FAQs

Question

What do I need to know about traveling to Costa Rica?

Answer

Costa Ricans, better known as Ticos, are known for being friendly and welcoming people, and we are so excited for you to experience Guillermo's home country! Costa Rica is currently on Central Standard Time (CST). The country does not observe Daylight Savings Time, so it is always between 1-2 hours behind the time in Washington, D.C. Costa Rica uses the colon whose exchange rate is currently 511 colones to 1 U.S. dollar. Most places will accept credit and debit cards and you can take out colones from ATMs. Some places such as parking lots and small stores may accept Sinpe which is Costa Rica's version of Venmo. We recommend having a small amount of colones on hand for these type of situations, as U.S. bank accounts will not be compatible with Sinpe. All Ubers and taxis can be paid with credit and debit cards. While the country's official language is Spanish, many Ticos know English. You will have no problem ordering in English at most restaurants and the hotel has bilingual staff. Smaller shops and restaurants may only operate in Spanish, but google translate or sign language will be your friend. The most important phrase to know, is Pura Vida. Costa Ricans use it to greet one another, express thanks and say goodbye. When in doubt, just say Pura Vida!

Question

Do I need to rent a car?

Answer

Unless you are planning on exploring other provinces in Costa Rica, you do not need to rent a car. Ubers are widely available in San Jose and are safe and secure. If you want to explore some of the places we mention in the San Jose region, you can rent a car. But there are also a lot of tour companies that can take you on a day trip - including the tour we have planned on January 17!

Question

I want to explore the San Jose region. Where do you recommend?

Answer

Thanks to Guillermo's sister Gaby for preparing this comprehensive list :) All of these sites are accessible within a 2 hour drive from San Jose. You can rent a car or look for tours that will provide transportation from the hotel to take you to these sites. Many of these sites are on the tour we have booked for Friday, January 17! • Poás Volcano National Park: A short drive from San José, this park features one of the world’s largest active volcanos. Enjoy the breathtaking views and explore nearby trails. • La Paz Waterfall Gardens: On the way back from the Poas Volcano, stop at this beautiful nature reserve with waterfalls, wildlife exhibits, and lush tropical gardens. • Doka Estate Coffee Tour: Learn about Costa Rica’s coffee production process and enjoy a tasting session. • Sarchí Artisan Village: Visit this town known for its traditional hand-painted oxcarts and artisanal crafts. It’s a great place to buy souvenirs. • Rainforest Adventure at Braulio Carrillo National Park: Experience a zipline canopy tour or take an aerial tram ride through the rainforest. • Orosi Valley & Hot Springs: Take a day trip to the scenic Orosi Valley, visit the historic church, and unwind in the thermal hot springs. • Hacienda Alsacia: Starbucks’ coffee farm in Costa Rica offers a unique experience for coffee lovers. Nestled in the lush hills near San Ramón, it showcases the journey from bean to cup through guided tours. Visitors can explore sustainable farming practices, enjoy freshly brewed coffee, and take in stunning views of the surrounding landscape. It’s a perfect blend of nature, education, and Costa Rican coffee culture. If you have additional questions, Guillermo is more than happy to help! (202) 391-5194

Question

I want to explore other regions of Costa Rica. What do you recommend?

Answer

If you are looking to spend more time in Costa Rica or explore other regions of the country, these are Guillermo's recommendations to visit! You can reach these locations either by taking a small plane from the San Jose airport or by renting a car. • La Fortuna: Thermal springs, Arenal Volcano, hanging bridges, horseback riding and zip lining • Monteverde: Costa Rica's famous cloud forest, horseback riding, guided nature walks, zip lining and bungee jumping • Uvita and Manuel Antonio: Both are on the Pacific Coast and are the best beaches in the Puntas Arenas province. Manuel Antonio is well-known for its national park filled with wildlife. Uvita is a community that has grown over the last five years and is now known for its culinary scene as well as whale-watching tours. • Puerto Viejo: Located on Costa Rica's Caribbean coast in the Limon province, Puerto Viejo has a more laid-back vibe known for its Rastafari culture, beautiful beaches and national parks including Manzanillo and Cahuita.

Question

Is there a dress code for the wedding?

Answer

The dress code is semi-formal attire with an emphasis on bright, tropical colors. For this time of year in Costa Rica may we suggest the following attire: Women: cocktail or maxi dresses, dressy separates, heels or wedges. Please no white dresses, as the bride will be wearing white. Men: light dress shirt with khaki or other lightweight slacks; jackets and ties optional We suggest bringing a second pair of shoes so you can dance the night away with us! For more inspiration please visit our Pinterest board https://pin.it/3mf9x3AAd El código de vestimenta es semi-formal con énfasis en colores brillantes/pasteles y tropicales. Para esta época del año en Costa Rica sugerimos la siguiente vestimenta: Mujeres: vestidos de cóctel o maxi, conjuntos de vestir, tacones o cuñas. Por favor no vestidos blancos dado que la novia vesitra de blanco. Hombres: camisa de vestir ligera con pantalones caqui u otros pantalones ligeros; chaquetas y corbatas opcionales. Sientanse comodos de combinar como gusten y estar a gusto. Le sugerimos que traiga un segundo par de zapatos para poder bailar toda la noche con nosotros. Para más inspiración, visita nuestro tablero de Pinterest https://pin.it/3mf9x3AAd

Question

What time should I arrive at the ceremony?

Answer

The ceremony begins at. 3:15pm and we recommend arriving a bit early to get your preferred seat. There will be a bus leaving from the hotel at 2:45pm for those who would like to be transported directly to the event. La ceremonia comienza a las 3:15pm por lo que recomendamos llegar con anticipación para guardase el mejor lugar y poder ver el evento desde el mejor sitio. Agradecemos estar 15 minutos antes por cualquier imprevisto.

Question

Are kids welcome?

Answer

While we love children, we politely request no children attend the ceremony and reception. Thank you in advance for understanding. Should you like to bring your children to Costa Rica, we can connect you with a babysitting service. Aunque nos encantan los niños, les rogamos que no asistan a la ceremonia ni a la recepción. Gracias de antemano por su comprensión. Si desea traer a sus hijos a Costa Rica, podemos ponerle en contacto con un servicio de niñera.

Question

Can I bring a date?

Answer

Since we want to keep our wedding as intimate as possible, we unfortunately can't accommodate plus-ones beyond those named on the wedding invitation. We hope you understand our decision. Dado que queremos que nuestra boda sea lo más íntima posible, lamentablemente no podemos aceptar más acompañantes que los que se encuentran en la invitación de boda. Esperamos que entiendan nuestra decisión.

Question

Are you registered? Where?

Answer

We're so thrilled you're making the trip to Costa Rica to share in our joy. Celebrating with you is gift enough!