My Unforgettable Journey and Tips for Your Next Trip

by Duchess DJ Love: Author, Blogger, Caregiver, Frequent Traveler, Influencer, Digital Creator, Mentor, Photographer, and Podcaster

Costa Rica is a beautiful country located in Central America, known for its stunning natural beauty, friendly locals, and diverse wildlife. It is a popular destination for tourists from all over the world, especially for those who love adventure, nature, and eco-tourism. In this blog, I share my personal experiences from three trips to Costa Rica, along with tips and recommendations for first-time visitors.

If you’re planning to visit Costa Rica for the first time, there are a few things you should know. The country has a tropical climate, with temperatures ranging from the 80s or sometimes low 90s °F at the beach (27-32 °C) to crisp 60s and 70s °F (16-22 °C) in the higher elevation mountains. Costa Rica is home to 12 different life zones. They include lush jungles, misty cloud forests, coconut-tree-lined beaches, rocky coves, steaming volcanoes, and even dry savanna-like plains. The country keeps over 20% of its land in protected zones and national parks. You are sure to find some undeveloped gems too.

When it comes to wildlife, Costa Rica is home to a wide variety of animals, including monkeys, tropical birds like parrots, crocodiles, and beautiful butterflies like the blue morpho. Depending on what areas you visit, you may also see sloths, all sorts of frogs, sea turtles, and if you’re lucky, more elusive animals like anteaters and kinkajous.

Overall, Costa Rica is a wonderful place to visit, with something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, or just a chance to get away from it all, you’re sure to find it here. Costa Rica is a wonderful destination for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and culture enthusiasts.

However, there are some things you should know before visiting this Central American country. I have also authored a travel book on travel tips, sharing inspirational quotes and some of my trip pics called TravelTude a 30-Day Trip Tips Gratitude Devotional. The idea of this book is to allow travel to inspire your aspirations in life. Additionally, I have two podcasts on Costa Rica giving more insight on what it is like to visit this amazing country.

My Ultimate list of the most important tips:

• You will need a valid passport and a return ticket to enter Costa Rica. Depending on your nationality, you may also need a visa or a tourist card. You can check the requirements here.
• The local currency is the Costa Rican colón (CRC), but US dollars are widely accepted. You can exchange money at banks, hotels, or authorized agencies. ATMs are also available in most towns and cities. Credit cards are accepted in most places, but it is advisable to carry some cash for small purchases or tips.
• The official language is Spanish, but English is spoken by many people in the tourism industry. However, it is always polite and helpful to learn some basic phrases in Spanish, such as greetings, numbers, directions, and how to ask for help.
• Costa Rica has a tropical climate, with two main seasons: dry and rainy. The dry season runs from December to April, and the rainy season from May to November. The temperature varies depending on the altitude and the region, but it is generally warm and humid. You should pack light and comfortable clothing, as well as a rain jacket, a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen. You should also bring insect repellent, as mosquitoes and other bugs can transmit diseases such as dengue, Zika, and yellow fever.
• Costa Rica is famous for its biodiversity and natural beauty. You can explore its volcanoes, rainforests, beaches, and wildlife reserves, as well as enjoy activities such as hiking, zip-lining, rafting, surfing, and snorkeling. However, you should always respect the environment and the animals, and follow the rules and guidelines of the national parks and the tour operators. You should also avoid feeding or touching the wildlife, as this can harm them and you.
• Costa Rica is generally a safe and friendly country, but you should still exercise caution and common sense. You should avoid walking alone at night, especially in unfamiliar or isolated areas. You should also keep your valuables in a safe place or leave them at your hotel. If you rent a car, make sure it is in good condition and has insurance. You should also be aware of the road conditions and the traffic laws, as some roads are unpaved, narrow, or poorly marked. If you are robbed, do not resist or fight back, as this may escalate the situation.
• Costa Rica has a rich and diverse culture, influenced by its indigenous, European, African, and Asian heritage. Try experiencing its music, dance, art, and cuisine, as well as its festivals and traditions. You can also learn about its history, politics, and social issues, as well as its challenges and achievements. You should always be respectful and curious, and try to interact with the locals, who are known for their hospitality and happiness.

TravelTude’s unique attractions for your trip to Costa Rica:

1. Visit the Orosi Valley: This beautiful valley is located in the Cartago province and is home to the oldest church in Costa Rica, the Iglesia de San Jose de Orosi.
2. Take a dip in the hot springs: Costa Rica is home to many natural hot springs, which are perfect for relaxing after a long day of exploring. Some of the most popular ones include Tabacon Hot Springs and Baldi Hot Springs.
3. Go on a chocolate tour: Costa Rica is known for its delicious chocolate, and there are many tours available that allow you to learn about the history of chocolate and how it is made. Some of the best tours are offered by the Rainforest Chocolate Tour and the Tirimbina Biological Reserve.
4. Visit the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve at night: The Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve is a beautiful place to visit during the day, but it is even more magical at night. Take a guided night tour to see the forest come alive with nocturnal animals like bats, owls, and kinkajous.
5. Try the local cuisine: Costa Rican cuisine is delicious and unique, with dishes like gallo pinto (rice and beans), ceviche (raw fish marinated in lime juice), and casado (a traditional dish with rice, beans, plantains, salad, and a choice of meat).

I hope these tips help you plan an unforgettable trip to Costa Rica! If you have any more questions, feel free to ask me. 😊. By the way, I have over 40 TravelTude Trip Tips in another blog. You might find them beneficial. Here’s the link: https://gallivantinglikearoyal.com/my-traveltude-essential-travel-tips/.

