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VISITOR S GUIDE GOLD COAST FREE COPY March 2009 N. 9 www.tamarindocosta-rica.com TAMARINDO AND SURROUNDING AREAS | GUANACASTE | COSTA RICA Por favor dejar en la habitación para el próximo visitante NIGHT LIFE DRIVING MAP RESTAURANTS NIGHT LIFE DRIVING MAP RESTAURANTS

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Page 1: Visitors Guide 9

VISITOR S GUIDEG O L D C O A S TFREE COPY

March 2009 N. 9 www.tamarindocosta-rica.com

TAMARINDO AND SURROUNDING AREAS | GUANACASTE | COSTA RICA

Por favor dejar en la habitación para el próximo visitante

NIGHT LIFE

DRIVING MAP

RESTAURANTS

NIGHT LIFE

DRIVING MAP

RESTAURANTS

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LOCAL INTERNET INFOT A M A R I N D O

weB & printed!• Now featuring on-line

the complete local Phone Bookand Visitor’s Guide

• Surf reports, maps, things to do and more

Orientation - Events - Tide Charts - Nightlife

weB & printed!weB & printed!weB & printed!weB & printed!

find outwhat is happening!

www.tamarindocosta-rica.com

weB & printed!weB & printed!weB & printed!weB & printed!weB & printed!weB & printed!weB & printed!weB & printed!weB & printed!weB & printed!weB & printed!weB & printed!weB & printed!www.tamarindocosta-rica.comwww.tamarindocosta-rica.comwww.tamarindocosta-rica.com

go visit:

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find outwhat is happening!

The best tour just 8 mins drive from Tamarindo

Ride & BBQ Fiesta, for Groups over 15 people, for special occasions on request.

BLACK STALLION HORSE BACK TOURS

www.blackstallionhills.com

Call 506 - 2653 18283 hr. 360% Sunset Ride for $45 per person, Nothing like it !

(& have a cold one !)

No traffic, no dust, just pristine nature. See monkeys, Iguana, birds, deer, rabbits, huge tress & nature creeks.... beautiful!

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BS_Sunset Ride.pdf 3/14/09 2:06:01 PM

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FROM THE PUBLISHER

Disclaimer – This guide contains many personal opinions and observations. Some of which have not been completely thought through. So we cannot possibly be responsible for what we write or for that matter any information supplied by our advertisers. We especially urge using your own judgment and caution especially with large purchases.

This edition represents a revolutionary way of welcoming and orientating you to our area. With its hybrid approach of a printed publication and web site, we bring this area to life with print, ads, pictures, videos, interactive blogs and forums. Our fondest dream would be to see you reading this Guide as you browse and interact with www.tamarindocosta-rica.com Make sure your room or vacation rental comes equipped with one of our Phone Books because after reading this Guide you may want to look up some numbers. We think the more you know about Tamarindo, the better you’ll enjoy your stay here.

LETTER FROM Famous Points

Wayne Geddings, Publisher10-year resident

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PRODUCTION AND ADVERTISING OFFICES

Tamarindo de Santa Cruz, Guanacaste, Costa Rica.

Ph. (506) 2653-0103 • 2653-0779 [email protected]

www.tamarindocosta-rica.comPublisher:

Wayne Geddings Administration and sales:

Victoria Alfaro Special writing assistance:

Suzanne CranePhotographers:

Thornton at Studios Tamarindo Toh Goutennoire at Bi-Drop.com

Graphic Design:PrismaPublicidad.com

Gratitude and acknowledgements must be extended to the many

other folks who tirelessly and passionately participated in the

creation of this guide.

Printed at MasterLitho, San José

All rights reserved 2009 by Tamarindo Publishing©. The entire content including designed advertising

may not be reproduced or reprinted either in whole or in part without permission of the manager.

Tamarindo Advertising© is not responsible for errors or omissions. Advertisers are responsible for legal

permission to use their photos.

Derechos reservados 2009 Tamarindo Publishing©. El contenido completo, incluyendo el diseño

publicitario, no podrá ser reproducido o reimpreso total o parcialmente sin el permiso del editor.

Tamarindo Advertising© no se hace responsable por errores u omisiones. Los anunciantes son

responsables por el permiso legal para usar sus fotografías.

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TSINTERESTED IN

ADVERTISING WITH US?Please contact (506) 2653-0103

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GUANACASTE MAP

WELCOME TO PARADISE! What and where is Tamarindo?

