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Caught up in Costa Rica
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Within these pages you will find everything to plan the perfect vacation to Costa Rica from tips on hotels, car rentals, restaurants, culture and more. Thinking of making a move? You’ll also find resources to help you make a life-changing move to on of the most beautiful place on earth, Costa Rica! If you are unfamiliar with Costa Rica, Costa Rica is a country in Central America and is located to the South of Nicaragua and to the North of Panama. It is not an island, as some might think, but at the highest point on Mount Chirripó, on a clear day, you might be able to see both the Caribbean and the Pacific ocean.
Itinerary Ideas
Not sure what to do when you’re there or if you’ll have time to fit everything in? We’ve put together a few itineraries to help with your planning.
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Caught up in Costa Rica
The Latest on the Blog
10-Day Costa Rica Pacific Coast and Arenal Itinerary
If you have limited time, but would like to see a good portion of the country and are willing to rent a car and drive, this 10-day itinerary covers much of the Pacific coast and the Central Valley. It's a perfect itinerary for those looking to experience both the...
The Ultimate Guide to Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica
Wherever you go, go with all your heart. - Confucius We totally agree. And especially when visiting the Pacific Coast town of Manuel Antonio. You'll want to take in all the beauty of this little place. You'll not only want to savor the food, but also the scenery, the...
Bedding
What to Expect One hotel you stay in might have luxurious bedding, but the next might feel scratchy and rough. The bedding from place to place may vary greatly. If you are accustomed to sleeping in high thread count sheets, you may not find that in Costa Rica unless...
Getting Gas in Costa Rica
Gas Stations All gas stations in Costa Rica have gas pump attendants, unlike in the United States and many other countries where most gas stations have moved to self-serve. The attendants will pump your gas for you. Plan Accordingly There can be quite a distance...
The Best Packing List for Your Costa Rica Vacation
When traveling to Costa Rica it's important to think about the multiple microclimates this country is known for. From the damp, cool cloud forests in the mountains of Monteverde to the hot, humid beaches of Dominical, the climate can change in a matter of a few miles....
Costa Rica Entry Requirements
To enter Costa Rica during the times of the COVID pandemic, you will need to show proof of vaccination or proof that you are covered by health insurance that meets the Costa Rican requirements for the length of your stay. Proof of Vaccination As of August 1, 2021,...
Tipping in Costa Rica
Restaurants, Sodas and Bars Though a 10% gratuity is included at every restaurant or soda in Costa Rica and you are not expected to leave a tip, many foreigners still do. Ticos, generally, may not. If you felt your server was good or went above and beyond your...
A perfectly positioned basecamp in the South Pacific of Costa Rica
Our stay at Casa Aba Matapalo Location On our second day and first visit to Costa Rica, we drove from Alajuela, near the San Jose airport towards the Pacific coast (West Coast). We passed through Jaco, taking a brief tour. We then continued further South through...