Costa Rica´s Best Guide Online Magazine

COSTA RICA´S BEST GUIDE SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2025 OFFERING INFO & TIPS FOR VISITORS & FOR PERSONS MOVING TO COSTA RICA

Escape to the Natural Beauty of Costa Rica by Glamping in style in San Miguel de Grecia! Great location (close to San Jose & Airport) Tierra Nueva, offers you excellent service glamour and quality, plus gastronomic delights with the best international flavor for your enjoyment. Overlooking the beauty of green nature, combined with the warm and unique light of the yellow sun and the deep blue sky, this is the perfect secret place in the mountains of Costa Rica to enjoy the Pura Vida lifestyle.

www.tierranuevacostarica.com tierranuevacostarica@gmail.com +506 8504 7757 / 8665 0425

Top 10 List for TRAVELERS

Bring small denomination bills (Ones, Fives, Tens and Twenties) to pay in Dollars. Bring 50´s and 100´s to exchange at the Banks for the best exchange rate. All bills must be in pristine condition, no tears, no writing, etc. Exchanging at the Airport will get you a bad exchange rate.

Always check the local weather conditions and forecasts before you take a tour so that you can be adequately prepared. Also take into account the time of year of your visit and which coast you are visiting as these will affect the climactic conditions you will encounter.

MONEY

WEATHER

Credit Cards are accepted almost everywhere but use VISA and MASTERCARD as most other credit cards such as AMERICAN EXPRESS are not usually accepted.

Make sure the company has the operating permit from the Ministry of Health, adequate insurance policies and certified tour guides would be great.

TOURS

CREDIT CARDS

TAXIS and UBERS

You can take the orange airport taxis which also offer taxi vans and are located just to the right of the exit from the airport. You could call an UBER but they are not allowed in the airport so you would need to walk 1 block down to the main street near the bus stop to get picked up. You can catch a BUS to SAN JOSE if when you exit you go left and then down one block and turn right for about half a block and you will see the bus stop. They charge in Colones (CR currency) but will probably accept 1 or 5 dollar bills if they are in perfect condition. Most major Rent a cars have Vans to pick up customers to take them to their nearby rental facilities. Some can be found inside the ground floor parking structure across from where you exit the airport and some will drive by, just check with your car rental office for exact pick up spot.

If you are Booking your TOURS in advance make sure to do it with authorized travel agencies and use your credit card so as to have some recourse in the case a problem arises.

TOUR OPERATORS

Do make sure that your tour guide provides you with adequate safety instructions and regulations before starting the tour. And make sure you understand them, if not be sure to ask questions. Safety First.

TOUR INSTRUCTIONS

BUSES

SAFEGUARDING YOUR BELONGINGS

Do not leave your valuables and luggage inside the car in plain view. Preferably stay with your belongings until you leave them at your hotel. Do not leave your belongings unguarded at the beach and go into the water.

RENT A CARS

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Top 20 Tour Activities

Costa Rica´s

Costa Rica offers tons of activities that range from wild adventure to pleasant and gentle. The choice is up to you!

Top 20 Tour Activities

Isla Tortuga Day Tour - Hotel pickup to a boat or catamaran that takes you to a beautiful white sand beach for a full day of fun and delicious food ending with a great sunset view on the bay on the way back.

Arenal Volcano - Walking and bird watching tours let you take advantage of the natural beauty around the volcano and help you build up an appetite for the many great restaurant choices in La Fortuna.

Manuel Antonio National Park offers a chance to see the flora and fauna plus enjoying the great beaches in the park. After that experience Manuel Antonio and Quepos which offer you plenty of hotels, plus dining & shopping options to enjoy. Gandoca-Manzanillo Reserve on the Caribbean coast offers arguably the best beaches in Costa Rica and plenty of flora and fauna to enjoy as well as great choices in Caribbean hotels, food/beverage & tours and entertainment.

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Top 20 Tour Activities

Enjoy a natural hot springs experience that is both good for you and feels good. Some of the best places are located in the vicinity of the Arenal volcano in La Fortuna but there are other places in Costa Rica like the Orosi Valley in Cartago. A visit to an active volcano can be a very unique experience. Poas volcano as well as Irazu & Turrialba volcanoes are very popular with visitors wanting to see these natural wonders up close. Rio Celeste is always a crowd favorite with its unique color, located in Tenorio Volcano National Park. The river is formed by the confluence of the Buena Vista and Quebrada Agria rivers, both running through the slopes of the volcano itself.

Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological reserve offers a myriad of great tour attractions to pick from and a quaint fun little town to discover and enjoy.

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Top 20 Tour Activities

Taking the Ferry boat from Puntarenas to the Nicoya Peninsula to explore the various beach towns of this Blue Zone can be one of the most enjoyable trips to take in all of Costa Rica

An exploration by tour boat or catamaran of the beautiful Lake Arenal area is a great day trip which can be enjoyed by any age.

Enjoy the many beaches throughout Costa Rica that offer excellent surfing conditions and take surf classes to learn or improve your surfing & bodyboarding skills.

Tour the many attractions in downtown San jose for a great day trip. These include the National Theater, the Central Market, the Gold and the Jade Museums as well as the National Museum and the many hotel and dining options available.

Top 20 Tour Activities

Rafting can be great fun year-round but for the top end classes, the heavy rain months of September thru November are best. The Pacuare and Reventazon rivers offer some of the best experiences.

Bird watching is extremely popular among tourists with some bringing very expensive photographic equipment but just a set of binoculars will let you see many of the 900 plus species of birds found in Costa Rica.

Tortuguero National Park, known for its extensive canals and as a nesting place for green sea turtles, is a great place for up close and personal spotting of wildlife and offers a variety of boat tours.

