SuzB

Hi Everyone. My group leaves for Manuel Antonio next week and we are excited beyond words. There are a couple of things that we are a little concerned about though.

Can anyone give some advice on cash? We are a little unsure of whether we need to convert US $ to colones or not- some say that people accept US $ and others say you need colones. Can you use VISA and Mastercard's at most locations?

Also, I have heard conflicting reports about the water (I am more concerned about the ice). Is the water in Manuel Antonio generally good enough to use the ice, or should we aviod it?

Thanks everyone for your help.

SuzB

shillmac

SuzB, fear not on either account. US dollars are widely accepted as are Mastercard and Visa. In some instances, Visa is preferred, but we have used Mastercard on occasion with no problems--almost everywhere. Certainly in places as popular as Manuel Antonio.

Although bottled water is available everywhere, the tap water is potable. We've had plenty of it, having lived with Costa Rican families for a few weeks at a time. Your ice should be in good shape!

If you've never been to Costa Rica, there is a general feeling that everything south of the Rio Grande requires the same amount of caution (water primarily). Not so--food and water standards are very high in CR.

Have no worries, and enjoy your time!
"Excited beyond words" is a feeling I can certainly identify with! Wish I could carry your luggage!

Latitude9Lisa

Hola from Manuel Antonio! US dollars are generally accepted. Large bills such as the $100 may be questioned as we've experienced some counterfeiting recently so just bring smaller bills. If you decide to exchange dollars to colones, use local banks NOT "money changers" (people on the street who offer to change for you). The local bank will give you the best rate of exchange which is about ˘495 to $1 right now. If you choose to exchange at the bank, your bills must be in good condition, no rips/tears etc. Restaurants may give you a lesser rate so be watchful and if you use US dollars, you will receive colones in return so you will want to make sure you receive the proper change when making a transaction. Personally, I think it's easier to use the local currency as menus are listed in colones so it's quick math to know exactly how much to pay. Make yourself up a little "cheat sheet" for currency conversion ie: $1/˘495, $5/˘2475 etc. so your won't be doing "math gymnastics" all vacation! The water is fine, absolutely no problems. Bottled water is widely avail. if you prefer. Ice is commercially produced and just fine. If you do experience any tummy problems, the farmacias are great and will prescribe whatever you need. Generally there is a doctor on staff for your convenience and peace of mind. Have a great trip! Our weather has been great! Lisa in Manuel Antonio

dariow

I agree with the above posts about money. Small bills will not be a problem anywhere there. You might want a few colones for phone calls or if you want to take a bus.

As to water, I would drink bottled water. The hygiene is better in Manuel Antonio than in Quepos. You should be fine. Have a great trip.

ticotime

Greeting from a different Lisa in Manuel Antonio! Everyone is exactly right....most places will take either US $ or colones, even the taxis...just make sure to have small bills on you. As mentioned before I do recommend having some colones though, esp. small change for things like the bus from Quepos to M.A. and little items in the ´supers´. I too have never had a problem with the water here, or ice for that matter so I would not worry about it. You will love it here no doubts about it, and like the other Lisa said....our weather is great and high season has just started so you all are here just in time for the real fun to start! If you have any other questions about M.A. ie. places to stay, things to do, etc. feel free to ask

mosthecat

Hi,

Lisa(s) in MA, you offer great advice. I have read much on this forum and in books, and have planned some time in MA for activities, and some to relax. We will stay at Villas El Parque for 4 nights the third week in January. We will go to MA park, to the peach, sit by the pool. Are there any things you highly recommend? Some friends told us to have lunch at the pool at Makanda, and they also liked Cafe Milagro and El Patio across from Hotel Casa Blanca. Any thoughts would be greatly appreciated!

greaser_girl11

Hi Everyone!
I am taking my family (mom, grandmother, aunt & uncle & their son & daughter) to Manuel Antonio next week. We are all very, very excited! My aunt is wondering how necessary it will be for us to bring "snacks." Does it take long, and is it a difficult trip, to get to Quepos? Just wondering if we will have a chance to hit some local stores there to get some food to keep in our rooms or if we are better off bringing some peanut butter and crackers with us. I think this is more for the kids (ages 10 & 12), and also just to save money by not going to a restaurant for every little nibble while we're down there.
One other question: any recommendations of things we just "have to do"? We are definitely planning a guided hike through the park, and a few of us are going to do a canopy tour. Let me know, any info would be greatly appreciated
Thanks,
Carrie

dariow

If you have a car, Quepos is 10 minutes. In Quepos there are a few markets to buy snacks. If you take taxis or buses, it is a little longer. Perhaps when you get to Quepos, go to the market and get snacks for your whole stay in that area.