RSSVacation On The Cheap: Little Known Budget Travel Tips For A Wise Costa Rica Vacation
Jan 02
Costa Rica beaches, budget travel, Costa Rica, costa rica tourism, Costa Rica Vacations, destination, ecotourism, family, fishing, Medical Tourism, tourism, travel, vacation No Comments
Popular Costa Rica has been a favorite vacation destination for Americans, Canadians and, increasingly, Europeans, for many years. Though it is one of the smaller countries on the planet, about the size of West Virginia, its many attractions are world-famous: nearly 800 miles of uncrowded coastlines on two oceans; parks and reserves covering more than a quarter of its land area; and a staggering diversity of plants and animals.
Volcanoes, terrific angling, some of the best surfing anywhere, whitewater river rafting or family rafting adventures, ziplining 80 feet in the top of tropical canopies, and, of course, Costa Rica’s famous adult nightlife. What happens here stays here, unless you want to brag about your exploits in Facebook.
You will find a vacation for everybody’s budget. For those favoring luxury, there are places like the Papagayo Four Seasons and Los Suenos Resorts. But, if these are a bit pricey ,at least until your ship comes in, or if you prefer more rustic accommodations, you can travel Costa Rica quite nicely on a more limited budget.
1. Save twenty percent or more on hotels and resorts: Observe travel seasons
a. Budget travelers should schedule around Peak Season, of which there are two: Easter week and Christmas. Christmas through New Years week (December 15-January 5) and Easter Week are Peak Season for two groups of tourists: overseas visitors and locals. Summer vacation for Costa Rica schools begins in December and thousands of Ticos head to the most popular beaches. Easter week is another very popular vacation period for locals. They will find the cheapest bargains. For you, prices will still be way better than in Europe or the U.S. but you can do far better at other times.
b. High Season extends from January to the end of April coinciding with winter in North America and Europe . Many tourists travel Costa Rica during this time because of the sunny tropical weather, a fact not lost on resorts and hotels. Though prices in this Latin American country are less than in Florida, Arizona, and the Texas coast, Snowbirds get plucked a bit more than during off-season (just like back home).
c. Green (Low) Season offers the best travel and accommodation deals for those on a Costa Rica vacation. Many visitors mistakenly think that it rains every day though, in fact, most days are sunny and warm. When there are showers they tend to last only an hour or so and typically arrive in the afternoon or early evening. For the greatest budget travel deals, this is the time of year to visit. Students and families from the North are on summer vacation until mid-August but prices are good and accommodations available in most places. And, the best time for budget travel is September through mid-November when (if you ask) there are often discounts of 20-35 percent available. Over a seven day vacation, it is like getting two days free!
2. Plan ahead when renting a car and save $25 a day
If you rent a car on the internet like so many others, you should expect to learn upon your arrival that the rental agency plans to charge an additional fee of $25 or more per day for liability insurance! Rule 1: If your automobile policy at home includes liability coverage, that insurance is good in Costa Rica. Recommendation: bring a copy of the policy along with the email and facsimile number of your insurance agent and save that money for your vacation. Rule 2: Many credit cards offer a little known benefit: liability insurance coverage for rentals when the card is used. Contact your credit card company before you travel for best results.
3. Save at least five percent on things you buy because Cash is King
Many stores like cash over credit cards and when asked if there is a discount for cash will offer 5 percent and sometimes much more. Ask “Que (pronounced “K”) es discuento por efectivo?” which means “What is the discount for cash?” Be sure the bills are new and not defaced with even a tiny tear. Many restaurants, merchants, and hostels will not accept a $100 bill so bring smaller denominations.
4. Save 10 percent while dining: Do not pay two tips in a restaurant
You will learn that many restaurants, particularly those frequented by foreign Costa Rica travelers, automatically include a 10 percent tip (called “servicio”) on a bill. They are required by law to advise patrons on the menu but few pubs, cafes, or restaurants do so and so are rewarded by unknowing foreigners who leave a second tip. If you pay attention to your bill, you might save yourself paying two tips. And, remember, when in doubt, ask if the tip is included on the bill.
Victor Krumm writes from Costa Rica. His fun and authoritative website about Costa Rica Vacations. Ever imagined learning how to surf? Check out www.costarica-discCosta Rica Surfing for world-renowned beaches and incredible waves
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