Be sure to schedule one of the several Coffee farm tours and see the way Costa Rica´s golden bean is produced and buy some to take home with you. Clearly among the best coffee in the world!

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Top 20 Tour Activities

The Osa Peninsula in the South Pacific of Costa Rica is home to hundreds of types of exotic birds, mammals, reptiles, insects, monkeys, amphibians, whales, and dolphins, so it is no wonder that National Geographic declared Osa Peninsula as one the most diverse and wild places on earth! Tamarindo beach in the North Pacific is quite popular as it offers lots of choices for bars and dining plus many shops too. Its white sand beaches are great for surfing & Sunning plus lots of watersports nearby as well as other fun tours. A Sport Fishing experience is a great option with lots of boats to choose from in the Herradura beach, Quepos Marina, and many other oceanside marina locations throughout Costa Rica[s coasts. Hanging Bridges tours are a great way to get close to nature and when paired with a guide these can offer some great insights into the local flora and fauna. Places like Arenal, Monteverde and Herradura beach in the Central Pacific offer these tours.

COSTA RICA´S BEST GUIDE

TABLE OF CONTENTS

90 92 96

02 04

MEDICAL TOURISM IN COSTA RICA

TOP 10 TIPS LIST FOR TRAVELERS

ISLA DEL COCO -TREASURE ISLAND

COSTA RICA´S TOP 20 TOURS

13 15

TOP 10 REASONS TO MOVE TO CR

CR INFO AT A GLANCE

102 104 106 108 114 118 120 122 130

CENTRAL PACIFIC COAST

DIGITAL NOMAD

SPORTS FISHING IN COSTA RICA

20 29 30 42 48 54 35 62

SAN JOSÉ INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

10 DAY COSTA RICA ESCAPE PLAN

ITINERARY FOR AN 8-DAY TRIP INSURANCE IN COSTA RICA

MARINAS IN COSTA RICA

DRIVING IN COSTA RICA

TOWNS OF OCCIDENTE

CENTRAL PACIFIC COAST ITINERARY

TOWN OF ATENAS

CARIBBEAN COAST

HOLIDAYS IN COSTA RICA

TAMARINDO BEACH ITINERARY

BUY OR RENT IN COSTA RICA

THE FLAVORS OF COSTA RICA

THE NORTH PACIFIC COAST

THE SOUTH PACIFIC COAST

ISLA DEL COCO 146 COSTA RICA´S FARMER´S MARKETS COSTA RICA CORPORATIONS 142 COST OF LIVING IN COSTA RICA COSTA RICA PROPERTY AS AN INVESTMENT 138 COSTA RICA CORPORATIONS 132 THE HAPPIEST COUNTRY

HISTORY OF COFFEE IN COSTA RICA

78 68

DESTINATION MONTEVERDE

THE CENTRAL PACIFIC COAST

COSTA RICA´S BEST GUIDE Sept.-Oct.-2025 - ( Tel. +506 7266 7558 )

COSTA RICA´S BEST GUIDE

TABLE OF CONTENTS

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148 152 154 158 166 172 176

PHOTO CREDITS:

ED CASTELLA VINCENT BRANCIFORTI ETIENNE DELORIEUX AWAKEN ALIVE EELCO BOHTLINGK CHARLOTTE RUSH SELINA BUBENDORFER NAT FERNANDEZ TOM PODMORE JULIANA BARQUERO LESLIE CROSS PHILIP GRAVES ROBIN CANFIELD CHARLOTTE VENEMA AUSTIN DISTEL

THE LONG ROAD BACK INSURANCE IN COSTA RICA

BUYING REAL ESTATE IN COSTA RICA - INS & OUTS 212 THE WEATHER IN COSTA RICA - SEP. 2025-AUG. 2026

THE NEW PENSIONADO (RETIREE) LAW

216 222

WELLNESS IN COSTA RICA

DESTINATION CARTAGO

DESTINATION SAN JOSÉ CITY

LA FORTUNA - LAKE ARENAL PROPOSED 7 DAY ITINERARY 230 RECOMMENDED CR VIDEOS IS COSTA RICA A PREPPERS PARADISE? 231

DESTINATION NICOYA PENINSULA

DARIA MAMONT BRADEN JARVIS VERA FRANK EIFFERT ATANAS MALAMOV

HOW TO MAKE YOUR VACATION HOME PAY FOR ITSELF

LINGCHOR JAN WEBER

DESTINATION TOWN OF TILARÁN

NELSON ACLAN ANGELA ERICK DANA FALLENTINE MIGUEL VARGAS JAMES TING ZACH CASTILLO CHRISTHIAN CARREÑO JOSUE ISAI RAMOS ALEKSANDER POPOVSKI BON VIVANT

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184 OBTAINING RESIDENCY SHOULD YOU MOVE TO COSTA RICA? ARCHITECTURE - STAGES OF HOME DESIGN 198 PORT OF PUNTARENAS 200 204 SHOULD YOU MOVE TO COSTA RICA OBTAINING RESIDENCY IN CR DESTINATION LA FORTUNA - ARENAL LAKE / VOLCANO 184 186 192 THE PURA VIDA TIMES NEWS

EL CAMINO DE COSTA RICA SEA TO SEA CROSS-COUNTRY TOUR

PUBLISHER/EDITOR-IN-CHIEF HERNAN CARAZO B.

MARISOL BENITEZ MANNY GUTIERREZ HERNAN CARAZO TANGERINE NEWT EELCO BOHTLINGK

COMMUNITY MANAGER CID CARAZO A.

OFFICE ASSISTANT MARIA SANDOVAL V.

