Do you have WiFi at the Centre?
Yes, we do! But depending on where you are it can be spotty. The more people who are connected at once, the more unpredictable it can be. The best practice is to disconnect when you aren’t using it, so that others may enjoy more bandwidth for the time they are actively using the internet.
Do you have laundry facilities I can use?
Yes. Laundry is a charge of USD$5 per load and there is a dryer available as well. Please note that we’ll take care of your laundry – just chat to us first. We also need a minimum of 24hrs notice to have your clothes back to you before the end of your stay.
Can I keep my medications and other items in the fridge?
Yes. We have two refrigerators available for you to put any items you need to keep cool.
Is the water safe to drink?
We have a specialized filtration system for drinking water to ensure that it’s 100% safe through one special tap located in the dining area. All other taps have fresh mountain water flowing to them, and whilst it is generally fine to consume, we suggest going with the filtered tap. Remember to stay hydrated!
Do you provide us with yoga mats?
If you’d like to use your own, you are of course welcome to bring one. We do have some yoga mats here, however if you’re going to be in a big group it might be worth bringing a travel mat along with you.
How much cash should I bring with me?
That is completely up to you, but we recommend bringing $150-$200 USD per week for personal expenses and additional excursions.
Do you require us to get travel/trip insurance?
No we do not, but it’s always better to be safe than sorry! Having travel insurance gives us peace of mind in the odd chance that anything happens.
What’s the best way to get to the centre?
We prefer flying from San Jose to Palmar Sur airport on a small local flight with SANSA airlines. We’ve got more information for you on this, here.
Do I need any vaccinations in Costa Rica?
Typically, no immunizations, shots or vaccinations are required to enter Costa Rica from North America or Europe, however information is updated regularly and you must visit the CDC website: HERE for definitive and current information.
Will my bankcard / credit card work in Costa Rica?
All major credit cards will work in Costa Rica, and most debit cards will work at Costa Rican ATMs, BUT unless you are in a major city they are not easy to locate so the best bet is to bring cash.
Do I need a VISA to visit Costa Rica?
Citizens of the vast majority of countries do not require a visa for stays shorter than 90 days, with only a few exceptions. If you would like to check if you are required to get a visa, please visit the costarica.com/visa/ website. If you intend on staying in Costa Rica longer than 90 days you will need a visa (or you’ll need to “re-enter” the country).
Do I need a specific plug adapter for my electronics?
Costa Rica’s outlets are 110 volts, with a standard duplex outlet (the same as North America).
What is the exit tax for Costa Rica?
The exit tax via air is USD$29 US and USD$7 by land, and is payable by US Cash, Costa Rica Colons, or credit card. ALMOST ALL airlines already include this fee in their airline ticket. So you basically don’t need to worry about this anymore, if you are flying into or out-of the country. If you want to double-check to see if yours is included, please call your airline.
If I need to stay in San Jose for a night, who should I stay with?
We have built some solid relationships with two amazing hotel options here in San Jose. We’ve got all that information for you here.
What is the number I should call in case of emergency?
Call 9-1-1 for immediate assistance, for tourist assistance you can call 800-TURISMO (800-887-4766)
Do Costa Ricans (Ticos) speak English?
Many Ticos speak conversational English in the tourism industry. As you travel into more rural areas of the country you will encounter more people who only speak Spanish (including the area of the country that we are in). Costa Ricans are known for their friendliness, so a few known Spanish words and some kind hand gestures will take you pretty far.
How are the medical services in Costa Rica?
Costa Rica is internationally recognized for its top-notch medical services, both public and private, thanks to its wealth of skilled surgeons and state-of-the-art facilities.
Do I have to tip in Costa Rica?
All restaurants have a 10% service tax already applied to the bill and extra tipping on top of that is uncommon. Costa Rican wages are quite low so tipping for guides and buses is recommended and if you really enjoy the service somewhere then feel free to tip, as you desire.
Is it ok to Barter/Bargain in Costa Rica?
In most tourist locations it is common to bargain with the salesperson.
Can I drink alcohol at the centre?
Nope, unfortunately not. Please make sure you read this.
What is Costa Rica’s time zone?
Costa Rica does not observe daylight savings time. It operates GMT-6 year-round. During daylight savings Costa Rica is in the Mountain Standard time zone (MST) and the rest of the year Costa Rica is in the US Central standard time zone (CST).
Is crime a problem in Costa Rica? Is it a safe country?
Costa Rica has a low crime rate and is a very clean and safe place to visit. The people are friendly and there aren’t too many major weather events (like hurricanes or earthquakes) that happen regularly. Violent crime is rare and guns are illegal in Costa Rica. The best precautions to take are to avoid walking alone at night in major cities like San Jose or on the beach, do not wear expensive jewelry or take out a large sum of money on the street, and avoid carrying your passport with you (just keep a copy with you for excursions). Petty theft can be a problem in certain regions, but taking the above precautions should help you avoid such scenarios altogether.