Climate & Geography

Where is Costa Rica?

Costa Rica is located in Central America, between Nicaragua to the north and Panama to the south. It is bordered on the east by the Atlantic Ocean (Caribbean Sea) and on the west by the Pacific Ocean. Costa Rica is near the Equator, at about 9 degrees North latitude.

How is the weather?

Costa Rica's climate is generally warm and pleasant year-round. Temperatures in the highlands and the mountains are warm by day and brisk at night, giving an "eternal spring-summer" feeling. The average annual temperatures range from 31°C (86°F) on the coasts to 17°C (64°F) inland. Costa Rica has two seasons. The "dry" season generally extends from early December through mid-May, and the "green" (or "rainy") season lasts from approximately late May to late-November, although there is often a 2-week "mini-dry season" in July. Rains become heaviest between the end of September and early November.

While Costa Rica is amazingly beautiful any time of year, the beginning and end of the "green" season are, in our opinion, some of the nicest months to visit Costa Rica; the foliage is intensely green, the temperatures more moderate, (and there are fewer tourists!) It may rain for a while in the afternoon, but the mornings, mid-day and sunsets are magnificent and as long as there are no thunderclouds, it's great fun to swim in our lap-sized swimming pools in the rain!

A current weather forecast for our general area can be found here.

When are "high" and "low" seasons for travel?

"High" and "low" travel seasons usually correspond to the "dry" and "green" season months, respectively. The number of tourists visiting Costa Rica is greater from mid-December to early May, when the weather "up North" is often coldest (that is, when North Americans and Europeans are most eager to escape to warmer climes!)

Could you provide a brief description of the geography of Costa Rica?

Sure. Costa Rica's land mass is 51,100 square kilometers (22,000 sq. mi.), making it about the size New Hampshire and Vermont combined, or two-thirds the size of Scotland. Rugged highlands and mountain ranges are found throughout much of the country, ranging from approximately 1000 - 2000 meters (3000 to 6000 ft.) above sea level. There are several active volcanoes (Arenal, Irazú, Rincón de la Vieja and Turrialba). Costa Rica's highest mountain is Cerro Chirripó, which reaches a height of 3820 m. (12,530 ft.) The country has long coastlines along the Atlantic and Pacific oceans, as well as many rivers and streams (great attractions for kayakers and rafters.) Varied ecosystems include rain- and cloud- forests, waterfalls and tropical jungles, mangrove and beach/marine environments that support an amazing variety of wildlife.

How are the beaches?

The beaches along the central Pacific Coast of Costa Rica (where Villa Mango and Casa Amigos are located) are clean and beautiful, with fine black volcanic sand and coconut palms right up to the beach. The ocean water is a comfortable 85 degrees F. (31°C.) year-round. There are a variety of beaches just a short driving distance from our property, and avid hikers may enjoy a hike down to the beach.

How's the Surf?

Surfers were among the first tourist-travelers to frequent Costa Rica, and the country continues to be a popular surfing destination, thanks to warm water temperature and year-round waves. Dominical is an especially popular surfing area. Some surfers bring their own boards; others rent or buy and sell surfboards on-location. Top-notch, personalized surfing instruction is widely available for all skill levels.

What type of wildlife can I see in Costa Rica?

Thanks to Costa Rica's unique location as part of the tropical land bridge between North and South America, it is home for an amazing number of exotic species. We are fortunate to be located in one of the most biologically diverse places on Earth. Scarlet macaws, marine turtles, hummingbirds, orchids (there are over 1800 species of orchids native to Costa Rica!) sloths, leaf-cuter ants, parrots, frogs, coatimundi, monkeys, butterflies, heliconias, toucans, iguanas - the list of flora and fauna one can encounter here seems endless! Costa Rica has long been a destination of choice for birding enthusiasts, biology scholars, and nature lovers.

The many National Parks and Wildlife Refuges in Costa Rica (which protect about 15% of the country!) are home to an incredible variety of wildlife, but you can also see fantastic jungle life right on our property... Howler and/or and white faced monkeys often pay a morning visit in the trees of the rainforest just outside of our villa windows! From the balconies, we've seen whales splashing around in the ocean, as well as at least 30 species of birds including several varieties of toucans, and the great Blue Morpho butterfly. If you love wildlife, be sure to take a guided nature tour; guides are incredibly knowledgeable and can point out things you may not otherwise notice. Our on-site property manager will be happy to suggest and can also reserve the best of many tours available in our area to match your interests.

What is deep-sea fishing like in Costa Rica, and what kinds of trips are available?

