The Complete Travel Guide to Costa Rica
This was my very first international solo trip and for that, Costa Rica will always hold a special place in my heart. When researching, I wanted somewhere warm and tropical, safe for female travelers, and not too far from the US. Costa Rica was the lucky winner. I’m going to give you a high-level run down of everything you need to know about Costa Rica.
LANGUAGE
The official language of Costa Rica is Spanish, but English is widely spoken in touristy areas. I recommend learning a few basic Spanish phrases so you can interact with the locals who might not speak English, The biggest takeaway I had was that they will use Mucho Gusto in place of your typical Spanish phrases for you’re welcome like de nada (you won’t really hear this).
CURRENCY
The official currency is the Costa Rican Colón (CRC) but U.S. dollars are widely accepted. Credit cards are also commonly used, especially in urban and tourist areas. I would carry a mix of cash and cards on hand.
WHEN TO GO
Costa Rica's climate varies by region, but generally, the dry season is December to April which is the best time to visit. I visited at the end of April - beginning of May and the weather was perfect. And by perfect, I mean it rarely rained besides one day and it was sunny and hot/humid. Rainy season is typically May to November but has fewer tourists.
WHERE TO STAY
Costa Rica offers pretty much every type of accommodation from luxury resorts to eco-friendly lodges and budget-friendly hostels. In popular tourist destinations like San Jose, La Fortuna, and Manuel Antonio, you'll find a plethora of options catering to different preferences and budgets. So it’s really up to the kind of experience you want. I stayed in La Fortuna (a luxury resort), Monteverde (bed and breakfast downtown, and Tamarindo (a hotel and I wish I would’ve stayed in an Airbnb). There’s really endless options depending on the city you choose and your budget.
TRANSPORTATION
Renting a car provides the flexibility but there are also public buses, shuttle services, domestic flights, and taxis. I go into more detail here talking about how to get around Costa Rica.
SAFETY
Costa Rica is considered safe for solo female travelers (which is a huge reason I picked it as my first trip), with a low crime rate. As always, safeguard your valuables and be aware of your surroundings.
CUISINE
Costa Rican cuisine is diverse and reflects the country's rich agricultural bounty. I personally loved the food here, I found it so fresh and tasteful, not to mention you can get an amazing steak dinner for a third of the price in America! Traditional dishes include "gallo pinto" (rice and beans), "casado" (a typical lunch plate that I ate often and loved), and fresh seafood along the coastal regions. Explore local markets for a taste of tropical fruits and don’t miss out on the Costa Rican coffee.
WEATHER
The coastal areas are generally hot, while the Central Valley enjoys a cooler climate with the rainforest regions being humid. Be prepared for sudden weather changes and for it to rain, especially during the rainy season, and pack accordingly with lightweight, moisture-wicking clothing and rain gear.
