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Welcome to Costa Rica!
Introduction
If this is your first visit to Costa Rica, you will be amazed at the beauty and diversity of this small country. If you are returning, you will see the many changes that have taken place. A vacation is a special time for everyone and we want this to be your best vacation ever. We think the information provided here will help you in planning and enjoying your vacation in Costa Rica. We invite you to email us with questions and comments at rpmservices@tulin.com
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Travel Information
Airports:
Juan Santa Maria International Airport:
Upon arrival, please be very cautious and observant with your luggage. Be especially careful with small bags, backpacks, and hip packs. Never leave your luggage unattended and use only the airport porters for transporting your luggage. Also, if using a taxi please use only the airport sanctioned orange taxis. There is an information center near the exit door that will help you with phone calls and directions. Expect about a 5 hour drive to Tamarindo, depending upon traffic.
Liberia International Airport:
Only an hour from Tamarindo, it is much more convenient than flying into San Jose. They have not automated this airport yet, so expect some delays at immigration and customs. Make sure to arrange transportation from the airport to Liberia before you arrive. We will be happy to help you with those arrangements.
San Jose:
When touring San Jose, please leave all valuables, airline tickets, passports, etc. in your hotel safe. It is advised not to wear expensive or flashy jewelry and to use a hip pack for your money.
Travel to Tamarindo from San Jose and Liberia:
If you are traveling by car, we recommend a four-wheel drive vehicle, especially during the rainy season. From both the San Jose and Liberia airports the roads are paved all the way, but many of the scenic routes are dirt and gravel - most in fairly good condition. A 4WD allows you enjoy other nearby natural sites without worrying about driving problems.
Driving Directions:
From San José: take the Interamerican Highway North. Turn left off the highway at the intersection for the town of Nicoya and the Puente de Taiwan (a new bridge funded by Taiwan). The intersection is about 3 hours from San Jose. This section of road is two lane most of the way, curvy, and slow. From the intersection follow the road until it dead ends, about a 45 minute drive. Turn right at the intersection and follow the road to Santa Cruz. Go through Santa Cruz and turn left in the town of Belén – about a 20 minute drive from Santa Cruz. There will be signs for Tamarindo in Belen. Go about 16 miles to the town of Huacas and turn left. Follow the road to Villareal, about 9 miles, and turn right for Tamarindo. Tamarindo is about 10 minutes away. The trip from San José will take about 5 hours depending upon traffic.
From Liberia: Turn right when you exit the airport and follow the road to Belen – about a 25 minute drive. Turn right in Belen. There will be signs for Tamarindo. Go about 16 miles to the town of Huacas and turn left. Follow the road to Villareal, about 9 miles, and turn right for Tamarindo. Tamarindo is about 10 minutes away. The trip from San José will take about 5 hours depending upon traffic.
Flying to Tamarindo:
Sansa and Nature Air: There are two airlines that fly into Tamarindo: Sansa and Nature Air. Sansa flies out of the international airport in San Jose, so it’s very convenient. To fly Nature Air you need to change airports, so allow a little extra time. The fares vary but they are about $180 roundtrip. Their schedules vary with the seasons, so check in advance for departure times. Please note that these are small planes. They may not accept surfboards during December – May. There is also a weight restriction of 25 Lbs of luggage per person. They will generally allow you extra weight but it will cost more and may be sent on a separate flight. These restrictions can change, so check with your travel agent or the airline when booking your flight. Flights take a bit less than an hour, and the aerial view is breathtaking all the way. Tamarindo airport is a 5-minute ride from town.
Buses:
Empresa Alfaro buses run every day from San José to Tamarindo, (tel. 222-2160). You can also check with Grayline Tours and Interbus. The bus takes about 6 hours.