Sport fishing along the central Pacific coast of Costa Rica is exceptional, and there are game fish to be caught during all months of the year. Many world record fish have been caught off the coasts of Costa Rica, and Sailfish, Marlin, Roosterfish, Dorado (Mahi Mahi), Red Snapper, Tarpon and yellow fin Tuna are the prime catches. The best fishing months are December through April. Sport fishing is mostly "catch and release" (a small number are kept for trophies or for eating.) Dominical is a fishing "hot spot," with charter companies offering all-inclusive full- or half- day deep-sea trips on 21 - 31 ft. boats, for up to 4 or 6 people.

People, Government, Economy

What is the population and ethnic makeup of Costa Rica?

The majority of the country's 4 million inhabitants (or "Ticos," as Costa Ricans refer to themselves) are descendants of Spanish immigrants. Others originated in different parts of Europe, Asia, Africa, and Central America. You may be surprised by the number of fair-skinned people you'll see in the country, especially in the Central Valley. In the lowlands, more people are mestizo: a mixture of European and Indigenous peoples, and the majority along the Caribbean coast are of mixed/African heritage. Much of the Talamanca mountain range, near the border with Panama, is inhabited by native peoples. Latin-American Spanish is the language of the populace, however many "locals" and most people associated with the tourism industry speak at least some English.

Is the government stable?

Costa Rica is a democratic, peaceful country with NO standing military (their army was abolished in 1948.) The current President is 1987 Nobel peace prize winner Oscar Arias, elected in February 2006. Costa Rica has been fortunate in not having any wars or major political turmoil for the past hundred years, and is widely considered the most stable country in Central America.

What are the main features of the local economy?

One doesn't have to drive very far in Costa Rica to realize that agriculture is the basis of its economy. Coffee has historically been the country's most important crop, and Costa Rica continues to produce some of the finest coffee in the world. Bananas are the #2 export commodity, with vast plantations covering parts of the Caribbean lowlands. Significant amounts of land are dedicated to cultivation of pineapples, sugar cane, oranges, rice, hardwoods and ornamental plants, as well as the raising of cattle for beef and dairy products. Recently the INTEL corporation has established a major microprocessor manufacturing center near San Jose. Costa Rica has also become a major financial center and is sometimes referred to as "The Switzerland of Central America."

How would you describe Costa Rican society in general?

An impressive public healthcare system and strong emphasis on education have resulted in a (relatively) affluent culture and a prominent middle class. Costa Rica has the highest base literacy rate <93%> of all Latino countries; education is free and compulsory for all children and youth. The Costa Rican health care system is modeled after the Canadian system and includes both public and private providers. The life expectancy for Costa Ricans is the same as for Americans - 77 yrs.

As it is a developing nation, there is on occasion a small degree of unrest because of political corruption and shortage of strict law enforcement, but by-and-large Costa Rica is a country whose people seem quite content with their political leadership. While one must be careful about generalizations, we have found "Ticos" to be good-spirited, friendly, and gracious people, and proud of their country. You will often be greeted with the local expression "Pura Vida!" ("Life is Good!")

Food, Health & Safety

Is Costa Rica a good place to vacation with children?

Absolutely! There are plenty of fun, interesting, and exciting activities for people of all ages. Experiencing the fauna and flora, the wildlife and friendly people of Costa Rica will be an adventure your children will always remember. They can enjoy horseback riding, hiking, swimming, nature tours, sailing, playing along the beach, bathing in waterfalls, and much, much more!

Do I need to take malaria pills or get special vaccinations?

In general, no special preventive medications are necessary before traveling to Costa Rica. There may however be recommendations for precautions when traveling to remote areas. We recommend consulting your own physician as well as the U.S. National Center for Infectious Disease website for the latest updates when planning your trip to Costa Rica.

Are there modern medical facilities?

Yes. Health care in Costa Rica is excellent and there are several state-of-the-art hospitals with English speaking doctors (some are North Americans) in the greater San José area. There are physician and dental offices, as well as a pharmacy in Dominical. The closest major medical facility/hospital is in San Isidro, approx. 45 min. away. Listed below are some medical centers and telephone numbers. For emergency assistance in Costa Rica, dial 911.

• Clinica Catolica (225-5055) in Guadalupe
• Clinica Americana (222-1010) in downtown San José
• Clinica Biblica (257-5252, 257-0466) also in downtown San José
• KOP Medical Clinic (228-4119) in San Rafael de Escazú

What would I do in case of a medical emergency?

