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PostPosted: Tue Dec 02, 2014 7:15 pm 
CR Virgin - Newbie!
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Scuba1 wrote:
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["I like to keep the support staff happy for a great service. Of course, that comes out of Tica's tip bucket!" /quote]

That was supposed to be a sarcasm. I guess I am bad at that. Sorry. No disrespect for anyone though. [/i]

Quote:
And you were doing so well!

Couple of things - you wrote a well written post; you are obviously a sharp guy, and you have given it a fair amount of thought

But:

Don't be a shnorrer (it means a really cheap guy) what the Phuck - the tip you give the maid has zero to do with what you pay the

I completely understand your point, sorry, it didn't came out the way I wanted. But I have seen quite a people literally emptying their pockets for their new found love of 3 days but won't give a dime the support staff. Please note that I am familiar with the GFE vacations where you stay at a resort/house/villa and the same support staff serve you day in and day out for a week or so. It's their money, they can do whatever they want, I have no business in that. All I can do is to do my part. Because in DR at least, they make less than $200 per month. A $20 tip a day makes sure I never run out of drinks, my room is spotless, fresh towels multiple times a day etc etc. But that doesn't work in every country, or even establishments within the same county. Hence asked.

If I may ask (with due respect) you don't know the size of my tip buckets, do you? :)

Being cheap - In fact, I fear the exact opposite problem. I have seen time and again pouring more money just doesn't add any more value after a certain point. I just created a bunch of greedy people who always expects me to tip them for anything and everything. It also creates an awkward situation where you are getting more attention than other guests - that can ruin the chemistry in the group. So I always try my best to be in the middle.



Quote:
Tica is a word that simply means Costa Rican female - don't use it to also describe prostitutes - in your post you are mis using the term


I sincerely apologize for that. That's nothing but my ignorance.

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Just when you thing, Gee, I'm a pretty sm(art guy, and I have a pretty good grasp on things, I've even done some research, yet something so basic comes up to bite :) )


I think you are wrong on the first one. I don't think I have any idea what I am doing. The research ( or lack there of) is purely due the fact that I am quite nervous and want to know more and more. As far as the posting is concerened, I value people's time, so thought in stead of posting random questions, why not to consolidate the questions, provide the background and then ask for help.

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I have found many Indian guys to be - to use a polite term based on experience from my business career - frugal (use all the East Asian terms you want - basically you are likely Indian or from Packastan - or perhaps Ceylon - just say it :roll: :roll: :roll: - don't hide what you are)


Sir, I am not ashamed of who I am. In fact, I am very proud of my heritage, my country of birth (India) and my adapted country (USA). I went to top schools both in India and US, worked very hard, made some right decisions at the right time to get the top of the corporate ladder and living my american dream now. I can't say the same about my social life though!

[i]The only reason I did mention where I was born - I wanted to see if the working girls have apprehension or bias against any specific physical characteristics.

The only reason I didn't mention India but South Asia - I wanted to give as much information (all of us have same physical characteristics, I believe) as I can but still be discrete. I thought that's how this forum works. I may be wrong but haven't seen a single person mentioning if he is from California or Texas or some other states.


Just out of curiosity, if I can ask a question - If someone says he is "Asian" - will you ask the same question? Well, that person can be from China, Japan, Koreas, Vietnam etc etc.. All I was trying to convey some physical charactistics to gather information - you got my point.
[/i]

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While frugal does not seem to describe you particularly, know this:

Many Costa Ricans do not expect tips and really look down on Americans for our tip oriented culuture - trying to cover a lot of ground here - you are fine in asking about it, but if you are having a few drinks, maybe you leave 2000 colonies (less than $2) when you leave - know that most Americans way over tip - its not expected.

If I know the hotel maid will be there for <most> of the time of my stay, I'll give her 5000 colonies (like $10) with the understanding I want double the amount of towels every day - if not, I hand he 1000 colonies and get extra towels for that day.


