Costa Rica Villa Rental
Vacation Package

Frequently Asked Questions

Thank you for your interest in Villa Ocotal.    Hopefully these commonly asked questions and answers will present you with a more complete appreciation of what our Private Villa has to offer you and your guests.   After you look over these common questions and responses, please do not hesitate to phone or email any additional questions you wish to ask and we will be happy to assist you and your traveling companions in any way. 

Question: Is it safe to visit Costa Rica?

The answer is a resounding yes. Costa Rica is by far the safest, friendliest, nation in the hemisphere. With a long history of peace, stability, and kindness to the people who visit. Its policy of active neutrality has twice earned it the nomination for the Nobel Peace Prize. Costa Rica has repeatedly been referred to as the Switzerland of the Americas. According to the US-embassy website it is statistically safer then the United States and political violence is non-existent.

Question:  Is your Villa safe?   

Response: Absolutely!   The Villa is located within the boundaries of a private gated community known as "Playa Ocotal".   Many of the neighboring homes are valued from $500,000 to as much as $5,000,000. This "private beach community" has only one entrance in and out and that entrance is staffed 24 hours a day with a security guard.   Villa Ocotal has further privacy, as it is located behind an electronic gated entry and has private security.  

Question:   What is a villa, is it a private home or just a small hotel? 

Response: At one's first glance of the Villa, which sits mid-way up the side of a mountain, you might be inclined to believe Villa Ocotal is simply a large private home.   After your first night stay, you will realize why we do not consider Villa Ocotal the same as a private residence.   The Villa was specifically designed and constructed much different than a private home and or hotel.  The primary differences are as follows: 

• The guest's quarters were designed so each room has its own private balcony and bathroom/shower.   The beds have pillow top mattresses and the linens are 350+ count.
• Our guests can come and go to their private quarters without having to pass through a family room, living area, den, lobby or the kitchen area.
• Each quarter was intentionally constructed with 8" & 10" cement walls, floors and ceilings so that all of our guests can relax, converse and sleep with the added confidence of much quieter rooms than what you might find in a home or hotel.  
• The staff quarters, the kitchen, the dining and laundry room are completely separated from our guest's private quarters.
• Villa Ocotal offers our guests a tranquil, private and comfortable setting that generic hotels and pre-packaged resorts do not normally provide and the pool does not close at 10:00 pm.
• When you and your guests stay at our villa, relax by the pool, swim or dance under the stars, you are not forced to live with persons unknown to your group.  You and your guests have the entire villa for your exclusive private use and pleasure.
• Our full time staff has one purpose, to continually strive to make your stay as enjoyable as possible.

Question:  How many guests can your villa accommodate?  

Response: On several occasions, we have groups of 24 stay in our villa.   We have 8 bedrooms for our guests.   Four of the private quarters have king-size beds (one of the king-size bedrooms has a bunk bed with full bed at the bottom and twin on the top) and four (4) of the quarters have two queen-size beds.    All of the rooms are larger than you might find in the states. Should it be necessary, to accommodate your group and assuming we have prior notice, we are willing to provide you with two (2) rollaway beds and/or a cribs for the little ones.  

Question:  Is the house on the beach?   

Response: None of the homes in the area are constructed contiguous to the beach however it is a very short 4 to 5 minute walk on a well-defined paved road and you can see the ocean as you walk down the road. 

Question:  What does all-inclusive include?

Response:  The "all inclusive price" includes 3 full and delicious meals, afternoon appetizers and a continuous "open bar", including various national liquors, wines, tropical frozen drinks and icy cold Costa Rican beers as well soft drinks, sodas, etc.  The meal times give you ample time to eat and visit and don't worry there will be plenty of food.  I assure you your group will not only enjoy the food, but will enjoy the convenience of eating at the Villa in the elevated rancho dining area, in your room, on your private balcony or by the pool.  

For your convenience, laundry service (wash, iron as needed and fold/hang your clothes) is provided.  

Question:  What airport is closest to Villa Ocotal?

