Costa Rica: Natural Parks & Tropical Forests Plus optional extensions in
Corcovado National Park and Tortuguero National Park: Ultimate Rainforest Experience
2016
Overseas Adventure Travel Costa Rica: Natural Parks & Tropical Forests Handbook Table of Contents 1. TRAVEL DOCUMENTS & ENTRY REQUIREMENTS ................................................................. 3 YOUR PASSPORT ....................................................................................................................................... 3 NO VISAS REQUIRED ................................................................................................................................ 3 DEPARTURE FEE FOR COSTA RICA ........................................................................................................... 4 EMERGENCY PHOTOCOPIES ...................................................................................................................... 4 AIRPORT TRANSFERS ................................................................................................................................ 4 2. HEALTH ................................................................................................................................................ 5 IS THIS ADVENTURE RIGHT FOR YOU? .................................................................................................... 5 STEPS TO TAKE BEFORE YOUR TRIP ........................................................................................................ 6 STAYING HEALTHY ON YOUR TRIP .......................................................................................................... 8 3. MONEY MATTERS ............................................................................................................................. 9 HOW TO CARRY YOUR MONEY ................................................................................................................ 9 Cash...................................................................................................................................................... 9 ATMs .................................................................................................................................................... 9 Credit Cards ....................................................................................................................................... 10 CURRENCY .............................................................................................................................................. 11 TIPPING ................................................................................................................................................... 11 COST OF MEALS ...................................................................................................................................... 11 SHOPPING IN COSTA RICA ...................................................................................................................... 12 U.S. Customs Regulations and Shipping Charges ............................................................................. 13 4. CLIMATE: A WORD ABOUT THE WEATHER ........................................................................... 14 Climate by Location ........................................................................................................................... 14 Online Forecast .................................................................................................................................. 15 5. PACKING JUST WHAT YOU NEED .............................................................................................. 16 YOUR LOCKS & LUGGAGE ..................................................................................................................... 16 LUGGAGE LIMITATIONS ................................................................................................................ 17 CLOTHING SUGGESTIONS ....................................................................................................................... 18 TRAVELER’S CHECKLISTS ...................................................................................................................... 19 A WORD ABOUT ELECTRICITY ............................................................................................................... 22 6. LEARN ABOUT YOUR DESTINATIONS ...................................................................................... 23 COSTA RICA AT A GLANCE ..................................................................................................................... 23 Historical Overview ........................................................................................................................... 23 CULTURE & POINTS TO KNOW ............................................................................................................... 25 Language Barrier ............................................................................................................................... 25 Taking Photographs ........................................................................................................................... 25 SAFETY & SECURITY .............................................................................................................................. 26 COMMUNICATIONS ................................................................................................................................. 26 7. ADDITIONAL RESOURCES ............................................................................................................ 27 SUGGESTED READINGS ........................................................................................................................... 27 SUGGESTED MOVIES ............................................................................................................................... 29 USEFUL WEBSITES .................................................................................................................................. 30
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Travel Documents
1. Travel Documents & Entry Requirements Your Passport Please take a moment to confirm that your passport meets all of these requirements: • It should be valid for at least 6 months after your scheduled return to the U.S. • It should have the recommended number of blank pages (see below for details). • The blank pages must be labeled “Visas” at the top. Pages labeled “Amendments and Endorsements” are not acceptable.
Recommended number of blank pages Know that this recommendation is based on a “worst case” scenario. When you are on this adventure, you might use fewer pages, depending on the whims of the Immigration official on duty that day. Since the consequence of having too few pages can be severe—you could be denied entry into a country—we at OAT feel that in this case, safe is better than sorry, and we strongly recommend that you follow these guidelines. •
Main trip and any extensions: You will require 2 blank passport pages.
If you need to renew your passport Contact the National Passport Information Center (NPIC) at 1-877-487-2778, or visit their website at www.travel.state.gov for information on obtaining a new passport or renewing your existing passport. You may also contact our recommended visa service company, PVS International, at 1-800-556-9990 for help with your passport.
No Visas Required The following information applies to U.S. citizens only. All visas and fees are subject to change. •
Costa Rica—visa not required: A visa is not required for entry into Costa Rica. However, you will need to pay a departure fee of approximately $29. Please see the “Departure Fee for Costa Rica” section on the next page for details.
Embassy contact information If you are staying longer, you should check with their embassy for the applicable regulations: Costa Rica:
(202) 499-2991
Traveling without a U.S. passport? If you are not a U.S. citizen, or if your passport is from any country other than the U.S., it is your responsibility to check with your local consulate, embassy, or a visa services company about possible visa requirements. For your convenience, we recommend the services of PVS International, a national visa service located in Washington D.C.; they can be reached at 1-800-556-9990 or www.pvsinternational.org.
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Travel Documents
Departure Fee for Costa Rica All U.S. travelers are required to pay a Costa Rican departure fee of approximately $29 per person. Depending on your airline, you may have pre-paid this fee as part of your ticket price. Otherwise, you simply pay the fee at the airport in Costa Rica before you check in for your flight home. If your flights to/from Costa Rica are with one of these airlines, then you have pre-paid your departure fee; when you leave Costa Rica, you can skip the line to pay the departure fee and go directly to the check-in counter: • • • • •
American Delta United Copa Avianca, Taca, or Lacsa
If you not flying on one of these airlines, then please call the airline in question and ask if your departure fee is included or not. When you pay the fee in Costa Rica, it can only be paid by Visa credit card or in cash. Cash payments can be in U.S. dollars, local currency, or a combination of both. Local officials will usually process credit card payments as a cash advance, for which most credit card companies attach high fees. Therefore we recommend you pay in cash if possible. The amount and the enforcement of this fee is entirely at the discretion of the local government; it is subject to change at any moment without prior notice.
Emergency Photocopies The smartest and easiest security precaution you can take is to carry photocopies of key documents: the photo page of your passport plus any applicable visas, your air itinerary, and credit card numbers. Add emergency phone numbers like your credit card company and the number for your travel protection plan. Store copies separate from the originals. This can save you time, money, and bother if your documents are lost during your trip. If you don’t feel like taking paper copies, consider going digital. Scan everything and email it to yourself. That way as long as you have access to email, you can access the info you need. Another option is to give copies to a trusted friend or relative at home as a backup that they can email or fax to you if you need it.
Airport Transfers Please note: If you plan on booking your own international flights or arranging with our air department to arrive/depart on an earlier/later date than standard for your program, airport transfers will NOT be included in your program price. Transfers must be purchased separately, as an optional add-on, and are subject to availability. To learn more, or purchase airport transfers, please call our Traveler Support team at 1-800-221-0814.
