2008-08-20 09:09:13 - This advice will ensure your trip is fun and safe.

Where in Costa Rica do you recommend visiting?
I enjoy Arenal Volcano, Manuel Antonio Park and Tamarindo Beach in the Guanacaste region. These are great destinations for taking pictures.

What's the best and cheapest way to call the U.S.?
If you plan on calling the states while in C.R., you can purchase a telephone calling card at the airport or in major

pharmacies. For convenience, buy one at the airport. There is a lady sitting at a small stand by the luggage claim. She sells $5, $10, $15 and $20 card amounts. Avoid using credit card phones in hotels. People have reported being charged $50 or more for a five minute call.

What about rental cars?
If you are traveling alone, be sure to rent a car before you go. They will have someone to pick you up as the rental car agencies are a short drive away from the airport. You will be mobbed once leaving the airport by various taxi drivers and rental car reps. It can be overwhelming as they pressure you to ride with them. Just tell them, "No thank you" in firm voice and walk away. Otherwise they will harass you.

Also, people will try and carry your suitcases for you once outside the airport. Refuse to let anyone touch your belongings unless you know them to be with your tour agency or rental car company.

Is the food and water safe?
Costa Rican food is great and safe in most restaurants big and small. Water is often filtered, but it's better to drink bottled water. It's OK to get ice in places. However, I always carry anti-diarrhea pills just in case.

What about tips?
Tipping etiquette is different in Costa Rica. Most Ticos do not tip. However, if you do tip, a small amount is fine.

What is the best coffee to buy?
I recommend buying Cafe Brit coffee for yourself and friends. It's the best and the packaging is very nice.

What should I pack?
I tell everyone to leave nice clothing and jewelry at home. When it rains, especially near the coast, the roads turn to mud. I've ruined many nice shoes, pants and shirts.

Can I use U.S. currency?
Try and change your money at a bank in C.R. as they have the best rates. Also, most places take U.S. money, but the dollar has devalued lately. Avoid carrying large bills such as $50's and $100's. Many shops are weary of counterfeit bills, so keep $20's or less.

The money exchange is around 510 Colones (Costa Rican money) to every one U.S. dollar. In addition, hardly anyone accepts Travelers Checks in Costa Rica. If you have some, a bank will exchange them, but it's a hassle.

ATM's work well there if you need extra cash. However, you will be charged a fee. Also, some tour agencies, shops and motels only accept cash.

Be sure to call your bank and credit card company for the cards you plan on using in Costa Rica. Otherwise, they may place a hold on your account after your first purchase there, believing someone stole your cards. This has happened to me more than once. Now I call them anytime I leave the country.

I don't recommend carrying a purse. Try to find a travelers type wallet that hangs from your neck, that can be tucked in your shirt or one that fits around your waist. This will help keep your money and ID safe. Also, the less you have in your hands, the more stuff you can buy and carry around.

Do I need to carry my passport at all times?
If possible, make a copy of your passport front page and stamped entry page. Carry this with you at all times and leave your original passport in a hotel safe.

What's the weather like in the mountain areas?
San Jose and surrounding mountain areas are a bit cooler than the coast. Be sure to bring a light jacket, poncho and small umbrella. Walmart has disposible ponchos for about $1.00 and they are nicely packaged about the size of a credit card. Look in the camping section. Also, I bring a small flashlight when I travel. Sometimes the power goes off and you will need light. Mosquito repellant is good to bring if you will be near the coast.

What type of shoes are best?
I bring comfortable walking shoes. Either running shoes, Teva type sandals and/or low cut hiking shoes. If you are doing jungle excursions, you will need something to handle the terrain.

What about night time dinning attire?
For restaurants, you can wear jeans and a nice shirt. I usually wear T-shirts and shorts during the day and jeans with a polo or light cottom shirt at night.

Most of this information can be found in various travel guides, however these seem to be some of the most common questions I get.

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