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Directions To Our Offices After Arriving in Tamarindo:
Tamarindo Office Directions:
When you are in town you will pass the Hotel Tamarindo Diria on your right, after that you will see the Century 21 Real Estate office, just go another 50 yards and you will see a big dirt road on you left (if you get to the circle you went 100 yards to far), take it. You will go a little uphill for about 100 yards, then you will see a 2 story tour-surf shop on your left and a bar call Rey Sol lounge on your right, immediately after that, and just before a fork in the road, on your left you will see Plaza Tamarindo. You should see the ABC Real Estate office located there. We are in the Plaza on the second floor, suite A-17.
Langosta Office Directions:
When you get into Tamarindo the road will change from pavement to paving stones. When you get on this part of the road you will pass a Century21 Real Estate office on your right. About 50 meters past that there will be a dirt road to the left. Take it. About another 100 meters further and you will come to a "Y" intersection. Take the right fork. If you are on the right road you should pass a small store on your left in about 25 meters. From there follow the road. In about 3 minutes you will come to another "Y" - again take the right fork. About 200 meters more there will be a four way intersection with a B&B called Villa Alegre on the right. Our office is about 200 meters further on the right hand side. You will pass 4 new houses on the right. After that, we are the second set of condos on the right. That is Villas Langosta Condominiums. Our office is there. Come to the office and we will take you to your unit.
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General Information:
Money:
You will need a valid passport to cash traveler’s checks at the bank. The U.S. dollar is welcomed almost everywhere unless it has any type of tears or markings on it. Check those bills carefully! It is possible to take money from your VISA card - you will need a passport to do so. Banks often put stops on credit cards if they see any “unusual” transactions or transactions from another country. It’s a good idea to call the bank that issued your credit card(s) and let them know that you’ll be using them in Costa Rica. There are ATM machines at all the banks as well as the Best Western Hotel in Tamarindo.
Passport Information:
Make sure to check the expiration date on your passport. If there is less than 6 months remaining, you should get a new one. Costa Rica changed their law in 2003 and should allow you to enter with only 3 months remaining but it’s best to be safe.
Electricity:
The electrical voltage in Costa Rica is 110, the same as the U.S.
Water:
Tap water is drinkable, however we suggest bottled water. It is readily available.
Television:
There are about 50 TV channels in Tamarindo, including CNN and ESPN. Some stations are in English. Most are in Spanish. We have movies available in our offices for our clients’ use both in DVD and VCR format.
Maintenance:
We strive to maintain our properties to the highest standards. But from time-to-time maintenance problems do crop up. Please notify the appropriate office immediately. Every effort will be made to correct any problem as quickly as possible.
Eating Out:
There are many excellent restaurants to choose from in Tamarindo. You’ll receive a list of our favorites when you book with us. Nearly all restaurants here add a 10% gratuity to the bill. You’ll also see a 13% sales tax added to all purchases.
What to Bring on Vacation:
Tamarindo has a warm tropical climate perfect for cotton shorts, t-shirts, and comfortable, casual clothing. However, if you plan on spending some time in the rain forests or in the mountains, consider throwing in a light jacket, windbreaker, or rain shell. Because we are only 11 degrees from the equator, the sun is very strong. Because of new airline regulations you won’t be able to bring sunblock with you on the plane. It is available here along with insect repellent – another important item. Don’t forget your camera, and if it’s not digital, lots of film because there are photo opportunities everywhere!
What we Provide:
Units vary in amenities, decor, furnishings, etc. All, at a minimum, provide the following: blankets, pillows, mattress pads, bedspreads, linens, towels, broom, toilet paper, paper towels, trash bags, and dust pan. You will need to supply the following:
- Dish detergents
- Food and condiments
- Baby equipment
- Any specialty cooking items you may need
- Alarm clock, if you need one
- Personal toiletries
- Hair Dryer
Smoking:
Smoking is allowed at most of our properties. Smoking is allowed outside only. No smoking is allowed inside any house or condo. Any guest violating a no smoking requirement will subject their entire party to possible eviction with no refund of any kind. Smoking includes all kinds of lighted material to be inhaled, including cigarettes, cigars, pipes, etc.
