years of democracy.

In general Costa Rica is a safe destination, without the serious problems that plague poorer nations. However, it would be naive to think that crime doesn’t exist and it’s always a good idea to exercise caution as anywhere in the world, especially in big cities.

Always remember the following recommendations:

Keep your airline ticket, important documents, cash and traveler checks in the hotel safe.

Do not wear valuable jewelry on the street and carry only the amount of money you will need for the day.

Change your money at the bank or at the hotel, never on the street.

Carry a photocopy of your passport and leave the original in the safe at the hotel.

Guard valuable items you are carrying, such as cameras or video cameras.

If you are going out at night, ask to the hotel bellboys to get you a taxi.

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8- What kind of inoculations do I have to take to Costa Rica?
There are no required inoculations for Costa Rica, but it is a good idea to check with your physician for recommendations of optional inoculations and health precautions.

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9- Is tap water drinkable in Costa Rica?
Tap water is drinkable, however some people may not be used to it, for this reason bottled water could be a good alternative.

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10- Do I need an electric adapter for a hair drier?
Service is the same as in the U.S.: 110 volts; 60 cycles. European items need an adapter.

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11- How much is he departure tax?
Departure tax is $26, can be paid in US Dollars, colones or with credit cards (Cash advance).

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12- What taxes should I expect to pay in Costa Rica?
13% sales tax and 3.39% tourism tax at hotels, 10% gratuity and a 13% sales tax at restaurants.

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13- Is Costa Rica an island?
Costa Rica is not an island and is located in Central America. Its natural boundaries are: North-Nicaragua, South-Panama, East-Caribbean Sea, West-Pacific Ocean.

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14- What is the weather like in Costa Rica?
Conditions are moderate all year round and the main influence on temperature is altitude. The average temperature is 70ºF (21ºC) in the highlands and from the high 70´s to the low 90´sºF (21ºC to 32ºC) in the lowlands. The rainy season or green season goes from May to November, and the dry season from December to April. However, even during the green season, the mornings are likely to be bright and sunny. Temperatures vary little between seasons.

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15- Are the national parks wheel chair accessible?
The Poas Volcano National Park is the only one that offers access for wheel chairs.

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16- What should I bring when going to the rain forest?
All you need is insect repellent, a rain coat with a hood and hiking boots.

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17- What is the dress code in Costa Rica?
Costa Rica has a very casual dress code; formal attire is only used on special occasions, like receptions, dine-outs or cultural activities.

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18- What should I pack in my suitcase?
You can leave behind your winter clothes and just pack a sweater if you are visiting a highland area, but don't forget your sunscreen, light, loose-fitting shirts and trousers or shorts, insect repellent, a raincoat with a hood and your hiking shoes.

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19- What number should I dial in case of emergency?
Dial 911 for immediate assistance.

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20- Are there English written newspapers?
The Tico Times. www.ticotimes.net (506)258-1558

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21- What airport should we use?
The San Jose Airport should be used for San Jose based programs or if you are visiting the mid Pacific coast or various destinations within Costa Rica. If the program is on the north Pacific coast it is better to fly to Liberia Airport served by Continental, Delta and American Airlines as well as by charter and private flights.

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