Visiting Costa Rica

• Introduction
• Chapter 1 So You Want to Go to Costa Rica? Planning Without Panic
• Chapter 2 Colones, Dollars, and Deals: Navigating Costa Rican Currency Without Crying
• Chapter 3 Gringo's Guide to Basic Tico Talk: Beyond 'Hola' and 'Cerveza'
• Chapter 4 Touchdown! Surviving the Airport and Your First Hour
• Chapter 5 Planes, Trains (Not Really), and Automobiles (With Potholes): Getting Around
• Chapter 6 Where to Lay Your Head: Hammocks, Hostels, and High-End Havens
• Chapter 7 San José: More Than Just an Airport City (We Promise!)
• Chapter 8 The Central Valley: Coffee Highs and Volcanic Views
• Chapter 9 Arenal & La Fortuna: Hot Springs, Hot Lava (Views!), and Hot Damn Adventures
• Chapter 10 Monteverde: Walking in the Clouds (Literally) and Zipping Past Trees
• Chapter 11 Guanacaste Gold: Sun, Surf, and Swanky Resorts (North Pacific)
• Chapter 12 Manuel Antonio Magic: Monkeys Stealing Your Snacks (Central Pacific)
• Chapter 13 Osa Peninsula Untamed: Where the Wild Things Really Are (South Pacific)
• Chapter 14 Tortuguero Treks: Turtles, Boats, and Rain (It's the Caribbean!)
• Chapter 15 Puerto Viejo Vibes: Reggae Rhythms and Caribbean Chill (South Caribbean)
• Chapter 16 Creature Feature: Spotting Sloths, Toucans, and Things That Go Bump in the Night
• Chapter 17 Adrenaline Junkie's Paradise: Ziplines, Rapids, and Other Ways to Terrify Yourself
• Chapter 18 Life's a Beach: Finding Your Perfect Playa (and Avoiding Lobster Sunburn)
• Chapter 19 Decoding Pura Vida: It's More Than Just 'Pure Life', Gringo
• Chapter 20 Fueling Your Adventure: Gallo Pinto, Casados, and Culinary Courage
• Chapter 21 Liquid Courage & Coffee Buzz: What to Drink (Besides Bottled Water)
• Chapter 22 Staying Safe & Sound: How Not to Be That Tourist
• Chapter 23 Souvenir Secrets: Beyond the Usual Airport Junk
• Chapter 24 Tread Lightly: Being an Eco-Tourist Without Being Preachy
• Chapter 25 Adiós, For Now: Departing Gracefully and Dreaming of Return

So, you've decided to swap your sensible shoes for hiking boots, your office cubicle for a rainforest canopy, and your lukewarm coffee for, well, probably much better coffee. You're considering a trip to Costa Rica, the jewel of Central America, a place where "Pura Vida" isn't just a catchy tourism slogan, it's a way of life. Good choice. You're in for an adventure that’s likely to involve more monkeys than you’ve seen outside of a zoo and more shades of green than a St. Patrick's Day parade.

This isn't your grandma's travel guide – unless your grandma is a zip-lining, volcano-hiking, sloth-spotting, gallo-pinto-devouring, surprisingly witty octogenarian. In that case, Nana, welcome aboard! For the rest of you, prepare for a journey through a country that crams an astonishing amount of life, beauty, and slightly bewildering experiences into a relatively small package. We're talking about a place roughly the size of Slovakia or a bit larger than Denmark, yet it punches well above its weight in the "things that will make your jaw drop" department.

First things first, let's get our bearings. Costa Rica is not an island, despite what your geographically challenged cousin might insist. It's firmly nestled in Central America, with Nicaragua to the north and Panama to the south. To its east lies the Caribbean Sea, with its laid-back vibes and turtle nesting grounds, and to its west, the mighty Pacific Ocean, offering up surf breaks and dramatic sunsets. These two extensive coastlines, one over 1,000 km long and the other around 255 km, mean you're never too far from a beach.

Now, why Costa Rica? What’s all the fuss about? Well, for starters, it’s one of the most biodiverse places on the entire planet. We're talking about a country that covers a mere 0.03% of the Earth's surface but is home to an estimated 5% to 6% of the world's species. That's like fitting the entire cast of a blockbuster movie into a Mini Cooper – impressive, and slightly chaotic in the best possible way. Think over 500,000 species of wildlife, from the iconic red-eyed tree frog to the resplendent quetzal, and more insects than you can shake a rolled-up newspaper at (please don't, by the way; many of them are fascinating, even the ones that look like they crawled out of a sci-fi movie). We're talking hundreds of thousands of insect species alone!

