Costa Rica Car Rentals

Over half of the tourists visiting Costa Rica opt to drive. Most of the roads are well maintained, however it is advised to pick up your car outside of San Jose. San Jose is the country’s capital and quite frankly, a rather confusing city to travel thru if you don’t know your way around. There are numerous car rental agencies available to choose from. You can call CentralAmerica for more information on what kind of car you will need for the areas you are visiting. Some more advanced tourists sites are harder to get to and require a 4x4 on the rugged or undeveloped roads. Surfers will opt to rent a 4x4 to get to the better surfing not available to general public. If you choose not to rent a care, taxi’s are a inexpensive way to sightsee.

Some of the more commonly known car rental companies are Adobe, Thrifty, Budget, Alamo, and National. Lesser known or locally owned rental companies are Eurocar, Hola’, Service, and Mapache. If you are looking at renting a Toyota, then stick to the Toyota company itself, they bring their own name brand in a lot cheaper than competitors renting their makes. There are two seasons in car rental pricing. The green season is lower rates, usually correlates with wet season in Costa Rica. The high season being when tourism is at it’s peak and everyone want to rent a car. During high season the prices generally jump anywhere from $10-25 higher on an individual vehicle than in green season.

The requirements on a car rental are similar to that of the United States. A valid drivers license and passport, plus a deposit with a major credit card are needed. You must be at least 21 years of age to rent a car. In return, the car rental companies usually provide pick up and drop off service, emergency road service, and bilingual guide assistance with road maps.

Driving in Costa Rica also means you have to obey their traffic laws as are set for the country. The speed limit on highways is 100 kph (kilometers per hour) unless other wise indicated. On secondary roads and some highways it is 60kph. In urban zones, 40kkph, and school zones, 25kph. Driving on the beach is strictly prohibited. And as in America, drugs and alcohol are not permitted, and you must wear seatbelts. There are a few hazards to avoid when driving thru Costa Rica. There is a lot more livestock and wildlife open grazing in Costa Rica, beware of their presence especially at night. The same with bicycles. A lot of the roads have a white asphalt surface known to become very slippery at the suggestion of rain. The potholes are abundant as well and deserve caution. You will notice local’s cars have distorted headlights due to these potholes and continued wear on the cars.

Remember the seasons in Costa Rica. If you are going to visit there in high season, it is advisable to book your car rental as early as possible, the same with hotels. If you book a car at the airport be prepared to pay the 13 percent airport tax. Proper planning for your vacation will save headaches and dollars down the road.

Costa Rica Coffee

Next to tourism and bananas, coffee is the primary export of Costa Rica. Early in the 19th century the Costa Rican government encouraged coffee production by offering anyone who wanted to be a coffee farmer 25 plants to begin with and bring to harvest. As a result of government policy, coffee plantations were born. Today, there are over 78,000 coffee growers in Costa Rica harvesting more than 250,000 acres of coffee beans a year. Costa Rica has 7 different zones for producing coffee, dividing the lowlands and the higher regions by lowlands producing a lighter, more floral bean, and the volcanic regions producing a stronger, more acidic aromatic coffee. Costa Rica is concerned about their environment and many coffee farmers have converted to green energy, using clean production methods. At one point in Costa Rica the effect on the environment from coffee farming became a major concern, due to all the mill pollutants being dumped into the rivers, and all the pesticides used in farming. Many growers have eliminated all use of pesticides and artificial fertilizers from their fields. Recycling coffee by products is slowing gaining in popularity as well.

Paper is made from the leftover plantations reducing waste and preserving the environment. Current trends have government and outside influences educating coffee farmers on how to conserve their land, up their production and profits, and produce a great bean by doing the opposite of what they have been taught. For instance, instead of clear cutting forests to make more clear land for coffee bean production, leave the forest intact, planting around the areas to produce a coffee bean organic and gourmet in nature, which is becoming more and more in high demand. They are also looking at pollination of the crop, with results being a larger crop and giving the farmer over a 20% boost in profits. Rain forest bees are top study in the pollination of coffee beans.

So, what does a Costa Rican cup of coffee taste like? Well, if you are pouring a cup from the Tarrazu’ valley, a small remote growing area, then it is a fruity finish with almost a chocolate roast taste. If you are choosing to perk La Magnolia coffee, then you got a cup of coffee which tastes like, well, a good coffee flavor of light refined and sweet finish. A perfect flavor for those who want a clear clean coffee. Costa Rican coffees are refined and lighter than compared to coffee beans in Asia, such as Sumatra which is a darker bean with a forest-earth taste. Because of executive order for growing beans passed in 1989, only Arabica beans are grown in Costa Rica. The coffee brewing system in Costa Rica comes from the ‘biggin’ system used in Victorian days. Coffee was placed in a cloth bag held together by a metal ring and placed in a pot used to be coffee pot.