In Costa Rica, the 911 Emergency System is in place, as well as the Costa Rican Red Cross (dial 128). As usual with international travel, be sure to leave a copy of your itinerary, together with contact numbers for where you may be reached, at home with a family member or neighbor.

Is the sun very intense in Costa Rica?

During mid-day, yes! Remember, we're in the tropics, just 9 degrees North of the equator. You can easily prevent getting sunburned or dehydrated by using sunscreen, wearing a hat, and drinking plenty of water.

Are there dangerous ocean currents?

At times, and in certain locations, there may be. Swimmers need to be particularly alert for rip tides and undertows. These currents can pull you "out" but not "under". (If one happens to become caught in a rip tide, it is best to swim parallel to shore until you find a place where the current subsides, then swim to shore, rather than fighting the current directly.) Please note that most beaches in Costa Rica do not yet have lifeguards, (the Dominical beach does.) For safety's sake we recommend not swimming out into deep water.

Are there many insects?

There are surprisingly few mosquitoes or other annoying insects on our beaches or on our property. More are found deeper in the rainforest. We have installed special, imported small-mesh screens in Villa Mango and Casa Amigos to keep out even the "no-see-ums," but we are in the tropics... ants and other assorted visitors sometimes find a way into any structure, no matter how well constructed and maintained. Thanks to our mountainside elevation, breezes keep the number of insects down at our property very significantly. (Hint: If you intend to take a river rafting tour or jungle hike, besides a bottle of water, be sure to bring along and re-apply insect repellent as needed.)

Can I drink the water?

Costa Rica is not Mexico (where "Montezuma's revenge" has become the stuff of tourist legends.) The water is safe to drink but if you travel to remote areas, consider drinking bottled water (widely available) as a precaution. The water at Villa Mango and Casa Amigos comes from our own mountainside artesian well, is safe to drink and refreshingly delicious.

Is it safe to eat the local produce?

The food (including fresh fruits and vegetables) in Costa Rica is safe to eat. If you are particularly susceptible to stomach upset when traveling abroad you might prefer to only eat peeled fruit and well-cooked foods. In our many visits over the past several years, no one in our family has ever become ill from eating fresh fruits and vegetables or dining at local restaurants. By the way, there are fabulous local seasonal fruits that you have most likely never eaten before, available (inexpensive!) at roadside stands. Be sure to give 'em a try!

What type of meals can I expect when dining out?

In Dominical and its surroundings, there are lots of great restaurants - "Local" cuisine, Italian, Thai, Mexican, Indonesian, French/Canadian, and others. We keep a listing and sample menus in Villa Mango and Casa Amigos. Vickie (our property manager) will be happy to share recommendations and make reservations for you. And even at the most "upscale" of the restaurants, the dress code is no fancier than nice/casual.

Can I bring food with me to Costa Rica from overseas?

There should be no problem bringing in most packaged dry foods or canned goods (Cookies, snacks, etc.) At this time, due to a concern about mad-cow disease, it is not permissible to bring meat or dairy products into Costa Rica from overseas.

Is Costa Rica a safe destination for tourists?

The most common crimes against tourists are pick-pocketing and theft from rental vehicles. Violent crime against tourists is a rarity here and in most cases, avoidable. Here are some suggestions for safety when traveling:
Watch your luggage in the airport and be wary of friendly strangers distracting you. Keep valuable items in your front pockets, and don't leave valuable items or luggage unattended in public places or in your rental vehicle. Keep valuables in the hotel or villa safe. Don't carry all your valuables in one place. Should you have car trouble (eg. flat tire) be wary of accepting help volunteered from strangers. Always drive to a safe area if you find you have a flat tire, even if you have to ride on the rim. Don't buy illegal drugs, flaunt cash or wear fancy jewelry. Take care, use good judgment and you will most likely come and go without problems.

General Information for Costa Rica Travel

Entry Requirements:

For US and Canadian citizens, a valid Passport (with an expiration date not less than 30 days past date of entry) is all that is required. For non-US or Canadian citizens, the Passport expiration date minimum may vary, and a pre-arranged Visa may also be necessary. Up-to-date information can be found at the Embassy of Costa Rica in Washington DC's website, under the Consular Services tab. Upon entry, tourists receive a tourist visa, stamped into their passport.

Parents traveling with children may be asked to show documentary evidence (eg. birth/adoption certificates) of each child's relationship to the accompanying parents. If one of the parents is not traveling with the child, it is advisable to bring written permission, notarized, from the non-traveling parent for the child's travel. Having such documentation on hand may facilitate entry and departure.