PLUS THE LOYAL SALES & EDITORIAL STAFF

EDITOR LETTER FROM THE To: Our Highly Appreciated Readers & Advertisers From: Editor/Publisher Date: September - October 2025 Subject: Costa Rica´s Best Guide Digital Online Edition

We are extremely pleased to bring you this Latest Issue of Costa Rica´s Best Guide . The idea had been gestating for several years and one thing or another kept us from just doing it. As the interest in visiting or moving to this beautiful place we call home has greatly increased post pandemic and post election, we decided it was the best time to start. Costa Rica is truly special and with each issue we expect to bring you more info about the areas of Costa Rica and the subjects that are of most interest to you. Always with the idea of providing the best and most up to date information so that you can use it to make the best vacation or relocation plans. We have also launched a companion YouTube Channel to further help in this endeavor and we really appreciate your taking your valuable time to see what we have to offer you so that you can be better informed and take advantage of our nearly 30 years of experience living and working in Costa Rica. The channel links are on the back pages of the magazine.. As a Dual citizen of both Costa Rica and the United States, I believe I can bring a unique perspective that helps to join both cultures. Again, Thank you for being here and please keep reading and viewing our offerings as we promise to keep getting better and better with each monthly issue and please help us spread the word so others can also benefit. Hernán A. Carazo

Costa Rica Information at a Glance

Population: 5,181,000 (July 2022 estimated) Gross Domestic Product (GDP) $64.40 billion (expected to reach by end of 2022) GDP Per Capita: $12,408 (end of 2021) Currency: Costa Rican Colón Exchange Rate Versus U.S. (August 6, 2025)

Dollar Sell: 498.00 - Buy: 512.00 Colones (CRC) per US Dollar Euro Sell: 576.14 - Buy: 606.16 Colones (CRC) per EURO

Language: Spanish (official), English is growing fast among younger Ticos. Population in the Capital City: 1,811,000 - San José Time Zone : UTC/GMT -6 hours Seasons : dry season (November to April); rainy season (May to October); cooler in highlands. International Dialing Country Code: 506 - Electricity: 120 V, 60 Hz

System of Government: Democratic Republic Name and Background of Current Leader:

President Rodrigo Chaves (since 8 May 2022), former World Bank Director. Property Tax: 0.0025% of appraised value (slightly more if it is a luxury property). Capital Gains Tax: Capital gains are exempted unless the gains are derived from the habitual activity of the seller or the assets sold, are tangible and can be depreciated. Inheritance Tax: Inheritance and gifts are not specifically taxed in Costa Rica. Real Property Tax: 1.5% transfer tax and 0.25% municipal tax on real property applies. Sales Tax: 13% - Restrictions on Foreign Ownership of Property: None except for the Maritime Terrestrial area. Local Chamber of Commerce: http://www.camara-comercio.com/ American Chamber of Commerce: http://www.amcham.co.cr/ Primary Exports: bananas, pineapples, coffee, melons, ornamental plants, sugar, beef, seafood, electronic components, and medical equipment are the main exports. Visa Requirements: Generally, citizens of the United States, Canada and the European Union countries do not require a visa to enter Costa Rica. Those citizens can enter Costa Rica with a valid passport and remain in the country for up to a maximum of 180 days and the foreign driver´s license is also valid for 180 days. A vehicle however can only remain in the country legally for 90 days.

8 COSTA RICA REAL ESTATE MAGAZINE

SPORT FISHING IN COSTA RICA

Costa Rica ’ s amazing coastlines offer what is arguably some of the best Sport Fishing in the world and each coast has its own different delights to offer. On the Pacific Coast side, you are in for a real treat with the chance to fish for marlin, dorado, tuna, wahoo, roosterfish, snapper & more. While on the Caribbean (East Coast) side of the country the main attractions are big snook and big tarpon.

SEE FULL ARTICLE ON NEXT PAGE

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COSTA RICA ´ S BEST GUIDE

Continued from Page 13

this kind of results it attracts many sportfishing magazines, adventure shows and even major Sports Networks which come to Costa Rica to document and be a part of the exciting action. Central & South Pacific From Jac ó Beach and the Los Sue ñ os marina down past Manuel Antonio and south to Golfito, including the Osa Peninsula, is where more world records have been caught than any other part of the country, the months of December thru April, it is all about sailfish, the occasional marlin, and some dinner fare. These are the days when boats see double-digit sailfish releases and where all the records are broken in the

various tournaments. You can expect relatively flat, calm seas, great weather and amazing offshore fishing during these months. From June to August this area gets a variety of species. Tuna traditionally shows up, and with that, the marlin is here in numbers also. There are sailfish still around, as well as plenty of dorado for dinner. In September and October, things slow down a bit as the weather is typically wet and things are slower offshore. North Pacific From the Nicoya Peninsula to the border of Nicaragua. From December to March, things can be tough here. This area is plagued by the Papagayo winds, which are the trade winds blowing from...

Sportfishing is an enjoyable and exciting activity for all, from the avid fishermen to families, couples, and fun seekers and is available to anyone from novice to advanced experts. It is available year-round but is seasonal in certain areas and includes all the Pacific Coast, the Northern Caribbean Coast and in-land fishing. Offering World Class tournaments such as the Los Sue ñ os Triple Crown and the Offshore World Championship, Costa Rica has truly carved out a special place into the history books as a world record fishing destination for Sailfish and Marlin. For the past years, both tournaments have broken multiple records and this is very likely to further continue into the future and with

