www.CostaRicaTicas.com

I'm thinking about bringing down an HP Netbook (+/-$300) as a gift, in addition to my own computer and guitar. Does anyone think the aduana will give me any grief when I get there? Does the $500 exemption apply only to stuff you are bringing as gifts, or does it apply to all of your stuff?
Thx,
CH

Maybe take the computer out of the box and bring it in like that if that is a possibility.

TW: I plan to do that, but I'll have two computers with me. I don't know if that will raise the red flag with the aduana.
CH

The exemption applies to all your stuff.

Once, we brought in a desktop PC and they stamped my wife's passport. When we asked why, they said you can't bring in a desktop but you can bring in as many laptops as you want (up to $3000).

On my last trip I brought in two laptops, two IPhones and a regular small cell, a Nook reader, MP3 player and several other items. No one asked me any questions and the guy watching the video/xray images looked half asleep.

Never been challenged at SJO.

I have brought with my as many as three laptop computers before without any issues. Never been asked any questions. If you bring two laptops, and you get questioned just tell them one is your personal laptop and the other is for work. As long as you take the computer of the packaging you will not have any trouble.