U.S. Embassy in Costa Rica
Canadian Embassy in Costa Rica

Identification

It is required that tourists keep either their passport or a photocopy of the photo page and the page with the visa stamp with them while traveling in Costa Rica. We recommend keeping a couple of extra photocopies of the photo page of your passport in separate locations in your luggage, just in case of loss of the original.

What is driving like? How are the roads? Do I need to have my passport with me while driving?

As in North America, cars drive on the right hand side of the road. Local traffic practices though, are often less than "well ordered." Drive with care while you are in Costa Rica. Use special caution when passing slow-moving vehicles. Most main roadways are fairly well maintained, but there are occasional potholes that you would not expect in North America.

The driver of a vehicle is required to have either his/her passport or a copy of the photo and entry stamp pages of same on hand (in addition to their drivers license) at all times while driving. Wearing seat belts is required for driver and all passengers.

Can you offer any suggestions and information regarding renting a vehicle?

With pleasure! Be sure to rent a 4-wheel drive vehicle, to facilitate access to our property and many of the natural attractions in Costa Rica. To rent a vehicle in Costa Rica, you will need a major credit card and driver's license from your home country. (An international license is not necessary.) Be sure to check insurance coverage available from your credit card, as well as options provided by the car rental agency. A "zero deductible" insurance plan is best, and for comfort and safety we suggest renting a larger rather than smaller vehicle. (Minimum driving age is 21, and for drivers aged 21 - 25 there is an additional insurance surcharge, approx. $8/day.)

There are a number of car rental companies in Costa Rica; we have had consistently good experiences with service and competitive rates from TriColor Car Rental Co. If you arrange your vehicle rental with a referral from us, you will receive a 10% discount! Contact us and we'll make the accommodations. One suggestion on the topic, from personal experience - Before driving away after renting a vehicle, be sure to check the condition of the jack and spare tire.

How much money should I bring?

That of course depends on what you intend to do, buy, etc. But to give you a general idea, a typical lunch or dinner may cost about US$10 per person at an affordable "local" restaurant or $15-$20 at an "up-scale" establishment. Beer or mixed drinks run about $2.00 at a "typical" bar or restaurant, and up to twice as much at a higher-end eatery. Groceries cost, on average, about the same as in the U.S., but local fresh fruits and vegetables are generally much less expensive. ATMs are widely available and accept American cards.

Is there an Exit Tax?

Funny you should ask. Yes, there is. Currently 26 US$ per person, for non-Costa Rican residents, paid before leaving the country (at the airport in San Jose.) It may be some small consolation to know that Costa Ricans pay 46 US$ exit tax.

Villa Mango and Casa Amigos

How many guests can stay at Villa Mango and Casa Amigos?

Villa Mango, having 3 bedrooms and 3 ½ bathrooms can accommodate up to 8 people. Casa Amigos has 3 bedrooms and 3 bathrooms and accommodates up to 6 guests. Great idea: Reserve both villas and bring along the whole gang!! (OK, up to 14 guests max... for larger parties we will be happy to recommend top-quality neighboring villas.)

How far are Villa Mango and Casa Amigos from the beach(es)?

As the "crow flies," we're about 1/2 mile (1 km.) from the ocean; standing on the balcony, it looks as if you could just jump right in! Since we're not crows (or toucans for that matter :-) the distance to the closest bathing beach by way of the mountain road is approx. 3 miles (5 km.). Vickie, our on-site property manager can recommend the "best" beaches depending on what you are interests are... bathing, surfing, etc.

What housekeeping services are provided in each Villa?

Towel and bed linen laundry, general maintenance cleaning (windows, floors, etc.) flexibly scheduled for your convenience. You have use of the (full sized) clothes washer and dryer in your villa for laundering personal clothing, with laundry detergent provided.

Please describe the "floor plan" of the two villas. How do they compare to each other?

Both villas: Entrance level with one Bedroom and full Bathroom, Great room: Kitchen area with bar seating for 6, dining area with seating for 6 or 8, and living room space. Covered balcony with outside seating, dining tables and hammock. Wide stairway leading to a lower level, offering 2 bedrooms and 2 full bathrooms. Minimum bedroom size: 11 ½ ft. x 14 ft. Minimum ceiling height: 10 ft. Ceiling fans in every room. Each villa has its own large private (lap-sized) "chlorine free" swimming pool with shaded areas and lounge chairs.