Interesting cultural differences

Seasons and climate

Important personal security advisories

AREA ACTIVITIESSurfing

Fiestas and Topes

National Parks and Tours

Golfing

Sport Fishing

Sailing

Scuba diving and snorkeling

PLAYA TAMARINDOTamarindo Restaurants

SURROUNDED AREAS

USEFUL INFORMATIONAir Travel

Money Machines and Banks

Telephone Communications

Churches

Embassy Phone Numbers

General Information

Medical Information

Transportation

Tide Charts

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GUANACASTE MAPCosta RiCa

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tamarindo – located in the heartof the gold coast

Each year Costa Rica attracts more than a million visitors. They are lured by the scenic splendor, geographic diversity and the MAGIC of this idyllic Latin American nation. Defi ned by lush rainfor-ests, majestic volcanoes, incomparable beaches, and opulent wildlife, Costa Rica—bordered by Panama in the south and Nicaragua to the north—is indeed deserving of its international reputation as an eco-tourism oasis, adventure-seeker’s haven and spiritual rejuvenator.

Gleaming most brightly amidst the country’s many and varied treasures is a region in the province of Guanacaste known as the Gold Coast. Our coast… where the emerald sea is em-broidered by an endless expanse of beaches, where world-class waves attract neophyte and world-class surfers alike, where golfi ng and sport fi shing are fi rst rate and lounging on the beach is all in a day’s work. Boasting mod-ern amenities, inspired cuisine and shopping options desired by our discriminating and valued guests, it is still a semi-remote sanctuary with nearby Tico villages.

In the middle of the Gold Coast is a magical town called Tamarindo. A little town compared to some standards, but never the less it is where our legend begins.

magic

There is more to Tamarindo than its discernable attributes. Infused by a certain indefi nable yet palpable essence, visitors and residents alike regularly report transformational experiences. Perhaps it’s the laid-back vibe of the place, the enchanting multihued sunsets, the verdant virgin jungle or the warm Pacifi c water that caresses the body and regenerates the soul… or possibly it is the resonant spiritual legacy that distinguishes this fecund land. Whatever it is, the indigenous people believed in a nature-induced magical

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WELCOMETO PARADISE!WELCOMETO PARADISE!

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energy that deepens love, passion and friendship and often recounted tales of inexplicable occur-rences that they simply accepted as part of their daily lives.

During your vacation we hope to put you in touch with this local magic. Escape into this culture and consider our insights and surrender to the possibilities. Embrace the unknown, discover and uncover your hidden passions. Escape into new attitudes. Try new things. After all, the figurative monkey on your back may actually be a monkey on your back! We share this land with our ances-tors and all of God’s creatures. And from that, the spirit guides us. Leave your worries behind and believe in the powerful energy of the Gold Coast. It will carry you to a wonderful state of mind!

Importantly, please understand that the attraction of Tamarindo is not attractions that you might find in Las Vegas or Cancun. If you judge a vacation by how many check marks you can place next to a “to do list”, you may not like it here. This place is about having nothing to do and taking all day to do it! This is a place where you get away from it all and drop into a different culture and community while looking for unexpected adventures and unlikely friends. This is a sophisticated, but casual place, one that rewards those who plan, but also those who just let it happen. It is for people who think learning another language is fun, not a burden. For someone who likes to see how other people live, and enjoys getting to know them. For those who like to see the contrasts, not just the same old thing. It is for those who can adapt when the elec-

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tricity goes off , and can accidentally benefi t from the interruption and meet a new friend by the pool. If you’re burnt out from your normal life, we invite you to drop out and “peek into every eye”.

WHAT AND WHEREIS TAMARINDO?Located on Costa Rica’s Pacifi c Coast in Guana-caste Province there is a region known as The Gold Coast. It’s not actually represented on maps and its boundaries are imprecise and open to debate among those who like to debate such things. We know which towns fall under the aegis of this spectral area—Playa Tamarindo, Playa

Flamingo, Playa Grande, Potrero, and Playa Negra, charming seaside enclaves peppered with locals and sprinkled with a healthy dose of assimilated expatriates. In the middle is Tamarindo, the hub – the center, where it all began.

While its physical borders are in question, the previously mentioned magic that suff uses the area is irrefutable—an invisible magnet that draws throngs of returning visitors and hordes of foreign transplants… We can’t explain it and we don’t try. As increasing numbers of people discover the Gold Coast, there is a trend towards accommodat-ing the needs of these discerning arrivals. But although you can catch your favorite American TV show here, there is no mistaking that you’re “Not in Kansas anymore!”

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! a Bit of history

Most of the native people are descendents of the Chorotega Indians who for many centuries were isolated by the challenging terrain on which they lived. At that time, as throughout much of the region’s history, the Gold Coast belonged to neighboring Nicaragua, which impacted the cul-tural lexicon of the early Guanacaste natives. Fur-ther, the civilizing infl uences emanating from the Mayan Empire of Guatemala spawned additional tribes, including the more technically advanced—and ultimately more prolifi c—Corobicis.