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Health
2. Health Is This Adventure Right For You? We’ve worked closely with our local Trip Leaders and regional associates to identify the aspects of this adventure that you should be aware of, from physical requirements to cultural factors. Please carefully review the information below prior to departing on this adventure. We reserve the right for our Trip Leaders to modify participation, or in some circumstances send travelers home, if their condition would adversely affect the health, safety, or enjoyment of themselves or of other travelers. Pacing • •
6 locations in 13 days with two 1-night stays and some early mornings 3 overland drives of up to 4 hours, some of which are on unpaved or bumpy roads
Physical requirements • Not appropriate for travelers using wheelchairs, walkers, or other mobility aids • You must be able to walk 3 miles unassisted and participate in 6-8 hours of physical activities each day Altitude • Brief travel to elevation of 12,000 feet and overnight stay at 7,200 feet Climate • Costa Rica has a tropical climate with high temperatures at lower elevations, high humidity, and moderate-to-heavy rainfall. At higher elevations, temperatures can drop to 30°F at night Terrain • Travel over rural streets, unpaved roads, and rugged paths and trails Transportation • Travel overland on 22-passenger air-conditioned minibus, 25-passenger boat, and horseback • 3-4 hour drives Accommodations & Facilities • We stay in hotels, eco-lodges, and villas • All accommodations feature private baths and hot showers
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Health
Steps to Take Before Your Trip Before you leave on your adventure, there are at least four health-related things you should do. We’ll outline some of these steps in more detail in the following pages, but for now, here’s the short list: • • • •
Step 1: Check with the CDC for their recommendations for the countries you’ll be visiting. You can contact them online at wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel or by phone at 1-800-232-4636. Step 2: Have a medical checkup with your doctor. Step 3: Pick up any necessary medications, both prescription and over-the-counter. Step 4: Have a dental and/or eye checkup. (Recommended, but less important than steps 1-3.)
Medical Checkup After checking the CDC’s recommendations, we strongly recommend that you have a medical checkup with your doctor at least six weeks before your trip. (We suggest you check with the CDC first so that you can have an informed conversation with your doctor about vaccines and such.) Topics to discuss during your checkup are: • •
•
The CDC recommendations. The CDC makes suggestions based on the destination, but that doesn’t mean the suggestions are right for you. Your doctor will be able to advise you on what is best considering your unique medical history. Advice on what medicines (if any) to bring. For our suggestions of what types of medications to ask your doctor about, see the section titled “Medications” that follows. Remember to get a copy of any prescriptions—written as a generic drug name—so you can replace your medications if they are lost during the trip. Your fitness for this adventure. This is a must if you have any medical conditions or physical limitations. Use the “Is This Adventure Right For You?” section on previous pages as a guideline. Make certain to review any medical condition you have, particularly cardiac or respiratory disease or diabetes, and discuss the details of the trip itinerary as it pertains to your health. Remember, your trip may take you into remote areas, with no nearby medical facilities.
Please notify us in writing about any medical condition that may require special attention. If your report is normal, you don’t need to send it to us. If you send us a medical report, we don’t use it to determine if you should take this trip, or if you are likely to enjoy it. Those decisions are up to you and your doctor.
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Health
Medications Prescription medication suggestions Of course, you’ll need to bring an ample supply of any prescription medications you happen to be taking. You’ll also want to talk to your doctor about any medications suggested by the CDC. In addition, we suggest you ask about prescriptions for: • •
An antibiotic medication for gastrointestinal illness A pain medication. You might need this in the unlikely event of an injury in a location where medical attention would be delayed.
Over-the-counter medication suggestions When traveling, keep in mind that not every country has approved every medication. Most major brands are OK, but some medications we take for granted are not allowed in other countries. Fortunately, the U.S. State Department offers advice on restricted medications online at http://travel.state.gov/content/passports/english/go/customs.html. (Look under the “Criminal Penalties” and “Special Circumstances” sections of each country you’ll be visiting. If you don’t see anything mentioned, then major U.S. brands should be fine.) TIP: At time of writing, the State Department did not have any special warnings about American overthe-counter medications for Costa Rica.
Traveling with medications To avoid loss and to have them handy, pack medications in your carry-on bag. For quicker security screening at the airport—and a better experience if you get stopped by customs while overseas—keep medicines in their original, labeled containers. To be prepared for any unforeseen loss of your medications, you should also bring copies of the prescriptions, written using the generic drug name rather than a brand name.
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Health
Staying Healthy on Your Trip Safe Water In Costa Rica, tap water and ice at most of our hotels is safe to drink, but check with your Trip Leader. Bottled water is also readily available. Bottled drinks, bottled juices, and hot drinks that have been boiled are safe to drink. The most cautious approach is to carry a bottle of drinking water in your day bag at all times.
Safe Food We’ve carefully chosen the restaurants for your group meals. Your Trip Leader can suggest restaurants for the meal you take on your own. Be very careful with food sold from vendors on the street. Fruits and salads in Costa Rica are generally safe.
Electricity Supply Barring the occasional and unpredictable power outage, electricity is readily available on this adventure. However, power outages are more common in Costa Rica than in the United States. Travelers who are dependent on the electricity supply (as in the case of those with sleep apnea) should ensure their apparatus has back-up battery power just in case. Also, because some hotels or lodges rely on generators for electricity, the lighting may not be as bright as you are used to. And at many lodges, your room will be in a separate building from the main reception— and the pathways are not always well lit. We suggest that you bring a small flashlight.
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Money Matters
3. Money Matters How to Carry Your Money Generally speaking, you’ll want to bring a mixture of different payment methods—some cash to exchange and a couple of cards—so that you’ll be prepared for any situation. In this chapter, we offer some tips on each type of payment method. One note: Traveler’s checks are not recommended. They can be difficult to exchange and are rarely accepted in shops and restaurants.
Cash We recommend that you bring some cash with you on this adventure. Cash has a few advantages over other forms of payment. It is more widely accepted than any other form of payment, and sometimes commands a better exchange rate. Cash is also a better choice for rural or undeveloped areas where ATMs and credit card machines are scarce. U.S. dollars in small denominations ($1, $5, $10, $20) are widely accepted in Costa Rica, so there is no need to obtain local currency before your trip. If you do need local currency, it is better to exchange money at a bank or use a local ATM, rather than change money at the airport (the airport as a poor exchange rate). Torn, dirty, or taped U.S. bills may not be accepted for exchange or payment.
