What Happens When You Land in Costa Rica?

If you’re a first-time traveler to Costa Rica, you might be wondering “what’s going to happen when I land?” International travelers know the basic routine regarding immigration and customs. However, if this is your first Costa Rican trip and you’re getting traveler’s anxiety–I still do–here’s the rundown. During Your Flight to Costa Rica First of … Read more

Colones or Dollars?

Colones and Dollars

One question I hear over and over is “Should I use colones or U.S. dollars when I travel to Costa Rica?” Or, more often, “Can I use U.S. dollars in Costa Rica?” I have mixed feelings. Growing up within driving distance from Canada, it wasn’t unusual for us to interchange our money with Canadian. We’re … Read more

Chillin’ in Cartago…Literally

Basilica lit up after dark

When I was chosen to be an exchange student back in 1984–you know, what seems like the freaking “olden days” now, I was elated. Shortly after the adventure started, I found myself wondering if I had been given the short end of the stick when I found out that others in the group were headed … Read more

Packing for Costa Rica

With a trip to Costa Rica always in the future, I thought I’d compile a list of things girls might consider when packing for Costa Rica. Packing for any destination is less stressful if you keep things simple. You’ll be much happier and you’ll have more room in your suitcase for souvenirs! First, it’s always … Read more

McDonald’s in Costa Rica

I will always choose mom & pop restaurants, or sodas, in Costa Rica instead of fast food, but I’m the first to admit I enjoy McDonald’s in Costa Rica. Did you know they serve the old-fashioned deep fried pies? Here’s what else I love about McDonald’s in Costa Rica.

Getting a Costa Rican SIM card

Kolbi cell phone service sign

If you’re coming to Costa Rica and don’t know what to do about phone service, here are instructions on how to get a Kolbi SIM card (or chip) and how to use it. Remember, you must have an unlocked phone and here’s what to do from start to finish.

The Big Ass List of Costa Rican Slang

Frogs hear no evil see no evil speak no evil

What? Me using slang? Who would’ve thought! I’ve been using Costa Rica slang and dichos since I was an exchange student in 1984 giggling with the rest of my schoolmates (who used to set me up to say bad words I didn’t understand). Here’s a LONG list of my favorites.