Response:  The Liberia International Airport is 20 minutes from Villa Ocotal.  Airport code is LIR.  The San Jose Airport is a 4 to 5 hour drive to the Villa.  There are commuter airlines that fly from San Jose to Liberia.

Question:  Do you arrange Liberia Airport transfers? 

Response:  Liberia Airport transfers may be arranged for a roundtrip charge.  Please request the current per person quote.  Your flight schedule must be provided to our office and your transportation will be all set up prior to your arrival.  The airport transfers are on a prepaid and non-refundable basis only.   

Question:  What types of beer do you have at the Villa?

Response:  We have Imperial, Bavaria and Carlson Beers.   Some American Beers (Miller) are available at an additional charge since they are imported to Costa Rica.  

Question:   Is it appropriate to tip your staff?  

Response: Unlike most places where you are constantly tipping for services we ask that you wait until the evening prior to your departure or the morning of and we leave that decision entirely up to you and your friends and how you felt about the service.    If you feel that during your stay you have been treated to good personal friendly service, quality food preparation and may have even had the staff do your laundry, please let your feelings direct your decision with regard to tipping.   Virtually every group that has stayed at the Villa has been so impressed with the dedication & quality of service by our staff that each group has left some form of gratitude, usually a tip.   If you still need assistance with what is customary then $15.00 per adult guest per night is very generous for the staff to share.  

Question:    Phones - Internet:  Are we able to communicate with the states while at the Villa?

Response You may make international phone calls from the Villa with you're a prepaid phone card.  You will also be provided with the Villa phone number so that friends and family will be able to contact you during your stay.  Feel free to bring your laptop computer as Villa Ocotal has wireless internet.   Coco which is 10 minutes away has two internet cafes.  There are now 2 new internet sites in our Ocotal Area.  Hotel Casa Blanca and Hotel Ocotal are literally minutes from the Villa.  There should be no problem with you staying connected - the question may be - do you really want to??? 

Question:  Will my cell phone work in Costa Rica?

Response: Call your service provider and have international calling applied to your phone to be able to receive and make calls while in Costa Rica.   According to Cingular/ATT your 7100g will work in Costa Rica. VOICE ONLY NO DATA

Costa Rica is only an 1800 MHz frequency band country.

You have a quad band GSM phone which carries 800 MHz, 900 MHz, 1800 MHz and 1900 MHz (no analog)

If anyone in your group has a Cingular/ATT quad band GSM phone or a Cingular/ATT tri-band phone that carries 900/1800/1900 MHz, their phone (according to Cingular/ATT) should work. 

Question:  Do you have a television at the Villa?

Response:  By design you will not find TV's, clocks and newspapers in your rooms.   For one week, we hope each of you will be able to put the world's problems and cold weather out of mind and out of site.  We provide for your pleasure, via satellite a "Direct TV" linkup, which is conveniently located adjacent to the Pool.   Your group will be able to conveniently access 55 music channels, movies and or CNN.   We also have a DVD player with a variety of DVD's.  We have a karaoke machine for our guests' who aspire to fame in the entertainment business.  The later the night gets, the better you sound.   

Question:  What other activities do you have at the Villa?

Response:  We have several games to choose from such as:  Cranium, Imagine (so fun), Trivial Pursuit (Regular and Baby Boomer) and Monopoly.  There are also cards, dominos, poker chips and backgammon.  You may also wish to engage in a game of pool.   There are water mattresses and a water volleyball set. 

Question:  Do you need converters?

Response:  No 

Questions:  Do you have hairdryers?

Response:  No 

Questions:  Do you have a safe at the Villa?

Response:  No. Please bring a locking suitcase if you want a place to store your valuables. 

Questions:  Are the rooms smoke free? 

Response:  We ask that our guests refrain from smoking in all of the bedrooms at Villa Ocotal.  

Questions:  Do you have any exercise equipment? 

Response:  We have an open air covered area with workout equipment should any of your group wish to spend a few minutes a day exercising.   Early morning walks or runs are quite popular with our guests. 

Question:  What kinds of food do you serve at the Villa?  

