Here are some frequently answered questions to help guide you on your path to the good life.
Why do I need trip insurance?
For your safety, we require all guest to purchase trip and accident insurance. For about $75-119 you get not only trip cancellation coverage, but evacuation and other medical care that typically your carrier will not offer. Please go to: World Nomads and get the “Explorer” coverage.
What is a typical day like?
Note, all activities are optional.
- 7 AM Fruit and coffee
- 7:30 Morning coastal hike
- 8:30 Typical Costs Rica breakfast (eggs, beans, rice, fruit, tortillas…)
- 10 Pilates on the beach
- 11 Stand Up paddle
- 12:30 BBQ on the porch overlooking the ocean
- 2:30 Zip line canopy tour
- 6:30 Gourmet dinner with local foods prepared by our chef
- 8:30 Sitting by a bonfire
What are the accommodations like?
You will be staying at a luxury, beachfront villa in Las Catalinas. The amenities are amazing: pool, Jacuzzi, outdoor kitchen and eating area, private chef, maid service… Most of the rooms have ocean views and all rooms have en-suite bathrooms. Most of the rooms have king or queen beds, so for best pricing, you will want to come down with some one with whom you can share a bed. Solo travelers are also welcome, read the “can you accommodate a solo traveler” FAQ just a little lower. See the Accommodations and Pricing page for more details.
What fitness level is the retreat designed for?
Our community is a walking town, so at an absolute minimum you should feel comfortable walking up and down steep hills, using stairs without handrails while carrying your beach/workout gear. Our guests are usually active but you do not need to be in super shape. If you are a healthy person who exercises fairly regularly, you will be fine. You will have 2-3 exercise options per day and you can do as little or as much as you like. This is your vacation to enjoy!
Can you accommodate different dietary needs?
We will do everything we can to ensure your specific nutritional needs are met. Vegetarian and gluten free meals are always available. Rice, beans, tortillas, chicken, beef, fish, tropical fruit, and fresh vegetables are some of the standard foods that travelers can expect in Costa Rica. Please email me at Rich@RichRoe if you have special food restrictions or allergies.
How do I get there?
The best way to get to the retreat is to fly to Liberia international Airport, in northwest Costa Rica. The airport is called Daniel Oduber Quiros and the airport code is “LIR”. Several major carriers like American and Delta fly there direct from the US. From there we will provide ground transportation for the 50-minute drive to the retreat.
Can I drink the water there?
Yes, your villa has safe and tasty water right out of the tap.
What types of electrical outlets are used in Costa Rica?
Costa Rica uses the same power outlets as the United States, 2-prong 110V.
Should I bring cash? Are ATMs available? Can I use credit cards?
Michele and I bring some cash for small purchases. Since most of your expenses are handled as part of the retreat, you really just need shopping money. US dollars are widely accepted, though bills larger than $20 may be an issue. You can go to a bank with your ATM/credit card and get more cash as needed. Credit cards are accepted only in the larger restaurants and stores. Although it is helpful to bring a credit card along for emergencies, don’t count on using it for most purchases.
How safe is Costa Rica?
Costa Rica has a democratic tradition and extensive tourist facilities. Like any destination, however, Costa Rica has its share of crime, especially in the larger cities.
Pickpocketing is a particular concern for travelers, especially in crowded airports and visitor sites. Be aware of your valuables and avoid carrying large amounts of cash, jewelry or other expensive items. Check out the US State Department travel advisories for the latest information at: http://travel.state.gov/travel/cis_pa_tw/cis/cis_1093.html
Pickpocketing is a particular concern for travelers, especially in crowded airports and visitor sites. Be aware of your valuables and avoid carrying large amounts of cash, jewelry or other expensive items. Check out the US State Department travel advisories for the latest information at: http://travel.state.gov/travel/cis_pa_tw/cis/cis_1093.html
Do I need prior experience with SUP, mtn. bike…?
You do not need any prior experience to participate in the activities. You can use this trip to learn to stand up paddle, snorkel or ride an ATV.
Can you accommodate a solo traveler?
Of course! Since most of the rooms can accommodate 2 people, the pricing will be more if you want your own room. On some retreats there may be an option to have yur own bed while sharing a room. Please contact me and I can let you know what is available.
Do I need a visa/passport?
Travelers will all need a passport valid for at least 6 months after they depart. Visas are not currently required for citizens of the following countries staying up to 90 days: United States, Canada, Austria, Belgium, Brazil, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Italy, Luxembourg, Netherlands, Norway, Romania, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, United Kingdom, Israel, South Korea, Japan, Argentina, and Panama. Travelers from Australia, Colombia, Guatemala, Honduras, Iceland, Ireland, Mexico, Monaco, New Zealand, South Africa, and Venezuela do not need a visa for stays under 30 days. Visitors from other nationalities should check with the Costa Rican Embassy for visa information. Entry requirements change with surprising frequency. It is each traveler’s responsibility to check for the most recent visa information.
What should I bring?
Costa Rica is tropical and very casual, so you won’t need much. Since we offer daily maid service, you can pack light. After your registration, you will receive a “Welcome Email” with several documents with a detailed list of suggestions.
