What does Pura Vida mean?
That is an expression you will hear all over this country. It means "Pure Life." It really explains how the Costa Ricans live. They are happy, proud of their country, and of what they have. You will be really surprised at the warm reception you will receive in this beautiful place in the world!

What is a Tico?
This is a widely used nickname given to the local people in Costa Rica. And remember your Spanish 101... “Tico” refers to a man. “Tica” refers to a woman.

How's the weather in Costa Rica?
The "Summer Season" (or dry season) is between December and May. There is almost no rain and it is perfect for traveling throughout the country.

The "Winter Season" (or rainy season) is between June and Nov. It will start to rain almost every day and in October and November. It can actually rain for several days nonstop.

In the San Jose area, the weather stays between 65°F at night and 80°F during the day year round. On the beaches, the summer temperatures range from low 80s to upper 90s from February to April. During the winter, the beaches will start getting rain most days and will cool off to 70’s at night and 80’s during the day.


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Where are you located?
We are located on the Southwest (Pacific) side of Costa Rica on the Osa Peninsula. It is 364 km (226 miles) southeast of San Jose. The name of the town is Puerto Jimenez.

What is the best way to get to Puerto Jimenez?
Certainly the quickest and easiest way is to fly on a local in-country flight. It is a 50-minute flight from San Jose. However, if you have the time to drive, the coastal highway south of Dominical has stunning vista views of the Pacific Coast!

Directions to drive from San Jose to the Osa Peninsula?
Take the Pan-American Hwy (CA1) west past the International Airport to the turnoff for Atenas. Atenas is 42 km, (26 miles) west of San Jose. Turn left (south) and drive through Atenas to Orotina. Orotina is 24 km (15 miles) southwest of Atenas.

The coastal highway heads southeast from Orotina through Tarcoles, Jaco, Hermosa, and Quepos, and it is well marked with road signs. When you pass the exit for Quepos, keep going straight and you'll come to a 42 km stretch of dirt road heading south to Dominical.
When you reach Dominical, the road is paved and you are 3 1/2 hours from Pt. Jimenez.
Continue down the coast highway south to Chacarita. There is a gas station on the corner and a sign for Puerto Jimenez. Turn right. The road is paved to Rincon (42 km) south of Chacarita.
At La Palma, turn left for Pt. Jimenez and continue on only 1/2 half hour from there. The road leads you right into Pt. Jimenez.



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Do I have to be able to speak Spanish to enjoy Costa Rica?
No. The country is absolutely gorgeous and you will encounter many "Gringos" (Americans) when traveling in the country. Although, a little Spanish would certainly help with directions and to be able to talk with the locals. When you are in restaurants, hotels, and other "Tourist Type Places," most of the employees do speak very good English. Remember: if you just make an effort at speaking "their" language they will appreciate that, and most people will respond positively to you.



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How do we get from the International Airport to our hotel in San Jose?
We work with a very reliable Tour Company in San Jose. They have several minivans, and very good, SAFE drivers who speak English. One of our drivers will pick you up at the airport, and deliver you to your hotel. Then the following day, they will pick you up and deliver you to the commuter airport for your flight to Pt. Jimenez. Or if you are driving, they will assist you with getting your rental car squared away.

How do I book an in-country flight in Costa Rica?
Just give us a call and we can make all the arrangements for you. It is that easy.
There are advantages to having us make the reservations for you:
1) It is a local call for us, and the connection may be better.
2) Since we are familiar with the schedules of local flights, we can save you time and avoid problems with the proper connection times for you and your group.
3) If there ARE any problems with your local flights, we can take care of them for you from here locally.

It is ALWAYS better to have a "travel agent" make those arrangements for you. We have years of experience and we are here to help you.

Which rental car companies operate in Costa Rica?
Most of the major car rental companies in the United States operate in Costa Rica. (Avis, Hertz, Budget, National, Thrifty, etc.) There are also several Costa Rican companies available to use. There are desks at the International Airport for most of these.
NOTE: Some rental companies will deliver your car to your hotel and save you a trip downtown. Be sure to ask when you make reservations. It is recommended you make reservations for a vehicle before you arrive in Costa Rica.

