Frequently Asked Questions
Thank you for your interest in our Villas. Hopefully these commonly asked questions and answers will present you with a more complete understanding of what we have to offer. After you look over the following information, please do not hesitate to call or email with any additional questions. We will be happy to assist you in any way we can.
Is it safe to visit Costa Rica?
The answer is a resounding yes. Costa Rica is by far the safest, friendliest nation in the hemisphere with a long history of peace, stability, and kindness to the visitors. With a policy of active neutrality, the country has twice earned the nomination for the Nobel Peace Prize. It has also repeatedly been referred to as the “Switzerland of the Americas”. According to the U.S. Embassy website, Costa Rica is statistically safer than the U.S., and political violence is non-existent.
Are your Villas safe?
The Villas are located within the boundaries of a private gated community known as Playa Ocotal. Many of the neighboring homes are valued from $500,000 to as much as $5,000,000. This private beach community only has one entrance, which is staffed 24 hours a day with a security guard. For added security, the Villa has its own gated private entrance with intercom/remote entry and night watchman.
What is a Villa? Is it a private home or just a small hotel?
At first glance of the Villa, which is situated just two minutes from the beach, you might think it is simply a small hotel. After your first night stay, you will realize why we do not consider our Villas the same as a private residence or hotel. We offer guests a tranquil and comfortable setting that generic hotels and pre-packaged resorts normally do not provide.
Each quarter was specifically designed and constructed with 8″ and 10″ cement walls, floors, and ceilings so that all of our guests can confidently converse, relax, and sleep in much quieter rooms than you might find in a home or hotel. Every room has its own private balcony and bathroom/shower. All beds have pillow-top mattresses with 350+ count linens. Guests can come and go to their private quarters without having to pass through a family room, living area, den, lobby, or the kitchen area.
When you stay at our Villas, you can relax by the pool (which does not close at 10 p.m.) and swim and dance under the stars. You and your guests have the entire villa for your exclusive, private use and pleasure.
Can we have a wedding at the Villa?
Yes. We can plan your wedding exactly as you wish, right down to the last flower petal. Many large weddings require use of our other Villas for overflow. We offer a simple, yet beautiful Costa Rican style wedding. However, if you want a more elaborate wedding, we can work with the wedding planner of your choice and will assist you in making your dream wedding come true.
Can we have a family reunion at the Villa?
Absolutely. Our staff will see to it that your family has a wonderful reunion at our Villas. As previously mentioned, you will have many additional accommodations to consider for your overflow of family members.
Are there facilities available for a corporate retreat?
Yes. We can have pre-planned activities for your employees or customers. We even have an elevated stage and lectern in one of our large gathering areas.
Are the Villas a good place to celebrate birthdays or anniversaries?
It does not get any better than celebrating special occasions or hosting parties at one of our Villas. The staff will decorate, provide a cake, and make any event extra special. We can also have a live Costa Rican band come to the Villa and play for your special event.
Can we entertain friends or family at our Villa who are not registered as guests?
Our services are exclusively for Villa guests, and no unregistered guests will be allowed to come to the Villa during your stay. If this presents a problem, invitees can be arranged with prior permission at a daily rate. For your privacy and protection, there is a security gate that prevents the entrance of non-paying guests onto the grounds.
Is the Villa on the beach?
None of the homes in the area are constructed contiguous to the beach; however, it is a very short three to five-minute walk on a well-defined paved road down the mountain.
What does all-inclusive include?
The all inclusive price includes three full and delicious meals, afternoon appetizers, and a continuous open bar with various national liquors, wines, tropical frozen drinks, and Costa Rican beers as well soft drinks, sodas, etc. The meal times give you ample time to eat and visit, and there will be plenty of food. We assure you that your group will not only enjoy the food but will also enjoy the atmosphere and convenience of eating at y Villa. There will also be a full staff that is exclusively yours during your stay at the Villa.
Do you book the Villas year-round?
Yes. The Villa is often rented 12-18 months in advance, so if you have solid travel dates, it is best to book well in advance. If you would like us to put a hold on your chosen dates while you gather your group, just let us know. Occasionally we have cancellations so do not hesitate to contact us about last-minute travel.