Main Differences: Villa Mango has an additional entrance hall "powder room" bathroom. In Casa Amigos the laundry room is located on the entrance level, and in Villa Mango it is on the lower level. Villa Mango offers an additional wet-bar and seating area in the lower level between the 2 bedrooms, with high (orthopedic) quality sofa beds. While both villas have wonderful ocean views, the view from Villa Mango is more expansive, and its balcony significantly larger.

*For larger parties reserving both villas, Villa Mango can accommodate all guests together for meals.*

What are check-in/check-out times, and days of the week?

Check in: 3:00 PM. Check out: 10:00 AM. (Our reservation calendar permitting, these times may be flexible; please let us know if you need earlier check in or later check out.) Arrival and departure can be any day of the week.

What are the "logistics" of our arrival at Villa Mango/Casa Amigos?

Before leaving San Jose it is important to call our on-site property manager, Vickie Luick (phone numbers provided with Driving Directions.) She will then be anticipating your arrival and can provide last-minute driving tips.

When you arrive at the property, Vickie will greet you, and provide keys to your villa, entrance gate and safe, as well as a brief "orientation." She will be available and happy to answer questions, offer recommendations, and arranging tours and restaurant meals. If you would like a home-cooked meal ready for you upon your arrival at the villa(s), we can usually arrange it.... just let us know!

What are the rental payment options, and how do we finalize a reservation?

When you notify us that you would like to make a reservation, we will place a "temporary hold" on your requested dates. To finalize the reservation we require a 50% deposit of the total rental sent to the property account either by bank wire transfer, through PayPal, or by major credit card (VISA, MC, AmEx, Discover.) The rental balance is due 1 month prior to arrival.

How is the security deposit handled?

The security deposit is $1,000 per villa, charged to your major credit card at the time of payment of the rental balance, one month prior to arrival. Within 7 days of your departure we will refund the security deposit, less the cost of repair/replacement of damaged items. We will advise you of the details should there be any such charges. (Please see the section "Liability Issues" in this FAQ's document.)

What is the cancellation policy for Villa Mango/Casa Amigos?

Cancellations received more than 60 days in advance of scheduled arrival date -- refund of deposit less 20% of total rental: 10% cancellation fee and 10% held as a credit toward another reservation. Cancellations received 21-60 days in advance -- 20% of total rental retained as cancellation fee and balance held as credit toward another reservation. 7-20 days in advance -- 50% of total rental cancellation fee and balance held as credit toward another reservation. Less than 7 days in advance - 75% of total rental cancellation fee and balance held as credit toward another reservation. Credits do not expire.

What is the driving time from San Jose to Villa Mango/Casa Amigos?

Depending on the route (we recommend the beautifully scenic mountain drive,) traffic, and how often you stop along the way, it takes about 3 to 4 hours to drive from San Jose to the Dominical area, approx. 120 miles/190 km. As noted in our Driving Directions document (sent when reservations are made) we recommend leaving from San Jose to "Paradise Costa Rica" not later than about 2 PM. If your flight arrives into SJO much after noon and you will be driving to our property, we suggest that you consider staying overnight in San Jose, and then leaving for Dominical the next morning. (Just ask us for a list of recommended hotels.) Driving in Costa Rica is much easier in daylight, and much more fun if you are not in a hurry!

By the way, if you take the "mountain route" there is an excellent family-owned Mexican restaurant on the road between San Isidro and Dominical, about 20 minutes from either direction, called "La Choza de Alejo." If you're passing by at mealtime, stop in for a bite... Highly recommended!

Do you have suggestions regarding driving back to San Jose after our visit?

Before your departure we will give you printed driving directions to guide you from our property to the Juan Santamaria International airport. Depending on the timing of your return flight home, it might be a good idea to consider staying overnight in the San Jose area, as a precaution against potential "surprises" along the way. For example if you are traveling on a national or local holiday there might be a parade, pilgrimage, or bicycle riding event that blocks a major road for some hours.

Can I reach Villa Mango/Casa Amigos using domestic flights?

The Costa Rican national airline (SANSA) and Nature Air offer regular flights between San Jose and Palmar Sur or Quepos (each about 1 hour from our property.) Note that SANSA flies from the international airport in San Jose, while Nature Air flies from an airport (called "Tobias Bolanos") a few miles from the international airport. Both airlines have strict baggage weight limits (see below.) It is possible to arrange vehicle pick-up from Quepos, Dominical, or Palmar Sur.

What are baggage weight limits on International and Domestic Flights?