This natural abundance isn't an accident. Costa Rica has taken its role as a guardian of biodiversity seriously. Around 25% to 28% of the country's land is protected in national parks, reserves, and wildlife refuges. They've even managed to reverse deforestation, which is no small feat in a world where forests often fight a losing battle. This commitment means you, lucky tourist, get to experience ecosystems ranging from steamy rainforests and mystical cloud forests to dry forests, mangrove swamps, and vibrant coral reefs.

And let's not forget the volcanoes. Oh, the volcanoes! Costa Rica is part of the Pacific Ring of Fire, which sounds like a Johnny Cash song but actually means it's dotted with over 200 volcanic formations, some of which are still decidedly active. Don't worry, the locals are pretty chill about it, and the active ones, like Arenal, Poás, Rincón de la Vieja, Irazú, and Turrialba, offer some truly spectacular (and generally safe, when following guidelines) viewing opportunities. Think bubbling mud pots, steaming fumaroles, and the occasional impressive (from a distance!) eruption.

But Costa Rica isn't just about looking at pretty scenery and dodging howler monkey poop (it happens, consider it a souvenir). It's a country with a unique personality. For instance, they abolished their army way back in 1949 and proudly reinvested that money into education and healthcare. This has contributed to a stable democracy, high literacy rates, and a population that consistently ranks among the happiest in the world. "Ticos," as Costa Ricans call themselves, are generally known for their warmth, friendliness, and that "Pura Vida" spirit we mentioned. It's a philosophy of enjoying life, taking things as they come, and appreciating the simple things. You'll hear it as a greeting, a farewell, an expression of satisfaction, or an answer to "How are you?" Get used to it; it’s infectious.

This book is your trusty, slightly sarcastic companion to navigating this incredible country. We'll cover everything from planning your trip without descending into a spiral of pre-travel anxiety (Chapter 1) to deciphering the local currency without needing a mathematics degree (Chapter 2). We'll even attempt to get you beyond the basic "hola" and "cerveza" so you can impress the locals, or at least order breakfast with confidence (Chapter 3).

We'll guide you through the initial shock of arrival (Chapter 4) and the various, sometimes bumpy, ways to get around (Chapter 5). We’ll explore where to rest your weary head, from hammocks under the stars to surprisingly luxurious jungle lodges (Chapter 6). Then, we'll dive into the heart of the country, starting with San José – yes, it’s more than just an airport (Chapter 7) – and venturing into the coffee-rich Central Valley (Chapter 8).

Prepare for volcanic adventures in Arenal and La Fortuna (Chapter 9), misty cloud forest walks in Monteverde (Chapter 10), and the sun-drenched beaches of Guanacaste (Chapter 11). We’ll encounter monkeys with a penchant for petty theft in Manuel Antonio (Chapter 12), explore the untamed wilderness of the Osa Peninsula (Chapter 13), and navigate the canals of Tortuguero, hoping for turtle sightings (Chapter 14). We'll even soak up the reggae rhythms of Puerto Viejo on the Caribbean coast (Chapter 15).

Of course, no trip to Costa Rica is complete without a deep dive into its incredible wildlife (Chapter 16) and a healthy dose of adrenaline-pumping activities (Chapter 17). We'll help you find your perfect beach (Chapter 18) and decode the true meaning of "Pura Vida" (Chapter 19). And because adventure runs on fuel, we'll explore the delicious, and sometimes surprising, world of Costa Rican cuisine (Chapter 20) and beverages (Chapter 21).

Finally, we'll arm you with tips on staying safe (Chapter 22), finding souvenirs that aren't just airport tat (Chapter 23), being an eco-conscious traveler without sounding like a preachy know-it-all (Chapter 24), and making a graceful exit while already planning your return (Chapter 25).

Think of this book as that friend who’s already been there, done that, made a few hilarious mistakes, and is now eager to share all the juicy details so your trip is even better. We aim to be factual and useful, but also to inject a bit of humor into the proceedings because, let's face it, travel is often funnier in retrospect.

