larrylarry wrote:
Taking my first trip to CR first week of December. Going to Jaco and staying at the Cocal. I was happy to see a post that indicates that although not up to its usual pace it seems that a good time is still ready to be had there. I have looked over the forum so as not to ask questions that have already been asked and answered but I have a few and perhaps some of thew more experienced CR travelers can help out-
1-where is the best place to exchange currency, I usually exchange a few hundred dollars in NYC before I leave so I don't have to bother upon arrival, but if the SJ airport has great rates I can take the time before heading to Jaco - do locals preferred to be paid in US dollars or colons?
2- taxi to hotel from airport - should I prearrange or are there taxis at the airport, meters or fixed prices? I am landing around 8:30PM. What should I expect to pay SJ to Jaco?
3-seems most of the encounters and prices quoted with the ticas are are for short time- are they usually out the door after you pop or is it multiple pops within a given time frame.
4-In some places when mongering, its customary to pay first but in other countries I pay at the end to ensure good service and avoid the up sell. Whats the norm in CR?
5- Any SCUBA recommendations-sites or operators, I am an experienced diver and would like to go on a couple of dives.
I would appreciate any advise, I am a very experienced traveler and looking to make the most of my first CR vacation.
Thank you
1 - I have found that withdrawing colons directly from ATMs is my cheapest option for exchange. But that's partly because I'm Canadian and there are no cheaper options that I have found.
2. Others will have better suggestions. But you may want to book before you arrive for service to Jaco. There are various options, many which will be cheaper than taxi. But if you are splitting the cost with anyone else taxi still may be a great option.
3, 4. Generally don't pay ahead of time. But negotiate what you want ahead of time, including how many shots, and in general the time you expect, and of course the cost. Unless otherwise negotiated and specified it will be out the door after the pop.
5. Others may know, I don't