East to West off of Lake Nicaragua. During these months, the winds can blow 15-20 knots, which makes for very poor fishing conditions offshore. June through November things really begin to heat up here. The winds have died down and the seas are calm. This is the time of year where the sailfish start showing up in numbers, as well as the marlin, tuna, and dorado. During these months, on any given day, you can catch all four in one trip. This is one of the best areas to target all the pelagic species at once. Caribbean The northern Caribbean coast from Parismina area north to Barra del Colorado is home to some of the best tarpon fishing in the world. The tarpon doesn ’ t migrate much,

so fishing can be good year-round. However, due to the weather on the Caribbean, and keeping in mind the ability to get out of the river mouths, there are months which are much better than others. Mid-February to mid-May is a great time to fish here as well as September and October. These two windows offer anglers the best chance of great weather and easy access to the prime fishing grounds, with September and October being the absolute best months of the year. The best part about the great fishing in Costa Rica is that it can be for anyone. In the past, it was thought that big game fishing was just for the avid anglers, but with today ’ s professional crews and top of the line equipment anyone can enjoy this activity. So, if you are

looking to try something new then this is the place as Costa Rica has something for everyone. Freshwater Fishing This type of fishing is good all year long. Anyone can do it and it ’ s available in almost any part of Costa Rica, so it can be easily incorporated into any vacation. Lake Arenal is one of the most beautiful man-made bodies of water and it sits right at the base of the Arenal Volcano. This lake offers pristine views, crystal clear water and world class light tackle fishing and well known for the guapote (rainbow bass) which can be caught all year round. There also many other species you can catch, including the hard fighting machaca, blue tilapia, and mojarra.

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COSTA RICA ´ S BEST GUIDE

Ca ñ o Negro is for the real adventurer and the closest thing to the Amazon that Costa Rica has to offer. Here you can catch prehistoric alligator gar, freshwater tarpon, rainbow bass, machaca and, during the fall months, even snook. R í o Savegre is a beautiful river located in the Central Pacific right outside the beach town of Manuel Antonio. R í o Savegre offers a truly unique fishing opportunity in Costa Rica and is perfect for light tackle fly fisherman. The species you can target here are machaca, and roncadora, and the occasional snook as you get closer to sea level. This activity is something really special and has been gaining popularity in Costa Rica.

Types of fish found in Costa Rica and their characteristics:

Snook are surface strikers and tough fighters. They average between 10-20 pounds in weight.

Season is November to August They are excellent table fare.

Sailfish are very fast and acrobatic. Lots of jumping and tail walking Great fight on light tackle They average between 100-160 pounds. Season is November to August All released. Blue Marlin is extremely hard striking and a strong fighter. They are very acrobatic. They average between 200-400 pounds. Season is November to August All released. The have been clocked over 65mph in the water. They average between 300-500 pounds but can reach nearly 1000 pounds. Season is November to August All released. Striped Marlin are extremely hard striking and strong fighters. They are very acrobatic and their stripes glow neon blue when agitated. They average between 150-250 pounds. Season is November to August All released. Cuberra Snappers are bottom feeders and bulldog fighters. They average between 20-90 pounds. Season is November to August They are excellent table fare. Black Marlin are terrifying strikers and extremely hard fighters.

Yellow Fin Tuna is fast striking and hard fighting. They average between 20-30 pounds and at times 150 pounds. Season is November to August They are excellent sushi and table fare.

Dorado/Mahi-Mahi are hard striking and very acrobatic. They average between 20-50 pounds

Season is November to August They are excellent table fare.

Wahoo are fast striking and are straight-line fighters. They average between 30-50 pounds Season is November to August Arguably the best table fare. Rooster Fish are surface strikers and are extremely rare. They average between 20-40 pounds Season is November to August Though not technically a billfish, all Roosterfish are released. Broomtail Groupers are bottom feeders, and they fight very hard. They average between 30-80 pounds Season is November to August They are excellent table fare.

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COSTA RICA ´ S BEST GUIDE

10-DAY COSTA RICA ESCAPE

Making the most of your 10 days and 9 nights, we'll combine cultural exploration in San Jose with thrilling nature experiences in La Fortuna/Arenal and relaxing beach time in Jaco and the Manuel Antonio / Quepos area. 1. Budget: Determine your overall budget. Costa Rica offers a range of options from luxury resorts to budget-friendly eco-lodges and hostels. Factor in flights, accommodation, transportation, tours, food and drinks, and souvenirs. 2. Flights: Book your round-trip flights to Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO) in San Jose, as this itinerary starts and ends there. Aim for a midday Saturday arrival. Do avoid Friday traffic. 3. Accommodations: San Jose (2 nights): Choose a hotel in or near the city center for easy access to attractions. La Fortuna/Arenal (3 nights): Many options exist, from luxury resorts with hot springs to eco-lodges. Consider one with volcano views

10-Day / 9-Night Tour Itinerary suggestions for First Time Visitors to Costa Rica

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A 4x4 is recommended only for certain areas, especially during the rainy season. For this itinerary, given the driving distances, shared or private shuttles are often preferred by tourists. Domestic Flights: While available, they might not always align perfectly with the specific locations you want to visit and can add extra airport time. For this itinerary, ground transportation is much more practical and affordable. 5. Tours and Activities: Book popular tours in advance, especially during peak season. This ensures availability and often better pricing. Last minute reservations can seriously limit your choices. 6. Packing List: Essentials: Passport (valid for at least 6 months beyond your departure date), travel insurance, cash (local currency is the Colón, but USD in premium condition are widely accepted), and credit cards. Clothing: Lightweight, quick-drying clothes, swimwear, rain jacket/poncho, comfortable walking/hiking shoes, sandals, a light sweater for cooler evenings in the mountains. Gear: Insect repellent, sunscreen (reef-safe if you plan to swim in protected areas), reusable water bottles, small backpack for day trips, camera, CONTINUED Next Page

and if possible, with its own hot springs onsite or with a sister resort that offers hot springs as a bonus. Jaco/Herradura Beach (2 night): Jaco beach is very close to Manuel Antonio (50-minute drive South), so you could either do a day trip to Manuel Antonio or stay a couple of nights to experience its different vibe. Manuel Antonio/Quepos (2 nights): Stay near Manuel Antonio National Park/Beach or in the nearby town of Quepos where the Marina is located. Options range from hostels to small boutique hotels to larger upscale resorts. NOTE: The San Jose nights are split. 4. Transportation: This itinerary involves significant travel between regions. Consider these options: Private Shuttles: Convenient and direct, but more expensive. Shared Shuttles: (Interbus, Caribe Shuttle, etc.): A good balance of cost and convenience. They pick up and drop off at hotels. Rental Car: Offers the most flexibility for exploring at your own pace, but be aware that some roads can be challenging, and parking in popular areas might be limited or costly.

