The Caribbean Lowlands Destination Guide

Overview of The Caribbean Lowlands The Caribbean has a cultural diversity that is different from the rest of Costa Rica. With its beautiful beaches, great surfing conditions, and pristine national parks, it is becoming one of the top attractions for adventurers. Less developed than the Pacific side, it has fewer roads and smaller settlements. About half the area is set apart and protected in parks and wildlife refuges. The capital of the region is the seedy port of Limon, which is generally avoided by tourists and used only as a transport hub. However, it is regaining popularity as a cruise port. Cahuita is a relaxed village neighbouring the Cahuita National Park, and here the Creole culture is particularly evident in the food and music. Further south is the even more tranquil hamlet of Puerto Viejo de Talamanca, popular for its surfing and splendid coastline. In the north, the coastal National Park of Tortuguero is one of the most important breeding and nesting sites of the green sea turtle. The villages are laidback with an unhurried atmosphere common throughout the region. The majority of the people are extremely friendly, live close to the coast, and speak a lively form of English. They delight in showing visitors the natural beauty of the area and are eager to share their culture with others. There is plenty to see and do, but things are relaxed so take time to experience this rewarding side of Costa Rica.

Key Facts

Language: Spanish is the official language, but English is widely spoken. Passport/Visa: All foreign passengers to Costa Rica must have return/onward tickets and the necessary travel documentation for their next destination, and proof of sufficient funds to cover their stay in the country. Extensions of stay for those who are visa-exempt can be arranged on arrival. Note that a yellow fever vaccination certificate is required, if arriving in Costa Rica within six days of leaving or transiting through any yellow fever risk areas. It is highly recommended that your passport has at least six months validity remaining after your intended date of departure from your travel destination. Immigration officials often apply different rules to those stated by travel agents and official sources. Currency: The Costa Rican Colón (CRC) is divided into 100 céntimos and is the official currency, although US Dollars are also widely accepted. US Dollars can be exchanged in banks and many hotels, but currency other than US Dollars is difficult to exchange. Using black market exchange options is risky as these unofficial outlets have been known to pass on counterfeit bills printed in Colombia. Banks close anywhere from 3pm to 4pm. Major credit cards are widely accepted, although American Express and Diners Club might be more limited. ATMs are available in major towns throughout the country, but it is advisable to always have some local cash handy. Electricity: Electrical current is 120 volts, 60Hz. Flat two-pin plugs and three-pin (two flat blades with round grounding pin) plugs are in use.

Travel guide by wordtravels.com © Globe Media Ltd. By its very nature much of the information in this travel guide is subject to change at short notice and travellers are urged to verify information on which they're relying with the relevant authorities. Travmarket cannot accept any responsibility for any loss or inconvenience to any person as a result of information contained above. Event details can change. Please check with the organizers that an event is happening before making travel arrangements. We cannot accept any responsibility for any loss or inconvenience to any person as a result of information contained above.