ATMs On this adventure, PLUS, Cirrus, and other international ATM networks are common in the larger cities, somewhat available in small towns, and hard to find in rural areas or in national parks. Because the focus of this trip is on national parks, you may not have easy access to ATMs throughout the trip. Your Trip Leader will advise you on ATM locations during the trip so that you can be prepared. We also suggest carrying a reserve in U.S. cash to cover those times when an ATM is not readily at hand. (U.S. dollars are widely accepted as payment in Costa Rica.) Using a local ATM on an international network will allow you to withdraw money from your U.S. account in local currency; your bank at home will calculate the conversion rate and charge you in U.S. dollars. However, many banks charge a fee ranging from $1 to $5 for every time you use a foreign ATM. Others will charge you a percentage of what you withdraw. We recommend that you check with your bank before you depart. You’ll also want to notify your bank that you’ll be out of the country—that way when they see foreign ATM withdrawals, they won’t put a fraud alert on your account. Lastly, don’t forget to memorize the actual digits of your card’s PIN number (many keypads at foreign ATMs do not include letters on their keys—they only display numbers.)
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Money Matters
Credit Cards Visa and MasterCard are the most readily accepted credit cards in Costa Rica. Even if you do not plan on using them, we suggest you bring one or two credit or debit cards as a “backup” or for optional tours. We also suggest that you bring more than one brand of card (Visa, MasterCard, American Express) if possible, because not every shop will take every card. For example, although the Discover card is now accepted in some countries outside the U.S., it is not widely adopted, so other brands will work at a much larger range of stores, restaurants, etc. TIP: Many credit card companies have fraud alert departments that will freeze your card if they see suspicious charges—such as charges from another country. To avoid an accidental security block, it is a good idea to notify your credit card company you will be using your cards abroad. You can do this by calling their customer service number a week or two before your departure. You should also double-check what phone number you could call if you have a problem with a card while you are abroad. Don’t assume you can use the 1-800 number printed on the back of your card—most 1800 numbers don’t work outside of the U.S.! And speaking of credit cards, please keep in mind that optional tours with OAT can only be purchased with a credit or debit card (if it has a credit card logo and allows you to sign for purchases). Because our headquarters are in Boston, charges may appear to be from Boston or might be labeled as "OPT Boston" (depending on your credit card company).
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Money Matters
Currency For current exchange rates, please refer to our website www.oattravel.com, your bank, or the financial section of your newspaper. The official currency is the Costa Rica colón (CRC), but U.S. dollars are widely accepted at local businesses. Bills come in denominations of 1,000, 2,000, 5,000,10,000, 20,000, and 50,000 Coins come in denominations of 5, 25,50, 100, and 500 colónes U.S. dollars are widely accepted for payment, except in situations that require small change (on public transportation, for example). Purchases made with U.S. dollars may receive change back in colónes. Some previous travelers have remarked that breaking large bills ($50s or $100s) can be difficult.
Tipping Of course, whether you tip, and how much, is always at your own discretion. For those of you who have asked for tipping suggestions, we offer these guidelines. Listed below are our recommendations for the tips that are not included in your tour price. All tips are quoted in U.S. dollars; tips can be converted and paid in local currency or in U.S. dollars. Do not use personal or traveler's check for tips. • •
OAT Trip Leader: It is customary to express a personal "thank you" to your OAT Trip Leader at the end of your trip, especially if he or she has provided you with individual service. As a guideline, many travelers give $7-$10 per person per day. Housekeeping staff at hotels: $1-2 per room, per night
Your tour price includes gratuities on the main trip and extensions for local guides, drivers, and luggage porters that may assist you during the scheduled activities on your adventure.
Cost of Meals Generally speaking, eating out in Costa Rica costs less than it would to dine in a comparable restaurant in the U.S. Our regional staff members suggest that you plan on paying $30-$45 per person for a dinner out with drinks. However, a simple meal at a soda (lunch counter) or small locals-not-tourist restaurant could be as little as $12 a person.
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Money Matters
Shopping in Costa Rica It is Overseas Adventure Travel's goal to identify and provide you with shopping opportunities that highlight unique, locally-produced products with good value from reliable vendors. For this reason there may be scheduled visits to local shops during your adventure. There is no requirement to make a purchase during these stops, and any purchase made is a direct transaction with the shop in question, subject to the vendor’s terms of purchase. Overseas Adventure Travel cannot be responsible for purchases you make on your trip or for the shipment of your purchases.
Souvenirs & Responsible Shopping Costa Rica offers superb craft items at very good prices. Some of the most common souvenirs include wooden bowls, vases, or carvings. Unless it's marked as responsible or sustainable wood (plantation grown wood), these souvenirs may be contributing to the deforestation of Costa Rica. If the item is not marked, please consider asking about the wood’s origin before purchasing.
Antiquities Think carefully before purchasing ‘antiquities.’ Counterfeits are common, and customs inspectors may confiscate genuinely old articles.
Bargaining In general, bargaining is not a common practice in Costa Rica, even at the stands of street vendors. Prices at shops and stores are fixed, just as they are in the U.S.
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Money Matters
U.S. Customs Regulations and Shipping Charges For all things related to U.S. Customs, the ultimate authority is the U.S. Bureau of Customs & Border Protection. Their website, www.cbp.gov has the answers to the most frequently asked questions. Or you can call them at 1-877-227-5511. The top three points to know are: • At time of writing, your personal duty-free allowance is $800 for items brought with you. Items totaling more than $800 are subject to duty fees. • Items shipped home are always subject to duty when received in the U.S. Even when the shop has offered to include shipping and duties in the price, this typically means shipping to the nearest customs facility and payment of the export duties—not door-to-door shipping or payment of the import duties. All additional duties or shipping charges would be your responsibility. Unless an item is small enough to send by parcel service (like FedEx), chances are you will need arrange shipping or pick-up once the item is in the U.S. and will need to pay customs duties. • It is illegal to import products made from endangered animal species. U.S. Customs & Border Protection will seize these items, as well as most furs, coral, tortoise shell, reptile skins, feathers, plants, and items made from animal skins.
If You Have a Problem with a Purchase The best way to address a problem with a purchase is to not have one in the first place! So don’t forget to examine merchandise before paying for it, check contracts or agreements before signing, and review your receipt before leaving the shop. For major purchases, don’t hesitate to ask in advance about the return policy—local practice may vary from U.S. standards, so don’t assume that you have a certain number of days after the purchase to speak up. But what if you do discover an issue with an item later on? In that case, your best recourse is to contact the vendor directly. For this reason we recommend that you keep a copy of all your receipts, invoices, or contracts, along with the shop’s contact information. Expect that any resolution will take longer than it would in the U.S. due to delays in communication, the complexities of international shipping/customs duties, and even cultural differences in how business is conducted.
