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FAQ 

What is the currency in Costa Rica?

 

Costa Rica's local currency is colones. However, a lot of places do accept US dollars. And if you pay cash in dollars, you will get change in colones. All major credit cards are accepted in most places as well. Some cash is always good to have, but we advise to have smaller bills (max $20 size).

Do you need speak Spanish in Costa Rica?

 

No. A lot of times locals speak pretty good English. Especially in the most common tourist areas. 

How much does it cost to eat out?

 

It all depends on the restaurant, but on average, you can get a solid meal for $15-$35 per person.  Some smaller local places are cheaper than restaurants at big hotels. Restaurants include service fee in the bill, no tips are expected. 

What electrical outlets does Costa Rica have?

 

Costa Rica uses 110 volt, 60hz electricity, same as in the US. US travelers don't need adapters. Residents from other countries should have plug adapters.

Playa Junquillal vs Tamarindo?

 

Playa Junquillal is definitely one of the most quiet little beach towns. The beach is most of the time fairly empty unless it's a holiday week when locals drive up to the coast to enjoy the time off. Playa Negra, Playa Avellana, Playa Blanca are some of the other beaches that you can drive to while staying at Out of Office Villa. 
If you get tired from calmness of Playa Junquillal, you can always drive to one of the busiest beach towns Tamarindo, located about 30 minutes away from Out of Office Villa.You can find a lot of great places to eat, explore nightlife, hang out at the beach, visit local souvenir stores, book an activity, and more.  

Is it safe in Costa Rica?

 

Like in any country that's a tourist destination, you should keep your guard up. It's always a good idea to lock your passports, cash, and other valuables in the safe box. Lock all the windows, doors, hide the electronic devices out of sight whenever you leave the premises. 

Should I bring anti-bug spray?

 

It is a tropical country, bugs are difficult to avoid. Our property has a natural bug spray system that keeps mosquitoes, ticks, spiders, flees, gnats, etc. under control. However, if you go on a hike in the dry or rain forest, you should keep the anti-bug spray handy.

Are howler monkeys dangerous?

 

Not at all. Howler monkeys are definitely loud (hence the name). You will hear them communicate with each other as they migrate across the trees until they pick a location to hang out. Our property as well as Tierra Pacifica has plenty of trees that howler monkeys love. So when you hear them close by, go for a walk and try to spot them in the trees on the property. They always stay in the trees.

Should I be scared of snakes and scorpions?

 

Scorpions in the area are not life threatening but have a painful sting that lasts for about a day. To avoid the sting, check the loungers before sitting down on them and, if you leave any closed toe shoes in the terrace, make sure you shake them out before putting on. Do not leave any towels or clothes hanging on rails over night as occasionally scorpions find their way onto them.

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There are snakes in all of Costa Rica but this area has few very dangerous snakes. Watch what you are stepping on, stay on trails and, in the unlikely case that you come across one, do not attempt to corner them
or handle them. The two dangerous snakes are rattlesnakes (pit viper family) and coral snakes. If you get bitten, go to the hospital immediately. Costa Rica is world famous for its anti-venom and has very few snake bite related deaths.

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