So, grab a cup of (hopefully excellent) coffee, settle in, and let's get ready to explore the wonders of Costa Rica. It’s a place that will challenge you, charm you, and quite possibly make you want to sell all your worldly possessions and move into a treehouse. Don’t say we didn’t warn you.

Alright, let's get down to brass tacks, or perhaps, down to biodegradable bamboo tacks, given where we're going. You've read the intro, you're buzzing with visions of toucans and turquoise waters, and you've tentatively typed "Flights to Costa Rica" into a search engine, only to be overwhelmed by options, opinions, and pictures of impossibly relaxed people sipping coconuts. Deep breaths. Planning a trip to Costa Rica doesn't have to involve spreadsheets complex enough to launch a satellite or pre-travel stress levels that rival trying to assemble flat-pack furniture. This chapter is your panic-reduction guide, your roadmap to getting from "Hmm, Costa Rica sounds nice" to "Okay, I've actually booked something!" without needing therapy afterward.

First up, the million-dollar question (well, hopefully not literally a million-dollar question, unless you're planning a very, very luxurious trip): When should I go? Costa Rica, like many tropical destinations, has distinct seasons, but they might not be what you expect. Forget spring, summer, autumn, winter. Think more like "sunny and slightly less humid" versus "green and expect afternoon rain."

The Dry Season, often charmingly called the "Golden Season" or Verano (Summer), runs roughly from December to April. This is peak tourist season for a reason: sunshine is abundant, especially along the Pacific coast and in the central highlands. Think glorious beach days, less chance of your volcano hike being rained out, and generally predictable weather. Wildlife spotting can sometimes be easier as animals congregate near remaining water sources and deciduous trees lose leaves. The downside? Everyone else knows this is the "good" weather season. Expect higher prices for flights and accommodation, more people jostling for that perfect sloth photo, and the need to book popular tours and lodges well in advance. Guanacaste, in the northwest, gets particularly dry and hot during this time.

Then there's the Green Season, also known as the Invierno (Winter) or, less appealingly, the rainy season, typically spanning from May to November. Don't let the "rainy" part scare you off entirely. It often translates to bright, sunny mornings followed by afternoon showers – sometimes a quick downpour, sometimes a more prolonged drizzle. The landscape explodes into fifty shades of vibrant green (hence the marketing-friendly name), waterfalls become raging torrents (in a good way), and the whole country feels incredibly lush and alive. The big advantages? Fewer crowds and lower prices. You might have trails or even beaches practically to yourself. The rain often clears up by evening, leaving things fresh and cool.

However, there are regional quirks. The Caribbean coast, for instance, marches to its own beat and can be rainier year-round, but often experiences a drier spell in September and October when the rest of the country is at its wettest – perfect for turtle watching in Tortuguero. Conversely, some areas, like the Osa Peninsula in the south, get seriously drenched in the peak rainy months (September/October), potentially making travel difficult and leading some lodges to close temporarily.

There are also delightful "mini-summers" within the green season, known locally as veranillo (little summer), often occurring around July or August, offering a temporary respite from the daily rains. These shoulder periods, like May or November, can offer a fantastic balance – greener landscapes, fewer crowds than the dry season, and less intense rain than the peak wet months.

Your timing might also depend on specific interests. Want to see humpback whales? They migrate from both north and south! Northern humpbacks visit the Pacific coast typically from December to April, while Southern humpbacks arrive from Antarctica around July and stay until November. The peak viewing times, especially around Uvita and the South Pacific, tend to be August and September, and sometimes January and February.

Hoping to witness sea turtle nesting? It happens year-round on various beaches, but specific species and peak seasons vary. For Green Sea Turtles in Tortuguero (Caribbean), the main nesting season is June to October, peaking July-August. Leatherbacks nest there primarily March to July. On the Pacific side, Olive Ridley turtles stage incredible mass nesting events called arribadas at Ostional National Wildlife Refuge, mainly between August and November. Hatchlings emerge roughly two months after nesting. Seeing these ancient rituals requires planning and often guided night tours, as beaches are protected after dark.