Thank you and Thank you. This is exactly what I wanted to know - get a feeling for the baseline. Then it will be up to me and the offered service, right?.

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Convert money at the Airport Bank - its across from when you deplane, located in the ticket lobby - DO NOT CHANGE AT THE 2 CAMBIOS - ONLY THE BANK

Ah..That's easy. I owe you a beer now!

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Right near the bank is the place they sell exit visas - buy one - there will likely not be a line, then its done and one less thing to worry about.

Added that to the list. Thanks.

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Consider seriously a tour with one of our members - it will really give you the lay of the land in San Jose - contact Esposodebarbie via PM on this site and see what you can arrainge.


Will love to. Will reach out to him.

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So much more to share - you sound like a sharp guy and you will figure most of this stuff out - don't look to set up dates; meet your own and don't take others recommendations, or Phuck a picture. Good luck! :)


The very last part - no intention to do that. That's why bugging all of you.

Thank you very much for your response and time. I appreciate it.

Hopeful to grab a beer with you some day!


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PostPosted: Tue Dec 02, 2014 10:40 pm 
CR Virgin - Newbie!
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After you collect your luggage and buy a sim card, exit that side of the airport (through all the taxi people), walk across the street and go to the second floor (departure area). When you enter the departure area, turn right and walk all the way to the end. There is a small bank there where you can exchange money. You will receive an exchange rate that will be as good or better than most other places. In case your airline ticket doesn't include the departure tax, pay the tax ($29) right before you get to the bank. DO NOT exchange money in the arrival area - they are rip-off artists!


My issue is that I will have quite a bit of luggage - 2 check ins + Carry on. I am taking a break on my second week of a month long tour for work. So with that kind of baggage, do you think I can make it to this place with not much of a hassle?

I will check with AA flight attendants on my way if they cover it. If they don't, that's a great idea.

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Do your own evaluation of the ladies. I agree with the others, you should go to the DR to check the ladies. There are some good ones there, and the most variety of any place in San Jose. Remember, one person's gem may be another's rejection.

Very true.

Quote:
You can run a tab at the SL without a problem. Be sure to show them your CRT card when you first order, and also remind them when you ask for your check. I tip at the bars according to the level of service received. I know there is a 10% service charge added at almost all bars and restaurants, but that is divided among many people, not just the bartenders/waitresses. If the service is good and the server is nice, I usually tip between 15 and 20%. I leave 500 colones (~$1) everyday for the maid.

Thanks. Now I have good idea about the tipping policy. That's all I wanted to know.

Quote:
The servers in bars and restaurants that cater primarily to gringos expect a tip.

At LA, they have free breakfast (limited items) for hotel guests. There is a window to the kitchen left of the dining area (as you enter the building) where you fill out a slip to select items for breakfast. Toast, coffee, and juice(?) are self-serve.

Zona2 has happy hour every Friday from 2pm until closing (9pm?) for domestic beers and most shelf mixed drinks. Sometimes, the bartender will not offer the 2 for 1. You need to remind her.


Roger that. Thank you, Sir.

Quote:
The exchange rate is approximately 500 colones for $1 (528/1 today). Scuba either mis-typed or wasn't thinking when he wrote that 2000 colonies is less than $2.

Only pay with colonies at the bars and restaurants. The exchange rate they give you if you pay with dollars is not very good.


Sure thing. Thanks.

Thank you for taking time to respond to my request. I really appreciate it.


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PostPosted: Tue Dec 02, 2014 10:54 pm 
PHD From Del Rey University!
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About exchanging money at the airport - ignore the exchange kiosks located in the baggage claim area - they rip you on the exchange rate. They're there to reel in the tourists.

About lugging your luggage upstairs - one thing I do is just load my bags into my driver's van, then have him drive me upstairs (or I simply walk up the stairs) to the 2nd floor, walk inside, and exchange dollars at the 2nd floor bank which offers market rates. Of course you have to trust your driver to not take off with your luggage (yet another reason to consider using one of the vetted drivers who advertise here on CRT).

