Costa Rica Travel Consultation
Real Costa Rica travel advice based on years of visiting towns, routes, and regions.
Plan better trips, save money, and avoid common mistakes.
Plan Your Trip
A great vacation in Costa Rica is less about hitting every highlight and more about choosing the right places.
Travel times, weather, and town layouts matter more than most guides explain.
Beach towns, mountain towns, and cities all offer very different experiences.
Weather, crowds, and accessibility change dramatically by region.
A 7 day trip, a 2 week trip or longer all require different pacing to get the most out of your vacation!
Moving too often is one of the most common Costa Rica travel mistakes.
I Get Around😁🤙
I’ve traveled extensively throughout Costa Rica, documenting beach towns, inland communities, driving routes, and everyday life across the country. My Youtube channel focuses on real Costa Rica travel experiences with walking tours, town overviews, and travel days. You can see destinations before deciding where to go.
You don’t need to book a consultation to see Costa Rica! Visit Traveling Costa Rica on Youtube, or enjoy some of our most popular videos here:
One-Hour Costa Rica Travel Consultation
If you want honest feedback on your trip plans, I offer one-hour travel consultations.
All of my recommendations for services and locations are based on my experience. I don’t recieve a commission!
VACATION PLANNING
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Choosing the right towns based on your travel style
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Structuring trips for 7 days, 2 weeks, or longer stays
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Realistic travel times and route planning
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Budget tips and where travelers often overspend
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Safety, transportation, and common travel mistakes
- Which airport to choose & why (SJO)/(LIR)
IMMIGRATION/EXPAT
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High-level overview of Costa Rica residency options
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Long-stay and digital nomad considerations
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Cost of living differences by region
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Where expats actually live (and why)
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Referrals to trusted professionals when needed
- Best retirement locations in Costa Rica
Email Chat
Simple Vacay Q & A- Help choosing towns and regions for your trip
- Answers to basic itinerary and timing questions
- Advice on transportation, buses, shuttles, or rental cars
- Budget and cost expectations for travelers
- General safety and travel logistics guidance
1 HOUR CALL
✫ BEST VALUE ✫- Trip planning help tailored to your travel style
- Route planning between towns and regions
- Honest feedback on itinerary pacing and realism
- Budget breakdowns and common travel mistakes
- Live Q&A covering activities, towns, and logistics
- WhatsApp communication during your trip for real-time questions & tips
EL ROBUSTO
More Planning- Multi-region itinerary planning and refinement
- Transportation strategy for longer or complex trips
- Review and optimization of an existing travel plan
- Planning for immigration & retirement requirements
- Vehicle purchasing strategy for relocation/travel style
Let's Have A Conversation
Costa Rica Travel Frequently Asked Questions
Is Costa Rica safe for travelers?
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Costa Rica is generally safe for travelers, especially in popular tourist areas. Most issues involve petty theft rather than violent crime. Staying aware of your surroundings, avoiding isolated areas at night, and not leaving valuables unattended goes a long way.
How many days do you need in Costa Rica?
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A minimum of 7 days works for a focused trip, but 10 to 14 days is ideal to see multiple regions without rushing. Costa Rica travel times are longer than they look on a map, so slower pacing usually leads to a better experience.
Is Costa Rica expensive to travel?
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Costa Rica can be expensive compared to other Central American countries, especially for accommodation, rental cars, and tours. Costs vary widely by region, travel style, and season, and budgeting mistakes are one of the most common travel issues.
Do I need a rental car to travel around Costa Rica?
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A rental car is helpful for reaching remote areas and moving at your own pace, but it isn’t always necessary. Buses, shuttles, and domestic flights can work well depending on your route, budget, and comfort level with driving.
What is the best time of year to visit Costa Rica?
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The dry season runs from December to April and is the most popular time to visit. The green season (May to November) has fewer crowds, lower prices, and lush scenery, though afternoon rain is common.
Which areas of Costa Rica are best for first-time visitors?
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First-time visitors often choose a mix of beach and inland destinations, such as the Nicoya Peninsula, Manuel Antonio, La Fortuna, or Monteverde. The best choice depends on whether you prioritize beaches, wildlife, hiking, or relaxation.
How long does it take to travel between towns in Costa Rica?
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Travel times in Costa Rica are often longer than expected due to road conditions, traffic, and terrain. A distance that looks short on a map can take several hours, which is why overpacking itineraries is a common mistake.
Is Costa Rica good for solo travelers?
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Costa Rica is popular with solo travelers thanks to its safety, established tourism infrastructure, and friendly locals. Beach towns and popular destinations tend to be especially easy for solo travel.
Can tourists stay long-term in Costa Rica?
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Tourists typically receive a stay of up to 180 days, depending on nationality and entry conditions. Some travelers plan extended stays by leaving and re-entering, though rules and enforcement can change.
What should I know before planning a Costa Rica trip?
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Understanding travel times, choosing the right regions, budgeting realistically, and not trying to see everything at once are key. Watching real town walkthroughs and travel-day videos can help set better expectations.