Costa Rica is an agricultural country by tradition . Growing bananas and coffee and exporting for decades. The ever changing country is keeping up with the rest of the world on conservation and protection of environment, even when growing coffee.

Coast Rica

The history of Costa Rica is rich with stories of Jamaican slaves brought to the tiny country during the 17th century to work for the Spaniards, but it was Christopher Columbus who arrived in Costa Rica first. When he arrived in 1502, it was inhabited with approximately 400,000 Indians. A Spanish explore named Gil Gonzalez gave Costa Rica it’s name meaning “Rich Coast”. It wasn’t until 1821 when Costa Rica gained independence. Civilization existed in Costa Rica before Columbus however, probably for more than a thousand years. Archaeologists have discovered human inhabitants thru uncovering of ruins of a large ancient city east of San Jose. Among the finds, elaborate gold and jade work, which are believed to be from the Nahuati and Mexican Olmec civilizations. The people who inhabit Costa Rica today are of 98 percent Spanish descent called “Ticos”.

Located in Central America, it is surrounded by the pacific ocean on the west and south, with Nicaragua just north and the Caribbean sea on the east. It is governed by a strong democracy and has a strong, stable economy. Tourism is the major source of economic reliance now, unlike past exports of coffee, bananas, and beef. San Jose is the capital of Costa Rica with the majority of the population (around 1 million) living and working within the area .Other major cities in Costa Rica are Alajuela, Cartago, Heredia, Puntarenas, and Limon. Since it is a tropical county, there is no winter months and basically has only two seasons--wet and dry. In the central valley, the weather conditions remain in a spring like state all year long. Along the shores stays hotter and colder in the mountains. Because of the two oceans, the mountains, volcanoes, and rainforests, Costa Rica has 11 climates.

Over a quarter of the beautiful territory is protected and preserved for the all the species and fauna which makes Costa Rica as desirable as it is. The wealth of biodiversity in Costa Rica is said to be more than most other countries due to the high numbers in endangered species and the remarkable mix of ecosystems. The Osa conservation area is hosts to many of these varieties of ecosystems including a tropical fjord, mangroves, marine life, and cloud forest. This preserved region also inhabits the endangered jaguar, the pacific green sea and the leatherback turtles, ocelot, and the scarlet macaw. The importance of conservation rates highest with the people of Costa Rica as they respectively merge their needs, like agriculture, with the preservation needs in an exemplary manner while at the same time embracing tourism positively. When traveler’s visit this beautiful country, they can expect to find a majority of scenic and natural places as a preservation area. They use the biodiversity of their country as an instrument in tourism and development. Costa Rica is considered to be one of the top twenty countries in the world with the greatest biodiversity.

Costa Rica still remains a mystery to most. Eventually, there will be more and more curious and hungry visitors to the small country, with all there is to experience. And it is the first trip there which will keep them coming back, again and again.

Costa Rica Surfing

Costa Rica is ahead of everyone else when it comes to surfing. Gaining increasing popularity for great waves and plenty of them, this trip is worth taking if you are a surf lover. Costa Rica is surrounded by the Pacific ocean and the Caribbean sea giving way to year around surfing in warm waters. Each region boasts of different types of breaks available for surfing.

The North Pacific region’s breaks include Ollie’s Point at Portrero Grande, Witch’s Rock inPlaya Naranjo, Playa Grande, Tamarindo, Langosta, Allevanas, Playa Negra, Nosara, and Mal Pais. The best time for surfing here is November thru March. Ollie’s Point was named after Oliver North and featured in “Endless Summer II”film. There is no beach access so you must take a boat from Playa Coco for the day. The breaks here are fast, hollow, and best when tide is high. Witch’s Rock is famous throughout the country. It is more remote and recommended for you to stay at Witch’s Rock surf camp located in coco. This camp has their own boat used for surf trips and less expensive. Not only can you beach surf in Playa Naranjo almost anytime except dead low, you can get an extra activity in watching the giant leatherback turtles use it as a nesting ground from October thru May.

Surfing in the Central Pacific region you can choose from the following surf sites. There is Boca Barranca, Puerto Caldera, Playa Tivives, Playa Herradura, Playa Escondida, Jaco, Roca Loca, Hermosa, Estrellos, and Boca Damas, all close in to each other. April thru November is the best surfing times. Easily accessible, Boca Barranca is second largest wave break in Costa Rica. It is advised to surf early to avoid crowds and the afternoon winds. Jaco is perfect for beginner surfers, with the beach being the favorite in Costa Rica. Jaco is a popular beach town, with nightlife available to all the surfing is done. Hermosa and Escondida are very close by.