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Climate: A Word about the Weather
4. Climate: A Word about the Weather Climate by Location As a narrow isthmus, Costa Rica is influenced by the many meteorological systems in the area and it is nearly impossible to predict the weather accurately. But generally, Costa Rica has a tropical climate with high temperatures, high humidity, and moderate-to-heavy rainfall. The country can be divided into four climate zones: the central highlands, the high mountains, the Pacific shore, and the Caribbean shore. •
Central highlands: This includes the area surrounding the capital, San José. This is the most moderate of Costa Rica’s four zones. Days are less hot and humid, and nights are much cooler. But because the influence of the surrounding mountains, fog can gather over the highlands, causing cloudy skies or delays at San José airport.
•
High mountains: The mountains surround the central highlands, and act as a barrier between them and the coast. It can be cool and windy at higher altitudes in the mountains. We travel as high as 11,000 feet, where temperatures can drop into the 30s °F at night, but usually the nighttime temperature is in the 50s.
•
Pacific shore and Caribbean shore: Costa Rica’s western Pacific shore is hot and humid with heavy rains from May through November. The Caribbean shore to the east is equally hot and even wetter. Note that the humidity, more than the heat, is the biggest inconvenience on either shore. Generally the humidity will start high and then decrease significantly toward the late afternoon hours, except during the rainy season, when the humidity increases throughout the day, resulting in an afternoon shower.
•
Seasons: As a tropical country, Costa Rica does not have four seasons like North America. Instead, the country has two distinct seasons—rainy and dry. The rainy season generally runs from May to mid or late November; the dry season is December through April. Because temperatures are fairly steady all year long, the real difference between the two is in the humidity and the amount of rain. The dry season will be less humid, with clearer skies, but the rainy season will have fewer crowds and better foliage (it is also known as the green season). During the rainy season it is very common to have clear skies or even sun in the morning followed by a brief but strong shower in the afternoon, rather then rain all day long.
Climate Charts The following charts reflect the average climate as opposed to weather conditions. This means they serve only as general indicators of what can reasonably be expected. As your departure approaches you may wish to monitor current weather conditions online. Here is the official data from the weather observation stations closest to our destinations:
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Climate: A Word about the Weather Average Daily High/Low Temperatures (°F), Humidity & Monthly Rainfall MONTH
JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC
MONTH
JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC
Central Highlands (San José) Temp. % Relative Monthly High-Low Humidity Rainfall (avg) (inches) 75-58 73 0.6 76-58 69 0.2 79-59 68 0.8 79-62 70 1.8 80-62 78 9.0 79-62 83 9.5 77-62 82 8.3 78-61 81 9.5 79-61 84 12.0 77-60 85 11.8 77-60 79 5.7 75-58 76 1.6
High Mountains (Cartago) Temp. % Relative Monthly High-Low Humidity Rainfall (avg)* (inches) 71-56 -2.8 73-56 -1.7 75-57 -0.9 76-59 -1.6 77-61 -7.3 77-61 -7.5 75-60 -5.7 76-60 -6.4 77-60 -8.3 76-60 -9.3 73-59 -5.9 71-58 -3.6 *data not available
Central Pacific & Corcovado (Puntarenas) Temp. % Relative Monthly High-Low Humidity Rainfall (am-pm) (inches) 89-76 89-62 0.3 91-77 85-60 0.1 92-77 85-62 0.2 92-78 85-66 1.3 89-78 92-74 7.8 88-77 95-77 9.5 87-76 95-77 7.2 87-75 96-78 9.6 87-75 96-79 12.2 86-76 96-79 10 86-76 95-76 4.7 87-76 93-70 1.3
Caribbean Coast & Tortuguero (Puerto Limon) Temp. % Relative Monthly High-Low Humidity Rainfall (am-pm)* (inches) 83-72 94-75 12.5 83-72 94-75 8.5 84-73 94-74 8.0 85-74 94-73 10.8 85-75 94-76 11.3 85-75 95-78 11.3 84-75 96-79 16.2 84-74 95-79 11.7 86-74 95-76 5.6 85-74 95-78 7.2 84-74 95-79 14.7 83-72 95-78 16.1
Online Forecast Monthly temperature averages for the countries you will be visiting, plus a current 10-day forecast, are available online through the My Account feature of our website www.oattravel.com/MyAccount.
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Packing Just What You Need
5. Packing Just What You Need Your Locks & Luggage Luggage Checklist Checked luggage One duffle bag or suitcase. Due to space limitations on our motor coaches, you are allowed one piece of checked luggage per person. Look for one with heavy nylon fabric, wrap-around handles, built-in wheels, and a heavy-duty lockable zipper. Please do not bring a rigid (plastic shell) suitcase. TIP: Consider bringing a second, empty, lockable bag folded into your main suitcase, with a luggage tag and small lock. Use this to carry souvenirs home. Also, when traveling with a companion we recommend “cross-packing,” i.e., pack 2 outfits of your clothing in your companion’s luggage and vice-versa, in case one bag is delayed.
Carry-on bag You are allowed one carry-on bag per person. We suggest a tote or small backpack that can be used as both a carry-on bag for your flight and to carry your daily necessities—water bottle, camera, etc—during driving excursions and walking trips. Consider a backpack or waistpack that keeps both hands free and distributes the pack’s weight onto your back or hips.
For the pre- or post-trip extension: A small, lockable bag. There are weight limits for your luggage on the flight to Drake Bay (pre-trip) and on the boat to Tortuguero (post-trip). These limits are smaller than the ones on your international flight. To meet the smaller limits, but still be able to bring as much as the main trip allows, you have the option of leaving excess luggage in storage at the hotel in San Jose. This option is available for one extension or both. To use this luggage storage, you’ll need an extra bag, preferably one that locks.
Locks To reduce the risk of damage to your luggage, either do not lock your bags when checking in for flights that originate in the U.S. or use TSA-approved locks. (These are locks that TSA screeners can open and relock with a special tool, avoiding damage to your luggage or lock if a physical inspection is required. Look for the words “TSA” or “TSA-approved” on the lock’s packaging.) Outside of the U.S., we strongly recommend that you lock your luggage as a preventative measure against theft.
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Packing Just What You Need
LUGGAGE LIMITATIONS If you are taking an optional extension, you will take domestic flights within the region and/or a ferry ride. The luggage limits on the regional flights and the ferry ride are less than the average allowance for international flights. This means that even if your international airline offers a larger weight limit, there will be times when you will need to pack according to the lower restrictions, as indicated in the following chart.