In-country flight baggage restrictions vary from carrier to carrier, but most flights only allow a 25-pound baggage limit per person. In fact, before some flights, they will actually weigh you and your luggage to make sure weight limits are not exceeded! For International flights, 2 bags to check and 1 "carry-on" is the "standard" allowance (usually with a 50 lb. <23 kg.> limit for each checked bag), but specifics vary by airline carrier.

Where can I shop for groceries?

In Dominical, about a 10 minute drive from Villa Mango/Casa Amigos, there are small markets that carry basic staples, bread, dairy products, canned goods, hot-dogs/cold cuts, soft and alcoholic beverages, etc., as well as several stands offering fresh fruits and vegetables. In Uvita, about 15 minutes away, there is a medium-sized grocery store. There are larger supermarkets in the towns of Quepos or San Isidro, along the driving routes from San Jose, about 50 minutes from our property.

What options are available to have a chef prepare meals at Villa Mango/Casa Amigos?

1) Enjoy a delicious dinner, prepared in advance by a local chef, ready to heat and serve, on the evening of your arrival "Paradise Costa Rica." Your meal can be tailored to your taste and dietary preferences, including (for example) soup or salad, bruchetta, main course of pasta with shrimp/tomato sauce, chicken or fish, a side dish, a special dessert and imported wine.

2) Breakfast-in-the-villa options, consisting of Juice and Coffee, Eggs, Toast, Gallo Pinto (a Costa Rican specialty) fresh fruit and pastries.

3) A local chef at-your-service, at an hourly rate. Please inquire for more details!

Can we have the kitchen pantry and refrigerator stocked with food items?

Sure! Send us a list of items you would like, and we will have everything ready when you arrive. The charge for this service is the cost of the items plus a stocking fee (usually between $25 and $75 depending on the size of the order.)

What kinds of alcoholic beverages can we buy locally?

Local and imported beer and "hard liquor" are widely available, at supermarkets and grocery stores. Lower to mid-priced red and white wines from South America (Chile, Argentina) and other countries are available as well. A nice variety of top quality wines (and cheeses) can be found at a specialty wine store in the town of Ojochal, less than ½ hr. drive from Villa Mango and Casa Amigos.

How can I contact the "outside world" when staying at Villa Mango/Casa Amigos?

Both villas have telephone service. Guests may use the phone for unlimited local calling at no charge (any telephone number within Costa Rica we consider "local!") We also provide an answering machine for guests' use. There are no added service charges for making long-distance calls. You may call overseas from our villas either by using a calling card/credit card and dialing a local access number for ATT/MCI/Sprint etc., or by purchasing pre-paid calling cards in Costa Rica (widely available).

Telephone service in Costa Rica can occasionally be unreliable, so you may want to consider cell-phone service as a supplement. It is not inexpensive, but if quick communication is imperative, it is probably the best option. As an emergency backup, it is OK to give out our property manger Vickie's personal home and cell-phone numbers (provided at reservation.) Please be aware that the local Costa Rican cell-phone plan that we are able to get as residents bills us at the same high rates to receive calls from overseas as to send them, about $1.25/min.

What about Internet access?

Yes! In both Villa Mango and Casa Amigos we have unlimited Internet access, free of charge for our guests. Just bring a laptop computer that has a modem connection for a "standard" telephone line jack. You will need to do a simple configuration of your computer to accept the local server (called "RACSA.") There are "Internet Cafes" in Dominical (about a 12 min. drive from our property) that also allow you to connect your own "laptop," should you prefer to do so, and can provide fax and copying services. Vickie will be glad to direct you to the better location (faster DSL connection.).

What's the situation regarding money exchange, use of credit cards, etc.?

Dollars - As the local currency ("Colones") is linked to the US dollar, you will usually get the best rate of exchange by using cash U.S. dollars. Be sure the bills you bring are in good condition. Small tears or missing pieces will render them useless in Costa Rica. Also, because of foreign counterfeiting, U.S. $100 bills of the serial number series CB B2 are not accepted. Some vendors only accept denominations of $50 or less.

Credit Cards - VISA is the most widely accepted credit card, and may be used for purchases at major hotels, gas stations, larger supermarkets and car rental agencies, as well as to withdraw cash. Mastercard and American Express are also accepted for purchases, although less widely. Cash can be withdrawn on VISA cards, but generally not on Mastercard or American Express.

Travelers Checks - Accepted by many (but not all) establishments, although there is usually an exchange commission fee of 2-5%.

