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Practical Tips

 

Here are a few things that will help you plan your trip and let you know what to expect once you arrive in Costa Rica:

 

 
1.
Most (but not all) GSM cell phones will work in Costa Rica. Check with your local service provider to be sure. Cell phones can be rented in Costa Rica.
2.
Pay phones are available and require a phone card, which can be purchased at many little stores and newsstands.
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3.
The tap water is completely safe to drink. If you have any concerns or special needs, ask for bottled water.
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4.
Electricity is US Standard: 110V and standard, 3-prong, US-style plugs.
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5.
ATMS are plentiful; however, service charges can be a bit high. You may want to consider bringing cash and changing money at a local bank. Airport exchange rates are usually LESS favorable than those in most banks.
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6.
For Passport and Visa requirements - click here to verify the latest information on passport and visa requirements.
7.
When departing the country, a departure tax of approximately $26 is collected at the airport. Purchase your tax before getting in line to check-in. This tax is NOT included in your airfare.
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8.
Costa Rica has a long tradition of democracy and respect for individual rights. “Ticos,” as locals are called, have been peaceably electing their governments for over 175 years. You need only take the normal precautions to protect your personal belongings, as you would in any country. Violent crime is rare.
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Paradise Breezes in Costa Rica
9.
Businesses are open Monday through Saturday. Most businesses close at mid-day on Saturday. Businesses catering to tourists will stay open longer.
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10.
Attire in Costa Rica is casual. At the beaches, most people wear shorts, day and night. Sandals are always acceptable. If you are traveling to San Jose, most people will not wear tank tops out at night, while at the beach it really depends on where you are going.
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Paradise Breezes in Costa Rica
11.
The temperature varies only slightly during the year. Since Costa Rica has so many altitudes and microclimates, you should check with each destination you plan to visit. At Brisas del Paraiso/Paradise Breezes, the days will be warm (hot in the sun), and the nights comfortable.
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Paradise Breezes in Costa Rica
12.
Costa Rica is in the Central Time Zone. Costa Rica does NOT observe Daylight Savings Time. Based on its location, there is little variance throughout the year in the number of daylight hours. Sunrise and sunset are fairly consistent at around 5:30am and 5:30pm.
13.
Although Costa Rica is north of the equator, you should know, when speaking with a Tico, that they consider the winter months (December-March) “summer” and vice-versa the summer months. It is typically very dry from December-March; the transitional months are April-August and November, with the wettest months being September-October.
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