Main trip only
Number of Pieces One checked bag and one carry-on per person
Pre-trip extension to Corcovado
Same, plus a bag for storage
Post-trip extension to Tortuguero
Same, plus a bag for storage
Type of Luggage Duffle bag or soft-sided suitcase. Please do not bring a hard-sided (clamshell) suitcase. Same
Weight Restrictions Varies by international airline. The current industry standard is 50lbs for checked luggage and 15lbs for carry-ons.
Checked luggage: 30 lbs total Carry-on: 10 lbs total Same On the boat: Luggage up to 25 lbs, plus one small carry-on Remarks and Suggestions
Special Size Restrictions? Standard airline size: checked luggage should not exceed 62 linear inches (length+ width + depth) and carry-on should not exceed 45 linear inches Same
For the carry-on, think small, like a purse or a backpack.
The “Dirty Harry” luggage rule: The limits in the chart above are based on the airlines’ published restrictions. The enforcement of luggage limits is a matter of airline corporate policy. It may not be consistent in all situations and may include random spot checks, especially for carry-on luggage. Airline penalties and fines, however, will probably be immediate when and if enforcement occurs. Before you choose to go above the airline’s published restrictions, you should first ask: Do I feel lucky? (And if the answer is yes, then you should accept that you might be charged a fee by the airlines.) For the pre- or post-trip extension: There are weight limits for your luggage on the flight to Drake Bay (pre-trip) and on the boat to Tortuguero (post-trip). These limits are smaller than the ones on your international flight. To meet the smaller limits, but still be able to bring as much as the main trip allows, you have the option of leaving excess luggage in storage at the hotel in San Jose. This option is available for one extension or both. To use this luggage storage, you’ll need an extra bag, preferably one that locks.
Remember, these limits can change. If the airline(s) notifies us of any changes, we will include an update in your Final Documents booklet. You should also confirm both luggage restrictions and luggage fees directly with your U.S./international airline a week or so before your departure. Doing so will keep you up-to-date on any last-minute changes, new security measures, or new fees. Most airlines are now charging fees for checked luggage, even on some international flights. These fees are not included in your trip price; they are payable directly to the airlines. For your convenience, we maintain a list of the toll-free numbers for the most common airlines on our website under the FAQ section.
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Packing Just What You Need
Clothing Suggestions Functional Tips As you will experience a wide range of temperatures and weather conditions, we suggest several layers of clothing. If you like to hand-wash your clothes, look for fabrics that will dry out overnight. You can buy clothing designed especially for travel, with features like wrinkle-resistant fabric or built-in sun protection. •
Footwear: You’ll be on your feet and walking a lot, so choose your footwear carefully. You can find especially supportive shoes designed for walking. Light hiking boots might be useful on some days. We recommend bringing water-going footwear for your raft ride — your choice of waterproof sandals, boating shoes, beach shoes, neoprene booties, or “aqua shoes.”
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Layers for the mountains: Conditions in the mountains can be very windy and cool at certain times of the year. Windbreakers and warm clothing are recommended. San Gerardo de Dota (at an elevation of 7000 feet) can be very cold at night: temperatures can drop into the 30s °F, so please make sure to pack appropriately. This means layers of clothing including a fleece jacket or pullover.
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Quick-dry fabrics: You can buy shirts and pants designed for travel in a tropical climate. These clothes are made of comfortable cotton/synthetic blends, and will dry out faster. In general, avoid jeans and other heavy cotton trousers because they don't dry as fast.
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Laundry: The lodges you will stay at all feature laundry facilities.
Style Hints Dress on our trip is functional and casual. Formal clothing is not necessary.
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Packing Just What You Need
Traveler’s Checklists Did you know that the top two comments travelers have about packing are “I wish I had brought less” and “I wish I had thought to double-check the weather”? In an effort to help you bring less, we offer these lists, which have been compiled from suggestions by Trip Leaders and former travelers. The lists are only jumping-off points—they offer recommendations based on experience, but not requirements. You might also want to refer to the climate charts in this handbook or online weather forecasts before you pack. And finally, remember the Golden Rule of Packing Light—whatever you think you need at first—take half the clothes and twice the money.
General Clothing Checklist Shirts: A mixture of short and long-sleeved shirts in a breathable fabric, like cotton or cotton-blend. Polo shirts are more versatile than T-shirts. A couple long-sleeved shirts for layering are recommended for nights in the mountains. Trousers and/or jeans: Comfortable and loose fitting is best. Avoid tight-fitting jeans. Walking shorts: Cut long for modesty Shoes and socks: A pair of sturdy walking shoes (or similar supportive sports shoes that offer good traction) and a pair of shoes that can get dirty and wet are recommended. For socks, consider bringing a couple heavy pairs for hiking and a couple pairs that can get wet. Light cotton or wool sweater as motor coach air conditioning can be cold Light rain jacket/windbreaker with hood or poncho. Although it rains more during rainy season, it can rain any time of year. Wide-brim sun hat or visor for sun protection Underwear and sleepwear Swimsuit
Seasonal Clothing Checklist From May through November, please add: Rain paints: A pair of pants in a quick-drying material that can get wet or a pair of waterproof pants. Due to the tropical weather, it may rain any time of the year, but a pair of “rain pants” is especially useful in the rainy season. Poncho or raincoat with a hood: More useful than an umbrella on nature trails. Keep in mind that it will be warm, so look for something that adds water protection without adding bulk or warmth.
