|
 Why should I contract a travel agency?
The internet has brought the world together. You can find vast amounts of information on Costa Rican tourism and you can book your travel plans directly. But, unfortunately not all the information is as reliable as it looks; sometimes you don't get what you pay for when you book online.
Once you are here it is difficult to walk out of a deal. They have your credit card number, the people in charge are not helpful, there are extra charges, or someone doesn't show up, etc. In order to avoid these problems it's always a good idea to have a friend who is on your side and will take the responsibility for every detail of your vacation. Your time and money are important to you, and knowing that someone is taking care of the logistics of your trip and seeing to all the details, makes your trip a pleasant one. We know the country, the hotels, the tours, driving distances, and road conditions. This knowledge is extremely important when planning the best way to enjoy your time here.
Do I pay more by using a local travel agency?
Not at all! In fact, we can give you discounts from the normal prices the hotels, tours and car rentals have published on their sites so you don't pay extra for using our services.
When should I visit Costa Rica?
The temperature is the same all year around. Our dry season is from the middle of December to the beginning of May. Our rainy season begins in May and ends in December, however; this is the tropics and you can expect rain any time! But don't let a few drops upset you, Costa Rica is wonderful in the rain too, and, the rain makes everything look green and fresh and the temperature pleasant.
 It is safe to drive here?
Yes, we consider driving safe. We have narrow roads and some are in poor condition, but the main roads are kept in good repair. Road signs are few, but people are friendly and very helpful if you need directions to help you on your way, this makes driving from place to place somewhat slow. For most road trips you should allow extra time. IF you do drive, plan on 4 hours when traveling to the northern beaches, or Arenal.
Should I stay in San Jose, the capital?
Most international flights arrive in San Jose at night leaving little time for travel; in this case it is most convenient to spend the first night in town and there are very fine hotels in San Jose. If your flight arrives early in the day you may choose to head straight to the beaches or mountains. If you are interested in the culture that San Jose has to offer, you might stay and visit its National Theatre, museums, or parks. In San Jose, the National museum, the Jade and Gold Museums house stunning collections of Pre-Columbian artifacts, some of which are the largest collections in the world.
Can I drink the water?
Yes, in San Jose. I would recommend that you buy bottled water, once you are out of San Jose. It is inexpensive and will keep you safe and smiling.
What do I need to know about car rentals?
You have to be very clear about two main issues: First, the price. You need to understand what it does and does not include. Secondly, make certain that the rental company voucher you signed is closed satisfactorily when you return the car. This way you will be sure that no extra damage charges are added to your voucher. Not being clear on these issues may result in extra charges that may easily double your rate. When you book through our agency, this will not happen.
 When is the high season and low season in Costa Rica?
In Costa Rica we call it the "rainy or dry" season. Because of our mild weather, we have visitors all year long. However, September and October are the months when you will receive a lower rate on vacation packages.
Keep in mind that we have various microclimates and you will notice a difference in each area. Some areas will be cool and rainy, others warm and dry, or at the beach, more humid and hot. The "Rule of Thumb" is the higher in elevation, the cooler it will be; the lower elevations will be warmer and more humid.
You can expect 70 to 90 degrees, during the day, all year around, depending on where you will be located.
Because you are in the tropics and near the equator the sun rises and sets at the same time every day.
Sunrise by 5:45 am and Sunset by 6:00 pm all year round.
Which is the best way to pay for transactions in Costa Rica?
We always suggest a credit card because it is safe to use and you don't have to carry too much cash. Traveler's checks are not very useful because businesses here do not readily accept them. There is only one bank in Costa Rica that deals with them.
Remember, when planning your Costa Rican adventure that the dry season is from December through the end of April, and, the rainy season is from May until the end of November.
Pura Vida!
Sylvia Chaves
 |
|
|
|
