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FAQ'S
Q: Do I need any immunizations?
A: We have not had any problems with Malaria or
Hepatitis in our region. The only time we recommend
a hepatitis shot is if you plan on surfing after
heavy storms in September or October.
Q: Is there an ATM locally?
A: Yes, there is a full-time bank and ATM in town. The only card that will work for cash withdrawal either from the ATM or bank must have a Visa logo on it. Mastercard is not accepted at the bank or ATM.
Q: Do you accept credit cards or traveler's checks?
A: Most businesses in Nosara will accept Visa
and some but not all, may take MasterCard. American
Express and Diner's cards are rarely accepted,
if ever. Traveler's checks are hard to cash and really aren’t worth the hassle most places.
Q: Are there sharks?
A: Ocean = sharks... so, yes there are sharks here.
But, there are no reefs where we surf and all of
the reef sharks stay way out on the outer reef
shelves where the food supply for them is abundant.
We have not seen a shark in our shallow waters
in the 11 years we have been here.
Q: Can I stay for less than or more than 7 days?
A: Absolutely! Just let us know which package appeals
to you, how many rooms you'll be needing, the length
of your stay and from there we can put a custom
package together suited to your needs.
Q: Do I need to bring any type of electrical adapter for the plug outlets in Costa Rica?
A: No, The outlets in Costa Rica are the same as the US and do not require and adapter.
Q: Is there a place to buy toiletries and other goods?
A: Yes, there are a couple of mini-markets in town, one is within walking distance
Q: Is there internet service at the hotel?
A: The Casa Tucan hotel has public Wifi access to the internet. There is also internet service at the Pura Vida, Harbor Reef Hotel & there are a couple of "internet cafes" in town within walking distance. 2 cafes across the street from Casa Tucan have free Wifi and free calls to the US and Canada.
Q: What's the deal with the trash can next to the toilet in Costa Rica?
A:
90% of Costa Rica is on a septic system. With rare exception, all the hotels and establishments are on a septic system and therefore have the same rule that toilet paper can NOT be flushed. Due to the issues of septic back-up which can become a seriously "nasty" affair.
Q: Can I contribute to local schools or the local community in Nosara through a donation of some sort?
A:
The answer is YES. Click here to find out more info.
Q: What about bugs?
A: For being a semi-dry rainforest climate, this area of Costa Rica is not too bad with bugs. If you are from Southern California, it might be annoying, but for most people from other parts of the world, you are used to bugs during certain seasons. So, yes, there are bugs here. Mostly it is a problem for people during the transitions of seasons: from the wet to the dry season (November) or the dry to the wet season (April/May). Bring mosquito repellent with you if you are sensitive to bites, anytime you are coming. People also sometimes get bit by no-see-ums (usually around dusk/dawn around the full moons). The no-see-ums do not leave welts. If you need repellent (natural or with DEET) the local markets also sell it. Be sure to check shoes if not wearing flip-flops, scorpions do like dark places and they'll bite you if you jam your foot into their hiding spot.
Q: What animals do I need to know about? Are they dangerous?
A: Just check your shoes or shake out clothes and towels before using them. You most likely will get bit by an insect or two. Anything else is unusual. Most of the animals here are scared of people and will stay clear of you. You'll see them, but try chasing an iguana or monkey and see how close you can get!
Q: What is the culture like in Costa Rica?
A: Like most Latin American cultures, Costa Rican culture is very family-oriented. Family and community and good relations are very important. As a tourist you will find that most Costa Ricans will be friendly, helpful and, very patient if you use your bad Spanish to ask questions or get acquainted. In fact, the culture here is patient overall. You will not find that people will rush you in stores or restaurants. In the city areas especially, people read the papers daily and often know more about world events than your average tourist. It is difficult to describe a culture in a few sentences. We recommend spending time with people when you are here.
Q: Do people speak English or only Spanish?
A: Don't expect everyone to speak English. However, in Nosara, many of the Ticos do speak English because they work in the tourism industry. Many Europeans who also own hotels/restaurants here also speak English. If you speak any Spanish, or want to try, this is a great place to do so. People appreciate your efforts.
Q: What is the better season for visiting Costa Rica: summer or winter?