Response:  We are constantly changing and improving our menu at the Villa.  Breakfast consists of various egg dishes, pancakes, meats, breads and local tropical fruits, cereals, wonderful fresh juices and a local staple "Gallo Pinto".  Lunches consist of a variety of dishes and as always requests allowing ample preparation time are welcome. Wines are served with the evening meal. The entrees consist of fresh grilled fish, beef, chicken and pork.  An assortment of local fresh fruits, vegetables and desserts accompany your meal.  Our most popular request is our fresh outdoor grilled Maui Maui (piscado durado) steak complimented with various sauces, grilled or baked potatoes, assorted salads, breads and a local specialty rice dish.   The responses from our previous guests with regard to the food have been outstanding!  We invite you to enjoy our Costa Rican Cuisine - we have consciously made the effort not to Americanize our food.  You will find the meals to be very healthy with plenty of fresh fruits, vegetables and grilled entrees.  The meals are served plated unless you have a large group and buffet style may be substituted.   Our Villas have a set menu that we use and substitutions or alterations may be made by written requests due to food allergies or diet restrictions.  With prior notification, further menu revisions/substitutions/special requests by guests may be available for an additional charge. 

Question:  Can you accommodate a vegetarian diet?

Response:  Absolutely with prior notice we can accommodate any degree of a vegetarian diet.  Approximately 2 weeks prior to your arrival we will contact you asking for any special food requests.  At this time, you can specify your dietetic needs.  

Question:  Is the water safe to drink at Villa Ocotal?

Response:  Yes, the water is safe to drink and we always have iced bottled water available at the Villa.   The only sickness our guests have experienced is an occasional hangover. 

Question:  Can you arrange deep sea fishing trips? 

Response: Yes, we have a close association with several trustworthy individuals who will take you and your group fishing. Gabriel will arrange your fishing expedition.  The boat size dictates the costs of your fishing trip.  We have had fishing groups that desire bare minimum and groups that want a 42' Hatteras with all of the luxuries of first class fishing.  With prior notice our staff for one of your evening meals can prepare any fish that you catch.  

Question:  Does the Villa provide transportation for golf outings, surfing trips to Tamarindo or other activities?  

Response:  Villa Ocotal staff will assist you with taxi service which will provide transportation to Coco and other nearby destinations.  Rates will be provided upon request. 

Question:  Can your staff arrange tours?

Response:  Our personal land tour guides can arrange many activities and things for your group to do and see in Costa Rica. They are extremely knowledgeable in regard to the history of Costa Rica.  Some of the most popular attractions that visitors normally wish to see and experience are the tree top cable rides, canopy tours (you take a rope ladder up into the forest canopy and then travel across the rainforest on pulleys to a series of suspended platforms, where interesting wildlife can be observed), lower level river rafting, hot springs, and mud pits, horseback riding, tennis (within walking distance $15 per hour), deep sea fishing, world class golfing, surfing, kayaking, jungle river rides, 4 wheel rentals, and several gambling casinos.    

We can also assist you with snorkel and scuba diving as well as other water activities. 

Question:    Is the Ocotal Beach white or dark sand?   

Response:  Playa Ocotal consists of dark sand that originated from volcanic rock.  The darker sand is the same texture as the light sand and sparkles like glitter, very attractive in its own way.   When you walk on the beach, it is the softest sand you will ever find.  You feel like you are walking on cotton.   Please look at the photos we have taken of Ocotal Beach. They speak for themselves about the beauty, privacy and serenity of Playa Ocotal.    

There are some beautiful rock formations that project out into the water, and these are quite large, 50' - 75' wide and 100' long.   You do not have to be very far from the water's edge to experience great snorkeling.  

Question:  Do you book the Villa Year Round? 

Response: Yes, the Villa is often rented 12 to 18 months in advance so if you have solid travel dates, it is best to book well in advance of your travel dates.  If you would like us to put a hold on your chosen dates while you gather your group, just let us know. Occasionally we have cancellations so do not hesitate to contact us about last minute travel.        

Question:   Is there a Spa facility close by for a soothing body wrap or a massage?