Pets:
Pets are not allowed in any of our properties without prior approval in writing from RPM Services.
Phones:
Local calls made to all areas in Costa Rica are free. International calls are blocked in all our properties. To make an international call you can purchase an international phone card for between $2 - $10 at any of the local supermarkets, use your AT&T, MCI, or SPRINT calling card (we have the access numbers at our office), or use the following AT&T access number and a credit card by following the directions below:
1. Dial 0-800-000-1089 (in Costa Rica)
2. Dial the phone number you are calling
3. Enter your credit card number (Visa, MC, or AMEX). Please note that credit card calls are generally much more expensive. They tend to run around $3 per minute.
Some homes now include limited "Free Long Distance" calling within the continental USA. This benefit is only in units with broadband internet access that has Vonage phone service.
Cell Phones:
Most cell phones brought into Costa Rica from outside the country will not work. Check with your service provider prior to your arrival to see if you have service here. Cell phones are available for rent but they are relatively expensive and the service is marginal.
Computers and Internet Access:
Many of our homes provide Internet access for your computer. Most properties provide high speed, broad band internet service. Most connections are not wireless and require an Ethernet cable that is connected from your computer to a modem. If your unit is equipped with internet service and you experience problems with connectivity or service, we will be happy to assist you. However, while Internet service is getting better and better in Tamarindo, we can’t guarantee that you will have service 100% of the time. You can find Internet cafes conveniently located throughout Tamarindo. Prices are very reasonable.
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Concierge Services
Introduction
We want to help you have the most pleasant stay possible. To enjoy your stay fully, consider utilizing our services to help locate and book rental cars, airport transportation, golf, local events and activities from surf lessons to eco-tours. Don't hesitate to contact our staff for any odd or unusual questions - we're here to serve you and will do whatever we can to ensure you have a relaxing and memorable vacation! Contact us at either 653-0738 or 653-1555 to book most tours and activities in the surrounding area.
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Checking In
Introduction
Our normal check-in time is between 3:00 and 6:00 p.m. We want to get you into your home and on with your vacation as soon as possible, so n some cases, if the property is ready before your scheduled check-in time you may be able to enter early (see below).
Arrive at the proper RPM office (Tamarindo or Langosta depending on the property location and time of arrival), pick up your keys, and have a great time!
Office Hours & Phone Numbers
8:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Toll-Free (866)-631-6958
Local (506) 653-0738 or 653-1555
Fax (506) 653-0739
Check-In Locations:
Tamarindo Office
Playa Langosta Office
Check-In/Early Check-In Option:
Guaranteed Check-In time is 3:00 p.m. If the property you are renting has been cleaned and inspected prior to your arrival on your check-in day, we will release it to you immediately with prior approval. If you arrive early and your home is still in the process of being cleaned or is waiting to be cleaned, we will offer you an Early Check-in Option. Early Check-in will allow you limited access to get your groceries in the refrigerator, your belongings into the house and give you the use of a bathroom. Keys can be picked up at the office. Keys will not be issued with a balance owing or without a signed rental agreement in our possession unless otherwise arranged.
Late Check-In:
If your check-in day is Sunday, or if you are planning to arrive after 5:00 p.m. on any other day, you will need to contact us in advance to make arrangements to pick up your keys at our Langosta Office. There you'll find a packet in your name, which will contain keys, a map, and directions to the property. If you have any questions or problems, stop by our office the next day and we’ll be happy to help you.
Checking Out:
First, don't forget your personal items. RPM Services is not responsible for any items that are left behind - and it is expensive to ship items from Costa Rica. We also ask that the dishes are washed and trash is taken out. Secure all windows and doors, make sure all A/C units are turned off, and lock the door behind you.
