FAQs

Question

Travel requirements?

Answer

A valid passport is required. The shuttle ride from San Jose to La Fortuna takes about 3 hours.

Question

When to arrive?

Answer

We recommend getting in the morning prior if you wish to participate in the welcome festivities! We will be there earlier that week, so if you come early let us know!

Question

What is the time difference?

Answer

You will gain two hours when you land in Costa Rica! In other words, they are two hours behind us in NJ!

Question

What time does the sunrise and set in Costa?!

Answer

Year round, the sun rises and sets between 5-5:30am and 5-5:30pm! You will want to get an early start to enjoy the sun as it is a rainforest so rain can be sporadic but typically doesn’t last long!

Question

Can I fly direct?

Answer

Direct flights are available from Newark, or you can fly a connection from PA.

Question

Where to stay?

Answer

The wedding and festivities will take place at The Springs Resort & Spa but you are welcome to stay elsewhere! In case you don't stay at the springs- NO DAY PASS IS REQUIRED FOR ANY WEDDING FESTIVITIES just mention you are a guest for our wedding. Nearby Options include: (But not limited to): Arenal Manoa Resort & Hot Springs Bauma condos Hotel Arenal & Kioro Suites & Spa Hotel Los Lagos Spa & Resort- Arenal Observatory Lodge Air BnB’s in town

Question

Is transportation provided?

Answer

Yes! We’ll have group transportation options (details coming soon). Rental cars and private shuttles are also available.

Question

What is the exchange rate?

Answer

$1USD- 474.26CRC

Question

What is the weather like in La Fortuna in late November

Answer

The weather is 80-85 degrees during the day and mid 70s during the night. Keep in mind this is the tail end of the rainy season and landscapes will be at their lushest! We are also about 8 degrees from the equator.

Question

Costa Rica Quick Facts:

Answer

November is actually one of the favorite months in Costa Rica. Even though it’s the last month of the rainy season, some areas begin their dry season by the end of the month. Sunrise and sunset is roughly the same all year round, with a difference of around 15 minutes. Sunrise is generally 6 AM with first light around 530 AM and sunset is 530 PM, dark by 6 PM. Costa Rica uses 110 V and drives on the right hand side of the road. Local currency is called the colón. Exchange rate ~520 CRC to 1 USD. Spanish is the main language. Costa Rica is 8-12 degrees from the equator. Furthermore, November is not a busy time to visit Costa Rica and it’s not as expensive as the high season months like January through April. Another thing we love about November is all the lush mountains, everything is so green from all the rain. It’s also the best time to see turtles in Costa Rica as November is at the height of the mass turtle nestings. You will still get lots of nice days with high temperatures and sunny mornings.

Question

What is La Fortuna known for?

Answer

La Fortuna is known for the Arenal Volcano, the best place for hot springs, lushest landscapes, animals, and sea turtle sightings! November is actually sea turtle mass nesting season or the “arribada.” All visitors must go with a guide and if you go during the arribada, you can see hundreds, if not, thousands of adult female turtles coming to shore to dig a hole, create their nest and lay their eggs! Furthermore, you will also have a chance to see baby turtles coming out of the nest and crawling their way to the ocean.

Question

Is $5 a good tip in Costa Rica?

Answer

Yes, $5 is a good tip in Costa Rica, especially for good service, but its value depends on the context: it's generous for small services like a taxi or bellhop, and a nice extra (5-10%) on top of the included 10% service charge in restaurants for excellent waitstaff, though locals often tip less beyond the standard fee. Tipping isn't mandatory, but appreciated as wages are lower than in the US, and cash (USD or Colones) given directly is best.