SJO, aka Juan Santamaria International Airport.

No.

You only need a valid passport.

Yes, we listed a shuttle service that can meet these needs. Please swipe over to the "transportation" tab and make a reservation directly with Minor.

It is best to download the "WhatsApp" app from the app store. When saving Costa Rican phone numbers to your contact list, you must start with +506 as the country area code, followed with the 8 digit number. Once saved, you can text or call directly through WhatsApp for free using WiFi. If desired, you can purchase a SIM card at one of the "Claro" or "Kolbi" phone carriers usually located inside the SJO airport or at any major mall. Your phone may already include an E-SIM (IPhone 14 and newer), so purchasing a separate SIM card is not necessary. From there, you can purchase prepaid minutes aka "pre-pago" so you can use your phone from anywhere using data, usually about $20 lasts about 1 week. Remember, you can always use FREE WIFI at most hotels using WhatsApp.

It is hot! Costa Rica is a tropical rainforest environment, so it will be hot and humid the majority of the time, especially near the coasts around 80F with 75-80% humidity. It may rain as well, similar to Hawaii or any other island weather. When we travel to Monteverde Cloud Forest, it will get chilly around 60s in the day and 50s at night. Long pants and a light sweater is recommended for this part of the trip.

Wedding day: formal attire. The remainder of the trip: Think tropical vacation -light, airy clothing like flowy day dresses, cotton/linen materials, sandals, swimsuits, and causal summer outfits. Hats and sunglasses are encouraged, as well as sunblock and bug repellant. For those attending the excursions: You will need some workout type of clothing -leggings or long hiking pants, high socks, HIKING SHOES (not required but highly recommended), and clothes you don't mind getting dirty! Imagine trekking in a jungle with sandals and a dress? Not a great idea, so pack some extra gear to take on those adventures!

Costa Rican currency is called "colones". $1 USD is about 500 colones, give or take. You do not need to take out cash in colones to be honest, most places accept major credit cards and will also take US Dollars. Tipping is not required because it is already included in every bill, but is accepted on excursions (for example a $5 tip is perfectly fine). Sales tax is already included in every purchase. *You must pay with cash for transportation (US Dollars is accepted). Costa Rica is unfortunately not "cheap" like some other countries, prices are similar to the US so make sure to budget accordingly.

The Costa Ricans called "Ticos" are very kind, warm-hearted and welcoming people. They are very friendly and will help you, they like American tourists, and although the primary language is Spanish, most people speak English especially the younger generations. Costa Rica is generally a safe country, especially in the tourist areas where you will be. But please use your common sense and don't be flashing around your valuables in the streets, and don't leave valuables inside your vehicles. For those traveling to the Caribbean: Keep valuables hidden and out of sight. This area is a lot more humble and casual, it is recommended to use minimal jewelry, if at all, and do not be flashy.

The food is delicious!!! It is natural and organic and tastes like heaven! The food is very homestyle, rice and beans, meat, salads, and lots of tropical fruits. The cafecito (coffee) is strong and flavorful, one of the best! There are a lot of typical foods you should try, here's a few: Chifrijo: rice and beans and fried pork (called chicharrones). Gallo pinto: rice and beans combo, usually served at breakfast or anytime really. Arroz con pollo: rice with chicken and carrots and olives. Frescos naturales: freshly made drinks, you choose the fruit! Patty: caribbean style empanada with meat inside. Granizado: like a shaved ice, but with condensed milk, powered milk and syrup flavors. Pollo Caribeño: chicken cooked in caribbean spices and coconut milk. Riceandbeans: caribbean style rice and beans with coconut milk. Plátanos maduros and patacones: sweet plantain and salty fried plantains, both delicious. Imperial: the Costa Rican beer, similar to a light pilsner. Guaro: the Costa Rican liquor, brand "cacique", similar to Vodka.

There are a lot of bugs! In order for the amazing animals and nature to thrive in a jungle environment, the bottom of the food chain is plentiful! I know, I know, if you know me, this is my worst nightmare. But if I can do it, so can you! I have come to endure the little critters and focus on all the magnificent things Costa Rica has to offer, and no bug will keep me away! Costa Rica is an incredible country full of natural wonders, loving people, rich culture, lively music and dance all surrounded by God's beautiful landscapes. It is a 3rd world country, so things may not go according to plan or not exactly on schedule and it would be wise to be flexible. Between the weather and minor inconveniences, it will be a culture shock, so come prepared to have OPEN MIND and be as easygoing as possible...we call this the PURA VIDA lifestyle and the "no pasa nada" mentality -aka "this too, will pass" and like Bob Marley says, every little thing is gonna be alright! So relax and enjoy and pura vida!