Whether you are traveling to Costa Rica for business or pleasure, this beautiful country, located just a short plane flight from the United States, offers plenty of interesting and exciting things to do. Enjoy beautiful beaches, exotic wildlife, rainforest adventures, delicious food, and much more, during a visit to Costa Rica.
Plane - Juan Santamaria Airport (IATA: SJO) is located close to the cities Alajuela, Heredia and the capital San Jose. SJO is serviced daily by Air Canada, Air Transat (Seasonal) American Airlines, Condor, Delta, Iberia, Interjet, JetBlue Airways, Spirit Airlines, Southwest Airlines, United, Volaris, Westjet, Avianca, Copa Airlines and AirPanama.
Car - The Interamericana (Pan-American Highway) runs through Costa Rica and is the main entry point by car. The border post in the north (to Nicaragua) is called Penas Blancas and in the south (to Panama) Paso Canoas (closes at 22:00, Costa Rica time or 23:00, Panama time).
Bus - There is an extensive network of bus routes within the country with reasonable fares. The bus system is a safe and even fun way to see a lot of the country cheaply and not have to worry about car rentals.
Where to sleep
Puerto Viejo - Le Cameleon Boutique Hotel, Situated within a verdant tropical forest in Puerto Viejo, Limon, the boutique hotel’s 35 Rooms encircle a pool surrounded by lush tropical gardens. At Le Cameleon’s NOA Beach Club, guests enjoy classic Costa Rican hospitality with cocktail hours, entertainment, and dining.
San Jose - Studio Hotel Boutique, A leader among the best boutique hotels in Costa Rica. Our privileged location just a few minutes from downtown San José and with wonderful views of the Santa Ana Mountains is a strategic place, 15 kilometers from the Juan Santamaría International Airport and very close to shopping centers and the most exclusive stores in Escazu.
Jaco - Croc's Resort & Casino, Croc’s is a luxurious, full-service resort, situated ocean-front on the quiet end of Jaco Beach, Costa Rica. We are located just 90 minutes from Juan Santamaría International Airport and offer spectacular views of the Pacific Ocean, surrounding valley, and mountains.
Plato del dia, is the 'Plate of the Day' and is often a Casado, but has the meat or fish selection of the day. Usually around 5.00 USD and includes a natural juice.
Gallo pinto is a mixture of rice and beans with a little cilantro or onion thrown in. While more common at breakfast, it can also be served at lunch or dinner.
Vegetarians will find it surprisingly easy to eat well in Costa Rica. There are several International cuisine options also. In addition to American style food, Italian, Mexican, Peruvian and Indian are also available. Indian food generally has vegetarian, vegan and gluten free dishes. Try Indian Naans & Curries dishes. They taste better in Costa Rica because of natural ingredients.
Don't forget to try the Salsa Lizano that you will surely find at any restaurant. It is a mild vegetable sauce that has a hint of curry and is slightly sweet. It's often referred to as Costa Rican ketchup. It tastes good on just about anything! Bring some home with you! You can find smaller sized bottles at any market.
What to drink
Refrescos or simply frescos are beverages made from fresh fruit (cas, guayaba/guava, sandia/watermelon, mora/blackberry, fresa/strawberry, piña/pineapple, papaya), sugar and either water or milk (depending on the fruit).
There are approximately 8 different national beers available (and most international), which are sold in cans, bottles and even kegs. The most common beers in the country are Pilsen and Imperial: all bars and restaurants serve both.
Coffee in Costa Rica is of very top quality. It is common to have coffee, not only for breakfast, but during the afternoon as a little coffee break.