Check-out is 10:00 a.m. on your check-out day. No exceptions unless otherwise arranged! Please understand that it is a challenge to prepare all our properties between 10:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. for the next guests, so 10:00 a.m. is a firm check-out time. There is a $50 per hour fee for each hour (or portion thereof) past the required check out time unless previously arranged. If you expect to check-out before our office opens in the morning, please make arrangements with us in advance regarding where to leave your keys. Please don’t forget to return your keys to us. There is a $50 per item fee for each lost or unreturned set of keys.
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Important Numbers
Introduction
Emergency 911 or 380-4125
RPM After Hours 653-0738, 832-2801
Police (Non-emergency) 653-0283
Pacific Emergencies 653-8785 or 824-5252
Ambulance 653-8785 or 653-8393
Dentist 653-1112 or 823-9696
Pharmacy 653-0711
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Making Your Reservation - How it all works
Introduction
Step 1:
Follow the easy step-by-step instructions on our web site to reserve the home of your choice, or call us toll-free at 866- 631-6958. Our friendly staff is ready to help you select the property that best fits your requirements. Call us today at 866-631-6958!
Our goal is to help you select the perfect vacation rental for your needs. Our staff is ready to provide you with details of our properties with specific answers to questions such as: Which bedrooms have private baths? What's the view like? How far to the beach? Can everyone sit at the dining room table together? Call us; we'll give you the answers!
Step 2:
Our Reservationists will send you a Rental Agreement and Confirmation Form. Receipt of your first installment with your signed rental agreement confirms your reservation. For your convenience, we accept personal checks, VISA and MC. You can email your Rental Agreement and Confirmation Form or fax them to us at 011-506-653-0739. Send your check to our bank in Florida.
BICSA Miami Agency
4000 Ponce De Leon Blvd. Suite 600
Coral Gables, FL 33146
Please make sure to include our account number 06601-1567102028903 on the check. Make the check payable to RPM Management S.A.
Step 3:
Please be sure that we receive your Rental Agreement, Confirmation Form, and payment within 10 days of your initial reservation date. We reserve the right to cancel a reservation if we do not receive your signed Rental Agreement and payment within the required time period, so don’t delay.
Step 4:
After we receive your deposit we’ll send you a map of the area, directions to our office, information about local services, and general information about Costa Rica. Your final payment is due 30 days prior to your arrival. Don't forget to mark it on your calendar! For reservations made less than 30 days in advance we require full payment prior to arrival unless you have made other arrangements.
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Online Reservations
Introduction
RPM offers on-line, real-time reservations (instantaneous availability and booking) 24 hours a day!
Just visit our web site at http://tulin.com/costarica to start your search from our home page by selecting either View Rentals or Check Availability. You have multiple ways of searching properties:
From the View Rentals menu:
By Location (Tamarindo, etc)
By type of property – Home, Condo, Prestige Property
From here you can get specific information about our houses, see photos, and get rates. You can also get general overviews of our condo complexes. And you can book online or request more information from any of the informational pages.
From the Check Availability menu:
By type of property: Home or Condo
By specific criteria: Beachfront, Ocean view, Walking distance to beach
By number of bedrooms
From here you can select dates, number of bedrooms, and other specific criteria to narrow your search. You will then be shown all available properties that meet your needs. You’ll be able to sort them by name, get info, see photos of the specific property, get a quote, request more information, and book online.
We do not list the rates for our Prestige Properties. And our Christmas and New Years rates are not listed. Please check with a reservationist for rates for those specific properties and dates.
Please note that an Internet reservation is not confirmed until you have spoken with a Guest Services Representative from RPM. We will then send you a confirmation form and rental agreement for the requested dates and property.
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Contact Information
Introduction
Our office phone numbers are:
1-530-387-3675 (From the US and Canada)
2653-0738 (From Costa Rica)
011-506-2653-0104 (Fax)
Email address is rpmservices@tulin.com
Website: www.tulin.com/costarica
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