Page 1/5 The Caribbean Lowlands Destination Guide

Travel to The Caribbean Lowlands Health Notes when travelling to Costa Rica There are no vaccination requirements for Costa Rica. As a precaution, vaccinations for hepatitis A, hepatitis B, and typhoid are recommended for travel to Costa Rica. There is a year-round risk of malaria in some regions of Costa Rica and advice should be taken on which areas are currently risky places to visit. You should also check out what precautions and medication you must take to protect against the disease. Water in cities is generally safe but it is advisable to buy bottled water, especially outside the main towns where there is a risk of contamination. Dengue fever is one of a number of diseases carried by insects that also occur in this region, especially during the rainy season; protection against insect bites is the best prevention. Medical services are reliable in cities and the standard of hygiene and treatment is very high. Safety Notes when travelling to Costa Rica There is no history of terrorism in Costa Rica, however there are incidents of violent crime, occasionally targeting tourists. There has been an increase in attacks on tourists leaving the airport in hired cars in San Jose. Belongings should be watched carefully at all times and in all places, particularly in bus stations and on public transport. Theft of, and from, cars is common. Do not wear jewellery or carry large amounts of cash and avoid moneychangers on the street. Strikes, protests and blockades have recently taken place without warning and further demonstrations could disrupt travel on main roads, particularly those connecting San Jose with the coast. Customs in Costa Rica Costa Ricans are conservative when it comes to family values, and roles between male and female are expected to be traditional. Machismo is a key characteristic of Costa Rica culture, although women are quickly becoming more empowered in Tico society. The population is largely middle-class, Catholic, and ethnically homogenous. Duty Free in Costa Rica Travellers to Costa Rica over 18 years do not have to pay duty on 3 litres of alcohol; 500g of tobacco or 400 cigarettes or 50 cigars. Perfume for personal use is allowed provided it is a reasonable quantity. Doing Business in Costa Rica Costa Rica has a formal business environment, where men and women wear conservative suits, appointments are made and meetings begin on time. Business projects can be slow, however, as Costa Ricans are conservative in their approach to new ideas and keen to avoid risk. Spanish is the main language, but most business people speak English. However, it is polite to have business cards as well as other promotional material printed in both English and Spanish. A lot of women have high profile jobs, although the business world, like the society in general, is still male dominated. Visiting businesswomen will be treated with respect once their ability and authority is clearly established. Hours of business are generally 8am to 4pm Monday to Friday with a two-hour lunch break from 12pm. Communication in Costa Rica The international access code for Costa Rica is +506. Costa Rica has one of the most advanced telecommunications systems in Latin America. Internet cafes are available in the main towns while wifi is available in most hotels, restaurants, and cafes. Tipping in Costa Rica Hotels add a 10 percent service charge plus a three percent tourist tax to their bills by law. In tourist and upmarket restaurants, a tip of 10 percent is usual. However, some establishments already include a 17 percent sales and service tax in the bill. Taxi drivers are not normally tipped but you can use discretion if it's been a long trip or there was intense traffic. People will often round off the fare to the nearest Costa Rican colón or US Dollar. Tour guides, on the other hand, are normally tipped. In general, if service has been particularly good, staff appreciate a five to 10 percent tip. Passport/Visa Note All foreign passengers to Costa Rica must have return/onward tickets and the necessary travel documentation for their next destination, and proof of sufficient funds to cover their stay in the country. Extensions of stay for those who are visa-exempt can be arranged on arrival. Note that a yellow fever vaccination certificate is required, if arriving in Costa Rica within six days of leaving or transiting through any yellow fever risk areas. It is highly recommended that your passport has at least six months validity remaining after your intended date of departure from your travel destination. Immigration officials often apply different rules to those stated by travel agents and official sources.

Page 2/5 The Caribbean Lowlands Destination Guide

Attractions in The Caribbean Lowlands The main attractions of the Caribbean coastline of Costa Rica are the beaches but this side of the country also offers pristine rainforests, plenty of wildlife watching opportunities, and some lovely, laid-back beach villages. The Caribbean charm is fully evident in Costa Rica and the slow pace of life, great music, and friendly locals make this coastline very relaxed. The southern Caribbean coast is the best for enjoying the beautiful beaches of the area. Favourite tourist beaches include Playa Bonita, Playa Cocles, Playa Chiquita and Punta Uva. Puerto Viejo de Talamanca is a small but vibrant party town nestled in between the mountains and the coast, popular for its surfing, sun-worshipping, and nightlife. Cahuita National Park, also in the south, shelters the only coral reef on Costa Rica's Caribbean coastline and is a paradise for diving and snorkelling. On the hike through the jungle to reach the beach, you are likely to see numerous birds and monkeys. The town of Cahuita, just outside the park, is also a popular base for exploring the coast and is well-known for its local music scene. The northern coast is ideal for those in search of wildlife. Tortuguero National Park is one of the most famous attractions in Costa Rica. It is home to an impressive array of fauna (50 percent of Costa Rica's species can be found here) and it is one of the best places in the world to witness the hatching of green sea turtles. You can seek the animals out on numerous land and water trails. The Caribbean coast is less developed for tourism than the Pacific side which is its main advantage for many visitors seeking an authentic Costa Rican experience. However, there is plenty to see and do on the Caribbean coast if you can drag yourself away from the wonderful beaches.

