Guides - Sights and Sounds

Is Costa Rica Expensive To Vacation?

Vacationing in Costa Rica doesn’t have to be expensive if you plan your trip well. Where you stay, how you travel and what you eat can have a big impact on your budget. In this post we’ll cover how to save money in the most popular tourism destinations.

Costa Rica Entry Requirements: Visa, Return Ticket & Immigration Guide (2026)

Costa Rica requires proof of onward travel to enter. Learn visa requirements, return ticket rules, and how Onward Ticket solves the problem.

Porter Airlines Costa Rica to Toronto: Complete Flight Review & Guide (2026)

Porter Airlines just launched direct flights to Costa Rica. My review covers the flight, Liberia airport, and nearby beaches.

Should I Get a Rental Car in Costa Rica? Complete Guide for 2026

Deciding whether to rent a car in Costa Rica depends on your itinerary and travel style. This complete guide breaks down when you actually need a rental car versus when alternatives work better. Learn about Costa Rica’s road conditions, whether you need 4×4 for popular destinations, and which rental companies offer the best service. Discover how having a car opens up microclimate exploration from mountains to beaches, plus when public buses, shuttles, or private drivers make more sense. Includes real driving examples from routes like Perez Zeledon to Dominical and beach-hopping in Guanacaste. Make an informed decision with practical advice on costs, insurance requirements, and vehicle options for your Costa Rica trip.

Costa Rica’s Hidden Gem Farmers Markets: Local Treasures Beyond the Tourist Trail

Discover Costa Rica’s vibrant farmers markets (ferias) from beach towns to mountain villages. This local’s guide covers what to expect, how to get there, and insider tips for finding the freshest tropical fruits, artisanal products, and authentic Costa Rican experiences at prices far below tourist areas. Explore five distinct markets across the country, from Uvita’s beachside feria to the massive Pérez Zeledón market in the Central Valley.

Coco Beach Guide: Beaches, Markets & Areas to Stay (2025)

Playas del Coco is just 30 minutes from Liberia International Airport, making it the closest beach town to Costa Rica’s northern airport. This guide covers everything from different beach areas to accommodation options, the Sunday Market, and day trips to nearby beaches, with practical information to help plan your visit to this lively Guanacaste beach town.

Airports in Costa Rica: Your Complete Travel Guide

Costa Rica has two main international airports that put you close to different parts of the country. You'll find Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO) in Alajuela near the capital city, while...

Explore Dominical: From Forest Pools to Secret Beaches

Comprehensive guide to the area of Dominical. Includes information about town, the beach, animals and nearby attractions.

Colonial Costa Rica: Three City Walking Guide

Explore Costa Rica’s colonial heritage through self-guided walking tours of the Central Valley’s historic cities. Follow routes through Cartago’s religious landmarks, San Jose’s theater district, and Heredia’s university quarter – each telling different stories of the nation’s development. These walkable city centers showcase traditional architecture, active markets, and local culture continuing among preserved colonial buildings.