FAQs

Question

How much might this wedding cost me?

Answer

It all depends on how long you decide to stay but with a cheap flight and all inclusive food and drink at the hotel (minimum 3 nights stay), it should cost around $1300 per person.

Question

Why the Hotel Riu Palace in Costa Rica?

Answer

Cuz duh... Costa Rica is awesome! But why that hotel you might ask... We wanted to make your travel as easy as possible. The Hotel Riu Palace is only 45 minutes away from the Liberia airport (LIR). Plus, it’s all inclusive so you don’t have to worry about any hidden costs when you’re there. Also, we can all be together in one place and spend quality time together!

Question

There are two Riu Hotels in Guanacaste, which one am I required to stay at?

Answer

Riu Palace Our guests are required to stay at the “Riu Palace” a minimum of three nights in order for us have our wedding at that venue.

Question

What’s included in our all inclusive meals and drinks at the Riu Palace?

Answer

Breakfast: Full American breakfast buffet, live cooking stations, fruits, juices and Cava Continental breakfast / snacks Lunch: Hot and cold buffet and live cooking stations Pizzas, pasta, salads and assorted desserts (Italian restaurant) Dinner "Arenal" restaurant: Buffets and live cooking stations Special evenings: themed buffet (three times a week) Optional dining (à la carte): "Krystal" Fusion restaurant "Tokio" Japanese restaurant "L'Anfora" Italian restaurant (buffet starters) "Papagayo" steakhouse: Formal dress required for dinner. "Krystal"restaurant: gentlemen – no sleeveless T-shirts, long trousers. Snacks 24 hours a day Beverages: Unlimited local and imported beverages served 24 hours a day Drinks service at pool Regularly restocked minibar and liquor dispenser Room service 24 hours a day

Question

What sort of activities are included in the all inclusive hotel stay?

Answer

Sports and activities: Gym, beach volleyball court Group fitness activities in the RiuFit area (6 times a week) Floodlit hard surface tennis court (300 m) Steam bath, whirlpool bath Windsurfing, stand up paddle surfing (SUP), snorkelling equipment, kayaking 1 introductory scuba diving lesson in pool Entertainment: Daytime entertainment programme for children ages 4 to 7 and ages 8 to 12 at "RiuLand" (daily) Daytime entertainment programme for adults (daily) Shows, Riu evening programme or live music (daily) "Pacha" discotheque (open 6 nights a week) Free entry to the discotheque and the Casino (drinks not included) Other sports and facilities in the hotel (additional charge): Activities programme at the "RiuArt" atelier (six times a week)

Question

Can the kids come?

Answer

Yes- The Riu Palace is a family friendly hotel so, everyone can come.

Question

Can I drink the water in Costa Rica?

Answer

Bottled water is recommended!

Question

Is the Hotel Riu Palace in Guanacaste amidst the rainforest?

Answer

No- Guanacaste is less tropical, humid and lush than the rest of the country. Its plains and dry forests sometimes remind one of African savanna landscapes. Inland you can see the savanna, local cowboys on their horses while driving their flocks, which are authentic figures of popular culture of this destination. From the hotel, you can take different excursions to see more of the land ex) the National Park Rincon de la Vieja, the Safari Park or the capital of Guanacaste: Liberia for a night on the town. If you want to see lush rainforest we suggest renting a car to explore. There are so many amazing things to see and do, not far from the hotel.

Question

Should I bring sunscreen?

Answer

Yes- Costa Rica’s many pristine sandy beaches are wonderful for passing those lazy afternoons in the tropical heat. However, being only 10 degrees north of the equator, the sun is often very strong. Make sure you bring plenty of sunscreen, particularly if you’re prone to getting burnt. Again, buy the sunscreen before you go, since it will undoubtedly be cheaper. Be good to yourselves, other animals and the environment and choose an eco friendly, reef safe sunscreen ex) Badger - SPF 30 Kids Sunscreen

Question

Should I bring insect repellent?

Answer

Yes- Like many lush tropical regions, Costa Rica has its fair share of bugs. Mosquitoes in particular can be a problem, as they can spread diseases like dengue or chikungunya. Beyond the health risks, they’re just plain annoying and persistent, so you’ll need to come prepared if you want to have a good night’s sleep. Always bring plenty of effective insect repellent, since it tends to be expensive and difficult to find once you’re there. Wear long pants, long-sleeved shirts and a hat, especially when on a rainforest hike, and try to stay indoors at dawn and dusk when they are most active.