Response:  Pamper yourself while you are our guest at Villa Ocotal.   You can select the location of your service...out on your balcony overlooking the beautiful bay, in the privacy of your room where the relaxing massage is sure to sedate your body and soul or by the pool where you can still enjoy the company of your family/friends.  Manicures, pedicures, facials and massages can be just what you need to complete your tropical paradise.  We can have your appointments set up prior to your arrival or you can set them up when you arrive at the Villa.

Question:    How far are the closest tennis courts?  

Response: The tennis court is only a brief walk from the Villa. The fee for rental of the tennis courts is $15 per hour.  They are open 7 days a week. 

Question:  Would you recommend Travelers Checks, Credit Cards or Cash? 

Response:  Our guests have found US Cash to be the best form of currency while staying at the Villa.  Cash is necessary for tours.  Fishing payment is best in US Cash.   Credit Cards are fine for shopping.  Some credit card companies ask that you contact them prior to using your card out of the country.  There is no need to exchange US dollars to colons.   

Question:   Can you please make any recommendations as to what we should wear and what we should bring to Costa Rica?  

Response:  Costa Rica is very casual.  Lightweight t-shirts, shorts/jeans and heavy soled sandals/sneakers will be fine for day or night or whatever you are most comfortable wearing.  Some guests have been known to wear their swimsuits, a visor & sunglasses for the majority of their stay.   Keep in mind that everyone seems to over pack with warm clothing, this is the tropic and you probably will not get cold.   Bring your sunscreen.

Don't forget the insect repellent (with deet and some anti-itch cream just in case a mosquito bites you.  The Costa Rican brands are not as effective.

Villa Ocotal does not provide toiletries.

NOTE: Some products may not be available locally, so it is a good idea to bring anything that is important to you and may be hard to find while you are away from home.

Extra film, a pencil & small notebook are always handy to have.  To check Currency Conversion Rates click this link at our www.costa-rica-villa-rental.com web site.

Question:  Is there good shopping in the Ocotal area?

Response:  There is wonderful shopping in Coco.  There are some beautiful wooden products, pottery, sarongs, coffee and other wonderful items from Costa Rica.  Do not miss the shopping at Coco.  You may use credit cards for shopping or American cash or colons.

Question:   Are any documents needed for adults to travel to Costa Rica and what documentation must children have to travel?

Response:   Passport and photo ID are required.  Don't forget your legal passport.  (Your passport must not expire within 6 months of your travel dates.)  Bring your original passport and one copy.  Keep your copy separate from your original.  Just in case you lose your original document the copy will facilitate replacement and will serve, as your interim document should you be required to show proof of citizenship.   PLEASE NOTE THAT NO MATTER HOW YOUNG YOUR BABY IS - THEY MUST HAVE A PASSPORT.  AIRLINES HAVE BEEN KNOWN TO GIVE FALSE INFORMATION TO PEOPLE ABOUT INFANTS AND PASSPORTS.  CUSTOMS WILL TURN ANYONE AWAY THAT DOES NOT HAVE A PASSPORT.

Question:  Are there medical facilities nearby?

Response:  Costa Rica has good medical facilities.  A pharmacy is in Coco (7 minutes from the Villa) and a Clinic is 10 minutes away in Sardinal and the hospital is in Liberia 20 minutes away.

Question:  Are there immunizations required or recommended for Costa Rica?

Response:  We recommend you discuss immunizations or preventative medicine with your own personal physician.  Personally, we have been going to Costa Rica for going on 6 years and because we are all in relatively good health, we have never received any special immunizations or taken Malaria Pills.  This is a personal decision for each of our guests.  Costa Rica does not require any immunization records.  

Question:  Should we have our airline reservations prior to reserving the Villa?

Response:  Because the Villa is often reserved a year in advance, most guests book the Villa and then about 8-12 weeks prior to their Reservation Dates, they obtain their airline tickets. Easter, Spring Break & the December Holidays it is best to make your reservations earlier.   Check in time is 2:00PM.  If your flight arrives early in the morning for a small charge, we have arrangements that we can make to pick you up and take you into town or on a tour until we pick you up around 1:30 PM and take you to your villa.  Please inquire as to the choices you have for this.

