.: FAQ's about Costa Rica :.

Where is Costa Rica?
This small country is located in Central America, between Nicaragua and Panama.  This location is ideal due to it’s proximity to the United States which makes the country very accesible from virtually any state in the union.

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How do I get there?
Currently there are direct non-stop flights from most major US cities such as Los Angeles, Dallas, Houston, New York, Boston, Miami, Phoenix, Ft. Lauderdale and Atlanta.  Flying times vary depending on the departure city but to give you a general idea from Miami it only takes 2 hours 45 minutes.  Most flights land in Juan Santamaria International airport in San Jose (the capital city) however there is another international airport located in the city of Liberia, 3 hours away from San José.

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What do you mean by “small country”?
Costa Rica has  roughly 32000 square miles which means that it is similar in size to the state of West Virginia. This small size means that it is possible to travel around the country with relative ease either by bus or rental car.

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What’s the best means of transportation once in Costa Rica?
It really depends on your own preference and budget.  The easiest way is to use the Gray Line shuttle service with daily departures to most major tourist destinations within the country.  Their service is friendly and efficient.  However, if you are more of an independent nature, then you may want to rent a car from any of the usual companies such as Alamo, Budget, Avis, National, Payless, etc.  And if you are on a really tight budget, then public transportation is always an option with bus service available virtually anywhere in the country.  Finally, taxi service is also available at a reasonable cost at most cities and towns.  All taxis are red with a yellow triangle with the license plate number and authorized area on each of the front doors.  Just make sure to ask the driver to turn the “maría” (the meter) on before you depart.

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Is the water safe to drink?  What about other health issues?
Yes, you may drink tap water at most cities and towns.  Still, when in doubt, inquire at the hotel’s desk or go for bottled water.  Actually, it is uncommon to get stomach illness unless you over do it with tropical fruits or beer.  On the other hand, no special shots or vaccines are recommended unless you are planning to go deep into the jungle or to very isolated regions of the country.

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Is it safe to travel around the country?
Certainly, Costa Rica is one of the longest standing democracies in Latin America, with uninterrupted free elections since 1949.  Actually, it was the first country to voluntarily abolish its standing army as it is clearly specified in the current constitution.  Of course, as anywhere in the world, it is important not to leave your “common sense” at home and follow some basic recommendations such as not carrying large amounts of cash with you at all times, keeping an eye on your belongings and being careful with overly friendly people. Pay special attention to your passport, and leave it inside your hotel safe whenever possible (for driving all you need to carry is your license and a photocopy of your passport's ID page).

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What type of hotels may be found in Costa Rica?
This little country has hotels of all types and budgets.  From the very classy ones with 18 hole golf courses, 24 hour room service, resort style beachfront properties, to the very convenient “lodges” in the more remote areas.

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Where can I call in case of emergency?
Anywhere in the country you may dial 911 for most emergencies but keep in mind that phone operators don’t usually speak perfect English.  To call the United States embassy simply dial 2220-3939 from any phone within the country (there are no long distance codes)

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What is Airport Boulevard?
The Airport Boulevard entertainment complex is just a couple of minutes away from Juan Santamaria International Airport in Costa Rica.  This street features a variety of services including a 24 hour Denny's restaurant, a Rostipollos chicken restaurant, Pirates Sports Bar & Grill, Fiesta Casino (the largest casino in town), a rental car return center, and two hotels, including the Holiday Inn Express San José Airport.  All these services are within walking distance from the hotel and a shuttle service is provided between each facility and the international airport.

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