For more than a decade, tiny Costa Rica has been a popular get away for North Americans and, increasingly, Europeans. Merely as big as West Virginia, its many attractions are world-famous: more than 780 miles of uncrowded coastlines on two oceans; parks and reserves covering 25 percent of its land area; and an incredible diversity of plants and animals.

Like volcanoes? There is majestic Arenal, still active, where visitors to its numerous hot springs can enjoy margaritas in their bathing suits and be enthralled from its lava shows at night. Or Volcan Irazu where, on a clear day, the Caribbean and Pacific oceans can be seen at the same time! There is also terrific fishing, some of the greatest surfing anywhere, whitewater or family rafting adventures, ziplining high in the tropical forests, and, of course, adult nightlife. For lots of people, this is the Land of Pura Vida.

You will find a vacation that fits the wallet of almost everyone. For those favoring luxury, there are places like the Papagayo Four Seasons and Los Suenos Resorts. But, if these are a bit pricey unless you win the lottery or if you prefer more rustic accommodations, you can enjoy Costa Rica quite nicely on a more limited budget.

1. Experienced vacationers can save 20 percent on accommodations by traveling off season

a. Budget travelers should schedule around Peak Season, of which there are two: Christmas and Easter. Christmas through New Years week (December 15-January 5) and Easter Week are Peak Season for two groups of tourists: overseas visitors and locals. Summer vacation for Costa Rica schools begins in December and thousands of Costa Rican families flock to the most popular beaches. Easter week is another very popular vacation period for locals. They will find the cheapest deals. For you, prices will still be way better than in Florida or Cannes but you can do far better at other times.

b. High Season coincides with winter in the Northern Hemisphere. Many tourists travel Costa Rica between January through April because of the sunny tropical weather, a fact not lost on hotels and resorts. Like Florida, Arizona, and the Texas coast, Snowbirds get plucked a bit more during High Season. Prices are better than in Europe or the States but you can do better.

c. The prudent bargain travel seeker will take pains to vacation in Costa Rica during the Green (Low) Season because the very best travel and accommodation bargains occur then. Unfortunately, some travelers mistakenly assume that it rains every day though, in fact, most days are sunny and warm. Typically showers last an hour or so and occur in the afternoon or early evening. Many college students and families from the northern countries visit between June and mid-August but prices are good and accommodations available in most places. For the very best travel (airplane) and accommodation prices come between September through mid-November. Savings of 20-35 percent off High Season prices are commonly found.

2. If you plan to rent a car, think ahead and save $25 a day

If you rent a car online like so many others, you should expect to learn upon your arrival that the rental agency plans to charge an additional fee of $25 or more per day for liability insurance! Rule 1: If your automobile policy at home provides liability coverage, that insurance is good in Costa Rica. Recommendation: take a copy of the policy along with the email and facsimile number of your insurance agent and save that money for your vacation. Rule 2: Many credit cards offer a little known benefit: liability insurance coverage for rentals when the card is used. Contact your credit card company before you travel for best results.

3. Save another 5 percent or more: Remember that Cash Is King

Many Costa Rica merchants welcome dollars over credit cards and when asked for a cash discount will offer 5 percent or more. You should ask :”Que (pronounced “K”) es discuento por efectivo?” which means “What is the discount for cash?” Be sure the bills are new and not defaced with even a tiny tear. And, bring $20 and $50 bills. Many restaurants, merchants, and hostels cannot break a $100 bill.

4. Save 10 percent while dining: Do not pay two tips in a restaurant

You will learn that many dining rooms, particularly those sought out by foreign Costa Rica travelers, automatically include a 10 percent tip (called “servicio”) on a bill. They are supposed to to put that information on the menu but few places do so and so are rewarded by unknowing foreigners who leave a second tip. If you pay attention to your bill, you might save yourself paying two tips. And, remember, when in doubt, ask if the tip is included on the bill.

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