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Packing Just What You Need
Other Essential Items Daily essentials: toothbrush, toothpaste, floss, hairbrush or comb, shaving items, deodorant, etc. Our hotels will provide the basics like soap and shampoo, but if you are sensitive to fragrances or new products, you may wish to bring your preferred brands. Most hotels do not provide a washcloth, so you may wish to pack one. Spare eyeglasses/contact lenses Sunglasses Sunscreen, SPF 15 or stronger Insect repellent with DEET (30%-35% strength) Light folding umbrella (For walking in town during a rainstorm). Refillable water bottle Travel alarm clock, or watch with alarm Moisturizer and sun-blocking lip balm Pocket-size tissues Moist towelettes (not individual packets) and/or anti-bacterial "water-free" hand cleanser A working flashlight is a must! We suggest that you bring a small flashlight because of dim lighting (some lodges are limited by their generators) or to use on the path to your room at night (in some lodges your room will be in a separate building from main reception area). Folding walking stick, for uneven trails
Camera gear with extra batteries or battery charger
Medicines & First Aid Gear Your own prescription medicines Travel first aid kit: Band-Aids, headache and pain relief, laxatives and anti-diarrhea tablets, something for upset stomach. Maybe a cold remedy, moleskin foot pads, antibiotic cream, or allergy medication. An antibiotic medication for gastrointestinal illness Optional: A strong prescription pain medication for rare emergency purposes
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Packing Just What You Need
Optional Gear (These are items that other travelers have suggested might be useful—not requirements. The extra spaces at the end are for you to add whatever you don’t want to forget.) Lightweight binoculars (essential if birding) Hanging toiletry bag (with hook to hang on doorknob and pockets to organize items) Basic sewing kit Hand-wash laundry soap such as Woolite and plastic hang-up clothespins. Some hotels will offer laundry service at moderate prices. Hair dryer – Some hotels will provide one, and some won’t. Bringing your own is only recommended if you need one 100% of the time. Favorite snacks Travel journal/note pad and pens Home address book Photos or post cards from home, small gift for home-hosted visit Phrase book Pocket-size calculator for exchange rates Inflatable seat cushion for bumpy roads Packets of decaffeinated coffee/sweetener Reading materials
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Packing Just What You Need
A Word about Electricity When traveling overseas, there are a few differences to keep in mind about electricity. First, the voltage is usually different. Second, the plugs might not be the same shape. Lastly, the availability of power can vary. Voltage Electricity in Costa Rica is the same as in the U.S., 110-120 volts. Plugs The shape of plugs will vary from country to country, and sometimes even within a country depending on when that building was built. Different plug shapes are named by letters of the alphabet—Type A, Type B, and so on. The plug type in Costa Rica is Type A, which is the same as a standard U.S. plug. Because electric plugs in this region are American-style, you will not need an adapter. Availability Barring the occasional and unpredictable power outage, electricity is readily available on this adventure. However, power outages are more common in Costa Rica than in the United States. Travelers who are dependent on the electricity supply (as in the case of those with sleep apnea) should ensure their apparatus has back-up battery power just in case. Also, because some hotels or lodges rely on generators for electricity, the lighting may not be as bright as you are used to. And at many lodges, your room will be in a separate building from the main reception— and the pathways are not always well lit. We suggest that you bring a small flashlight.
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Learn about Your Destinations
6. Learn about Your Destinations Before your trip, we encourage you to start learning about the regions of the world you will soon be exploring. The ancient and contemporary cultures of these areas are rich and complex. Even a small amount of background reading can help you make sense of the kaleidoscope of facts and impressions that will come your way. Having some knowledge in advance can complement and enrich what you can learn from your expert Trip Leader.
Costa Rica at a Glance Facts & Figures • Area: 19,730 square miles • Capital: San José • Languages: Spanish is the official language; English is also spoken. • Ethnicity: White (including mestizo) 83.6%, mulato 6.7%, indigenous 2.4%, black 1.1%, other 6.2% • Location: Costa Rica is bordered by Nicaragua, Panama, the Pacific Ocean, and the Caribbean Sea. • Geography: Costa Rica has very little flat land. The plains along the Pacific and Caribbean coasts are characterized by tropical forests and beaches. The interior of the country is mountainous and precipitous. • Population: 4,755,234 (2014 estimate) • Religions: Roman Catholic 76.3%, Evangelical 13.7%, Jehovah's Witnesses 1.3%, other Protestant 0.7%, other 4.8%, none 3.2% • Time Zone: Costa Rica is on Central Standard Time, one hour behind U.S. EST. When it is 6am in Washington D.C., it is 5am in José.
Historical Overview Small tribes inhabited the area now known as Costa Rica as early as 8000 BC. Clay figurines and decorated vessels suggest that trade and observation of ritual began very early. When Christopher Columbus arrived in 1502, he chose the name “Costa Rica,” which means "rich coast," because he believed the land would yield vast amounts of gold. However, Spanish conquistadors soon discovered Costa Rica did not contain the mineral wealth they had hoped for. Instead, what they found were tribes of farmers and artisans. These indigenous people were exploited for their labor by the early Spanish settlers, but harsh treatment and foreign diseases wiped the majority of the native population within a century. Because Costa Rica was lacking in precious metals, as well as a supply of indigenous labor, it attracted only a few Spanish colonists. The notion of having to build their own settlements and farm their own land led prospective settlers to move to more developed colonies, such as Nicaragua. As a result, the population grew slowly and Costa Rica remained a poor colony.
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Learn about Your Destinations Struggling with Independence In the mid 19th century Costa Rica declared independence, shortly after Guatemala did. Spain, which had shown limited interest in Costa Rica during the previous decade, did not attempt to force the colonists back to the crown. The early years of independence were difficult for the young nation. Over the next five decades, Costa Rica experienced numerous coups and power struggles. In 1823, Costa Rica joined the United Provinces of Central America in the hopes of bolstering the country’s stagnant economy. The plan backfired as the fledgling union proved to be mired by corruption and poor leadership. The union had completely collapsed by the time Costa Rica officially withdrew in 1848. Costa Rica experienced a brief span of dictatorship from 1838 to 1842. Ironically, the dictatorial government enacted many positive reforms, including the country’s first legal code. The national debt was paid in full. The promotion of coffee as a staple crop gave a much-needed boost to the economy. The years following 1842 were marked by an endless series of coups. New constitutions were adopted and new leaders took control, creating an atmosphere of utter chaos. In the 1870s, Tomas Guardia named himself ruler for life. He immediately set about building a railroad from San José to the Caribbean coast. The project bankrupted the nation, but it also laid the foundation for a thriving banana industry by establishing large plantations near the tracks. New Hope for Democracy In 1889, President Bernardo Soto opened the door to democratic reforms by sponsoring Costa Rica’s first free and open elections. Soto also advocated freedom of the press and the peaceful transition of power. His reforms ushered in a period of great advancements in education and the arts. The first three decades of the 20th century were a time of order and tranquility. Each president advanced democrat liberties and continued to expand the education system. But economic depression and uneven distribution of wealth led to a brief civil war in 1948. The government responded by expanding social welfare programs, extending suffrage rights to women, imposing a progressive income tax on the wealthy, enacting new economic reforms, and stabilizing Costa Rica’s finances. Since 1948, two parties have competed for power in Costa Rica. A plan was devised to ensure the orderly transfer of government: Every four years, the incumbent party relinquishes office to the opposition. As a result of these reforms, Costa Rica has enjoyed several decades of peaceful unity between political factions. Costa Rica Today Costa Rica is by far the most democratic country in Central America. The people are literate and politically involved. There is a healthy respect for freedom of expression and a commitment on the part of both political parties to work together for the good of the nation. Most importantly, the democratic reforms of the 1940s and ‘50s have ushered in an age of peace and prosperity that has lasted several decades. Costa Rica is a small country, but the people enjoy a relatively high standard of living. The country's wealth is very evenly divided, resulting in a strong middle class. Costa Rica spends a greater percentage of its national income on education than any other country in Latin America, resulting in a highly educated citizenry. In fact, more than 93 percent of all Costa Ricans can read and write.