Evening: Enjoy dinner in Barrio Escalante, known for its diverse culinary scene or in one of the fine restaurants in the Barrio Amón neighborhood.

binoculars (for wildlife spotting), universal adapter. Medications: Any personal prescriptions, basic first aid kit. 7. Vaccinations/Health: Consult your doctor about any recommended vaccinations. Arrival Day: Saturday - San Jose Immersion Midday Arrival: Arrive at Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO). Clear customs and immigration. Transfer to Hotel: Take a pre-arranged private transfer or an airport taxi to your hotel in San Jose. (About 30-45 min. depending on traffic). Afternoon (San Jose City Exploration): National Theater (Teatro Nacional): Admire the impressive neoclassical architecture and perhaps catch a glimpse inside. It also has a very nice upscale coffee shop inside. Pre-Columbian Gold Museum (Museo del Oro Precolombino): Explore a fascinating collection of pre-Columbian gold artifacts and numismatics. Central Market (Mercado Central): Immerse yourself in local life, browse stalls including a coffee vendor near the North-West exit (this marketplace encompasses a full city block under roof), and try some traditional snacks or fresh fruit as well as delicious local meals priced very low. Lots of Souvenirs available.

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Day 2: Sunday - Journey to La Fortuna & Hot Springs Relaxation

Day 3: Monday - Arenal Volcano & Waterfall Adventure

Morning: Enjoy breakfast at your hotel.

Morning: Arenal Volcano National Park Hike: Embark on a guided hike through Arenal Volcano National Park. Explore trails like the 1968 Trail, offering views of old lava flows and the majestic Arenal Volcano (weather permitting). La Fortuna Waterfall: Hike down to the stunning La Fortuna Waterfall. Enjoy a refreshing swim in the natural pool at its base (be prepared for steps!). Afternoon: Mistico Arenal Hanging Bridges: Experience the rainforest from a unique perspective by walking across a series of hanging bridges, observing the canopy and potentially spotting wildlife like monkeys, sloths, and diverse bird species. Evening: Consider a "Night Walk" Tour to spot nocturnal animals in the rainforest.

Transfer to La Fortuna: Take a shared or private shuttle to La Fortuna. This scenic drive will take approximately 3-4 hours. Afternoon: Check into your hotel in La Fortuna . Hot Springs: Spend the late afternoon and evening relaxing at one of La Fortuna's famous hot springs (e.g., Tabacón (has not been available lately unless you are staying at their hotel and having been recently sold, we shall have to wait and see if access improves), or a more local, quieter option). This natural hydrotherapy is the way to achieve proper relaxation. The river-pool temperatures range from 72 to 105 degrees Fahrenheit. This is a perfect way to unwind after your travel day. Evening: Dinner at one of the many good local restaurants available in La Fortuna.

NOMADIC | 24

Day 4: Tuesday - Adrenaline or Culture in La Fortuna Morning: (Choose Your Adventure):

Day 5: Wednesday - Jaco Beach & Adventure

Morning: Transfer to Jaco: A long (4 to 5 hours) but scenic ride to Jaco Beach. Afternoon: Jaco Beach Exploration: Jaco is known for its lively atmosphere and surfing. You can take another surf lesson or simply enjoy the vibe of this bustling beach town.

Option A (Adrenaline): White Water Rafting on the Balsa or Sarapiquí River (Class II-III or III-IV depending on your preference and experience). Option B (Nature/Culture): Visit a Chocolate & Coffee Tour to learn about Costa Rica's famous exports or explore the Venado Caves for an underground adventure.

Afternoon: Do an ATV Tour or just Relax by your hotel pool or enjoy a spa treatment.

Optional: Hike up to El Miro for panoramic views of Jaco and the coastline.

Evening: Explore the town of La Fortuna, try some local "sodas" (small, traditional restaurants which offer good food at reasonable prices).

Crocodile Man Tour (Tarcoles River): On your way to or from Jaco (or as a specific tour), stop at the Tarcoles River bridge to see massive crocodiles. You can also take a boat tour for an up-close encounter. Carara National Park: If you're interested in more wildlife, particularly scarlet macaws, consider a visit to Carara National Park near the Tarcoles River. Evening: Enjoy the vibrant nightlife or a casual or fancy dinner in Jaco with its many dining choices or in nearby Herradura Beach at the upscale restaurants found at the Los Sueños Marina or at the Marriott Hotel.

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Afternoon: A great option is to take a leisurely walk up and down Jaco´s Main Street and see all the available bars and restaurants and shop for great souvenirs, beach clothing and artworks at the many stores that are found there. Head on over to the South end of Jaco beach and enjoy another spectacular sunset with lots of great photo opportunities. Evening: Enjoy the vibrant nightlife or a casual or fancy dinner in Jaco with its many dining choices or at nearby Playa Hermosa Beach which offers a variety of restaurants at or near the beach.

Day 6: Thursday - Jaco Beach & Adventure

Morning: Jaco is full of adventure possibilities and offers tons of choices of activities for a half day or a full day. In nearby Herradura Beach at the Vista Los Sueños Adventure Park you can choose from a variety of tours or a full day activities package. These tours include Canopy Ziplines, ATV´s, horseback riding to Waterfalls and more. Also try Rainforest Adventures Aerial Tram to see nature at treetop level! Optional: Take an unforgettable Sportfishing adventure out of the Los Sueños Marina.