Would you recommend travelers checks, credit cards, or cash?
Our guests have found U.S. cash to be the best form of currency while staying at the Villas. Cash is necessary for tours and fishing. Credit cards will work for shopping, but some credit card companies ask that you contact them prior to using your card outside of the country. There is no need to exchange U.S. dollars to Costa Rican colons.
What airport is closest to the Villas?
The Liberia International Airport is 20 minutes from the Villas. All major airlines are currently serving the Liberia Airport, and several charters in various areas fly to Liberia. San Jose Airport is a four to five-hour drive to the Villas. There are also commuter airlines (Sansa and Nature Air) that fly from San Jose to Liberia.
Do you arrange Liberia Airport transfers?
Liberia Airport transfers may be arranged with us for a nominal round-trip charge. Please request the current per-person quote. Your flight schedule must be provided to our office, and your transportation will be set up prior to your arrival. Airport transfers are on a prepaid and non-refundable basis only.
We can also assist you with San Jose Airport transfers, and the price will depend on the number of travelers. Please ask us about rates.
What types of beer do you have at the Villas?
We have Imperial (a nationally brewed beer that is extremely popular with all of our guests), Bavaria, Carlson, Kaiser, and Pilsen beers. Some American beers, such as Miller, are available at an additional charge since they are imported.
Is it appropriate to tip your staff?
Gratuities are not included in your all-inclusive price. We leave the amount of tips left for the staff entirely up to you, depending on your feelings about the service. If you feel that during your stay you have been treated to good, personal, friendly service, quality food, and additional services, please let your feelings direct your decision toward tipping.
Tips are divided amongst the staff, and generally guests tip such as they would on a cruise ship. If you are still unsure, it is customary and very generous to tip $15.00 per adult guest per night.
Are we able to communicate with the states while staying at the Villas?
You may make international phone calls from the Villa office with a phone card. You will also be provided with the Villa phone number so that friends and family can contact you during your stay.
Feel free to bring your laptop as we offer wireless internet. Coco, which is 10 minutes away, also has two internet cafes. There are two new internet sites in our Ocotal Area. Hotel Casa Blanca and Hotel Ocotal are minutes from the Villas. There should be no problem with you staying connected, but the question is: will you really want to?
Will my cell phone work in Costa Rica?
Cell phone service is improving daily, but some phones still do not work. Most common providers will work, but before you come, please call your specific provider to be sure your phone can make and receive calls in Costa Rica. You might also need to ask them to enable international calling on your phone. International Costa Rican phone cards are available for purchase to make international calls from the Villa.
Do the Villas provide free transportation for golf outings, surfing trips to Tamarindo, or other activities?
Unfortunately, no. However, the staff will be happy to assist you in arranging and negotiating a good fare for a taxi, van, or bus (depending on the size of your group) for your activities. A driver and van may also be secured for your exclusive use during your stay at the Villa for an additional charge.
Do you have televisions at the Villas?
By design, you will not find TVs, clocks, or newspapers in every room. However, we have provided TVs in some rooms. The bar area has a large TV and DVD player. We have a large entertainment area, video game system, and a large screen TV with surround sound and seating for 20 people.
Can you describe the pool and recreation areas?
The pool has a sloping beach-type entrance, steps, swim-up bar, waterfall, and an area with cold water jacuzzi jets. There is also a bar area beside the pool under a tiki hut and a sitting area with a jacuzzi pool at the top of the waterfall. There are two sitting and dining areas at opposite ends of the Villa.
Do you have a baby bed and high chair?
With prior notification, a baby bed and high chair can be here when you arrive.
Do we need converters?
No. Electricity is no different than the U.S.
Do you have safes at the Villas?
No. Please bring a locking suitcase if you want a place to store your valuables.
Do you have hairdryers?
No.
Are the rooms smoke-free?
There is no smoking inside the Villas.
Do you have any exercise equipment?
Some villas have access to workout equipment, but early morning walks or runs in the mountains or on the beach are quite popular with our guests.