Or you can just ask your (vetted) driver to stop at a bank on the way in to your hotel.

As to girls caring about your ethnicity - plenty of Indian brothers travelling to SJO to have fun. The only color most working girls care about is GREEN.

Don't mind Scuba. He enjoys razzing n00bs of all colors, races, nationalities, and religious affiliations.

mh

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PostPosted: Wed Dec 03, 2014 1:48 am 
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Miamiheller wrote:
Quote:
About exchanging money at the airport - ignore the exchange kiosks located in the baggage claim area - they rip you on the exchange rate. They're there to reel in the tourists.

About lugging your luggage upstairs - one thing I do is just load my bags into my driver's van, then have him drive me upstairs (or I simply walk up the stairs) to the 2nd floor, walk inside, and exchange dollars at the 2nd floor bank which offers market rates. Of course you have to trust your driver to not take off with your luggage (yet another reason to consider using one of the vetted drivers who advertise here on CRT).

Or you can just ask your (vetted) driver to stop at a bank on the way in to your hotel.

As to girls caring about your ethnicity - plenty of Indian brothers travelling to SJO to have fun. The only color most working girls care about is GREEN.

Don't mind Scuba. He enjoys razzing n00bs of all colors, races, nationalities, and religious affiliations.

[That's it. I will be using SL's airport pick up service, I think I can trust the driver. Thank you and thank you. I have two trusted options- SL service and Pura Vida.
It's funny you said that girls only love the GREEN. It's the same all over the world - they just love a piece of paper with DEAD AMERICAN PRESIDENTS' picture on it.
No offense taken what so ever on Scuba's comment about my origin. But I had to make my point clear that there are exceptions to every stereo type. i hope everyone understand that.


mh


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PostPosted: Mon Dec 08, 2014 1:07 pm 
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blahblah wrote:
It's funny you said that girls only love the GREEN. It's the same all over the world - they just love a piece of paper with DEAD AMERICAN PRESIDENTS' picture on it.

technically, they love the paper with pictures of dolphins, sloths, and trees on it ... each in it's own color background.

But they'll take our dull, puke-green stuff in a pinch. :mrgreen:

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PostPosted: Mon Dec 08, 2014 1:55 pm 
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Many Indians are going to CR. Many girls at the Massage Parlors are interested in learning Hindi words so they can please them. Most of them do not care if you are white, brown, yellow or black. The Green dollar color and Blue colone color make them happy.
If you have lots of luggage get your taxi and go to your hotel and get your valuables into the safe before venturing out to exchange money. The taxis will accept dollars. Bring a few $10, $5 and $1 to tide you over.
do not bother to get your exit tax paid when you arrive there is never much of a line there and you can do it when you are leaving. Just make sure you have $29 when you are leaving the country.
If you contact people like PVT or OLD it may make things easier.
Hope you are arriving during the day. If not contacting OLD or PVT is strongly recommended and do not bother to go upstairs at all.

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PostPosted: Mon Dec 08, 2014 2:16 pm 
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Isra123 wrote:
... and get your valuables into the safe before venturing out to exchange money. The taxis will accept dollars. Bring a few $10, $5 and $1 to tide you over..

I would suggest converting something at the airport, even if the upstairs bank is closed and you are forced to use the baggage claim thieves. It's better to have some colones for cabbies, and expect them to 'not have change' for larger bills.

My first red-eye arrival will be in January, so I am wondering if I should just deal with daily Colonial Casino exchanges.

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PostPosted: Mon Dec 08, 2014 6:07 pm 
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Gringotim wrote:
blahblah wrote:
My goal is to hang out at SL and visit a couple of MPs and avoid DR unless absolutely needed.


Why do you want to avoid the Del Rey :?: :roll: If you've never been there, you have to go at least two or three times just to see what it's like. You might even like it :) Just read some more of the posts for newbies regarding negotiating, avoiding the 'sharks' etc., and absorb as much information and advice as you can.


WARNING !!!!