Question

What does an official government taxi look like?

Answer

Official government licensed taxis are red with the yellow triangle in Costa Rica – when taking this taxi, insist that they use the meter (la maria por favor). At the airport, only the orange taxis are authorized to pick you up. Avoid taking a ride in an unregulated unofficial taxi (known as pirate taxis), as they often ripoff unsuspecting tourists. For a far cheaper and more authentic local experience, consider using public transport, though this can be challenging if you don’t speak any Spanish. Uber is starting to operate in Costa Rica, but it’s still kind of sketchy. Your safest bet is to use the regulated taxis.

Question

Can I feed the monkeys?

Answer

No- The adorable monkeys are a big hit with tourists, but please don’t feed them – for your sake as well as theirs. Conditioning them to expect human handouts diminishes their self-reliant survival instincts. Monkeys usually roam 17 km per day, but if they know people are going to feed them, they get lazy and don’t get the exercise they need. Our food isn’t good for monkeys and, contrary to popular belief, even bananas aren’t the ideal food choice (many are laden with pesticides). Monkeys can pass diseases onto humans and, visa versa, we can pass on bugs to our primate cousins. Furthermore, the monkeys can be rather aggressive. They’ve been known to take swipes, snatch bags and even purposely pee on people standing under them. It’s also against the law, so forget the tempting photo-op and just don’t do it.

Question

Should I be scared of the snakes in Costa Rica?

Answer

Just be aware that there are 22 venomous species of snakes slithering around the country. This includes the fer-de-lance, eye-lash viper and coral snake. In fact, it is estimated that there are two deadly snakes per hectare there. Rest assured, they’re usually shy try to avoid people, but bites do happen. The medical system is very good here, so most afflicted people live, but it’s not something you want to experience on your vacation. Be vigilant, stay on marked trails and obey your guide.

Question

Can I touch the pretty, tiny frogs?

Answer

No- Another type of critter to beware of when you’re wandering the rainforest is the thumbnail sized cute and colorful frogs with the elaborate designs – aptly named poison dart frogs. They’re super cute and look like rubber toys you’d find in a gumball machine, but some of them have a deadly poison that packs a punch. Resist the urge to reach out and poke these cartoonish creatures if you have a cut on your finger. The deadliest little guys have enough venom to kill ten grown men if it gets in your bloodstream.

Question

Should I tip in Costa Rica?

Answer

Yes and No- Unlike in the States, tipping in restaurants in Costa Rica is not expected, and there is usually a 10% service charge included anyway. Unless you receive exceptionally good service, don’t bother tipping in catering establishments. However, tipping tour guides, maids and drivers is quite common, provided the service is excellent. Be generous here, as they work hard and rely on tips to supplement wages.

Question

Can I take that lovely rock home that I just found?

Answer

No-Costa Rica is a place known for its rich natural wonders and endemic wildlife. Disrespecting nature by picking wild plants, pocketing seashells or damaging trees is a big no-no, and it may get you into trouble. Most of the wildlife, particularly in the rainforests, is strictly protected by the government. In short, enjoy the scenery, take photos, but leave no trace of your visit.

Question

Should I learn some Spanish before I go to Costa Rica?

Answer

It’s always good to know a few basic words when traveling to a foreign country. As is the case in much of the Spanish-speaking world, English is not widely spoken in Costa Rica, particularly if you’re going off the beaten path away from touristy zones. Learning a few basic words and phrases in Spanish, as well as the correct pronunciation of place names, will go a long way to making sure you stay safe and avoid the overpriced tourist traps. The local ticos are generally friendly and won’t mind helping you practice your Spanish attempts. “Duo Lingo” is a great app you can download to learn some basic Spanish for free!

Question

What does “Pura Vida” mean?

Answer

Pura Vida literally means “pure life”, but Costa Ricans give many meanings to this phrase like: full of life, purified life, this is living, going great, doing good, or cool. Costa Ricans love to use it both as a greeting and a farewell, to express satisfaction, to say thank you, or to express acknowledgement of something. They also love when tourists respond back with this phrase. It’s a polite gesture. In a way, this expression reflects the friendliness of Costa Ricans and the leisure lifestyle associated with the country. Pura Vida!