Q: Why should I rent a house or condo rather than stay in a resort?
A: Where you stay and what you like is personal to your taste. Both have advantages, but we feel that a private vacation rental has advantages that far outweigh those of a hotel.

• Privacy
• Full kitchen to eat at home when you wish (results in savings on food costs)
• Usually a private pool or communal pool shared with a select few.
• Laundry facilities allows you to bring less clothes

Q: What currency does Costa Rica use? Are credit cards accepted and are there ATMs’?
A: The Costa Rican Currency is the Colon (named after its discoverer Christopher Columbus) The US Dollar is also widely accepted in Costa Rica. Credit cards are widely accepted at restaurants and stores and there are ATMs throughout Costa Rica.

Q: I’ve heard the roads are bad in Costa Rica, is it safe to drive?
A: The rural roads in Costa Rica are not paved and can be rough especially in the rainy season. However, the roads around Playa Hermosa, Coco, Liberia, and the Gulf of Papagayo Area are actually quite good as there are many luxury hotels and upscale communities that maintain their roads.

Q: Is it generally safe?
A: Costa Rica does have crime but substantially less than the U.S., Canada and Europe. Although it is safe caution should be used as you would at home. Personal physical attacks are very rare most crime is to property.

Q: Can we get someone to cook meals?
A: Private cooks are available but are limited so planning in advance is required. You should contact your Beachfront Concierge to make reservations. (This service is at additional costs and does not include food.)

Q: What services are provided with my rental?
A: Beachfront Rentals provide you with maid service for several hours everyday except Sunday and Holidays. (This service is provided during the holiday weeks of Christmas, New Years, and Easter but on a much more limited basis.)

Concierge Services are provided to each rental. The concierge can help with many aspects of your vacation. Reservations for cars, trips and tours can be made for you. Arranging private cooks and general help and information are also part of the concierge’s services.

Q: Is there a supermarket in the area?
A: There are 3 full service market in Playas del Coco about 10 minute drive from Playa Hermosa. There are two smaller grocery stores in Hermosa.

Q: Do I need a car?
A: This depends on which property you rent. However, we feel that at least one car is necessary to run errands and to personally tour all the sights.

Rent a Car

Q: Really how far away is the airport?
A: The Liberia International airport is a mere 25 minutes drive away.

Q: What about medical services?
A: There are emergency medical services with ambulances in Sardinal and Playas del Coco, which is about 10 minutes from Hermosa. There are also private and public hospitals 35 minutes away in Liberia.

Q: Does it rain a lot during the rainy season?
A: The rainy season starts in May and ends sometime in November. The rain is more frequent during the latter part of September through October. Actually the Green (Rainy) Season is tropical and an average “Green Day” is sunny throughout the morning and early afternoon. Then it gets cloudy and you may have a short shower or downpour. Sometimes, in the late day or evening you could have a thunderstorm followed the next day by sunshine.

Playa Hermosa and the Gulf of Papagayo region receives more sunshine than anywhere else in Costa Rica. There is less rain here than anywhere in the country. Many of our homes have palm trees and cactus in their landscaping.

Q: Are there many restaurants close by?
A: Playa Hermosa has several excellent restaurants and bars offering casual and upscale dining. Within a 10 minute drive there are dozens of restaurants of all kinds from the family run "sodas" to dining of "haute cuisine". There are restaurants to accommodate every kind of taste and pocketbook.

Q: Is the water safe to drink?
A: Yes! Water is potable in all parts of the country. We recommend that you travel with a bottle of water at all times to prevent dehydration.

Q: Are the beaches in the area safe for swimming?
A: Yes. Playa Hermosa, Playas del Coco, Playa Ocotal and Playa Panama beaches are located in Bahia Culebra (Snake Bay, named after its shape), which is reef protected and the surf is very calm. There are no riptide currents that are associated with the other beaches to the south. Nevertheless, the ocean should always be respected by those who intend to enjoy it.

Q: Are there any travel safety tips you can offer?
A: Unfortunately, petty theft in Costa Rica is common. While enjoying a swim, please always keep an eye on your belongings on the beach, or have a member of your party watch them for you. Keep your money on your person or in a safe place, and never leave anything of value in your car! It is also a good idea to keep a copy of your passport with you. Leave your passport at your vacation home in a safe place. You don’t want to lose it! Simply use your common sense.

Q: Are Credit Cards and US Dollars accepted by local businesses?
A: Credit Cards- For the most part, Yes. We advise you to notify your credit card company of your intent to travel abroad prior to your departure. U.S. Dollars - are generally accepted, but it’s better to use the local currency (Colones). Paying for goods or services with $100 bills can be problematic.

Q: What should I pack?
A: Costa Rica is very laid back and casual so there isn't a need for formal attire. Feel free to go light on luggage as even the nicer restaurants have relaxed standards of dress. Also be sure to pack walking shoes or amphibious hiking shoes to visit some areas you may want to see. These areas are forested and feature hot springs, various wildlife, waterfalls, and volcanoes. You may also want to ride the zip lines of a canopy tour and they require closed-toed shoes.

Q: Do I need a passport?
A: As of December 31, 2005, US visitors to Costa Rica are required to have a passport.

Q: What precautions should I take?
A: The Centers for Disease Control offers recommendations for certain vaccinations (such as tetanus), there are no health requirements for visiting the Costa Rica.

Q: Where can I buy bread, milk, meats…?
A: The Super Luperon is located on the main road in Playas del Coco (10 mins from Hermosa). It’s very similar to the grocery stores in the states. Please look at the Coco map on the last page for “Supermarket” for directions. They are open everyday from 8:30 to 8:00 except on Sundays, their hours are 9:00 to 2:00. If you need just the basic’s (bread, milk, drinks…) we have a small “super” here in Playa Hermosa.

Q: Will my cell phones work in Costa Rica?
A: Yes, SOME carriers have coverage in the Hermosa and Coco area. Please check with your carrier for official detail. Cell phone rentals are inexpensive, and coupled with an international credit card (bring this from home), you can stay in touch internatiolally. All domestic and received calls are free with the rental.

Q: How can I exchange Money?
A: Every bank will allow you to change your currency into Colones. Please bring your passport for any transactions.

Q: When do I pay my departure tax?
A: Payment can be made at the airport prior to checking in for your departure flight.