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Learn about Your Destinations Thanks in part to the establishments of the Central American common market in 1960, manufacturing has become an important part of Costa Rica's economy. In fact, Costa Rica is the only country in Central America where the value of manufactured goods exceeds the value of agricultural goods. The United States is Costa Rica’s chief trade partner. Major exports include textiles and clothing as well as building materials. Despite the important role of manufacturing in the economy, however, about half of Costa Rica’s population makes their living from agricultural pursuits. Staple crops include sugarcane, coffee and bananas.
Culture & Points to Know More than half of Costa Rica’s population (“Ticos”) live in the Central Valley and are considered urban, and over 95% of the population is of Spanish or otherwise European descent. The indigenous population is tiny. With over a million visitors, this lush country offers a stable environment to view some of the world’s most diverse ecosystems. Ticos are a friendly and outgoing people, usually very open and helpful with visitors, but they have a relaxed relationship with time. Don't expect haste. Compared to other parts of Latin America, Costa Rica—which abolished its army in 1948—is quite stable, and the country has enjoyed decades of uninterrupted democracy. The literacy rate in Costa Rica is an impressive 96%. While Costa Rica’s economy is strong due to ecotourism and exports like coffee and bananas, 16% of the country is still below the poverty line. On the course of our adventure, we may see some people living in poverty, which could be distressing for some travelers. In San Jose, you should be prepared for large crowds and congested traffic. As in any city, there are neighborhoods where it is best to exercise caution by traveling in groups and taking taxis at night. Costa Rica has strict smoking regulations which essentially make smoking illegal in enclosed areas with public access ( restaurants, bars, taxis) as well as outside areas where people congregate (arenas, college campuses, and parks.)
Language Barrier You can have some great “conversations” with local people who do not speak English, even if you don’t speak a word of the local language. Indeed, this non-verbal communication can be a highly rewarding part of travel. To break the ice, bring along some family photographs, or a few postcards of your hometown. If you want to meet kids, bring a puppet or other interactive toy. Your Trip Leader can help get the ball rolling. Your attire is a key part of your non-verbal presentation. Your clothing should show a respect for local tradition. This means you should dress in a relatively modest style, to better relate to older and more traditional people, especially in villages. Avoid revealing or tight-fitting outfits.
Taking Photographs The etiquette of photographing most people is about the same as it would be on the streets of your hometown. You need permission to take a close-up, but not for a crowd scene. Be especially polite if you want to photograph an older woman. If you want to shoot a great portrait, show interest in your subject, try to have a bit of social interaction first. Then use sign language to inquire if a picture is OK. Your Trip Leader can help.
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Safety & Security As you travel, exercise the same caution and awareness that you would in a large American city. Don’t be overly nervous or suspicious, but keep your eyes open. If you are venturing out after dark, go with one or two other people. Carry a one-day supply of cash in your pocket and put the rest of your money, your passport, etc. either in a travel pouch/money belt that you wear under your clothing or at a safe in the hotel. Replenish your pocket supply when you are in a safe and quiet place, or in our vehicle. Don't leave valuables unattended in your hotel room. Pickpockets Pickpockets may create a sudden distraction. In any sort of puzzling street situation, try to keep one hand on your money belt. If an encounter with a local turns out to be long and complicated and involves money or your valuables, be very careful. Con artists sometimes target travelers. Warning: Riptides and Strong Currents The beaches in Costa Rica can have strong currents and riptides. Sometimes there are no lifeguards. If you decide to go into the ocean, please use caution.
Communications To ensure you are available during your trip to friends and relatives at home, you will receive two copies of your hotel list, including phone numbers, with your Final Documents. One copy is for you to bring, and one to leave behind with friends or relatives in case they need to contact you during the trip. How to Dial When calling overseas from the U.S., dial 011 for international exchange, then the country code (indicated by a plus sign: +), and then the number. The country code on this trip is +506 for Costa Rica. Phone numbers abroad may not have the same number of digits as U.S. numbers; even numbers within a country can vary depending on the city and if the phone is a land line or cell phone. Cell Phones If you want to use your cell phone on the trip, check with your phone provider to see if your phone and service will work outside of the U.S. It may turn out to be cheaper to rent an international phone or buy a SIM card onsite. If you want to use a local SIM, just make certain your phone can accept one. Calling Cards and 1-800 Numbers When calling the U.S. from a foreign country, a prepaid calling card can be useful because it circumvents unexpected charges from the hotel. Calling cards purchased locally are typically the best (less expensive, more likely to work with the local phones, etc.). One reminder: Do not call U.S. 1-800 numbers outside the continental United States. This can result in costly long distance fees, since 1-800 numbers do not work outside the country. Internet Some hotels in Costa Rica have WiFi service, but it may be limited in some way. For example, it might be available in the public areas only (and not in the rooms), it may be a slow connection, and it may be a service that you are charged for. In other hotels, the only Internet access is through the hotel’s computer station in the lobby or business center.
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Additional Resources
7. Additional Resources Suggested Readings We’ve listed a few of our favorite books about the region you'll be traveling. Most of these are available in large bookshops (especially those that specialize in travel or international books), by mail order, and from the Internet. General: A Brief History of Central America by Lynn V. Foster (History) A good overview of the economic and cultural history of the region. An earlier book by the same name but written by Hector Perez-Brignoll is also good, but isn’t as up-to-date as this edition. Nature of the Rainforest, Costa Rica and Beyond by Adrian Forsyth (Natural History) Although based in Costa Rica, biologist Forsyth used his experience to explain the basic ecology and conversation of any rainforest. Over 100 wonderful photographs complement the text. The Monkey’s Bridge: Mysteries of Evolution in Central America by David Rains (Natural History) An absorbing account of the history, exploration, and evolutionary role of the Central American land bridge by an award-winning nature writer. Travelers’ Tales Central America by Larry Habegger and Natanya Pearlman (Travel Account) A collection of eyewitness reports by journalists, travelers and writers, including Joan Didion, P.J. O’Rourke, and Paul Theroux. Tropical Nature: Life and Death in the Rain Forests of Central and South America by Adrian Forsyth, Ken Miyata (Natural History) An engaging overview of the ecology of a tropical rain forest as written by two biologists. First published in the 1980s, but subsequently updated and re-issued.
