Costa Rica is one of the best tourist destinations that you should not miss out on. There is certainly something for every traveler, from local delicacies, amazing tourist attractions, and breathtaking views to memorable accommodations.
Do you want to make the most out of your trip to Costa Rica? If so, do take travel images and enjoy the travel hacks listed in this article. Continue reading to learn more!
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Transportation Tips
When you decide to visit Costa Rica for a few days, you need to learn different transportation routes to get to your desired destination. While several public transportations are available, you should try the following hacking tips to ensure that your commute is cost-effective and affordable.
Ride A Bus
One of the best public transportation that saves money in Costa Rica is the bus. Tickets are cheap, and it travels different routes, so you’re sure to arrive at your destination. However, one downside of riding the bus is that it can take longer because few direct routes are available.
If you are always running late or in a hurry, you should leave early to ride the bus or choose another commute option.
Rent A Car
If you want a cost-effective transportation option but are willing to spend a few extra bucks, hiring a car is recommended. Renting one is also a great option to travel through Costa Rica, especially when you plan to visit several places.
It also has the following advantages:
1. You don’t need to book expensive tours to witness waterfalls and other famous tourist spots in Costa Rica.
2. Your schedule is more flexible than commuting or booking a tour because you have the freedom to leave your place whenever you want to.
3. You can change your destination last minute without causing stress or hassle to another party.
4. Because you can freely choose when to visit famous attractions, you have the chance to avoid crowds.
5. Renting a car allows you to reach off-the-grid places that are not normally accessible by any kind of commute.
When you decide to rent a car, the best car option would be an SUV or a 4×4. Normally, 4×4 cars are easy to drive around, offering maximum comfort as you travel and admire Costa Rica’s breathtaking views. Additionally, they can withstand any type of road diversions and road textures – from rough and rocky streets to smoother courses.
Lodging and Accommodation
Staying in Costa Rica for a few days to a week would require you to book your accommodation where you will spend the night. The best way to save money for other expenses is to book affordable and price-worthy lodging, and here are some tips to help you:
Take Advantage of Credit Card Points
If you have several credit cards, you can always check with the company to see whether you have accumulated enough points to serve as a payment method. Normally, several luxury hotels can accept credit card points, allowing you to splurge and get the most out of your vacation without using your money to pay.
Create Personal Accounts on Hotel Booking Sites
If you’re lucky, certain hotel accounts offer promotions you can use to your advantage. These promotions can include booking several nights straight to get a free night or accumulating your points to get a free stay at one of Costa Rica’s expensive hotels.
Some hotel websites also offer other deals or discount promos, allowing you to save your money while still enjoying the corresponding hotel’s full perks.
Book Directly for Promotions
It’s also best to check prices on direct hotel websites before checking travel search engines because they commonly offer discounts, especially when it’s off-season. However, you can also try to check both direct websites and search engines to compare prices and book the cheaper one.
There are instances when hotels are way cheaper on travel websites like Booking.com than legitimate hotel websites.
Local Costa Rican Food Experience
You need to try as much local Costa Rican food as possible because they are authentic and unique. Here are some travel hacks to help you save money with food:
Check Out Sodas
If you’re on a budget, the best way to enjoy local delicacies at cheaper options is to visit local towns and try out sodas. These are small, simple, and authentic. Normally, Costa Rican restaurants sell authentic Costa Rican cuisine at affordable local prices.
Sodas are great alternatives to on-site hotel restaurants because they are way cheaper while maintaining superb food quality!
Splurge in Bakeries
Enjoy cheap sandwiches and pastries in local bakeries for your breakfast and snacks. Some even offer you good pizza and drinks! For the best bakery experience, visit Tutu and Musmanni.
Enjoy Tourist Destinations
And, of course, your trip to Costa Rica will not be complete without visiting famous tourist attractions! To get to as many tourist spots as you can, follow these travel hacks:
Visit Free Local Spots
Costa Rica has several free local spots to take photos and enjoy scenic views. For instance, La Fortuna has the famous hot springs, and most hotels normally will charge you a high amount of money for day passes!
What you can do is visit the Tabacon River instead. It has a free local spot where you can enjoy the same hot springs offered by luxury hotels. Park your car in the small parking area and swim as long as possible!
Hike By Yourself for A Change
While paying for a guided hike can help you learn more about the history of Costa Rican tourist spots, you can still try to hike and take a tour by yourself. A self-guided hike saves you money. Just make sure to come prepared with your travel gear, so you don’t get lost.
Enjoy A One-For-The-Books Vacation to Costa Rica
You don’t need to be the richest person to visit Costa Rica. Simply follow the travel hacks we’ve suggested. Moreover, you’re guaranteed to enjoy this tourist destination, elevating your experience and giving you one of the most memorable places you visit.
BIO
Welcome to my Life is a Journey of Escapes. Thanks for your interest. I am Betty LaMarr, a California Girl with southern values. My early years were in Pine Bluff, Arkansas. I have been in love with travel for many years.
My first trip out of the country was from California to Canada, just on the other side of Niagara Falls. I didn’t realize that was the beginning of my wanderlust.
Since then, I have visited more than 50 countries and territories and lived abroad for four years in South Africa. The period of living as an expatriate was more life-changing than I could have ever imagined.