If you are staying in the South Pacific and choose to surf long after enjoying all the other activities in this region, there are abundant to select from. In this area there is Quepos, Playa El Rey, Dominical, Drake’s Bay, Cabo Matapalo, Pavones, and Punta Banco. Dominical is a very large beach offering fun breaks for surfers of all abilities. There are plenty of places to stay right on the beach. And for added excitement there are two spectacular waterfalls, Pozo Azul and Nauyaca, nearby. Cabo Matapalo is the last of the untouched areas of Costa Rica and worth going just to see the monkeys swinging from the trees. The jungle atmosphere adds to the surfing experience.

Finally, there is the Caribbean region for surf fanatics. Inside this area is Manzanillo, Puerto Viejo, Cahuita, Westfalia, Ilse Uvita, Playa Bonita, Portete, and the North Caribbean coast. Winter is the best time for surfing here. The bonus of this region is the beautiful, living coral reefs. Experienced surfers will love the incredible huge breaks of Puerto Viejo, almost the biggest waves in Costa Rica. Playa Bonita has breaks for experienced surfers, and it is noted that a lot of the Caribbean region’s surfing can be dangerous and best left to experienced surfers.

Costa Rica offers plentiful surfing for all levels of experience. Be sure to check out surf camps and schools that are also offered.

Costa Rica Fishing

How about fishing for marlin or tarpon while visiting Costa Rica? This little country boasts of some of the best fishing around. Whether you are accomplished in this sport or just beginning, there is something for everyone. The Oso peninsula is one the most popular hotspots for new and returning fishermen due to record catches every year. Situated between the pacific ocean and the Gulfo Dulce, the marine food sources are replenished over and over. Depending on your fishing interests, deep sea fishing is what Gulfo Dulce provides as a unforgettable experience. Out in the pacific, you will commonly reel in yellowfish tuna, marlins, pacific sailfish, wahoo or giant dorados. This gulf is over a 1000 feet deep in some areas located on a tropical fjord and surrounded by rainforests. While you are out there claiming your prize fish, it is not uncommon to be met by blue whales or different types of sharks, as well as manta rays, sea turtles, and porpoises.

If inland fishing calls you, then there are a variety of different species to be had. Fish such as pompano, grouper, snook, snapper, and mackerel are abundant inside the lakes of Costa Rica. The weather is always perfect fishing weather and there are plenty of lakes, rivers and streams to throw a pole in. Peak seasons to go trolling in the ocean is traditionally April thru August. Half day charters keep closer in to the shore but making opportunity for tourists to catch mackerel, tuna, dolphin fish or bottom fishing for roosterfish, shark, amberjack or snapper. The whole day charters rely on heavier bait and go further out into the ocean in seek of game fish such as giant tuna, blue or black and striped marlin, or sailfish. Tourist season is November thru March which because of high winds, much of the ocean fishing is done close in with half day charters. Correlating with the inland conservation and preservation of certain species, there is a catch and release required for billfish and any other endangered marine life.

There are a couple good places in each region of Costa Rica specializing is fishing sports. If you are in the area of Manuel Antonio national park, then Quepos is where you go to billfish. It is common to hook 10 to 20 bill fish daily. The world record black snook was caught here weighing in at 57lbs. 12oz. By surf casting. Over in the northern pacific region there is a wide diversity of fishing available. Guanacaste has the largest marina in Costa Rica. They have over 30 charter boats ranging from 23 to 47 feet in length. It is advised to fish there in January and February off Nicoya, when huge and plenty of marlin make it one of the best fishing available in the world. Laid back Tamarindo also has it’s own unique flavor on fishing, providing more exclusive experience in Costa Rica fishing. Conclusively, anywhere you stop and stay in Costa Rica, you will have ample opportunity and means to experience the deep sea or inland fishing this country has to offer.

Costa Rica Girls

There are many organizations in Costa Rica which offer to introduce you to girls as dates, escorts, or even potential marriage partners. Simply put, you can arrive on vacation and leave with a bride. If you wish to be met by a Latino woman upon your arrival, there are available associations which specialize in that as well as providing a tour partner. Some have it set up to write and get photos of the girl months before you commence your vacation. Kind of like a ‘pen pal’.