Okay, you've pondered the precipitation patterns. Now, Where should you go? Costa Rica might look small on a map, but it packs a staggering variety of landscapes and experiences. Trying to see everything in one trip is like trying to eat an entire celebratory cake in one sitting – ambitious, likely messy, and probably results in regret. It's better to focus on a few key regions that match your interests. We'll dive deep into each area in later chapters, but here's a quick trailer:

• San José & Central Valley (Chapters 7 & 8): The cultural heartland, home to the capital city, museums, coffee plantations, and several impressive (and accessible) volcanoes like Poás and Irazú. A good starting or ending point.
• Arenal & La Fortuna (Chapter 9): Adventure central! Think the iconic cone-shaped Arenal Volcano (stunning views, though no lava flows these days), hot springs, ziplining, rafting, and waterfall rappelling.
• Monteverde (Chapter 10): The mystical cloud forest. Famous for its hanging bridges through the canopy, incredible biodiversity (quetzals!), ziplines, and a cooler, misty climate.
• Guanacaste (North Pacific) (Chapter 11): Sun, sand, and surf. Known for drier weather, beautiful beaches ranging from resort hubs like Tamarindo to quieter surfing spots, and luxury resorts alongside budget options.
• Manuel Antonio (Central Pacific) (Chapter 12): Picture-perfect beaches meet lush rainforest in a popular (and busy) national park. Famous for easily spotted monkeys (watch your snacks!), sloths, and stunning coastal views.
• Osa Peninsula (South Pacific) (Chapter 13): Costa Rica's wild frontier. Incredibly biodiverse, remote, rugged, and home to Corcovado National Park – serious nature enthusiasts, this is your spot. Requires more effort and budget to explore.
• Tortuguero (North Caribbean) (Chapter 14): Accessed by boat or small plane, this is a network of canals and waterways. Think Amazon-lite, with abundant wildlife and the crucial sea turtle nesting sites. Expect rain.
• Puerto Viejo & South Caribbean (Chapter 15): Laid-back, Afro-Caribbean vibes. Reggae rhythms, beautiful beaches, unique food, and a more distinct cultural feel compared to the Pacific coast.

Think about what excites you most. Volcanoes and hot springs? Head to Arenal. Cloud forest mystique? Monteverde. Beach bumming and surfing? Guanacaste or the Central/South Pacific. Hardcore wildlife immersion? Osa. Turtles and canals? Tortuguero. Chilled Caribbean vibes? Puerto Viejo. Most trips combine 2-3 regions for a varied experience.

Next logical question: How long should I stay? This depends heavily on your budget, vacation time, and how much you want to see.

• One Week: Doable, but tight. You'll likely need to pick just one or maybe two regions that are relatively close together (e.g., Arenal and Monteverde, or Manuel Antonio and the Central Valley). You'll spend a decent chunk of time travelling between places.
• 10 Days: A popular option, allowing for a bit more breathing room. You could comfortably combine two major regions (like Arenal/La Fortuna and Manuel Antonio, or Monteverde and a Guanacaste beach) without feeling excessively rushed.
• Two Weeks: Ideal for a more comprehensive taste. This allows you to explore three, maybe even four, regions at a more relaxed pace, mixing adventure, wildlife, and beach time. You could do a classic loop like Arenal -> Monteverde -> Manuel Antonio, or explore both coasts.
• More than Two Weeks: Lucky you! This opens up possibilities for exploring more remote areas like the Osa Peninsula or Tortuguero without rushing, or simply spending longer relaxing in your favorite spots.

Remember to factor in travel time between destinations. Costa Rica's roads can be... adventurous (more on that in Chapter 5), so what looks like a short distance on the map can take several hours. Don't try to cram too much in! "Pura Vida" is about slowing down, remember?

Now, let's talk Budget. Costa Rica has a reputation for being pricier than its Central American neighbors, and that's generally true. However, it offers incredible biodiversity, relatively well-developed infrastructure for tourism, and a strong focus on conservation. You can travel Costa Rica on various budgets, but it helps to have realistic expectations. Here's a rough guide (excluding international flights, prices per person per day):

• Backpacker Budget: $50 - $75 USD per day. Think hostel dorms ($10-$20), local eateries called sodas ($6-$10 meals), public buses, and mostly free activities like hiking or beach time.
• Mid-Range: $100 - $200 USD per day. This allows for private rooms in comfortable mid-range hotels or eco-lodges ($70-$150), a mix of sodas and nicer restaurants ($10-$30 meals), shared or private shuttles or maybe a rental car, and paid activities like ziplining or guided park tours. This is a common budget range for many travelers.
• Luxury/High-End: $300+ USD per day. This opens doors to boutique hotels, luxury resorts, and high-end eco-lodges ($150-$375+), fine dining ($30+ meals), private transfers or a comfortable rental SUV, and premium tours or private guides.

