A couple of years ago we wrote about cell phones in Costa Rica and since that time, things have changed. About 2-4 times a week we get questions on whether or not someone personal phone will work in Costa Rica. So this is all about common questions and answers on Costa Rica cells phones. I HAVE A BLAB BLAB PHONE, CAN I USE IT IN COSTA RICA? One of the first things you have to remember, … [Read more...]
Puerto Jimenez – Osa Peninsula – Costa Rica
12/29/2010 by 3 Comments
The first time I went to Puerto Jimenez was back in the mid 1970, and it took us about three days traveling on very pot-hole ridden, one-lane dirt road. And thinking back, I think we were heading to Panama or Golfito, made a right instead of going straight at Chacarita, and ended in this very remote town. About the only Gringos we saw were surfers who were headed to Cabo Matapalo, a small town … [Read more...]
Costa Rica’s Non Smoking Policies and Laws
11/13/2010 by 3 Comments
If you smoke, you may have problems in Costa Rica. Back in May, 2009 the government imposed a tax hike on cigarettes which pretty much outraged smokers when the price jumped about 30%, then it followed with a year later the countries first international say “No” To Smoking Day. A few days later thousands of school children in Cartago gathered to unite against smoking at “Fello” Meza Stadium – … [Read more...]
Tips on Renting a Car in Costa Rica – Insurance and Extra Costs
09/05/2010 by 7 Comments
Costa Rica is a very popular tourist destination, drawing millions of visitors each year to its breathtaking landscapes, and world-renowned points of interest. With a wide-spreading picturesque coastline and a massive forested wild terrain, cruising around with your own vehicle can be very handy and convenient. The good news is that there are numerous Costa Rica car rental agencies … [Read more...]
General Traveling Tips to Costa Rica
08/23/2010 by 4 Comments
We get emails all the time about traveling in Costa Rica, so we thought it might be a good ideal to point out some of our top 20 tips about a vacation and/or maybe retiring in Costa Rica. One thing you must understand is the culture and society; manners and respect play an important role and sometimes a simple misunderstanding can become a big deal. Costa Ricans by nature do not like … [Read more...]
Police, Medical Emergencies, and Hospitals in Costa Rica
07/27/2010 by 7 Comments
General Medical and Police Services Medical care in San Jose is adequate at the public hospitals, but super at the private hospital. Areas outside of San Jose have more limited medical services, and road conditions increase driving times to hospitals for routine or critical medical care. Doctors and hospitals often expect immediate cash or credit card payment for medical services. Local … [Read more...]
San Jose, Costa Rica’s Mercado Central, or Central Flea Market
05/24/2010 by 4 Comments
Central Market (Mercado Central) Flea and Street market. Bordered by Avdas. Central and 1 and Cs. 6 and 8 Barrió La Merced San José, Costa Rica San Jose, Costa Rica's Mercado Central, or Central Market, is the largest marketplace in San Jose. The Central Market is more than a common sale place. It is a congregation place, which city life passes day by day. It is a maze of shops and … [Read more...]
Costa Rica’s New Traffic Laws – Loopholes and Problems
03/19/2010 by 3 Comments
It has been a hell of month with the new traffic laws that took place March 1st to local drivers and the Costa Rican newspapers have been filled with it. The changes were to lighten penalties and lower fines, but in reality due to the numerous loopholes, the Transit Police are applying their own version of the law that has amounted to higher fines in some cases. Or, as one 'chatter in a … [Read more...]
Wellness Vacations In Costa Rica
03/10/2010 by 4 Comments
During the last several years, a new generation of vacationers has been demanding more from hotels than ever before, and a new type of travel is rising in popularity. This new group of travelers desires more than before from their vacation, and so the tourism sector is providing many options, such as hotels and resorts with Yoga and focus on health at their core. Yoga, Wellness Centers and … [Read more...]
Santa Teresa & Malpais, Costa Rica – Beach and Jungle
03/06/2010 by 3 Comments
Welcome to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world: Malpais and Santa Teresa, known for their rugged jungle beauty, unforgettable sunsets, and especially the epic surf in Santa Teresa. The area has also become known as a hot spot for amazing cuisine in Costa Rica, since many amazing chefs have moved here from different parts of the world. The instant you arrive in Santa Teresa and … [Read more...]
Costa Ricas Black Sand Beaches – Jaco, Tamarindo, Coco
02/03/2010 by 3 Comments
Costa Rica’s awesome and calendared coast offers something for everyone. Golden sand beaches, gray sand beaches, black sand beaches, and pink sand beaches can be found dotted all along Costa Rica’s lush coastal plains, making it a truly spectacular beach destination. Costa Rica boasts some of the top beaches in the world. Although black sand beaches are generally less known than their white … [Read more...]
Taking Your Dog, Cat or Small Pet to Costa Rica
01/28/2010 by 1 Comment
Okay want to take your pet to Costa Rica? In reality it is fairly simple and Costa Rica does not require a quarantine period as many countries do. For dogs and cats and other small pets, all you need to prove to both the airlines and Costa Rican customs officers that your animal is healthy. First, your dog or cat must be taken to a local veterinarian for a complete examination. This should … [Read more...]
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