Should I convert currency (at airport or otherwise?) or does everyone happily (and with a fair exchang) accept dollars? Cabs, grocery stores, kiosks, activity places?Thanks!

We've been twice and have never needed to exchange our money. Dollars were readily accepted wherever we went, but it may depend upon which areas you're visiting.

Thanks. I think Uvita is a little out of the way, but I did a search on the forum and it sounded like we'd be getting change in colones, so we can use that for smaller vendors. Maybe we'll just change some for walking around money.

Ilana,

Just a quick note. Do not change money at the currency exchange booth at the airport - just outside pf baggage. I think it is called Global. They give a terrible rate. use real banks. There is one at SJO but it is not in the arrivals area. You can also get colones from an ATM. There is one in the baggage claim area.

Although dollars are readily accepted, I would say you'd want some colones. The airport cabs will definitely take dollars.

As for the exchange - you will get about 515 colones to a dollar when exchanging at a bank. often if you pay in dollars, they sometimes just use a quick conversion of 500 to the $ - so you can lose out a bit.

Enjoy your trip

Pura Vida
raquel

Yep, you'll get change in colones. Have fun, and we want to hear all about it when you get back!