FAQ
Q. What should I bring to Costa Rica?
A. You are coming to a tropical paradise that is mostly untouched by man. It is summer. I repeat: it is their summer!! There will be lots of sun, animals, plant life and critters around. • Prepare as you would for a beach or rainforest trip: sunscreen, bug spray, allergy medication if you need it, reusable water bottle, etc. • We recommend downloading an English-to-Spanish app if you don’t speak the language! Most people speak a bit of English but it’s always nice to meet them halfway. • Highly recommend downloading WhatsApp as that’s the most common communication app around. • WiFi is almost everywhere but not always the best quality. Consider bringing an international hot spot if needed. Be sure to check on what the data usage and international data/roaming charges will be for Costa Rica on your phone plans. • Bring cash! While cards (VISA primarily) are accepted most places, cash is king. I recommend getting a bit of Costa Rican colónes and American dollars are often also accepted. If you are planning on using cards, do not forget to let your card company know that you are traveling AND check on if your card as foreign transaction fees.
Q. How do I get to Manuel Antonio?
A. Well! If you responded to me in a timely manner, you have been booked on a private Arenas Del Mar chartered luxury minibus. There will be, at max, 10 people in the vehicle. It takes roughly 2.5 to 3 hours to reach Manuel Antonio. Expect one rest stop for a bathroom break, food and/or souvenir browsing (be mindful of time and that there will be plenty more souvenir shops).
The below document has the travel groups: Wedding Guest Arrival and Departure Groups.
Notes on meeting the Arenas Del Mar driver:
1. When you arrive at SJO you will clear customs and then be met with a flurry of taxi drivers and people offering taxi services. Walk past them until you are outside (only a couple steps).
2. There by the curb, you will find individuals holding name signs for their travel parties.
3. Look for someone holding an Arenas Del Mar sign. Check in with her/him.
4. They will direct you to wait at the restaurant down the street (Name of Restaurant) until the rest of the group arrives. Please accommodate this request and stay at the restaurant.
We have tried to space the buses to allow for the least amount of wait/lag time but we appreciate your cooperation and patience in waiting for the other guests. (Similarly, some of you may be asked to leave with an earlier group than you absolutely need to arrive at the airport by your departure time. Please be flexible in understanding why we grouped you that way).
Q. What is there to do in Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica?
A. Glad you asked! Here is a guide to all the beach activities, land/rainforest activities, restaurants, shops, farmers markets, local color, etc.
Just be sure to be ready to be picked up at 3 PM on Saturday. That means, being back and getting ready before then!!
Q. What if I have an emergency or even a non-emergency request/issue?
A. We have a full staff of people to assist you in any way you need this wedding weekend. AKA please do not reach out to the bride or groom for questions as they will be very busy.
• For activities, food recs, and getting around Manuel Antonio: Freddy, our personal concierge, is at your service. o Email Address: experience@arenasdelmar.com o Phone Number on WhatsApp:
Elaine, the on-site event coordinator, is available if Freddy cannot answer your questions. o Email Address: eventplanner@arenasdelmar.com o Phone Number on WhatsApp:
• For SJO-MA-SJO transportation questions: Please contact Laura, our wedding planner, who will get in touch with Roybin. o Email Address: o Phone Number on WhatsApp: …
• For non-emergency wedding related questions: Please contact Laura, our wedding planner. • For emergency questions: Freddy or Elaine can be of assistance.