Exchange - Foreign currencies may be exchanged at any local bank or most hotels (if you are their guests). The exchange rate may be slightly better at the banks. (Banks require that you show your passport when exchanging money.) You may also get local currency by using an ATM card. The latest exchange rate can be found at this link. US cash dollars are widely accepted in Costa Rica, and merchants are generally very helpful and fair in calculating an exchange on the spot.

** PLEASE NOTE** In Dominical there is one bank, Banco de Costa Rica with an "ATM" machine, and in the town of Uvita (about 15 min. drive from Paradise Costa Rica) another, Banco Nacional; still, it is best to have cash (U.S. dollars or C.R. colones) on hand!

What should I pack for the trip?

(A friendly reminder, just to be complete.....)

Sunglasses / Hat / Sunscreen (high SPF)
Swimsuits
Insect Repellant
A light raincoat and/or umbrella
A Sweater / Light Jacket
Long Pants (evenings might be cool, and for horseback riding)
Clothing comfortable for hiking, touring, etc. (70-90 degree weather)
Hiking Shoes / Sandals
Flashlight (good to keep in vehicle when driving at night)
Day pack (fanny pack, backpack, etc.)
Your Passport and 2 photocopies of photo page (kept separately)
Your Driver's License
Credit Card (best is VISA), (Traveler's Checks) Cash
Extra pair of contacts/prescription eyeglasses
Drugstore items (toothpaste/toothbrush, lotion, razor, etc. Pharmaceuticals can be costly in Costa Rica)
Camera, Film, Digital memory cards, etc.
Binoculars (you'll want good quality ones)
Reading material / Pocket English/Spanish Dictionary
Favorite DVDs or music CDs (please note: we have a large selection of movies in each Villa)

What don't I need to bring for my stay at Villa Mango/Casa Amigos?

Laundry or dish detergent
Coffee (regular/decaf.; we'll provide enough to "get you started")
Basic cooking spices (salt, pepper, etc.)
Kitchen cutlery, silverware, corkscrew
Towels (Beach, Bath, Hand, Washcloths)
Bed linens
Hair Dryers
Iron / Ironing board
Alarm clocks
Ice skates :)

Are the kitchens in Villa Mango and Casa Amigos convenient for guests to use?

We want you to enjoy any cooking you choose to do in our kitchens! In both villas you will find all of the "comforts of home," including granite countertops, an automatic dishwasher, microwave and toaster ovens, blender, coffee maker, easy to clean cook-tops with a full-size oven, garbage disposal, refrigerator w/ frost-free freezer, and a large selection of cooking utensils, cutlery and dishware. We also have an outdoor gas grill available for guests' use.

What are the pets, smoking policies at Paradise Costa Rica?

So that we may accommodate guests who are allergic to animal dander, "Paradise Costa Rica" has a no-pet policy. Smoking is not permitted in the Villas. While we discourage it from a health perspective :) smoking is permitted on the outside balconies.

How "private" are Villa Mango and Casa Amigos?

Villa Mango and Casa Amigos are set in 3 ½ acres of lush tropical gardens and surrounding rainforest. We can't see neighbors, and they can't see us, thanks to the dense vegetation. Your views are of gardens, rainforest, and the ocean.

Villa Mango and Casa Amigos are about 75 feet apart, and at different levels. A stream with small ponds and gentle waterfalls, and tropical gardening and trees are between the two. From some parts of the balcony of either villa, it is possible to see a small portion of the pool of the other, but it is an obstructed "view from a distance." In summation, each Villa has great privacy.

The villas don't have Air-Conditioning units.... will we be comfortable?

Thanks to our mountainside location, (1,100 ft. /350 m. above sea level) natural breezes help to moderate the temperature. Also, Villa Mango and Casa Amigos were both designed with very high ceilings and 2 levels of windows, the upper screened so that they can be left open day and night. Ceiling fans in every room help to keep the villas comfortable. Still, it may take guests coming from colder climates a day or two to become acclimatized to the pleasantly warm temperatures in Costa Rica.

Is babysitting available?

Usually, yes. Our property manager Vickie is great with kids, and (by prior arrangement) can take care of children in the evenings. If she is not available, we can often find another responsible person to baby-sit.

Liability Issues

What is the liability policy at Villa Mango and Casa Amigos?