Tortuguero National Park Despite its isolation on the northern part of the Caribbean coast, Tortuguero National Park is an extremely popular destination and one of the most important nesting sites of the green sea turtle, which lays its eggs here between July and October each year. Three other turtle species also use the beach as a nesting ground, namely the giant leatherback, hawksbill, and loggerhead turtles. The park covers an area of over 120 square miles (189 sq km), protecting not only the turtle beach, but also wetlands, swamps, forests, and one of the most developed reefs in the country. Nature trails in the park offer opportunities for wildlife viewing and birding and a network of waterways serves as an alternative method of transportation and exploration. Approximately 50 percent of Costa Rica's bird and reptile species are found in the park along with a diversity of flora and fauna, including endangered mammals like the jaguar, sloth, tapir, and manatee. Most visitors come to watch the spectacular sight of thousands of marine turtles laying their eggs or to observe the hatching. Guided tours are recommended to control the amount of disturbance caused by the increasing numbers of tourists, and guides provide a wealth of information about the area. Beaches are beautiful but not suitable for swimming as the surf is rough and sharks are present. The area also receives a large amount of rain and insect repellent is necessary to keep the mosquitoes at bay. Website: http://www.acto.go.cr

Cahuita National Park The only coral reef on the Costa Rican Caribbean coastline is found within this national park, and with 500 species of fish it affords excellent opportunities for snorkelling. Apart from the vibrant underwater colours and fish, there are two sunken ships to explore as well. The park was established in 1970 to protect the coral reef, but unfortunately it is still seriously threatened. While the land area of Cahuita National Park is small, it has stunning beaches and is good for both land and water activities, making it one of the most visited parks on the Caribbean coast. A well-defined trail runs through the coastal rainforest and howler monkeys and sloths are among the wildlife attractions. The area is also great for bird watching and if you are lucky you may see striking blue butterflies found in the jungle. The hike to the beach is flat and the path is easy to follow and winds through wonderful jungle scenery. Be sure to take some water and snacks for the walk and try to set out fairly early because it becomes more difficult to see animals later in the day. There have been some reports of robbery in the park so be aware and try to stay in groups.

Puerto Viejo de Talamanca Puerto Viejo de Talamanca, known to locals as Puerto Viejo (not to be confused with Puerto Viejo de Sarapiquí in the northern lowlands), is a dusty little village lying between the forested mountains of Talamanca and the sea. The little town offers excellent surfing, an interesting mix of Afro-Caribbean and Bribri indigenous cultures, and delicious local food. The seven miles (12km) of coastline between Puerto Viejo and Manzanillo further east is one of the most stunning stretches in Costa Rica, featuring popular beaches such as Playa Cocles, Playa Chiquita and Punta

Page 3/5 The Caribbean Lowlands Destination Guide

Uva. There are many other activities in the area including fishing and horse riding, cultural tours and home stays, as well as excursions to the nearby Cahuita National Park. Puerto Viejo has a vibrant nightlife and great local music, meaning it's a good base for those who enjoy a party. Puerto Viejo de Talamanca is becoming increasingly touristy due to its popularity so if you prefer to avoid tourist hotspots, Puerto Viejo may not be the right place for your holiday. But if you are a sociable, sun-worshipping, music-loving adventurer, you will be in heaven, since all will agree that the beaches are sublime. In fact, there are so many exciting excursions out into the surrounding areas that there should be something for everybody.

Page 4/5 The Caribbean Lowlands Destination Guide

Currency The Costa Rican Colón (CRC) is divided into 100 céntimos and is the official currency, although US Dollars are also widely accepted. US Dollars can be exchanged in banks and many hotels, but currency other than US Dollars is difficult to exchange. Using black market exchange options is risky as these unofficial outlets have been known to pass on counterfeit bills printed in Colombia. Banks close anywhere from 3pm to 4pm. Major credit cards are widely accepted, although American Express and Diners Club might be more limited. ATMs are available in major towns throughout the country, but it is advisable to always have some local cash handy.

