Please find answers to the most frequently asked questions about our fishing boat and our Costa Rica fishing trips.
What does Pura Vida mean?
That is an expression you will hear all over this country. It means "Pure Life". It really explains how the Costa Ricans live. They are happy, and proud of their country, and of what they have. You will be really surprised at the warm reception you will receive in this beautiful place in the world!
What is a Tico?
This is a widely used nickname given to the local people in Costa Rica. And remember your Spanish 101... "Tico" refers to a man. Tica refers to a woman.
How's the weather In Costa Rica?
The "Summer Season" (or dry season) is between December and May. There is almost no rain and it is perfect for traveling throughout the country.
The "Winter Season" (or rainy season) is between June and Nov. It will start to rain almost every day and in October and November. It can actually rain for several days nonstop.
In the San Jose area the weather stays between 65 F at night and 80 F during the day year round. On the Beaches the Summer temperatures range from low 80s to upper 90s from February to April. During the winter, the beaches will start getting rain most days and will cool off to 70s at night and 80s during the day.
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Where are you located?
We are located on the Southwest (Pacific) side of Costa Rica on the Osa Peninsula. It is 364 km
(226 miles) southeast of San Jose. The name of the town is Pt. Jimenez and is located on the western side of the Gulfo Dulce. It is an 8 hour drive from San Jose to Pt. Jimenez.
What is the best way to get to Pt. Jimenez?
Certainly the quickest and easiest way is to fly on a local in-country flight. It is a 50-minute flight from San Jose. However, if you have the time to drive, the coastal highway south of Dominical has stunning vista views of the Pacific Coast!
Directions to drive from San Jose to the Osa Peninsula?
Take the Pan-American Hwy (CA1) west past the International Airport to the turnoff for Atenas. Atenas is 42 km, (26 miles) west of San Jose. Turn left (south) and drive through Atenas to Orotina. Orotina is 24 km (15 miles) southwest of Atenas.
The coastal highway heads southeast from Orotina through Tarcoles, Jaco,
Hermosa, and Quepos,
and is well marked with road signs. When you pass the exit for Quepos, keep going straight and you'll come to a 42 km
stretch of dirt road heading South to Dominical.
When you reach Dominical the road is paved, and you are 3 1/2 hours from Pt. Jimenez.
Continue down the coast highway south to Chacarita. There is a gas station on the corner and a sign for Pt. Jimenez. Turn right. The road is paved to Rincon (42 km) south of Chacarita.
At La Palma, turn left for Pt. Jimenez and continue on only 1/2 half hour from there. The road leads you right into Pt. Jimenez.
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Is Costa Rica a safe country for travel?
Yes, tourists have been traveling here for years, with almost NONE of the problems that you hear about in other Central American countries. The Government is very stable and has been a Democratic Republic since 1949. Costa Rica has no army, navy, or air force. There are however border patrols in place on the borders of Nicaragua and Panama.
What about crime in Costa Rica?
Violent crimes against tourists almost NEVER happen in this country. Theft is the only major problem you need to be aware of. When you do hear about people being ripped off, it usually happens when they leave things locked in their vehicles. "But I only left it for 10 minutes," is a common complaint. REMEMBER: If you wouldn't leave your valuables in your cars at home, WHY WOULD YOU DO IT HERE? Just don't give anyone the opportunity.
Do I have to be able to speak Spanish to enjoy Costa Rica?
No. The country is absolutely gorgeous and you will encounter many "Gringos" (Americans) when traveling in the country. Although, a little Spanish would certainly help with directions and to be able to talk with the locals. When you are in restaurants, hotels, and other "Tourist Type Places" most of the employees do speak very good English. Remember: if you just make an effort at speaking "their" language they will appreciate that, and most people will respond positively to you.
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How do we get from the International Airport to our hotel in San Jose?
We work with a very reliable Tour Company in San Jose. They have several minivans, and very good, SAFE drivers who speak English. One of our drivers will pick you up at the airport, and deliver you to your hotel. Then the following day, they will pick you up and deliver you to the commuter airport
for your flight to Pt. Jimenez. Or if you are driving, they will assist you with getting your rental car squared away.
How do I book an in-country flight in Costa Rica?
Just give us a call and we can make all the arrangements for you. It is that easy.
There are advantages to having us make the reservations for
you:
1) It is a local call for us, and the connection may be better.
2) Since we are familiar with the schedules of local flights, we can save you time and avoid problems with the proper connection times for you and your group.
3) If there ARE any problems with your local flights, we can take care of them for you from here locally.
It is ALWAYS better to have a "travel agent" make those arrangements for you. We have years of experience and we are here to help you.
Which rental car companies operate in Costa Rica?
Most of the major car rental companies in the United States operate in Costa Rica. (Avis, Hertz, Budget, National, Thrifty, etc.) There are also several Costa Rican companies available to use. There are desks at the International Airport for most of these.
NOTE: Some rental companies will deliver your car to your hotel, and save you a trip downtown. Be sure to ask when you make reservations. It is recommended you make reservations for a vehicle before you arrive in Costa Rica.
What kind of rental car should I get?
If you are planning on driving down to the Osa Peninsula, you will need to rent a 4 Wheel Drive.
Here's an Inside tip: Usually the first time people rent a 4 X 4 in Costa Rica they typically rent the cheapest vehicle available. (I know I did it, too.) And that was the last time I ever did that! The smallest, least expensive vehicles don't have the suspension or the clearance to keep you comfortable on the dirt roads. Do yourself a favor. Spend just a little more the first time around. (Trust Your Guide.)
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How do I exchange money in Costa Rica?
You can change your US dollars into colones (the local currency) at any bank in the country. You will be asked to show your passport. As of June 2004 the exchange rate is 433 colones to 1 US dollar. The dollar is accepted at most hotels and restaurants.
May I use credit cards in Costa Rica?
Credit cards are widely accepted in the country but keep in mind, there is a 7% fee to use them for purchases.
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Reservations:
How do I make reservations with Osa Sport Fishing?
We require a $500.00 deposit per person 45 days in advance of your arrival to guarantee your rooms and fishing days. You may call our toll free # in the U.S., or our Office # in Costa Rica, or you may email us at
Costa Rica Sport Fishing Reservations.
We accept Visa or Master Card over the phone for your deposit. We will also accept a Personal Check (in U.S. only) for your deposit. If sending a check it must be received a minimum of 45 days in advance of your arrival. Note: Personal Checks WILL NOT be accepted for payments made IN Costa Rica. Final Payment in Costa Rica may be made with cash, credit card, or traveler's checks.
