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Discover the Wonders of Costa Rica with El Colibri Callejero!
Introduction to the blog
Oct 16, 20254 min read
The Costa Rica Drive-Time Trap: Why “It’s Only 30 Miles Away” Means Absolutely Nothing
One of the biggest mistakes travelers make when planning trips to Costa Rica is underestimating how long it actually takes to get from place to place. On paper, the country looks small. In reality, travelling around Costa Rica can take far longer than visitors expect, especially if you’re trying to bounce between multiple destinations or events during a short trip. It’s Time to Think Differently When most people from the U.S. plan road trips, we subconsciously use U.S. drivin
4 days ago5 min read
Villa Vanilla Spice Tour: One of Costa Rica’s Most Flavorful Experiences
Costa Rica has tons of excitement to offer, and events like ziplining, surfing, and whitewater rafting draw tons of visitors. One of the best ways to round out your trip is to change up the excitement with something fascinating. If you are traveling to the Quepos or Manuel Antonio area, we think you’ll be delighted and maybe even surprised by the Villa Vanilla Spice Tour. An exposed vanilla flower The Villa Vanilla Spice Tour, tucked into the hills above Quepos near Manuel An
May 204 min read
The Soda: the Ultimate in Costa Rican Food
One of the most common mistakes we see from first-time visitors to Costa Rica is how they approach dining out. This is because Costa Rica kind of breaks the mold when it comes to restaurants and fine dining. Many travelers, regardless of the country they are visiting, are looking for lavish or luxurious dining experiences to make their trip memorable. This is often the wrong strategy for Costa Rica, depending on which part of the country you are visiting. In most areas, the k
May 87 min read
Beyond the Cavendish: a Look at the Fascinating Story of Bananas and Plantains in Costa Rica
Most people from the states are probably familiar with only one variety of banana (the Cavendish) and think of plantains in terms of their ripeness (green or yellow). If you visit Costa Rica and don’t pay attention, you can leave Costa Rica with that same understanding of the fruit. However, you’d miss an opportunity to try more interesting varieties and learn about an important part of Tico history and culture. From left to right: Banano Dulce, Banano Criollo, Plátano Cuadra
May 54 min read
Things to do in and around Manuel Antonio National Park
Manuel Antonio is one of the most visited destinations in Costa Rica. It’s easy to reach, relatively compact, and offers a delightful mix of stunning beaches and lush jungle. Quepos, the charming city adjacent to the national park, boasts a wide variety of guided activities and vibrant nightlife that cater to a diverse range of travelers. That said, it can get quite busy. Planning ahead, especially during peak season, is essential to ensure you can secure reservations before
Apr 233 min read
Frequently asked questions
Culture Crash Course
Regions
Payment Methods
Travel Planning
A: While Costa Rica generally has potable water in most urban and touristic areas, it's always a good idea to carry some with you, especially if you're heading off the beaten path. At Colibri Callejero, we encourage our readers to stay hydrated and safe during their adventures. Packing a reusable water bottle is both eco-friendly and convenient. Always check local advisories or our latest blog posts for any travel-specific tips about water safety and availability for the areas you'll be exploring. Happy travels from the Colibri Callejero team!
A: While credit and debit cards are widely accepted in urban areas and popular tourist destinations in Costa Rica, it's advisable to carry some cash, especially if you plan to visit remote areas or small towns. Cash can be handy for small purchases, local markets, and tipping. Colones, the local currency, is preferred, although U.S. dollars are also commonly accepted. Local bank ATMs, such as Banco National, are available in major cities to make withdrawals. Always have a mix of payment options to ensure a smooth and worry-free travel experience.
A: Yes, certain vaccines are recommended for travel to Costa Rica to ensure a safe and healthy trip. Please refer to both your departing country and Costa Rica's health guidelines regarding what vaccines to obtain. Regarding yellow fever, if you are traveling from a country with a risk of yellow fever, you may be asked to present proof of vaccination upon arrival in Costa Rica. As for rabies, while Costa Rica hasn't reported a rabies case in multiple decades, we recommend getting the rabies vaccine as a preventative measure, especially if you plan to spend a lot of time outdoors or interact with animals. We only recommend this because Costa Rica has recently moved the rabies vaccination schedule behind their government healthcare system, making it increasingly difficult for tourists to obtain it once they are in the country. Always consult with your healthcare provider or a travel medicine specialist for personalized advice and to ensure you have the most current and relevant information for your trip.
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