OK.. I admit it... I'm addicted to Diet Coke. I know in Mexico they have a version of Diet Coke but it is not the same as the US kind. What about Costa Rica? Do I need to back some cans in my luggage? I can always use the space coming home for souvenirs.

Deb

It's probably bottled locally so if you're a real afficionado you better bring your own. I have a friend who implores me to get the limit of duty free Marlboros every time I come down because the Tico version just doesn't cut it.

The product is called Coca-Cola Light and is very similar to Diet Coke, but not exactly the same. (That I know, you can't find Diet Coke outside the U.S. and Canada. It's always this slight variation that Coca-Cola makes, and the name is always in English.) I have friends who say they can't taste the difference and others who insist they can.

I can taste the difference between Diet Coke and Coca Cola Light. I think Light tastes more like 'real' Coke here in the States. I think the stuff in Costa Rica (as well as lots of the Caribbean) is made in Mexico. Jean

Thanks! I will pack my own.

Debbie

If anything the regular coca cola tastes like the real thing that used to be made in the states years ago. The stuff that the classic is supposed to taste like but doesn't.

The Coka-Cola made in Mexico I believe uses a natural sugar cane sugar as opposed to what they use here in the U.S which I think is little more processed...I always thought it tasted alot "sweeter" in Mexico and the Caribbean......

Coca-Cola.....duh.

People actually get so addicted to soft drinks that they carry their own when they travel? Now that is an addiction.

I can taste the difference, and I think Coca Light is better. I went to CR with two friends who are absolutely addicted to diet coke (won't drink regular) and they both loved Coca Light. So, I guess pack a few cans if you are that addicted, but give the CR version a try as well!

<<People actually get so addicted to soft drinks that they carry their own when they travel? Now that is an addiction.>>

Rufus--This morning, as I was walking into the school at which I work, the principal saw the can of caffeine free Diet Coke in my hand and said, "How can you drink that stuff in the morning?" and I responded, "The same way other people drink coffee in the morning." Coffee is so readily available in hotels and many people claim they just can't function in the morning without it. Some of us don't like coffee, but we enjoy our diet Coke! Is it an addiction? I don't know, but it's how I like to start my mornings. Now, in my case, chocolate is definitely an addiction, but that's another story for another time!

I wasn't just picking on diet coke drinkers--I just didn't realize that people could get addicted to the point that they'd actually lug cases of it around with them on vacation.

I suppose there are also coffee addicts who insist on carrying cans of Folgers (yuk!) on their trips abroad.

If it makes you feel better, I won't bring cases. I'll only bring about 6 cans. I can drink other things but some days, there is nothing like a Diet Coke.

BTW, I'm also bringing other food. From experience, I know my kids tummies are better when they eat food they are used to. I'll be packing oatmeal for breakfast, snack bars, etc. - items that might not be or at least won't be cheap at the CR grocery. Don't worry - we will also sample the local cuisine!

Deb

Rufus--Sorry if I sounded harsh! I didn't mean to! I won't bring a case either. I think I'll try that CR Coke light version! Now, if I get addicted to that, what will I do when I get back home?

Your talk about addictions and coffee vs. coca cola caffiene made me laugh. Especially since Costa Rica grows such wonderful coffee. I'm a coffee addict (I guess), and no, I don't carry my Folger's around, but all we drink at home any more is Costa Rican coffee! We joke to our friends every now and then about having to make a run to Costa Rica for more coffee! Always thought coffee was coffee, but not so! Cafe Britt is definitely a cut above, and our tastebuds know it!

JoB--if you become addicted to CR cola, you might be tempted to move there permanently. I've been trying to convince my wife that we should retire early and move down there ASAP.

Understand completetly the Diet Coke addiction. I can't even stand the stuff in Canada (not the same) and pack my own when I drive there every summer! Anyway - will a can explode in your checked luggage? Just a thought.

LisaL, I've always had the exploding can fear too but so far it hasn't happened to me. I always wrap the cans tightly in a couple layers of plastic grocery bags to minimize the damage if it happens.

Deb

The 'problem' with Diet Coke abroad isn't really the flavor - it's the size and the temperature! Even if you can get ice it's hard to deal with the tiny bottles and 12-oz cans.

I try to be a good 'global citizen' when I travel and eat and drink what is local... that having been said I always look forward to a gigantic fountain Diet Coke upon my return to the States!

It is astounding how giganticism now monopolizes the USA. Tiny 12 oz cans! Many years ago, it was a big deal when Pepsi came out with a giant 7 oz bottle to outdo Coke's standard 6 oz bottle. No wonder that, overall as a nation, we're so obese. Mrs. Fly and I now typically get 2 or even 3 meals out of any restaurant dinners we order in the USA.