Thinks to know for your trip

Do I require a visa or Passport to travel to Costa Rica?

Yes, indeed you need a Passport in order to enter Costa Rica from any country. If you are traveling from the states and do not have a Passport, you can easily apply for one at your local post office. The transaction takes anywhere from 2 to 5 weeks.


Are immunizations needed before coming to Costa Rica?

Costa Rica is one of the safest destinations in the developing world, from a general health point of view. This is largely due to high health standards in our country. There are no required immunizations for entering Costa Rica. However, it is always wise to keep up your basic shots such as tetanus and diphtheria. Risk of contracting malaria is minimal, but for itineraries that include the Caribbean lowlands, travelers might wish to take the extra precaution of a prophylactic medicine such as chloroquine. Decisions about immunizations and anti-malarial medications should be made on a personal basis after consultation with your personal physician.


Can I drink the water in Costa Rica?

Yes, you can drink the water. The public water system provides pure, suitable and good quality water to 98 percent of the country. Water supplies are filtered and chlorinated, and the quality is controlled by the State. Many people prefer bottled water which you can find just about everywhere.


What should I pack for my Medical Tourism Trip?

You will be staying in a recovery retreat located in the mountains just outside of San José, with a rainforest wrapped all around the grounds, so the temperature is slightly cooler than in San José. Mornings are cool enough for a light jacket or maybe even a sweat shirt. It warms up after noon but still it is not hot. So pack long pants, long sleeve shirts and a jacket or sweater along with a few lighter items, socks and slippers always feel cozy. But if you are looking to see the beaches before your medical procedure, make sure you pack your swim suit and sun screen too. For after your procedure you should keep in mind that you will want to be comfortable, so loose clothing, a robe, a big brimmed hat to protect from the sun, button down shirts are good if you are planning on any above the waist procedures, and any other comfortable clothing is always wise to pack. Darker colors for clothing is also recommended for those traveling for more cosmetic reasons, due to some bodily seepage that is to be expected.


What if I get sick during my trip?

Here with Medical Destination Costa Rica, you can rest assured that we will take the best care of your health while you are here. Since some people react differently to certain antibiotics or medications, we always have a nurse on the grounds and the doctors are always on call for our patients.


Are the taxes included in the package deals?

Yes, our packages include all taxes so the price you see is the price you pay. Any additional expenses you might have depend on whether you decide to take a tour or any other outing during your stay. It is always wise to bring some spending money for your trip.


Does your staff speak English?

Yes, all of our staff, from the doctors, personal assistant, and hosts speak English. It is good to carry an English/Spanish dictionary as well so you can speak to the maids or to shop owners if you go into town, however most of them speak a very basic English.


Who picks me up at the Airport and how do I recognize them?

We will have one of our chauffeurs pick you up at the International Juan Santamaria Airport, he will be holding a small welcome sign with your name printed on it. He will then take you to either to your first visit with your specific Doctor or directly to the recovery retreat.