When Columbus discovered Costa Rica during his fourth voyage to the “New World,” the area now known as the Gold Coast, was severed from the more burgeoning societies—and remained so for many years subsequent. The first successful colonization of Guana-

caste occurred when Gil Gonzales Davila from Spain converted the Corobicis to Catholicism in the mid Sixteenth century.

tUrning cattle into gold

While the cultivation and export of coff ee and bananas has long fueled much of Costa Rica’s economy, this region stands apart. Due to its drier climate and sprawling geography, the Gold Coast long ago developed instead a prosperous cattle industry. Dating back to Colonial times, the proud ranching tradition fostered a Hacienda System of land ownership which enabled the local Indian population to share in the region’s economy. Although the cattle trade still fl ourishes, tourism is now Guanacaste’s most thriving industry.

living on the gold coast

Even if you are visiting for a short time, adjust-ing to the slower pace of life is important to getting the most you’re your vacation time. The philosophy towards work and play are con-siderably dissimilar. The native people “work to live” rather than “live to work.” While not neces-sarily a “necessary evil,” work is deemed but one ingredient in life rather than the entire dish. It certainly takes some getting used to for those from the hustle-bustle reality of the First World. Patience is the key when trying to get things done for such seemingly simple tasks can be a test of one’s tolerance and serenity.

Often you hear na-tive people saying “Pura Vida” at op-portune moments in a conversation. Literally mean-ing have a “pure

Even if you are visiting for a short time, adjust-ing to the slower pace of life is important to getting the most you’re your vacation time. The philosophy towards work and play are con-siderably dissimilar. The native people “work to live” rather than “live to work.” While not neces-sarily a “necessary evil,” work is deemed but one ingredient in life rather than the entire dish. It certainly takes some getting used to for those from the hustle-bustle reality of the First World. Patience is the key when trying to get things done for such seemingly simple tasks can be a test of one’s tolerance and serenity.

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!life”, it perfectly describes the national attitude of our area and the entire country. It represents an attitude that is difficult to put into words, but goes something like - relax and keep a good perspec-tive. A life of “Pura Vida” is measured in terms of family, friends and plenty of time to just lay back and do nothing. If you are here to have a good time and relax, you are already on the right-track.

INTERESTING CULTURAL DIFFERENCES Understanding cUstomer service

Normally we would assume that a Customer Ser-vice Desk exists to provide service. Well, here the person sitting behind the desk holds a position of power akin to the bouncer at an exclusive night club and good service is synonymous with doing you a favor. Be polite and your request will be

eventually honored, but lose your temper and you may be waiting forever.

showing appreciationgarners desiredresUlts

Expressing gratitude, either through a smile, a gracias, or most specifically a gratuity, will be not only appreciated but remembered - smoother sailing ahead once you known as a friendly person.

Even when you’re right, sometimes you’re wrongAnother important cul-tural distinction: Being right doesn’t mean you’ll win the battle. Ticos seldom express anger, so being upset always alienates them for it is per-ceived as manifestation of an ugly personality. Remain tranquillo and your holiday spirits will rise.

lost in translation– a new way ofgetting directions

“Donde esta la tienda por favor?” “Where is the shop

please?” “It’s across from Pasatiempo mi amiga.” “Ah, but where is Pasatiempo?” “It’s near Bar1” “But please señor, where is Bar1?” You get the picture. Since streets are not signposted, locals are accustomed to giving directions based on landmarks which may not even still be there! To make life – and navigation –easier, it’s a good idea to carry a map.

interesting family lessons

Watch and learn. In observing the native, especially those from Guanacaste, you will note some interesting cultural distinctions. For instance, family is so important and most ex-tended units are extremely close. There doesn’t appear to be much of a “generation gap” as kids, parents and grandparents exhibit mutual respect and even enjoying going to a dance or partying together! Imagine that! We gringos should learn something here!

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SEASONS AND CLIMATE (Courtesy of Pura Mar Surf School)

January: hot, dry, off -shore winds getting strong in the afternoon.

february: hot, dry, off -shore winds sand-blasting you on the beach.

march: hot, dry, off -shore winds blowing limbs off of trees.

april: scalding hot, dry, winds die down, switch this way and that, sky begins to cloud over and feel heavy.

may: hot, either very dry or very humid depending on whether or not it begins to rain, off -shore mornings and evenings.

June: hot, humid, green, afternoon rains, off -shore mornings.