A: Depends. Most people seem to prefer the dry season (or "summer" which is actually Nov.-April). Others prefer some rain and the lush green of the wet season (or "winter" which is actually May-Nov.). It is more humid and buggy in the wet season, but some people still prefer it for the rain, lush greenery around you, and the abundant wildlife teeming everywhere. Basically, all times are great in our opinion. September through October is the rainiest, and some of the hotels and restaurants close then.
Q: Is traveling with children safe in Costa Rica?
A: Given that no place anywhere is 100% safe: traveling with children in Costa Rica is a great way to take a family trip. Costa Ricans love children, and there is a lot of space afforded you if you have children. Costa Rica has very sanitary conditions, safe water, great healthcare- so concerns about those issues are not present here.
Q: What about crime in Costa Rica?
A: There is petty crime almost everywhere, especially in Latin America. Costa Rica is not an exception. Do not wear flashy jewelry, do not display large amounts of money, keep valuables locked up and do not leave them unattended, even in a locked car. If you do these things, your chances are greatly reduced to experience any problems with crime in Costa Rica. As for violent crime, the percentages are much lower here than in many developed countries. People pick up hitch-hikers as a matter of routine, if that gives you an idea of the concern for violent crime in Nosara.
Q: What is 'Pura Vida!' & what does it mean?
A: It means "pure life"; "good life"; "all is well"; "all should be well, life here is so good"; "of course life is good; "Good bye from Costa Rica"; "Hello/Hi!".... lots of meanings. You'll hear it as an answer to questions like: "How are you?", "how's life?", "how's work?" .... Costa Ricans are very proud of their country and the blend of being a developing country yet keeping much of the environment from urbanization or overdevelopment. Life here is considered to be a very good life. This is uniquely a Costa Rican expression for the most part. ....Pura Vida!
Q: Should I schedule tours and activities ahead of time or wait?
A: We recommend scheduling fishing charters (half or full day ) ahead of time, so if this is an important activity for your trip, you do not miss out. Just Let Tyler or Kim know that you're interested in fishing upon your arrival and they'll get it set up for you. However, if you are coming around the winter holidays or spring break or Easter week, just to avoid the hassle of squeezing things in among other visitors coming the same time - you may want to schedule some other activities if they are important too: boat tours, horseback riding, renting quads, etc.
Q: What do people do in Nosara, do I need to bring entertainment?
A: If you like to play games or read, bring those items. Most people surf, swim, lounge, read, chat, and enjoy the outdoors and activities available here. Video games might be the only thing hard to find. Direct TV is at the hotel bar and if your favorite ball game is on I'm sure you can ask the lovely bar gal to check to see if it's on!! There are also nice restaurants in town which have live music, karaoke, pool tables, and the usual things like that. In town there is a disco / salsa club that get's hopping on the weekends called the Tropicana.
Q: Can I really see monkeys in the trees there?
A: Yes, pretty much year round, if you try hard (and mostly even if you don't) you can see them moving through the trees in troops (monkey tribes). You'll see the Congo or mantled Howler monkeys, the males are loud... you'll probably hear them before you see them!
Q: How likely is it that we could see an arrivada in Ostional?
A: The Olive Ridley Turtle arrivadas (arrivals) usually happen with frequency from April through November.If you can plan it right, its more likely if you are here about 10 days past a full moon. Sometimes you see individual turtles, but an arrivada is a large group of nesting turtles that is really a spectacle to see.
Q: What is the night life like in Nosara?
A: There are restaurants, bars, clubs, dancing, live music, pool, karaoke, all available depending upon your taste and interests. It is not a bustling city, but there is a night life here.
Q: How long is the drive from San Jose or Liberia to Nosara?
A: The drive from Liberia to Nosara is 2 1/2 -3 hours, or longer, if you encounter something unusual. The drive to/from San Jose to/from Nosara is about 4 - 41/2 hours, given no unusual incidents, such as road work or accidents.
Q: What are the advantages to driving or flying from the international airports to Nosara?
A: The advantages for driving are that you can leave immediately, take more luggage and surfboards, and it is often less expensive. If you are renting a car anyway, this may be the way to go. The advantage to flying is it can be faster if you time your international and national flights to coincide well. The commuter flights can be less expensive if you are not renting a car later, and you don't have to navigate 4 hours of driving, depending upon the number in your party. The flight is 45 minutes more or less and it is gorgeous, it's a nice bonus as an air tour! You also may choose to hire a driver, which is less work for you, less costly than flying if you have a large party, and allows for you to take a lot of gear easily.
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