If you like my videos, then you can create content with Wave.video like me. Use this link for a special: https://wave.video?ref=ngyxnzc.

Ready to pack your suitcases for Costa Rica?

Here is TravelTude’s list of 20 essential items to pack for your trip to Costa Rica:

1. Original passport: Must be your original passport that is not expired and will not expire during your time in Costa Rica.
2. Original valid driver’s license (if you are renting a car or driving): Cannot be expired or will expire while you are in Costa Rica.
3. No foreign transaction fee credit card: Make sure to bring two with one as a back up because AMEX is not as widely accepted so bring a Visa card (the most widely accepted). Apple Pay/digital cards are not widely accepted in Costa Rica at all.
4. Travel insurance: Highly recommended especially now we know due to the pandemic that anything can happen! Check Safety Wing (great for digital nomads), World Nomads (ideal for adventurers) or browse through various options from Visitors Coverage to find the one that fits your needs.
5. Your return flight ticket out of Costa Rica: This can be printed or saved on your phone to show to immigration if they ask.
6. Hot weather clothing: Costa Rica has a tropical climate, so lightweight, fast-drying clothes are recommended. At the beach, where daytime temperatures reach up to 95°F (35°C) with high humidity, your wardrobe will consist of shorts, tank tops, t-shirts, and flip flops. In the city, where daytime temperatures are around 78°F (25°C), we recommend closed-toed shoes, long pants, and a light jacket or sweater. If you’re visiting higher elevation areas (Monteverde, Bajos del Toro, Vara Blanca, Poas, San Isidro de Perez Zeledon, San Gerardo de Dota, San Jose, Heredia, etc.), then long pants, a warm sweater, long socks, and a jacket are necessary.
7. Comfortable footwear: Bring comfortable sandals, hiking shoes/trail running shoes, or closed-toed hiking sandals.
8. Swimwear: Costa Rica is home to many beautiful beaches, so don’t forget to pack your swimwear.
9. Mosquito repellent: Mosquitoes are common in Costa Rica, so it’s important to bring mosquito repellent with you.
10. Sunscreen: Costa Rica is located near the equator, so the sun can be intense. Make sure to bring sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30+.
11. Sunglasses and a hat: Protect your eyes and face from the sun with sunglasses and a hat.
12. Battery pack: Keep your phone charged on the go with a portable battery pack.
13. Medical kit: Bring a basic medical kit with you, including items like band-aids, pain relievers, and antihistamines.
14. Waterproof phone case: Protect your phone from water damage with a waterproof phone case.
15. Camera: Capture all the beautiful sights of Costa Rica with a camera.
16. Day pack: Bring a small backpack or day pack to carry your essentials around with you.
17. Rain jacket: Costa Rica has a rainy season from May to November, so it’s a good idea to bring a rain jacket with you.
18. Insulated water bottle: Stay hydrated on the go with an insulated water bottle.
19. Learn some Spanish: English is spoken at most tourist accommodations and attractions, but Duolingo can help you learn some basic phrases to assist you while on the go. Dónde está el baño? Where is the restroom?
20. Allow plenty of time: In Costa Rica, you are on tico time. That means no rush, so you may wait for a while dining out. Tico time is a somewhat affectionate reference to the Costa Rican habit of arriving late for appointments, dates and even business meetings. The best way to combat this propensity is to prepare for a late arrival – or schedule appointments for 30-60 minutes earlier.

I hope this helps you pack for your trip to Costa Rica! In this blog, I have shared some of my favorite photos from my trips to Costa Rica, along with packing tips and the basics of a first-time visit. Whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, or just a chance to get away from it all, Costa Rica has something for everyone.

In conclusion, may my blog inspire you to visit Costa Rica and experience its natural beauty, friendly locals, and diverse wildlife. With my personal experiences, travel tips book (TravelTude – link below to purchase), podcasts, photos, and packing tips, you’ll be well-equipped to plan your own unforgettable trip to this tropical paradise.

Gallivanting Like A Royal show presents Costa Rica with Austin J Haines

🎬 Austin J Haines has returned from Costa Rica and joins me again on my Gallivanting Like A Royal show for a recap of his trip. Join us Sunday, January 15th 8:30 PM EST/7:30 PM EST for more information on Costa Rica. After visiting Costa Rica three times, the country is one of my favorites. It holds a special place in my heart and the Costa Ricans. Twice, I volunteered to help those in need in this beautiful country.

The first episode aired Sunday, January 8, 2023 at 12:30pm EST /11:30am CST to discuss Costa Rica!

Austin J Haines – Life & Business Coach, Writer, & Speaker as well as a best selling author is planning a retreat to Costa Rica in 2024. He is the author of Flashpoint – Manifesting The Moment Of Your Big Breakthrough and TV Host of the Power of Pure Presence show.

Also I have guests lined up from all around the world for a show & tell. I will share my travel tips and inspiration. Follow me on YouTube and Facebook to know when the next show will air. I’m publishing podcasts too. Let me know what your interests are. I’m an avid reader and plan to share some DuchessNotes as we progress.

TravelTude is a 30-Day Trip Tips Gratitude Devotional with Bonus readings and photos from the upcoming Gallivanting Like a Royal book series. Inspiration, travel tips, quotes, photos, and valuable insight to make your life and especially your vacations memorable.

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