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Day 7: Friday - Central Pacific Coast: Manuel Antonio Park & Beach

Day 8: Saturday - Manuel Antonio National Park & Wildlife Morning:

Morning: Enjoy breakfast.

Manuel Antonio National Park: Arrive early (the park opens at 7 AM and is closed on Tuesdays, so your Friday arrival and Saturday visit works well) to beat the crowds and maximize wildlife viewing. Highly recommend hiring a certified naturalist guide for the park – they are incredible at spotting camouflaged animals and explaining the ecosystem. Look for sloths, monkeys (capuchin, howler, squirrel), iguanas, and various bird species. Reserve prior! Park Beaches: Enjoy the stunning beaches within the park, such as Playa Manuel Antonio and Playa Espadilla Sur. Note: There are no shops or restaurants inside the park, so bring water and snacks. Afternoon: Relax on the beach or enjoy your hotel's amenities. Optional: Consider a Catamaran Cruise for snorkeling, dolphin spotting, and a beautiful sunset sail (usually departs late afternoon). Evening: Enjoy dinner in Quepos or Manuel Antonio. Lots of options to choose from!

Transfer to Manuel Antonio/Quepos: Take a shared or private shuttle from Jaco beach to Manuel Antonio/Quepos. This will be your shortest travel day (approximately 50 to 60 minutes). Afternoon: Check into your hotel in Manuel Antonio/Quepos. Head to Playa Espadilla Norte (the public beach outside the park) for a relaxing afternoon, swimming, or trying a beginner surf lesson. You can also explore the shops in both Quepos and Manuel Antonio and see the variety of places to eat. Evening: Dinner with ocean views. Either at one of the awesome Hotels in the Manuel Antonio area or from a restaurant at the Marina in Quepos.

Day 9: Sunday - Return to San Jose & Cultural Farewell

Day 10: Sunday - Departure

Morning: Enjoy a leisurely breakfast in San Jose. The Hotel Grano de Oro is an excellent upscale option for both a great stay and for excellent dining. Transfer to SJO: Take a pre-arranged transfer, taxi (you could take an Uber but it is not allowed into the airport so you would need to walk about 150 yards) to Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO) for your departure. Allow ample time for traffic and airport procedures (at least 2-3 hours before your international flight).

Morning: Enjoy a final beach stroll or breakfast in the Manuel Antonio/Quepos area. Transfer back to San Jose: Take a shared or private shuttle or drive back to San Jose (approximately 2.5-3 hours from MA/Quepos). Afternoon (San Jose Deep Dive): National Museum (Museo Nacional de Costa Rica): Housed in a former military barracks, this museum offers a comprehensive look at Costa Rican history and archaeology. Jade Museum (Museo del Jade): Explore one of the largest collections of pre-Columbian jade in the Americas. Barrio Amón: Wander through this charming historic neighborhood with its beautiful colonial architecture. Evening: Enjoy a farewell dinner at a nice restaurant in San Jose, with lots of choices all around you in both the upscale Eastside and Westside neighborhoods or get tasty and low-priced food at the many stalls in the Mercado Central.

Important Considerations: Flexibility: This is a suggested itinerary. Feel free to adjust based on your interests and pace. Pura Vida: Embrace the "Pura Vida" (pure life) philosophy – relax, enjoy the moment, and don't rush. It is not a question of how many experiences you can pack in a day but rather the quality and full enjoyment of those that you choose. Tipping: Tipping is appreciated for guides, drivers, and good service in restaurants. Weather: Costa Rica has distinct wet and dry seasons. While June is generally the start of the "green season" (rainy season), it often means sunny mornings with afternoon showers, which can be refreshing and make the rainforest vibrant. Pack accordingly. Wildlife: Be patient and observant for wildlife. Hiring guides greatly increases your chances of spotting animals. Safety: Like any travel destination, be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas. Keep valuables secure and out of sight and don’t wear fancy jewelry or watches, specially while walking around in San Jose.

Enjoy your extraordinary Costa Rican adventure!

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DRIVING IN COSTA RICA Many VISITORS and newly arrived RESIDENTS are wary of DRIVING in Costa Rica.

It is, however, not as bad as some make it out to be. I learned to drive in California where I drove for 25 years with the exception of a couple of years driving German autobahns. When I arrived in Costa Rica nearly 30 years ago, I found a very different driving environment here, one where drivers were less than careful or obedient of the law. I also found that normally friendly Ticos can have a Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde personality when it comes to being behind the wheel. That being said driving in Costa Rica is quite doable as long as you maintain a constant alertness, unlike driving on a Freeway where you can zone out at times and still be okay, a lack of attention here can result in an accident. It could be a big pothole that you fail to see, a sudden motorcyclist that passes you where you don´t expect it, a truck or bus that bullies its way into your lane, or a farm animal that blocks your way. So basically, you need to bring your alertness and your patience, and you should be okay. Also, try to avoid driving at night unless it is a major highway and even then, nighttime will increase two or three-fold your probabilities of getting into an accident. Your home country Driver's License is valid for the duration of your 180-day Visa but only 90 days allowed for a vehicle brought in.