Exchange rate for 1 CRC - Costa Rican Colón 0.00 BMD 0.00 EUR 0.00 USD 0.00 GBP 0.20 JPY 0.00 CAD Bermudan Dollar Euro U.S. Dollar U.K. Pound Sterling Japanese Yen Canadian Dollar 0.00 CHF 0.00 AUD 0.05 UAH 0.63 KZT 2.80 LBP 0.00 LYD Swiss Franc Australian Dollar Ukrainian Hryvnia Kazakhstani Tenge Lebanese Pound Libyan Dinar 0.01 BOB 0.20 NPR 0.00 OMR 0.01 QAR 0.00 SGD 0.02 SEK Bolivian Boliviano Nepalese Rupee Omani Rial Qatari Rial Singapore Dollar Swedish Krona 0.01 TTD 0.02 VEF 0.09 DOP 0.01 HRK 0.03 MXN 1.09 XOF Trinidad Tobago Dollar Venezuelan Bolivar Dominican Peso Croatian Kuna Mexican Peso West African CFA Franc 0.01 PGK 0.00 BSD 0.00 FJD 0.04 HNL 0.21 DZD 2.21 MMK Papua New Guinean kina Bahamian Dollar Fiji Dollar Honduran Lempira Algerian Dinar Myanma Kyat 0.02 BWP 0.01 PEN 1.29 CLP 0.89 AMD 0.04 CZK 0.04 MDL Botswana Pula Peruvian Nuevo Sol Chilean Peso Armenia Dram Czech Koruna Moldova Lei 0.23 ISK 5.45 UZS 0.01 ILS 0.00 JOD 0.00 KWD 0.06 UYU Icelandic Krona Uzbekistan Sum Israeli New Sheqel Jordanian Dinar Kuwaiti Dinar Uruguayan Peso 0.07 MUR 0.05 NIO 0.02 NOK 0.01 PLN 0.01 SAR 0.27 LKR Mauritian Rupee Nicaraguan Córdoba Norwegian Krone Polish Zloty Saudi Riyal Sri Lanka Rupee 0.07 THB 0.01 AED 0.01 BRL 0.01 RON 0.01 HKD 1.09 XAF Thai Baht U.A.E Dirham Brazilian Real Romanian New Leu Hong Kong Dollar Central African CFA Franc 41.72 VND 0.03 ARS 0.01 XCD 0.01 GTQ 0.02 MAD 0.00 BHD Vietnamese Dong Argentine Peso East Caribbean Dollar Guatemalan Quetzal Moroccan Dirham Bahrain Dinar 0.00 PAB 0.00 AZN 5.79 COP 0.13 KGS 0.52 HUF 0.01 TJS Panamanian Balboa Azerbaijan Manat Colombian Peso Kyrgyzstan Som Hungarian Forint Tajikistan Ruble 25.40 IDR 0.02 EGP 2.21 KRW 10.52 PYG 0.01 MYR 0.00 NZD Indonesian Rupiah Egyptian Pound South Korean Won Paraguayan Guaraní Malaysian Ringgit New Zealand Dollar 0.19 PKR 0.12 RUB 0.03 ZAR 0.00 TND 0.00 BBD 0.00 BGN Pakistani Rupee Russian Rouble South African Rand Tunisian Dinar Barbadian Dollar Bulgarian Lev 0.01 TRY 0.09 PHP 0.06 TWD 0.36 NGN 0.20 XPF 0.01 GHS Turkish Lira Philippine Peso New Taiwan Dollar Nigerian Naira CFP Franc Ghanaian Cedi 0.23 JMD 0.00 ANG 0.00 BND 0.21 RSD 0.01 CNY 36.93 BYR Jamaican Dollar Neth. Antillean Guilder Brunei Dollar Serbian Dinar Chinese Yuan Belarussian Ruble 0.01 DKK 0.01 TMT 0.12 INR

Danish Krone New Turkmenistan Manat Indian Rupee

Page 5/5