What types of food do you serve at the Villas?
We invite you to enjoy our fine Costa Rican cuisine. Please see our “menu” page for day-by-day meal details. The food is very healthy, and meals are served plated unless a buffet-style better accommodates your group.
Substitutions due to food allergies or diet restrictions (including vegetarian) may be made by written request, preferably two weeks prior to your arrival. Further menu revisions may be available with prior notification at an additional charge. Requests are welcome.
Is the water safe to drink at the Villas?
Yes, the water is safe to drink, and we will also have cold bottled water available at the Villas.
Do we need to rent a car?
Most guests do not feel the need to rent a car as all tour prices include transportation. If you decide to rent a car, that can be arranged through the Villa.
Are there places to shop in the Ocotal area?
There is wonderful shopping in Coco with beautiful wooden products, pottery, sarongs, coffee, and other wonderful items from Costa Rica. You may use credit cards, U.S. cash, or Costa Rican colons for shopping.
Where is the nearest tennis court?
The tennis court is only a brief walk from the Villa. The fee for rental is by the hour, and they are open seven days a week.
Can you arrange deep sea fishing trips?
Yes. We have a close association with several trustworthy individuals who will take you fishing, and the concierge can arrange the expedition for you. The boat size dictates the cost of your fishing trip. We have had fishing groups that desire the bare minimum and groups that want a 52’ Hatteras with all of the luxuries of first-class fishing. With prior notice, our staff can prepare any fish that you catch.
Can your staff arrange tours?
The concierge is extremely knowledgeable in the history of Costa Rica and can arrange many activities and things for your group to see and do in Costa Rica.
For information on popular attractions, tours, and activities, please visit our “tours and activities” page.
Is it best to plan an itinerary? If so, can you assist us with this?
If you want to fully experience the culture, sights, and adventure of Costa Rica, we recommend that you plan your activities ahead of time. We can definitely assist you and will be happy to send you a sample itinerary.
Are there fun activities that we can do at the Villas or nearby?
The water volleyball setup is great at the Villas. You can also play ping pong, pool and shuffleboard. We provide cards, dominos, poker chips, backgammon, and some board games. You can plan a night for a karaoke contest, talent night and/or skit night. Ask us about rodeos or festivals in the area; this is a great way to experience the true Costa Rican culture. Father Roosters, a little bar on the beach, also has a sand volleyball court.
Is Ocotal Beach light or dark sand?
Playa Ocotal consists of dark sand that originated from volcanic rock. The darker sand is the same texture as the light sand and sparkles like glitter. It is very attractive in its own way. The beach is so soft you will feel like you are walking on cotton. Please look at the photos we have taken of Coco Beach; they speak for themselves about the beauty, privacy, and serenity of Playa Ocotal.
There are some rock formations that project out into the water, and these are quite large, 50’-75’ wide and 100’ long. You can experience great snorkeling right near the water’s edge. Sharks are not a factor! Divers rarely see sharks, and if they do, they are usually the white-tip down around 80-90 feet deep.
Is there a spa facility close by for a massage or body wrap?
Yes. We encourage you to pamper yourself while you are a guest at the Villas. A manicure, pedicure, facial, massage, or a combination of these services can be just what you need for a complete paradise vacation. You can select the location of your service: out on your balcony overlooking the beautiful bay, in the privacy of your room, or by the pool where you can enjoy the soothing sound of the waterfall or enjoy the company of your family/friends. We can have your appointments set up prior to your arrival, or you can set them up once you arrive at the Villa.
What should we wear and bring to Costa Rica?
Costa Rica is very casual. Lightweight t-shirts, shorts/jeans, and sandals/sneakers will be fine for day or night. The weather is tropical, and you probably will not get cold. Some guests wear swimsuits, a visor, and sunglasses for the majority of their stay. Water shoes and close-toed tennis shoes are recommended for many of the tours.
Bring extra batteries and film if needed. Do not forget sunscreen (Costa Rican brands are not as effective), insect repellent, and anti-itch cream in case of insect bites. Pencils and small notebooks are also handy to have. We do not provide toiletries.
