FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

• Where do we stay? – We stay at Eco-friendly hotels, lodges and cabinas that focus on low impact travel and support local economies. All rooms have private bathrooms with hot water, fans (where applicable), and clean comfortable beds.

• What do we eat? – When traveling food is a tasty and fascinating avenue into the new culture you are visiting. Depending on where you are on the planet, the cuisine of an area can tell you much about the history and customs of the people. We frequent local restaurants that specialize in foods of their local. For example on the Caribbean coast of Costa Rica you will be able to try their famous rice and beans made with fresh coconut milk. We also urge you to try as many tropical fruits and juices as you can and from time to time we can pick the fruits directly from the tree! Remember that you are in a foreign country and “American food” is not the norm. All meals in Costa Rica are served with “gallo pinto” or exquisitely flavored rice and beans alongside fresh fish, chicken, or meat. Vegetarian options are offered at every meal.

• How do we get around? – When we are not hiking, snorkeling, surfing, or white water rafting we are traveling from place to place in our own private vehicle with a professional driver. All vehicles are air conditioned.

• Can we drink the water? – While it is OK for most travelers to drink the water in Costa Rica we prefer for you to drink bottled water. You can fill up your personal water bottle on our bus at your leisure. We always have water available.

• Who will be our guides? – Privately guided and group tours will be led by a trained naturalist and educator. When we visit certain towns a local naturalist from the area will take us into the forest or to the beach adding to our adventure.

• What will the hikes be like? – The only way to get to know the rainforest is to step into the forest itself. None of our hikes are strenuous. We do not enter the forest to simply get from point A to point B. We are constantly stopping to learn about the flora and fauna and enjoy our pure surroundings. Anyone in decent shape and health can do our activities. Remember that we will be in the rainforest and in the rainforest it rains from time to time and things can get muddy making the hikes extra fun.

• Do we need to get shots? – The Health Department of Costa Rica does not require any immunizations to enter the country. Many people have been fine to travel without vaccinations. However, several US governmental organizations recommend malaria prophylactics. We view health as a very personal issue and encourage people to consult with trusted physicians, health service organizations or other medical professionals before making any decisions about vaccinations.

• Do we need to know Spanish? – You do not need to speak Spanish. If you do speak the language it will be an asset to your learning experience. All of our guides are bilingual and will happily translate and help you with any communication issues you have. If you don’t speak Spanish you will return home with new words and phrases. We learn few words and a phrase each day.

• What is the currency in Costa Rica? – Costa Rica uses Colones. Most places accept US dollars and your guide will help you with exchanging money and translating costs of things you may want to purchase.

• What about the bugs? – Well, when you step into nature you step into another world where many new creatures exist including insects. The rainforest has plenty of insects but most of them have no interest in you. Mosquitoes however are interested in you, so it is good to have insect repellent and lightweight long pants and a long sleeve shirt to combat them at night. When needed rooms have mosquito nets.

• How should we pack? – You should pack as lightly as possible. You will be responsible for taking your bag from the bus or van to your room each time we travel so you should not pack more than you can carry. Always remember to leave room for souvenirs. Another good idea is to pack your clothes in large zip-lock bags so they stay dry and organized. You can also re-use the bags to put wet and dirty things in. Don’t forget to bring a daypack as your carry-on for day hikes and daily use. For more info on packing see our packing list.

• Can I call home? – Due to our “getting away” from it all, we will be staying at Eco-lodges that are sometimes off the beaten path. You will be able to call home using calling cards that can be purchased at any corner store in Costa Rica. However, don’t expect to call home everyday. Most Eco-lodges only have 1 phone. There is also the option to use the internet to communicate with those at home when available.

• Do I need a passport? – All travelers MUST have a valid passport to enter Costa Rica.