Costa Rica: A Place in the Rain Forest: Settling the Costa Rican Frontier by Darryl Cole-Christensen. (Travel Account) The author recounts his experiences as one of the first settlers of the Coto Brus, an almost impenetrable, mountainous rain forest region of southeastern Costa Rica, in the 1950s. Costa Rica Butterflies & Moths: An Introduction to Familiar Species by James Kavanagh (Field Guide) A handy laminated guide of the 70 most common moth and butterfly species that includes color illustrations. And it folds up—so you can take it on walks. The same author and publisher offer a similar guide on birds titled Costa Rica Birds: An Introduction to Familiar Species. Costa Rica: A Traveler’s Literary Companion by Barbara Ras (Anthology) A collection of works by local writers makes a great introduction to Costa Rica’s people and culture. The Birds of Costa Rica by Richard Garrigues and Robert Dean (Field Guide) A compact yet through guide from Cornell University Press that includes a range maps, key information on identification and habitat, and multiple illustrations. Useful for a birding enthusiast.
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Additional Resources The Wildlife of Costa Rica, A Field Guide by Fiona Reid, Twan Leenders, Jim Zook, and Robert Dean (Field Guide) Portable enough to take along on a walk in the forest, this latest Zona Tropical guide includes 450 of the most common animals you are likely to encounter. Monkeys Are Made of Chocolate: Exotic and Unseen Costa Rica by Jack Ewing (Natural History) Written by an American who has lived in Costa Rica for more than 30 years, this book explores how plants, animals, and people interact. Each chapter is an essay that shows a new side of the overall theme. Happier Than a Billionaire: Quitting My Job, Moving to Costa Rica, and Living the Zero Hour Work Week by Nadine Hays Pisani (Memoir) Humor mixes with struggles in this observational book about the experience of living abroad as an ex-pat in Costa Rica. Two Weeks in Costa Rica by Matthew Houde and Jennifer Turnbull (Travel Narrative) The true-life misadventures of a young couple touring in Costa Rica, told in a breezy, upbeat style.
Guidebooks: Your Trip Leader will be happy to provide recommendations and suggestions during the trip, so a guidebook is not a necessity. But a good one can be invaluable as a one-stop reference, so for those travelers who have asked for suggestions, we offer these guidelines. Since different guidebook series each have their own target audience and structure, it is well worth your time to browse your local library or bookstore to find the one(s) you like best. To get you started, here is some general information on the most popular series: Culture Smart! – Focuses on local customs and etiquette instead of sights, dining, etc. DK Eyewitness – Innovative visuals make these books easy to use and a nice souvenir once the trip is over. The focus is primarily on the sights and activities. Fodor’s – A classic guidebook with strong information on activities, shopping, and dining. Good mix of upscale recommendations and budget suggestions. Frommer’s – A comprehensive guide series that is known for its restaurant recommendations. Insight – Offers more information on history and culture than usual, nice visuals, good maps. Lonely Planet – Practical guides geared towards a more adventurous traveler on a budget. National Geographic – From the same company that publishes the magazine. Excellent photographs, good information on history, nature, and culture. Rough Guides –For the independent traveler on a budget. Particularly known for their maps.
Maps: Most hotels will provide maps free of charge at the reception desk or in your room. These maps are usually sufficient for our travelers, but if you plan on any independent exploration, you may wish to consider purchasing a map before your departure. This can be especially useful in a country that doesn’t use the Roman alphabet as the hotel maps may only be printed in the local language. Some recommended map series include: Rand McNally international maps (especially the StreetWise series), Insight’s FlexiMaps, and Rough Guide’s destination maps. We suggest that you visit your local bookstore or library to get a better sense of which type of map is best for your needs before making a purchase.
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Additional Resources
Suggested Movies Here are few of our favorite movies that are about, or set in, or from the region you’ll be traveling. Most are available at movie rental stores and websites—or even your public library. Sometimes films produced outside of the US may be harder to find, but they are usually available online. Central America: El Norte starring Zaide Silvia Gutiérrez, and David Villalpando (1984, color) Partially funded by the Public Broadcasting System (PBS) and nominated for an Oscar for Best Original Screenplay in 1985. Escaping certain persecution in Guatemala, a brother and sister travel through Mexico and on to Los Angeles in search of a better life. Love in the Time of Cholera starring Javier Bardem and Benjamin Bratt (2008, color) A story about love, patience, and (of course) cholera. Based on the novel of the same name. NOVA: A Man, a Plan, a Canal – Panama produced by PBS (2004, color) An interesting and informative documentary on the sheer engineering feat that is the canal. Hosted by David McCullough, the author of A Path Between the Seas. Romancing the Stone starring Kathleen Turner and Michael Douglas (1984, color) Part adventure, part romantic comedy—a novelist and an adventurer team up to on a treasure hunt in Colombia. Salvador starring James Woods, James Belushi, and Michael Murphy (1986, color) An American journalist covering the Salvadorian civil war becomes entangled with both sides. Spirits of the Jaguar produced by the BBC (2006, color) Four-part series that offers an easy and clear introduction to the history and peoples of Central America. Includes programs on the Maya and the Aztecs. The Mosquito Coast starring Harrison Ford and Helen Mirren (1986, color) Filmed on location in Belize, Coast follows an ex-pat American family looking for an ideal life in Central America. But the ideal proves elusive due to the increasingly stubborn and strange behavior of their father. The Tailor of Panama starring Pierce Brosnan, Geoffrey Rush, and Jamie Lee Curtis (2001, color) The film adaptation of the classic John Le Carre spy thriller. Bosnan plays a spy, but a very different one from his famous 007 role.
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Additional Resources
Useful Websites Tourist information http://www.visitcostarica.com Costa Rica Overseas Adventure Travel Store http://www.oatshop.com International health information: CDC (Centers for Disease Control) http://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel Electric current and plug types http://www.worldstandards.eu/electricity/plugs-and-sockets Foreign exchange rates http://www.oanda.com/converter/classic ATM locators http://www.mastercard.com/atm for Cirrus ATMs http://www.visa.com/atmlocator for PLUS ATMs Travel books http://www.amazon.com http://www.barnesandnoble.com World weather http://www.intellicast.com http://www.weather.com http://www.wunderground.com Foreign languages for travelers: basic terms in more than 80 languages http://www.travlang.com/languages Travel tips: packing light, choosing luggage, etc. http://www.travelite.org Net café guide: 100s of locations around the globe http://www.cybercafes.com U.S. Customs & Border Protection: traveler information http://www.cbp.gov/xp/cgov/travel Transportation Security Administration (TSA): agency that screens luggage in U.S. http://www.tsa.gov National Passport Information Center (NPIC): for passport information http://www.travel.state.gov
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