www.CostaRicaTicas.com

In 2 + years reading the Board, I've never heard that being a problem at any of our hotel venues. That said, if your are hinky about it, consider having a very low-limit card for just such purchases. And BTW make sure to call the anti-fraud department at your ATM bank and credit card issuers--tell'm the country you are visiting and probable large purchases (medical/dental work, the hotel stay, internal airline flights, etc.). It is a security measure and can prevent awkward situations with vendors.

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"A man accustomed to hear only the echo of his own sentiments, soon bars all the common avenues of delight, and has no part in the general gratification of mankind"--Dr. Johnson
"Amen, brother"-ED

Very good advice, panadero. I watched a gringa woman holding up the line in front of me trying to exit with no dinero for the exit tax and I would have helped her except she was wearing expensive clothes, was mean to the customs girl and was ugly, so mean, fat and ugly, no karma there.











very good advice.

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" Omit no happy hour that may give furtherance to our expedition."

Cash at check in.

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Go Dolphins!!!

No worries here, you are extremely safe. My first trip to CR, stayed at Castillo. Used my debit card to pay on the last day. They were having a problem with the card reader that day. (two years ago). When I returned home, noticed no payment out to Castillo. As normal, my card blocked international debits after my return. I had my bank reopen the card, and I called Darren. He was very grateful, and they were able to debit my stay. For that, I now receive a lifetime 25% discount.
Since then, have stayed there 4 more times and always pay cash upfront when I arrive. I really like it there. Never any problems.

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"If you dont think women are explosive,....drop one."

I can't remember ever using a credit or debit card at Castillo. I always pay cash up front and Darren gives me a great discount. As far as reserving a room, I send an e-mail, and within a day or two, I get an e-mail back with my room #. I am never asked for a credit card. If I need to make a change (eg change dates, add or delete wingmen), I always call and speak with Marta or Darren. (It helps cut down on the confusion. ).

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Blue Devil

Pura Vida...enjoying life to the fullest...

Yep, just to add my two cents, I returned yesterday from *my* first trip to CR and stayed at the Castillo. I had the same initial apprehension with the credit card thing, but all went well. Soon after arriving, you will realize you made the right decision for your first stay (I swear I am not a paid spokesman ) Darren and staff are good people.

Two tips for a fellow newbie:

1. Introduce youself to your *new* friends soon after arrival. Most of them can be found "cavorting" around the back bar. They can and will share much wisdom and humorous stories. Wisdom will differ, but you'll *figure things out* sooner with thier help.

2. Don't have any over-nighters until you know some of the chicas. But always lock up all valuables in the room safe and use luggage locks as well (this applies wherever you stay).

thanks all!!!

i have room 12 booked for my stay...any opinions on this room??

also darren left a VM with me today saying he will call me back in a couple of days to get my debit card info to reserve the room...i'm still shaky about this but i guess it should be ok...right?

i tried calling him back on my cell phone but the call wouldnt go through...what is the best way or time to get a hold of him during the day?? also how do i make international calls from my cell??

thanks for any help!!!

Stop sweating... you'll be fine and enjoy your trip!

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Blue Devil

Pura Vida...enjoying life to the fullest...

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"If you dont think women are explosive,....drop one."

I have stayed at the Castillo numerous times. I stay for a week. Pay cash up front. I have never been required to provide a CC. CASH is king and I would rather hand it over in the beginning than lose it to some lousy Colombiana who ripped me off by pulling a gun out of her bolsa!

Berk....

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FRUITCAKE... and you thought it was something you eat! Not on CRT!

Damn Brother!. No joke--you have some stories, and doubtless all true..."Adventures at the Fringe"--gonna be a million and 2 seller.

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"A man accustomed to hear only the echo of his own sentiments, soon bars all the common avenues of delight, and has no part in the general gratification of mankind"--Dr. Johnson
"Amen, brother"-ED