Costa Rica offers four ways to meet girls:The first way is, as mentioned above, to write ahead of time and wait for the girl to write back. The second is to go through local agencies for listings of available girls. These services charge low fees, but however are scoffed against because of potential scams. Reputable tours vs. unrepeatable tours. There are two kinds. The first tour is a legitimate based tour established usually through the hotels for singles. Singles combine with other singles on adventures and activities predisposing them to available partners. The unrepeatable ones hand out party invitations to American men as a way to meet other singles. Prostitutes are usually the majority. The last way is a longer sometimes more successful way to establish a relationship with a Costa Rican girl and that is to use a personal matchmaker service which specializes in interviewing women and guide the relationship process in normal capacity. This usually requires desire and forethought before the vacation, establishing a relationship with a potential partner and using the vacation to Costa Rica as a vehicle to meet. Beware of places that make empty promises and just take your money, they are a plenty as much as established reputable organizations. Ask your hosts for more information on local color and places catering to the singles scenes. With all the nightlife available, the difference between the two can be easily sorted out before embarking on a regretted journey.

Singles bars are plenty available to ensure that all has a good time. San Jose hosts a lot of them. Such as, Key Largo, Happy Days, Blue Marlin, Idems and Vips, just to name a few.There are strip clubs lined along downtown San Jose for more visual entertainment. Club Puro Platino being the most reputable and easy accessed central location.

Some refer to night clubs in Costa Rica as ‘clip joints’. They run you a tab and charge it excessively as well as offer girls for escorts. When going out, limit the amount of cash you will carry, use the buddy system-travel in pairs of 2 or more. Be sure to keep all your valuables such as jewelry or credit cards back in your room. Stay under well lit lights and in localized travel areas. Prostitution is illegal in Costa Rica and is punishable by applicable law. As the hotel which ‘nightclubs’ to avoid, which are safe from escort propositions, or other relevant red flags.

Costa Rica can be the best place for meeting girls or become the worst depending on the method you choose to seek out other singles. Ask questions first.

Costa Rica Beaches

Costa Rica has quite an abundance of beautiful beaches due to the fact it is located between the Pacific ocean on one side and the Caribbean sea on the other. Which beaches to visit can be confusing unless your familiar with the qualities and attractions of each region’s beach.

In the north region, by Guanacaste, you will discover amazing beaches loaded with all sorts of human interactions with the natural resources. The famous beaches here are hotspots for travelers from all over. Those involved in surf sports most likely already know all about these beaches because some of the best surfing in the world happens here. One of the beaches known as Panama beach is half moon shaped with silvery sands and picture perfect tropical views. Another is Hermosa beach, a longer more activity oriented beach with surfing, fishing, and scuba diving. If this appeals to you, then the Flamingo beach is one which caters to tourism and has a variety of hotels, shops, and activities. For nature buffs, check out Grande beach for watching the nesting habitat of leatherback turtles. This is also a favorite surf stop.

Manuel Antonio National Park is host to beautiful beaches with living coral reefs. This area caters to travelers seeking nature experiences and education. Along with all the water activities there is also plenty opportunity for bird watching and checking out their museum. If coconut trees on dark sands is your calling, then opt to hang out in the sun at Bejuco beach. Many water sports await you. Herradura beach has a mirror of still waters and is located inside a spectacular bay with lush vegetation on a dark sand beach. Ideal for walks, and sunbathing. Punta Leona beach and Playa Blanca are two beaches for one. They are separated by a rocky point section. Carara Biological Reserve is only minutes away. If fishing is your sport, then consider visiting Puntarenas beach. This is a tourist beach with fishing from the wharfs or from the numerous jetties around it. They cater to traveler’s with their variety of available tourist services.

The South Pacific region of Costa Rica has to it’s fame Drake’s Bay. It is said, pirate Sir Francis Drake, hid his treasure here in a cave on Violin Island. On this beach, you can camp as well as water activities, bird watching, or nature walks. Tortuga beach is part of the Grande de Ten-aba River delta and is one of the widest beaches around this area. Beautiful scenery and accessible water activities make it a fun beach. Uvita beach is a smaller beach, with little swell it provides much recreational activities and water sports.

In the Caribbean sea part of Costa Rica right outside of Tortuguero National Park is Tortuguero beach is a fascinating place to visit for nature observation. The green and leatherback turtles use this area for breeding and nesting. Bird watching is also a popular pastime on this beach. Cahuita beach is divided into three different sections of use. One is for bathing and checking out coral reef, another if full of driftwood and algae, and the other for swimming activities.

Anywhere you do decide to visit in Coasta Rica, there are abundant beaches available with a variety of uses. Costa Rica’s beauty begins in its beaches and carries itself in to the lush tropical rainforests and cultural cities.