These are just ballpark figures. Costs vary significantly depending on the season (dry season is pricier), location (popular tourist spots cost more), and your activity choices (adventure tours add up quickly). We'll dissect the local currency, the Colón, and how to handle money in Chapter 2. For now, start thinking about your comfort level and saving those pennies (or dollars).

Booking Flights: You've got two main international gateways into Costa Rica:

1. Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO): Located near the capital, San José (actually in Alajuela, about 20-45 mins from downtown San José). This is the country's largest and busiest airport, serving as a hub for many airlines. It's generally the better choice if your itinerary focuses on the Central Valley, Arenal, Monteverde, the Central or South Pacific coasts (Manuel Antonio, Osa), or the Caribbean coast.
2. Daniel Oduber Quirós International Airport (LIR): Located in Liberia, Guanacaste province, in the northwest. This airport primarily serves the popular beach destinations and resorts of the Guanacaste region and the Nicoya Peninsula. If your main goal is sun and sand in the North Pacific, flying into LIR can save you significant travel time compared to SJO.

Which airport is "better"? It entirely depends on your itinerary. Check flight prices for both, but also factor in the cost and time of ground transportation to your first destination. Sometimes a slightly cheaper flight into SJO isn't worth it if you immediately face a 5-hour drive to Guanacaste that you could have avoided by flying into LIR. Many major airlines fly into both airports.

Entry Requirements - The Not-So-Fine Print: Okay, pay attention, this part is important and ignoring it can lead to tears at the check-in counter.

• Passport: You need a valid passport. Duh. But validity rules differ. For many nationalities (including US, Canada, UK, EU - often referred to as Group One), your passport technically only needs to be valid for the duration of your stay, possibly even just one day beyond your intended departure date. However, some sources mention 3 or 6 months validity depending on nationality or visa type, and airlines can sometimes enforce stricter rules than the country itself. Best practice? Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your planned departure date from Costa Rica. This avoids any potential confusion or airline hassles. Also, make sure your passport is in good condition (no major rips or damage) and has at least one blank page for entry stamps.
• Visa: Citizens of many countries (including the US, Canada, UK, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, and most EU nations) generally do not need a tourist visa for stays up to 90 or even 180 days. The exact duration permitted is stamped in your passport by the immigration officer upon arrival and is at their discretion, though often aligns with your return ticket date up to the maximum allowed for your nationality. If you hold a valid visa for the US, Canada, Schengen/EU countries, South Korea, or Japan, you might also be exempt from needing a Costa Rican visa even if your nationality normally requires one. Always double-check the specific requirements for your nationality well before travel, as rules can change. Overstaying your permitted time can result in fines and future entry refusal.
• Proof of Onward Travel: This is the big one that trips people up. You must have proof that you will be leaving Costa Rica before your permitted stay expires. This usually means a pre-purchased return flight ticket or a ticket for onward travel to another country (e.g., a bus ticket to Panama or Nicaragua). Airlines are strict about this and likely won't let you board your flight to Costa Rica without it. If you're flying in on a one-way ticket or plan to leave via a different country or method, be prepared to show concrete proof of your exit plans (like that booked bus ticket). Immigration officials upon arrival will likely ask for this too. Don't wing this part!
• Financial Solvency: Immigration officials may ask for proof that you have sufficient funds for your stay (officially, a minimum of US$100 per month is mentioned, but having access to more via credit cards/bank accounts is wise). This isn't routinely asked, especially for tourists arriving by air, but it's a possibility.

Health & Vaccinations - Sticking Points: Nobody likes getting shots, but a little preparation can prevent unpleasant holiday souvenirs like tropical diseases.