Are any documents needed for adults to travel to Costa Rica, and what documentation must children have to travel?
Passport and photo ID are required. Do not forget your legal passport (it must not expire within 6 months of your travel dates). Bring your original passport and one copy. Keep your copy separate from your original. Just in case you lose your original document, the copy will facilitate replacement and will serve as your interim document should you be required to show proof of citizenship.
EVERYONE, including infants, must have a valid passport or will be turned away at customs.
Are there medical facilities nearby?
There is a clinic is located 10 minutes away in Sardinal, a hospital 20 minutes away in Liberia, and a pharmacy seven minutes away in Coco.
Are immunizations required or recommended for travel to Costa Rica?
We recommend you discuss immunizations or preventative medicine with your personal physician. Personally, we have been going to Costa Rica for years, and because we are all in relatively good health, we have never received any special immunizations or taken malaria pills. This is a personal decision for each of our guests. Costa Rica does not require any immunization records.
Should we make our airline reservations prior to reserving the Villa?
Because the Villas are often reserved a year in advance, most guests book their Villa first and then obtain airline tickets closer to the reservation dates.
What if I have to arrive a day earlier than my reservation or leave a day later?
Most likely, we can accommodate you at a wonderful, reasonably priced Bed and Breakfast located in the same Ocotal area or in bungalows located directly below the Villas. Please inquire for rates and availability.
How can we secure our dates while we gather the deposits from our group?
We can block your dates without a deposit for a few days while you confirm arrangements with your guests. Please see our “reservations” page for further information on deposits.
What are the methods of payment?
Personal or certified checks (payable in U.S. funds).
Can all guests pay with separate checks?
We ask that each group leader take payments from their guests and forward one check for the entire group.
Is there additional tax that will be added to our reservation payment?
No.
What is the deposit amount?
Please see our “reservations” page for information regarding deposits.
We are ready to go – now what do we do?
Confirm your dates of travel, and our office will send you a reservation agreement. The reservation agreement will outline your deposit(s) amounts and due dates. Payment in full is due 60 days prior to your arrival. You will then return the signed reservation agreement, a complete guest list including children and their ages, and your first deposit.
What if additional friends and family want to join us?
As you add guests to your group, we will revise your reservation agreement, and your guests may forward their deposit amount or full payment to our office.
Now we are going – what would you want us to know?
If your group has any questions or concerns, please e-mail them to our office. It is always best to have requests and responses in writing; however, you are always welcome to call us if you need additional information. We will send you a “What to know before you go” a few weeks prior to your departure that will recap most of what is written here. It will have the English emergency contact number as well as the Villa phone number for those who speak Spanish.
Check out the Costa Rican culture and take the time to know the people (unlike many countries, Costa Ricans like the tourists). The general consensus from everyone is how friendly and content they are. For the past two years, my family and friends have taken school and art supplies directly to the children in Coco (small town located a few minutes from the Villa). The children and their parents are so appreciative and share with one another in a way that really touches your heart. After recently visiting the school, we requested a list from the teachers on items that the school needs. Please let us know if this is something you would be interested in, and we will be happy to share some ideas with you.
Will you need any further information from my group?
Prior to arrival (four to six weeks) we will need everyone’s flight information, whether you will be needing airport transfers or not. The flight information will include arrival date, time of arrival, airline, and flight number as well departure information for each guest.
If one of our guests has to cancel, can someone else go in their place?
Yes, just please let us know so we can revise your guest list.
Can a single person receive a refund if they must cancel?
They will be entitled to the refund policy on our “reservations” page.
What if we have to cancel our trip?
Please view our “reservations” page for information regarding the refund policy.
What if we get there and decide that we do not want to go home on the day of our departure?
More than likely, another group will be arriving so you will need to depart the Villa, but do not hesitate to call or e-mail our office and book a return trip. Many of our guests have such a great time that they make annual trips to the Villas.
Where can I get up-to-date travel information from the U.S. Department of State including entry and exit requirements for Costa Rica?
Click here for information