What kind of rental car should I get?
If you are planning on driving down to the Osa Peninsula, you will need to rent a 4 Wheel Drive vehicle.
Here's an inside tip: Usually the first time people rent a 4 X 4 in Costa Rica they typically rent the cheapest vehicle available. (I know I did it, too, but that was the last time I ever did that!) The smallest, least expensive vehicles don't have the suspension or the clearance to keep you comfortable on the dirt roads. Do yourself a favor. Spend just a little more the first time around. (Trust Your Guide.)


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How do I exchange money in Costa Rica?
You can change your US dollars into colones (the local currency) at any bank in the country. You will be asked to show your passport. As of November 2007, the exchange rate is 520.34 colones to 1 US dollar. The dollar is accepted at most hotels and restaurants.

May I use credit cards in Costa Rica?
Credit cards are widely accepted in the country but keep in mind, there is a 7% fee to use them for purchases.


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Reservations:

How do I make reservations with Osa Yacht Club?
We require a $500.00 deposit per person within 10 days of the reservation request to guarantee your rooms and fishing days. The balance is due 30 days prior to scheduled arrival at Osa Yacht Club. You may call our toll free # in the U.S., or our Office # in Costa Rica, or you may email us.

We accept Visa or Mastercard over the phone for your deposit. We will also accept a Personal Check (in U.S. only) for your deposit. If sending a check, it must be received a minimum of 30 days in advance of your arrival. Note: Personal Checks WILL NOT be accepted for payments made IN Costa Rica. Final Payment in Costa Rica may be made with cash, credit card, or traveler's checks.

Cancellations and Refunds:

How do I get a refund if I have to cancel my reservations?
If we receive a written notice no less than 60 Days in Advance of your arrival, you will receive a Full Refund of your Deposit, less a handling fee of $150.00 per person.

NO shows will receive NO refunds.

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Fishing Information

How many people can fish on each boat?
We can fish 4 people comfortably offshore on our boats. All of our boats are loaded with full electronics, and all safety equipment.

What should I bring with me for a day of fishing?
Sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and a camera. We will provide EVERYTHING else including lunch, beverages, beer, and a great time!

What kind of equipment do you use on the fishing boats?
All of our boats have a full tuna tower and all modern electronics including GPS, and depth sounder / fish finder. We fish exclusively Shimano and Penn Reels with heavy duty rods. The boats are rigged with outriggers, and downriggers. There is lots of shade, music and fun fishing.

What about safety equipment on board?
All of our boats have the necessary required Coast Guard equipment, including life jackets, fire extinguishers and VHF radios.

Can we keep our catch?
Yes, we will send the fish you catch back with you so you can have it cooked for you at your lodge or at a restaurant in town.


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What is considered customary for tipping the crew?
Tipping is greatly appreciated by the crew. Typically 15% to 20% is the norm. The mates on these boats live off of their tips. Please be kind.

Can we share a fishing trip with other anglers?
Yes, but you have to invite them and make the arrangements with the other anglers. We prefer not to match up groups of people who don't know each other.

How far do you have to run to get to the fishing grounds?
We are very fortunate fishing here on the Osa Peninsula. Most days we do not have to run farther than 5-10 miles to fish offshore. Fishing inshore is typically done along the river mouths and / or at the Rock of Matapalo, which is no more than a 30 minute ride from the dock.

What are the sea conditions like offshore?
Calm, Calm, Calm. The ocean typically stays flat and calm most of the year. It may be hard to believe, but it’s true. In the rainy season it can get a little choppy from time to time, but during the busy time of the fishing season (December to April) it is flat with slow rollers. Inshore fishing on The Gulfo Dulce is almost always flat. If there is a one foot chop on the Gulf, the locals consider it rough.

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