www.CostaRicaTicas.com

Hi Guys,

I will be a first time traveller to SJO soon and I am about to take some good advice from this forum and book myself a seat for an Airport pick-up on arrival to take me into town for about half the cost of a taxi fare via an online booking at http://www.shuttlebus.co.cr

My question is simply this, does this company have a good record for honoring these bookings and where does one find the bus upon exiting the airport? The website booking procedure asks for the scheduled arrival time of my flight, so if I give them the correct arrival time, would I have time to quickly exchange money upstairs and/or pick up departure tax paperwork before exiting and finding the bus?
ie. From experience, how long do they give you to find them, and is it an easy process given that there would probably be a swarm of taxi drivers waiting to pounce as I step outside.

Regards,

TB

Just follow the crowd till you are outside. You should see a guy with a small sign that says Interbus and your name. If you can't find him ask any cab driver and they will point him out to you, very reliable. Once you hook up ask him if there is time for your other errands, usually not a problem. I have used Interbus for years and not once did I have a problem.

+1

Very reliable. Used them 5 or 6 times. I was by myself everytime except once, and even that time it was to drop off 2 guys at the Crowne Plaza.

_________________
In honor of Jimmy V week, "Don't give up, don't ever give up!"

I'm going to agree, but with some qualifiers - I've taken them numerous times, and always had a positive experience - until my last trip in May - they sucked - period.

Also, if you take them, while you don't have to tip, a dollar or two to the guy w/ the clipboard and the driver is sufficient (not going to get into the whole tip or not in CR debate, but if you overtip, you might as well take a cab - you can - I did - negociate to $20 all in).

Here is another alternative and a good one - read the thread, and do not hesitate to use this option - the airport bus, especially if you are on a budget:

viewtopic.php?f=4&t=37524

While at the airport, before you leave, walk across the street to the departure area, in the ticket lobby - walk in, make a right and do 2 things:

Buy your exit visa ($26), you can't miss it - then its done and you don't need to mess w/ it when you are leaving

Just past where you bought your exit visa, is a bank - DO NOT CHANGE MONEY ANYWHERE ELSE, ESPECIALLY IN A "CAMBIO" - there are two of "Casa de Cambio's at SJO, and they both suck - Shitty exchange rate - just use the bank - in well over 30 trips I've accomplished both tasks in less than 10 min's and 2 less things to worry about, not to mention bank rates (vs hotel or casino)

Asume you have been reading; truly its worth the time to do so; can be overwhelming, but so much great info on this site - wish I had CRT when I started coming down in the mid 90's... in the Newbie section check out Oranges'- excellent hints - its a stickey - have a great trip

PS I know you did not ask about some of the things I've mentioned in this post but its info I would want ever new traveler to CR to have and the bus, bank and visa are not "intuitive"

Very prompt and incisive responses guys. Appreciate the feedback very much. I'll be there in mid September so I'm happy to meet some members for a round of beers.

Cheers,

TB

Another thing would be to become a member....it's worth it.

These are excellent options for airport transport, however if you and some other guys need reliable transport to, say Arenal, Quepos, Puerto Viejo or other distant CR places, look no farther than our CRT Sponsor and good Brother: http://www.puravidatransport.com/

_________________
"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

I use the shuttle all the time .Once my plane was two hours late and they were still there to pick me up. I'ts also great to use when going to jaco. I've never had a problem. Cheap way to travel and safe.