FAQs
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WHERE SHOULD I BOOK MY FLIGHT?
Fly into the Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO) in Alajuela Province.
This is the biggest airport and closest to the wedding activities.
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What ID/ Entry documents will I need?
US & Canadian citizens will only require a valid passport and a return ticket.
Keep a photocopy of your passport on your person to use as ID during your trip.
Bring your driver’s license if you plan to rent a car.
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What is the weather like?
Costa Rica's year-round climate is pleasant with average temperatures of 70 - 90° F.
March is part of the dry season, meaning we should have little rain and abundant sunshine.
In Atenas, the weather will be warm during the day but cooler and pleasant in the evening.
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Should I rent a car?
Yes! Renting a car is the most convenient way to travel around Costa Rica, offering ease of transportation, especially for attending the welcome party at Chubascos and day trips.
Complimentary transport to and from the wedding venue is available if you stay at one of our recommended hotels along the bus route.
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TOP TIPS FOR THE ROAD
Use a navigation system: download areas of interest on Google Maps or use Waze app for more efficient travel if you have cellular service.
Allow extra time for travel as traffic jams are common and can cause delays.
Be prepared for challenging road conditions, including speeding motorbikes, narrow winding roads, and limited road signs.
Keep cash on hand for tolls and “guachimen”. Colones are preferred, but U.S. dollars are generally accepted. Guachimen are informal parking guards who watch over vehicles in exchange for a small tip.
Drive defensively and never leave valuables in an unattended vehicle.
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OTHER TRANSPORT?
Several of the listed hotels offer shuttle transport to and from the airport.
Public transportation is affordable, but navigating the bus system can be challenging, and travel times are often slow.
Official taxis are red, while airport taxis are orange. Rideshare services like Uber are available in the Central Valley region, including around the airport.
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What is the currency?
The national currency is the colón (plural: colones) and while preferred, US dollars are widely accepted.
It is best to wait until you get to Costa Rica to exchange money to get a good rate and you can do this upon your arrival at the airport.
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BEST PAYMENT METHODS?
Credit card payment is widely accepted, but the further off-grid you get, the less likely. Use a card with no international fees and notify your bank of your travel plans to prevent any security blocks on your account.
Travel with small denominations of US Dollars and Colones for tipping, small purchases, and road tolls. When using cash, it is best to pay for things in the currency that they are priced.
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OTHER TRAVEL TIPS
Insect repellent - bring it and use it!
Stay connected with a eSIM (Airalo app) or get a SIM card at the airport.
Embrace the “Pura Vida” Lifestyle.