Question:  What if I have to arrive a day earlier than my Reservation or leave a day later?

Response:  We can most likely accommodate you at a wonderful bungalow located in the same Ocotal area.   Please inquire for rates and availability.

Question:  How can we secure our dates while we gather the deposits from our group?

Response:  We can block your dates without a deposit for a few days while you confirm arrangements with your guests.

Question:  How many guests must we have to have Villa Ocotal exclusively?

Response:  There is a 6 adult guest minimum.

Question:  What are the methods of payment?

Response:  Personal Check or Certified Checks (Payable in US Funds)

Question:  Can all guests pay by separate checks?

Response:  We ask that each group leader take payments from their guests and forward 1 check for the group for each payment.

Question:  Is there additional tax that will be added?

Response:  No

Question:  What is the deposit amount?

Response: 25% if your dates are 9 months or more away will reserve your villa.  If your dates are within 9 months of travel, the deposit of 50% is due upon making your reservation.  The final 50% is due 60 days prior to arrival. 

Question:  We are ready to go - now what do we do?

Response:  You confirm your dates of travel and our office will send you a Reservation Agreement.  The Reservation Agreement will outline your deposit(s) amounts and due dates. Payment in full for your Reservation is due 60 days prior to your arrival.  You will then return the signed Reservation Agreement, a complete guest list including children and their ages and your first deposit.

Question:  What if additional friends and family want to join us?

Response:  As you add guests to your group, we will revise your Reservation Agreement and your guests may forward their deposit amount or full payment to our office.

Question:  While we are staying at the Villa may we ask other people not registered as a Villa Ocotal guest to come to Villa Ocotal?

Response:  No unregistered guests will be allowed to come to the Villa during your stay.  The Villa does not provide meals, snacks or beverages to non-registered guests and there is no money accepted at the Villa for this privilege.

Question:  Now we are going - what would you want us to know?

Response:  If your group has any questions or concerns, please e-mail them to our office.  It is always best to have requests and responses in writing; however, you are always welcome to phone if you need additional information.  We will send you a "What to Know before you Go" a few weeks prior to your departure.  It will have the English Emergency contact number and the Villa phone number for those who speak Spanish and recap most of what is written here. 

Check out the Costa Rican culture and take the time to know the people (unlike many countries, Costa Ricans like the tourist.)  The general consensus from everyone is how friendly and content they are.  If you are interested in a humanitarian gesture, the past 2 years, several Villa guests, our family and friends have taken school and art supplies directly to the children in Coco - my daughter says it is the absolute highlight of the entire trip and I must agree.  The children and their parents are so appreciative and share with one another in a way that touches your heart.  After recently visiting the school, we requested a list from the teachers on items that the school needs.  Please let us know if this is something you would be interested in and we will be happy to share some ideas with you.  

Question:  Will you need any further information from my group?

Response:  Prior to arrival (at least 4 to 6 weeks) we will need everyone's flight information.  We will need flight information whether or not you will be needing airport transfers or not.  The flight information will include arrival date, time of arrival, airline and flight number as well as the same for departure for each guest.

Question:  What if one of our guests has to cancel, can someone else go in their place?

Response:  Yes, just please let us know so we can revise your guest list.

Question:  Can this person receive a refund?

Response:  They are entitled to the same cancellation policy as listed below.

Question:  What if we have to cancel our trip?

Response:  If you cancel 60 days (90 days for holiday weeks) prior to your arrival, you will receive 75% of all monies paid or a voucher for 100% of monies paid to be used within the next 18 months.  If you cancel less than 90 days, you will receive a voucher equal to 100% of all monies paid to be used within the next 18 months.

Question:  What if we get there and decide that we love it at the Villa and don't want to leave on the day of our departure?

Response:  More than likely another group will be arriving so you will need to depart the Villa; however, do not hesitate upon your return home to phone or e-mail our office and book a return trip...many, many of our guests have such a great time that they are making a trip to Villa Ocotal a yearly event.  

Thank you for your interest.  Pura Vida!