the well traveled life
What airport do I fly into?
Either LIR or SJO. I typically fly into LIR but either airport works. It is a 2 and 1/2 hour shuttle from LIR to Nosara. Gypsy Cabs and Nosara Taxi both have shared shuttles at designated times ($55 per person) or private shuttles available ($130-150) - but you can often find others to share the cost of private shuttle; sometimes it's even less expensive that way). If flying into SJO, Sansa offers a short commuter flight into Nosara. If you take this route, read the fine print about your luggage. It becomes important to travel light, otherwise you may incur steep charges.
Do I need to exchange money?
Credit cards and US dollars are accepted pretty much anywhere. The change you will get back is often in the local currency, Colones. It's important to travel with plenty of cash because the ATM's can be iffy. Local vendors that make beautiful hand crafted items only take cash. Since we are a goup, its best if you have plenty of small bills when cabs, dinners, etc are shared.
Do I need an international cell plan?
I got by last time without a cell plan. With my AT&T plan, I can text for free if on wifi. Our house has wifi and several of the restaurants have wifi. WhatsApp is also helpful; if on wifi you can make free international calls. It's important if you don't have a plan, to make sure your data roaming is turned off to avoid extraneous charges.
What if I don't have a lot of yoga experience?
Does the house have a washer/dryer?
Yes, but is only used by the maid. She will do a load of laundry for $10.
What about hairdryers?
Yes, there is one in every bathroom.
What about beach towels?
Yes, there is one for every girl so hang onto it.
Are there yoga mats?
The house has some yoga mats and so do all the studios in town. If you are attached to your mat or have a nice travel mat, bring it.
What should I pack?
A great flashlight! It gets dark early and there are no street lights. Sunscreen, sunhat, sunglasses, yoga clothes, bathing suits/beach clothes, casual sundresses to wear out at night, flip flops, running shoes or closed toe shoes of some sort (for rainforrest hike or horseback riding), a scarf, a lightweight wrap or sweater (can dip into the 70's a night), a rashguard if you want to surf. Pack light; you will buy some pretty things!
That's totally fine! Some girls on this trip are trying yoga for the very first time. It's your retreat adventure and you are encouraged to do as you wish. It's ok if you decide to sleep in and skip morning yoga. The class that we teach is all levels and caters to all abilities. We do also have dedicated yogis that attend this retreat; Nosara is a mecca for yoga!