1. Guests staying in "Paradise Costa Rica" (Villa Mango and/or Casa Amigos) accept financial responsibility for any damages and/or losses to the villa(s), their surrounding property, or contents caused by themselves or any member of their party. Guests agree to pay the Owners for the total repair or replacement costs in the event of damage and/or loss as noted above. Such damage and/or loss, should they occur, will be itemized and provided to the guests in writing or by e-mail.
2. The Owners assume no liability for injury or accidents suffered by guests and/or visitors on the aforementioned rental villa(s) and property. For their safety, guests are expected to abide by the Pool Area Safety Rules prominently posted next to each swimming pool, and listed in each villa's Guest Directory.
3. The Owners are not liable for loss of guests' and visitors' personal items. Villa Mango and Casa Amigos each have a secure combination- and key- lock safe available for guests' use, gated entrance to the property, as well as a security alarm system.
4. Situations may occur that are beyond our ability to control, and for which the Owners cannot be held liable, for example transient power outages, unpredictable appliance malfunction, and "Acts of Nature;" however, we pledge to do everything we can to maintain the property and villas in excellent repair, to ensure that our guests' stay will be comfortable and enjoyable.

Miscellaneous

In what time zone is Costa Rica located?

Costa Rica is 6 hours "behind" Greenwich Mean Time, equivalent to Central Standard Time (CST) in North America, year-round. Costa Rica does not change clocks for Daylight Savings Time.

What are normal business hours?

Government offices are generally open M-F from 8 AM to 4 PM; banks may open at 8:00 or 9:00 AM and close between 4:00 and 6:00 PM. Most shops are open from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM, while some open at 8:00 AM and others close at 7:00 PM. Most grocery stores close at 8:00 PM. Some smaller shops may close for lunch, between noon and 1:00 or 2:00 PM.

Is the electricity standard North American voltage?

YES! You can plug any standard electric-powered device (battery chargers, shavers, laptop computer, etc.) from North America into wall outlets in Costa Rica. Electrical service is 110 V., and outlets match "standard" North American 2- or 3- prong plugs. To be "on the safe side," we do recommend bringing along a "surge protector" device if you plan to charge sensitive electronic equipment (eg. laptop computers) as occasional power surges (and outages) can occur.

Can I rent a cell-phone in Costa Rica?

Yes. Most car rental agencies can help you rent a cell-phone. Rentals can usually be arranged "on the spot", but we recommend inquiring about it when reserving your vehicle. Note that there are 2 cell-phone systems in Costa Rica: the "standard" system and the newer "GSM" system. At Villa Mango and Casa Amigos, signal strength on the "standard" system is good, but for the GSM system reception is "spotty." (In the nearby town of Dominical, only the GSM types work, wouldn't you know it!) Outside of the main cities, reception quality varies by location.

Where can I watch TV?

There are large TV's at "Roca Verde" and other bar/restaurants in nearby Dominical, usually tuned to major American sports/news events. When designing our villas, we decided not to install satellite TV. We prefer Villa Mango and Casa Amigos to be a "Refuge in Paradise" from the outside world, and feel that commercial TV would detract from the atmosphere of peace and relaxation. We do, however, invite you to enjoy movies from our continually expanding DVD library that includes a wide variety of titles, appropriate for children, teens and adults.

Is there good golfing in Costa Rica?

Costa Rica is not yet a world-class golf destination, but this is quickly changing. Near San Jose, the Melia hotel chain offers a course near the airport (at the Melia Cariari - $40 greens fees). You must be a member or a guest of their hotel to play the Cariari course. Another venue close to the international airport is the Parque Valle del Sol 18-hole course.

Will we need to reserve activities far in advance?

Most activities, such as jungle treks, canopy or zip-line tours, and horseback riding can usually be arranged a day in advance. The one activity that it might be good to arrange prior to arrival is deep-sea fishing, and we will be happy to help with reservations.

How much do I tip waiters, hotel and villa support staff, and others?

A good general "rule of thumb" is to tip as you would in your own country. Note that in most restaurants a 10% service charge is automatically added to your bill. If you receive exceptional service, leaving an additional 5-10% is appreciated. For villa staff, the amount is of course up to you, but we would suggest a range of 5% - 8% of your total rental, divided between the staff.

What sort of souvenirs and gifts can I find in Costa Rica?

Locally-made products make great souvenirs or gifts. Costa Rican coffees are among the best in the world and can be a special, affordable gift. Other popular items are hand-made wood and ceramic crafts, hammocks, leather goods and jewelry.

Do you have any "last-minute" travel advice?

• Pack lightly (especially if you are using domestic flights, due to the weight limits on luggage.)
• Customer service here is more relaxed and may be slower than you are used to; be patient, and enjoy "Going with the Flow :)"
• We've found every vacation in Costa Rica to be a magical adventure... Be ready for a wonderful "get-away" in a country of exceptional natural beauty with friendly, welcoming people!