Apparently you must have read on this forum some of the scurrilous unfounded lies adversaries of my Alma Mater, Hotel Del Rey have been spreading, these warnings are without merit and overblown. Although it makes little sense for expats living here to visit HDR, they have time on their hands to find bargains, but vacationers should and must visit.

I have been staying there 11 tears and love the place. I continue to find mind bending sweeties who provide GFE and you can experience ecstasy and only pay anywhere from $50 to $100 max, typically $60 to $80. :D

HDR has the most chicas of all the other places combined on a Thur, Fri and Sat night and is generally well stocked even in the am and afternoons. Avoid the ones who approach you. Avoid the ones who parade about with false breasteses 3/4 exposed. Get yourself to the back bar and find a little lovely sitting by herself or with a group of friends and make small talk. Don't delude yourself into thinking SL girls are "nicer" more cooperative, yadayadayada. These girls move between SL and HDR all night long, they are the same. You just have a much more massive selection at HDR.

There are bloggers here who are easily tricked, they do not have 10 years experience, they have 1 year experience 10x and they are easily fooled at the HDR so they complain about it, or shall I say cry and wimper about it and wail and warn everyone not to go. Ignore them, they are girly men, you will enjoy the place and score some incredible hotties if you take your time and "interview" well. These admonishments I make DO NOT APPLY to my expat pals who live there and have time on their hands to find excellent bargains elsewhere, but for the vacationer who has less than a week, the HDR is a must see. It's like going to India and refusing to see the Taj Mahal because one or two guys said it wasn't that great. :P :P :P

I can recommend Maritza at Scores if she's still there, I visited last time about 8 months ago. She has a smoking hot bod, delivers GFE and DFK, at least she did for me.

There is or was (many restaurants here don't last long) an Indian restaurant across the street from HDR going out the back door, if it's still there and if you go, the food is super spicy, the place is a little low brow but damn it's good and greasy but you will pay the next day! :!: :!: :!: :twisted:

Good luck and good hunting, welcome to the club and bring your own condoms, "Skyn" is my personal favorite, they have a "large" size option if needed... :mrgreen:

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PostPosted: Mon Dec 08, 2014 6:22 pm 
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Hotel Del Rey is like the McDonald's of pu*sy.

Billions served, great if all you want is a a piece of meat with fries on the side. :)

mh

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PostPosted: Mon Dec 08, 2014 11:55 pm 
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Miamiheller wrote:
Hotel Del Rey is like the McDonald's of pu*sy.

Billions served, great if all you want is a a piece of meat with fries on the side. :)

mh

Well! Someone's jaded! :mrgreen:

How's that Medellin vegetarian platter?

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PostPosted: Tue Dec 09, 2014 12:05 am 
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BashfulDwarf wrote:
Isra123 wrote:
...I would suggest converting something at the airport, even if the upstairs bank is closed and you are forced to use the baggage claim thieves. It's better to have some colones for cabbies, and expect them to 'not have change' for larger bills.


I suggest getting some colones from the ATMs in baggage claim. I usually get 100.000. Make sure you have a 4 digit pin and let your bank know you'll be inCR.


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PostPosted: Tue Dec 09, 2014 7:06 pm 
PHD From Del Rey University!
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BashfulDwarf wrote:
Miamiheller wrote:
Hotel Del Rey is like the McDonald's of pu*sy.

Billions served, great if all you want is a a piece of meat with fries on the side. :)

mh

Well! Someone's jaded! :mrgreen:

How's that Medellin vegetarian platter?


Much healthier than the all-you-can-eat-mess at the Del Rey. :)

mh

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PostPosted: Wed Feb 23, 2022 3:07 pm 
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alexwarrior wrote:
If you have been looking for a custom writing service for a long time then I advise you to contact here. These are real professionals who have been working for more than 3 years. I personally use their services and I advise you


Well, from 2014 it appears...I still had jet black hair, a job in Florida, and could easily bench press 300 pounds then.

Well, 100 pound three times, but you get the point... :mrgreen:

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