• Consult Your Doctor: First and foremost, visit your doctor or a travel medicine clinic 4-6 weeks before your trip. They can provide personalized advice based on your health history, itinerary, and planned activities.
• Routine Vaccinations: Ensure your standard vaccinations (like Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR), Tetanus-Diphtheria-Pertussis) are up to date.
• Recommended Vaccinations: The CDC and WHO commonly recommend vaccinations against Hepatitis A and Typhoid for most travelers to Costa Rica, as these can be spread through contaminated food or water. Hepatitis B might also be recommended depending on your activities.
• Yellow Fever: Costa Rica itself does not have a risk of Yellow Fever. However, if you are arriving from a country with a risk of Yellow Fever transmission (certain countries in South America like Brazil, Colombia, Peru, Ecuador, Bolivia, Venezuela and several in Africa), you must show proof of Yellow Fever vaccination to enter Costa Rica. Check the current list of designated countries if this applies to your travel route.
• Mosquito-Borne Illnesses: Diseases like Dengue Fever, Chikungunya, and Zika Virus are present in Costa Rica, transmitted by mosquitoes. There's no vaccine for these for most travelers (though Dengue vaccines are emerging). Your best defence is prevention: use effective insect repellent (containing DEET, Picaridin, or Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus), wear long sleeves and pants when possible (especially at dawn and dusk), and stay in places with screens or air conditioning. Malaria risk is generally low but exists in certain areas; consult your doctor about whether anti-malarial medication is necessary for your specific itinerary.
• Traveler's Diarrhea: It happens. Changes in diet and unfamiliar microorganisms can cause stomach upset. Stick to bottled or treated water, especially in rural areas (tap water in most cities is generally potable but play it safe if unsure). Be mindful of food hygiene. Pack some basic remedies like anti-diarrheal medication and rehydration salts, just in case.

Travel Insurance - Don't Leave Home Without It!: Seriously. Get comprehensive travel insurance. It might seem like an annoying extra expense, but if something goes wrong – a medical emergency, cancelled flight, lost luggage, unexpected trip interruption – it can save you a fortune and a world of stress. Ensure your policy covers medical expenses (including evacuation if necessary), trip cancellation/interruption, and your planned activities (especially adventure sports like ziplining or rafting, which might require specific coverage). Read the policy carefully.

Packing Basics - The Tip of the Iceberg: We'll cover packing in more detail later, but start thinking about essentials:

• Lightweight, breathable clothing (layers are good)
• Rain gear (waterproof jacket, maybe an umbrella) – essential, even in the dry season!
• Swimsuit(s)
• Comfortable walking/hiking shoes (broken in!)
• Sandals or flip-flops
• Sunscreen (high SPF, reef-safe if possible)
• Insect repellent
• Hat and sunglasses
• Basic first-aid kit
• Reusable water bottle
• A sense of adventure and tolerance for humidity

What Kind of Trip Do You Want? Consider your travel style:

• Independent Travel: Renting a car (see Chapter 5!) and booking your own accommodations offers maximum flexibility. Great if you like setting your own pace.
• Guided Tours: Numerous companies offer package tours, ranging from basic transport and lodging to fully guided, all-inclusive adventures. Can simplify logistics, especially for first-timers or solo travelers.
• Backpacking: Utilizing hostels and public transport is the most budget-friendly way to explore.
• All-Inclusive Resorts: Primarily found in Guanacaste, offering a hassle-free beach vacation experience.
• Eco-Lodges: Costa Rica excels at these, offering unique stays focused on nature and sustainability, ranging from rustic to luxurious. Many have sustainability certifications.

Beware the Busy Times (Holidays): Costa Rica is a popular destination, especially during major holidays. Christmas, New Year's, and Semana Santa (Holy Week, the week leading up to Easter) are peak travel times. Expect significant price hikes (sometimes 40-50% higher), crowded attractions, and the need to book everything (flights, lodging, tours, even rental cars) many months, sometimes even a year, in advance. Many Costa Ricans travel domestically during these times too, especially to the beaches during Semana Santa. Some businesses might close on specific public holidays like Good Friday or May 1st (Labor Day). If you prefer fewer crowds and lower prices, avoid these absolute peak periods. Check Costa Rican public holidays for your planned dates.

Phew! That seems like a lot, but breaking it down step-by-step makes it manageable. Think about when you want to go based on weather and interests, sketch out a rough idea of where you want to visit, decide how long you can stay, set a budget, check those crucial entry and health requirements, and book your flights and insurance. The rest – detailed itineraries, packing lists, mastering basic Spanish phrases – can follow. You've got this. The land of Pura Vida awaits, and with a little planning, you can arrive ready for adventure, not anxiety. Now, onto figuring out those colourful Costa Rican bills...