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8-Day/7-Night Tour Itinerary suggestions for First Time Visitors to Costa Rica CENTRAL PACIFIC COAST

An excellent option for a first time Visitor to Costa Rica is the following 8-Day and 7-night tours which gives you a perfect chance to discover a variety of the great places and experiences that Costa Rica has to offer in just a short time. A week to ten-day vacation in Costa Rica is a very limited time but with adequate planning you can still squeeze in a lot of enjoyment and adventure into your trip. Welcome to Costa Rica, the “Rich Coast,” a friendly land of unique natural beauty. On this suggested Tour itinerary, you will be able to enjoy pristine islands, exotic birds, and wildlife, view volcanoes, visit Nature Reserves, soak in natural hot springs, enjoy aerial tram or canopy adventures, ride ATV´s though awesome views on the way to a waterfall and lots more with a limited amount of driving. Day 1 - Sunday - San Jose, Costa Rica – Arrival and an under 2-hour drive on good roads ( includes about half the distance on a toll road so bring at least one five dollar bill and some ones, in pristine condition – most places will accept 20´s or lesser bills in excellent condition and credit cards ) to your Central Pacific Hotel. This suggested Tour assumes that you will arrive at the San Jose ( SJO ) Juan Santamaria International Airport, preferably by 2pm, so that you can drive to your Homebase Hotel in time to watch the sunset from the pool and enjoy a great meal at your homebase hotel.

Los Sueños Marina‌

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Day 2 – Monday - Vista Los Sueños Adventure Park Full Day Activities with Lunch included, Playa Herradura, Central Pacific, Costa Rica. On this tour, located only minutes from your hotel you will get to enjoy a full day of fun adventures which include 2 Adventure Tours in one day, as you get to experience the Rainforest from a bird’s eye view and also go deep in the paths, trails, rivers and lots of muddy roads in a transitional Costa Rica Rainforest, located only 10 min. from Jacó Beach and Los Sueños Resort. You will start with the famous Zip Line Tour in the Costa Rica Treetops, this tour includes a 15-minute tractor ride up to the top of the mountain; you will then descend on a series of 12 platforms and 10 cables, including one of the longest in Costa Rica’s Central Pacific. After the Zip Line, it’s time to get your adrenaline pumping on a 2-hour Jungle and River ATV adventure. This tour will give you a different perspective and views of the Jaco Beach area. Here we have it all: trails, mud, jungle, ocean views, rivers, and the best bilingual guides to make this an experience of a lifetime. You will then enjoy a Costa Rican “Typical Casado” this traditional dish is a combination of rice, beans, salad, fried plantain, vegetables and choose from fish, beef, pork or chicken, it also includes refill of natural drinks, dessert, and coffee, your lunch will be in a beautiful fresh open air area surrounded by nature, you can also buy additional drinks at the park. You will then finish off the day with a Horseback Riding adventure visiting pristine private waterfalls.

Day 3 – Tuesday - - Isla Tortuga Full Day Activities with Breakfast and Lunch included, Playa Herradura, Central Pacific, Costa Rica. On this tour, which starts at the marina located only minutes from your hotel you will get to enjoy a full day of fun adventures which include experiencing crystal blue water, white sand, green mountains, superb cuisine and attentive personal service. Taking a super fun Catamaran, from the Los Sueños Marina in Herradura Beach, you will pass thru more than seven islands in the Gulf of Nicoya on the way to her Port of Call, the stunningly beautiful, palm studded, beach of Tortuga Island, where you can walk the white sands, swim in the turquoise water and investigate the marine life while the crew prepares a sumptuous lunch feast. Enjoy dining in the shade of the white umbrellas with tables covered in white linen. Include a choice of banana boat riding or snorkeling excursions in your tour for maximum fun! The return is in the early evening and you can experience a memorable sunset from your catamaran. After returning to the hotel you can enjoy a gourmet level dinner choosing from a variety of restaurants in Jacó Beach offering a wide choice of dining experiences ranging from Sushi or Thai to Indian and just about everything in-between, all the way to a premium Steak Houses. There are also a ton of night life activities to enjoy in Jacó but after the long day you might want to limit those for later in the week and get a good night´s rest in preparation for the following day´s adventures. CONTINUED Next Page

Day 5 – Thursday - - - Manuel Antonio National Park & Quepos - Full Day Activities with breakfast at hotel included, Playa Manuel Antonio, Central Pacific. On this tour activity, located only 55 minutes South from your hotel you will get to enjoy a full day of fun adventures which include an early morning (preferably guided) tour of the Manuel Antonio National Park, the most visited park in Costa Rica. Manuel Antonio National Park is considered one of the most beautiful parks in Costa Rica. On this tour, you will visit pristine beaches, with coral reefs, bordered by exuberant vegetation and the natural wonders of the tropical rainforest. The beaches in Manuel Antonio are highly coveted as some of the best that Costa Rica has to offer. On the way to Manuel Antonio National Park, you will travel along the coastline enjoying scenic views, including extensive African palm plantations. You will also travel past small towns along the Pacific Coast, until you reach the port of Quepos and then drive up the mountain to the Park in Manuel Antonio. Take your vehicle as far as you can go and then park in one of the paid lots, from there head to the nearby entrance and you will hike to the preserve, crossing a creek. Once in the park, you can simply relax and enjoy the beach, sunbathe, or hike through the park’s trails, which will allow you to observe Manuel Antonio’s abundant flora and fauna. Several species of monkeys, iguanas, birds and possibly even the three toed sloth can be seen. If you hike the trail to Cathedral Point, the views of the park and the sea are simply spectacular! Bring sunscreen & bug spray. Book Prior.

