Welcome to Costa Rica: Your Essential First-Timer's Guide
The Basics
Costa Rica stands as a beacon of natural beauty and vibrant culture, welcoming travelers with its lush rainforests, stunning beaches, and diverse wildlife. As you prepare to embark on this adventure, here are some key tips and facts to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip:
Currency and Banking: The Costa Rican Colón (CRC) is the local currency. It's a good idea to withdraw some cash at the airport upon arrival, as ATMs are widely available there. While credit cards are accepted in many tourist areas, cash is handy for smaller expenses.
First Night in Alajuela
After landing at Juan Santamaría International Airport, located in the small town of Alajuela, many travelers choose to spend their first night there. This allows for a restful start before journeying across Costa Rica, as travel to other regions can be time-consuming.
Transportation Tips
Use official taxis or pre-arranged transportation for safety and convenience. Make sure the taxi has a working meter ("maría") to ensure fair pricing. Most Hotels in Alajuela do offer pick-up services, so best is just to check with them ahead of time.
Safety Measures
Costa Rica is generally safe, but basic caution is always advisable, especially for solo travelers.
Avoid going to the beach at night, and be extra cautious when going out to drink. It's better to take safety measures such as staying in groups and keeping an eye on your drinks.
As a solo female traveler, it's particularly important to avoid being alone at night in unfamiliar areas.
Basic Country Facts
Capital: San José.Language: Spanish, with English widely spoken in tourist regions.
Climate: Tropical, with a dry season (December to April) and a wet season (May to November).
Biodiversity: Known for its rich wildlife and eco-tourism, Costa Rica offers a myriad of natural parks and reserves.
Armed with these insights, you're all set for a journey that's not just exhilarating but also secure. Enjoy the wonders of Costa Rica, from its scenic landscapes to its warm-hearted people. Welcome to an experience that promises both adventure and tranquility!
The Places You Want to Visit as a First-Timer:
San José, Costa Rica's vibrant capital, is an ideal starting point for travelers flying into Juan Santamaría International Airport in Alajuela, located about 17 kilometers (approximately 10.5 miles) away.
The city is not only a hub of history and culture but also a gateway to diverse culinary experiences and modern amenities. If you do like to explore cities, I do recommend to visit San Jose which can be surprisingly urban and hip while also offering cultural flagships like the slightly stressful market in the city centre.
For accommodation, Selina stands out as a central and recognizable option in San José. Known for catering to digital nomads, Selina offers a unique blend of aesthetics, comfort, and community. It provides a familiar and reliable experience much like a fast-food chain; once you've stayed at one Selina, you'll know what to expect in others. However, it's worth noting that while Selina is known for its ecosystem, sometimes the balance between price and quality may vary. The overall service is solid, but some aspects might be compromised for cost-efficiency.Selina's central location in San José places you within walking distance of hip eateries, showcasing the city's rich culinary scene. From local Costa Rican dishes to international cuisine, the dining options near Selina cater to a variety of tastes.
Food in San Jose
All over the area of Escalante, which is in 10 minute walking distance from the Selinas in San Jose, is an amazing food hotspot. I spent hours waking through this hip neighbourhood and exploring the broad variety of culinary experiences. Disclaimer: If you are wanting to eat ALL the Costa Rican food, this is not the guide for it. You can be sure that there will come more stops on your journey where you will get to enjoy Costa Rican food, but I felt like San Jose has a lot more to offer than that.
@elenaprilisauer
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