Costa Rica Retreat Check List
Get ready for an unforgettable adventure in Las Catalinas!
First things first, get travel insurance! This is a non-refundable trip, last year we had someone that had to cancel their trip the day before for unforeseeable reasons, and they got fully reimbursed. Trust me… it’s worth it!
Here is one that we recommend.
Here’s your guide to packing for the Green Season (May to November) in Costa Rica
Green Season: Expect warm days (mid to high 80s) and cozy nights (mid to low 70s). Embrace occasional refreshing rain showers.
Essentials to Bring:
Passport: Ensure it's up-to-date!
Phone: Stay connected with our WhatsApp group (wifi available on-site). Download Google Translate for Spanish and Google Maps beforehand. Loving challenge - download Duolingo and try to learn some conversation Spanish before coming.
Water Bottle: Bring a large reusable one (filtered water on-site).
Ear Plugs: For a peaceful night's sleep.
Loose/Comfy Clothes: Perfect for lounging and relaxing.
Casual Clothes/Summer Dress for Dinner: You might want to freshen up after a day in the sun.
1-2 Athletic Outfits: Ideal for walks and yoga sessions.
1 Cute Outfit for a Nights Out: For exploring Tamarindo and dining at a local adult-only restaurant.
Shoes: sandals, walking athletic type shoes, and flat shoes. Don’t even bother packing heels, most roads are dirt or cobblestone and unstable.
Beach Gear: Sun hat, bathing suit, cover-up, sunglasses, etc. The sun is HOT being so close to the equator.
Rain Gear: Pack an easy-to-carry raincoat. The rain is refreshing, so keep it light and compact.
Bug Spray: A must-have, especially if mosquitoes find you irresistible!
One White Outfit: We’ll wear this on the last night.
Toiletries/Makeup/Hair Products: Your essentials for looking and feeling great.
Medications/Supplements/Allergy Pills: Don't forget these if you need them. While there are pharmacies throughout the country… they usually don’t carry the same American products
Special Dietary Items: Bring any non-perishable items you might need.
Cash/American Dollars: Useful for tips (if inspired), souvenirs and one dinner in Tamarindo. Note: Almost all places take US dollars, however if they are ripped in any shape or form (even a little tear) they will not take it. Most places don’t have lots of change, so bring smaller bills rather than bigger bills.
Pack with excitement, and get ready for a one in a lifetime experience in Costa Rica! 🌞🌴✨
Details About my Arrival
Welcome to Costa Rica!
Upon arriving in Costa Rica, you'll first go through customs. When you reach the customs agent, let them know you're heading to Las Catalinas. If they ask for an address, use: Casa Vida Villas, Playa Potrero, Tempate, Guanacaste (A la par de Bahía Esmeralda). This process may take 30-60 minutes, depending on your arrival time.
We will be closely monitoring all flights. If your flight is delayed and your shuttle time needs to be adjusted, our fantastic logistics queen, Jill Esplin, or myself, will contact you with the new shuttle arrangements.
Driver Instructions:
After passing through customs and collecting any checked luggage, proceed to the Exit Area outside the terminal, but before the main exit doors. Look for the driver holding a sign that says, “Remembering Your Eco with Lindsey Meehleis.” If coming from Tabacon, Lindsey will let you all know what time to meet in the lobby.
Important Note:
Costa Rica's landscape includes jungle terrain. Your driver will choose the best route to get you to the villas safely. If they opt for the shorter jungle path, there may be a point where you cross a low-flowing river. While this may seem unusual, it is a common practice here. Rest assured, local drivers are experienced and prioritize safety in their decisions.
Have a wonderful journey, and we look forward to welcoming you to Las Catalinas! 🌴🌞
We are thrilled to announce that several amazing companies have generously contributed incredible products for your Retreat Swag Bags! You'll find a variety of goodies, including a beautiful beach bag, sunscreen, organic toothpaste, and organic sun-soothing ointments. This list is growing every day. Once I have the final list, I will send it out prior to your departure to ensure you don't double up on any items you plan to bring.
Get ready to be pampered with these fantastic products! 🌴✨
Meet Jill
She will be your personal concierge for logistics. She is our incredible retreat producer and will be here to support you before and during the retreat. Her cell is also 714-924-5868.
Lindsey will be meeting anyone interested in extending their stay in Costa Rica at Arenal Volcano on July 16th. Departure from Arenal on the 18th to travel to our villas in Las Catalinas. will be coordinated. Lindsey has made arrangements for herself to stay at Tabacon Hot Springs; however, please note that this stay is not part of the retreat and we don’t have any room blocks for our group. Tabacon tends to fill up quickly, so consider Airbnb options in Arenal or La Fortuna as alternatives.
If you're considering extending your stay and joining this pre-retreat, please email Lindsey, and she will coordinate with you accordingly
Are you going to the Pre-Retreat?
FAQ’s
When are final payments due?
If you are making payments, please note that your balance must be paid in full to attend by July 10th. Please coordinate directly with Lindsey.
Will I have time to explore Costa Rica on my own?
Yes, we will be going into Tamarindo one night to explore. Tamarindo is vibrant, has an international vibe and its reputation as a bustling beach town known for its surfing culture and lively nightlife
What’s the cancellation policy?
This is non refundable. There are many reasons to take advantage of Travel Insurance for your upcoming retreat. Insurance is the only way to plan for the unexpected. All deposits and payments are non-refundable. They are non-refundable because when you make a deposit it holds your spot on the retreat with limited available spaces. This prevents someone else from booking that same space. Please read our terms and conditions here.