Day 4 – Wednesday - - Explore Jaco Beach and/or Los Sueños Resort, Marina and Golf Course - Full Day Activities with Breakfast at hotel included, Jacó Beach/Playa Herradura, Central Pacific, Costa Rica. On this tour, which is just minutes from your hotel you will get to enjoy a full day of fun adventures which include exploring the many, many shops, restaurants and other attractions by walking on the Jacó Main Street. You can also take a Spa and/or Salon break such as at the exquisite ACQUA Salon-Spa. You can spend time at the expansive beach or sip a cool drink at one of the many beachfront hotel restaurants and watch the world go by. You can also see on main Street window fronts for Century 21, Coldwell banker and RE/MAX among others, offering many local properties for sale and vacation rentals too. A short 5 minute drive to Herradura Beach will take you into Los Sueños Marina, Resort and Golf Course. A nice lunch can be had at the Marriott Hotel there from the second floor with great views or at the fine restaurants in the Marina Village as well as Sport Fishing operators, in case you want to go out Sport Fishing instead of one of the other tours. You can of course, also opt to take in a round of golf or take advantage of the Spa at the Hotel. Seeing all the beautiful condos and homes that are located within the Los Sueños Resort you may be inclined to get your own vacation rental unit there. Just outside the resort if you keep going straight to the beach you will find a variety of quite good seafood restaurants right in front of the beach. ENJOY!

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Day 6 – Friday - - - Drive back to San José, the Capital City to another hotel and Half Day of City Tour Activities. On this tour day, you check out of your Central Pacific hotel and head back to San José, the capital city where you can choose from a variety of excellent boutique hotels or choose a larger chain hotel like the Barcelo. It will take you about 2 hours more or less to reach your destination. Depending on how late you left your hotel, you will have a half day or more to explore downtown San José which contrary to popular belief offers a myriad of fun things to do, some free and some for a low cost. There are paid parking lots throughout downtown and these are your best bet. You can then walk to all the various attractions which are basically located off of Avenida Central, a mostly pedestrian only street filled with shops and places to eat. You can tour the square block under roof Mercado Central founded in the 19th century and be amazed by all the variety of stalls selling anything and everything ( check out our San José section in this magazine and our video links for walking tours of San José ) including coffee and souvenirs of all kinds. You can also grab a quick and inexpensive but tasty meal here. Then you can go explore the various museums such as the Gold & Numismatic Museum, The Jade & Pre-Columbian Museum and the National Museum. The National Theater and its coffee shop is a must see, so as you can see your day is pretty full or you can find a small café or restaurant and just relax, and people watch. So, a fun day of exploration awaits you!

NOMADIC | 24 Did we save the best for last? Quite possibly, as this is one of the most popular tours offered. This tour shows the beauty of Arenal Volcano, and the soothing thermal waters of natural Hot Springs. Set against a backdrop of lush vegetation and breathtaking views of the nearly perfect conical shaped lines of the volcano. Enroute to the Arenal Volcano, a stop at the famous town of Sarchí, known as the birthplace of Costa Rica’s Artisans showing the many art crafts and souvenirs that Costa Rica has to offer. Also you will see the world’s largest ox cart according to the Guinness Book. The cart is 2 stories high, nearly 45 feet long (14 meters) and weighs 4400 lbs. (2 tons), and took 70 days to complete and is designed based on our typical and traditional oxcarts. The journey continues, traversing diverse plantations, including pineapple and plantain farms, and even cattle ranches until arriving at the small town of La Fortuna, to enjoy lunch at a cozy restaurant with a magnificent view of the volcano. An essential part of exploring the wondrous world of the Natural Hot Springs is soaking in the cascading thermal waterfalls. This natural hydrotherapy is the way to achieve proper relaxation. The river-pool temperatures range from 72 to 105 degrees Fahrenheit. And for a perfect ending, before going back to San José, a wonderful dinner will be served with a great view of the volcano on this tour. Day 7 – Saturday - - - Explore the La Fortuna Hot Springs and Arenal Volcano area - Full Day Activities. Lunch and Dinner included. La Fortuna de San Carlos, Alajuela Province. Costa Rica.

Day 8 – Sunday - - - Departure Day - All good things must come to an end but we are sure that you will be back and plan for a much longer stay as we barely scratched the surface! Stay tuned by subscribing to our free monthly magazine at:

A very nice hotel to stay at in San José can be found for USD 100 or less. The cost of a rental car can vary widely depending on the time of year that you visit and the type of car you choose but can be anywhere from USD 350/week on upward with insurance. A 4x4 is not needed for this suggested itinerary at all. Restaurant and meal prices can vary from about 3500 Colones (about USD $7) if you eat at a local eatery like a Soda (name of small local food stands) on up, but will generally be equal to or less than in North America. It is all up to you how much you spend as good eats are available in all price ranges if you choose wisely and look and ask around. Tour / Attractions and Transportation Prices are as follows (Transportation from San Jose and back is included in the price quoted): Vista Los Sueños Tri-Combo Tour (minimum 2 Pax) includes Lunch, bilingual guides, 2 hours Zip Line, 2 hours ATV, Horseback Riding, Waterfalls, safety equipment, fruits and water included on both tours, breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean. USD 160+ 13% per passenger. Isla Tortuga Bay Island Cruise experience a day full of beautiful skies, great ocean views and live music. On board the yacht tropical fruits and natural drinks will be served and at the island there will be time to explore the surroundings, sunbathe, swim, and enjoy a delicious lunch prepared by the crew. USD 150 + 13% per passenger. La Fortuna - Arenal Volcano Tour includes Transportation, Lunch, and Dinner plus access to the premium Hot Springs. You will go on to relax at one of the best hot springs in the area where you will revel in the cleansing and rejuvenating effects of the thermal waters, as well as an optional massage or other special treatment, if you choose, that must be reserved ahead of time to ensure availability. Spa treatments are not included and are payable directly at the resort. USD 174 + 13% tax/passenger.

www.costaricasbestguide.com

and we will have many more tour options and great destinations in Costa Rica for you to explore.

Here are some examples of tour prices so as to give you an idea of the budget you should plan on based on which tours you want to do as well as the level of hotels chosen, the cost to rent a car, the types of places you select to eat at for meals not included in your hotel stay or in your tours. A rental car is a great convenience but not an absolute necessity if you plan your activities accordingly so it comes down to what you have more of: time and patience or money. LOL.

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