July: hot, humid, lush green, occasional thun-derstorms, usually a 2-week “mini-summer” with consistent off -shore winds.

august: hot, humid, rainy afternoons,off -shore mornings.

september: hot, humid, rainy afternoons or could rain all day.

october: hot, humid, rainy afternoons or could rain all week.

november: hot, clear, season begins to change, less humid, off -shore wind begins.

december: hot, clear, sunny, morning and afternoon off -shores, cooler evenings.

IMPORTANT PERSONAL SECURITY ADVISORIES: All popular beach towns attract a few bad people and experience tell us that walking around in jungle fatigues pretending to be tough and looking for a fi ght isn’t enough magic to help. The best advice I can give is to be aware of your surroundings and keep an eye on your things at all times. The thieves around here don’t like to be caught, not from fear of the police, but they just don’t like all the yelling that goes on.

1. When you park your car in a public area, especially a deserted beach, don’t leave any-thing important in your car, whether locked or unlocked. If a parking guard looks halfway offi cial pay him $2 (1,000 colones) to watch your car. Just think of it as reducing the odds or cheap insurance.

2. Do not walk on the beach at night in front of the Tamarindo Circle, especially 100 meters south, in front of the campgrounds.

3. Don’t drink and drive! Don’t consider this a warning, but a plea! The roads are so unforgiv-ing! If you drink, go to whatever lengths you need to not get behind the wheel. Notice the steep shoulders on the paved roads… instant serious trouble!

4. If you buy illegal drugs, you’re playing with fi re! Not from the police, but from unsavory people who don’t care about your personal health or fair deals! Remember, Costa Rica is bordered by Panama then Columbia on the south and Nicaragua on the north… you’re not in Kansas anymore!

5. Show a healthy respect for the danger of biting mosquitoes by wearing bug spray. Worldwide, every year, they kill many more people than African lions! So, anywhere and anytime you fi nd mosquitoes buzzing around… leave! It’s not worth the risk!

6. Often near the beach you’ll feel the little bites from the smaller sandfl ies, while annoy-ing, normally they are not a health risk. Best not to get bitten by anything other than your signifi cant other.

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AREA

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If you think of Tamarindo and its surrounding areas together as one tourist

destination, the sprawling area from Potrero south to Playa Negra, would

actually compare in size with many other international destinations. However, most

Travel Experts don’t realize its real size and the large number of rooms available -

counting the Vacation Villas. That’s ok! A small community feel is part of its charm!

Even though we’re just a series of beach communities, you can still enjoy high-

octane adventure pursuits, serene nature walks, calming spa treatments and many other vacation activities. So, recharge, re-

learn, relax, or revitalize.

If you think of Tamarindo and its surrounding areas together as one tourist

AREA ACTIVITIES

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AREA

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IESSURFING

Already internationally known as a surfi ng Mec-ca, Tamarindo attracts wave-riders from all over the world and, in fact, has grown up around the sport. Visit our web site for the tide, surf condi-tions and other information related to surfi ng in this area at www.tamarindocosta-rica.com/ac-tivities/surfi ng/ As more and more visitors share the swells, shops and surf schools here we show the ones we feel are Famous Points.

Hint: Most local surf spots are south of Playa Grande. Further north, the beaches are too rocky and the bays too sheltered from the swells. For insight on how Tamarindo and Playa Negra got discovered, rent the surf cult classic “Endless Sum-mer II” on DVD.

Even if you haven’t boarded a board in years, if surfi ng was once in your blood, the waves will provide a transfusion. If you can’t quite slash and splash as you once did or fear you’ll break on the breaks… no problem. Taking a refresher course at a local surf schools is a good idea before you hit the waves again. We want you to have a fun time, not a bum time!

The area off ers beach, reef, river mouth and point breaks with many days of off shore

winds during the dry season. Optimal surfi ng conditions occur from December through July.

sUrfing etiQUette 6 Basic rUles*Parts taken from “Surfos Magazine”

Surfi ng is a sport for free spirits, but there are well-established rules that promote safety, com-mon sense, and courtesy. The law of the land-less and the camaraderie of the sea dictate that experts and students alike get a fair shake on the waves, that everyone emerges from the water unharmed, that boards remain undamaged and a great time is had by all.

Respect and adhere to the following guidelines:

1. If you come as a large group, don’t make your arrival seem like an invasion. Reduce the shock and enter the water a few at a time.

2. Wait your turn. Don’t paddle straight out to where the best waves are breaking, but rather hang on the side and join the lineup in order.

3. Once in the queue, do your best to say “Hi.” Even if you don’t get a response, it’s your friendly intention that counts.

4. Share the waves and don’t be too aggressive. If it appears that you’re hogging the swells and are disregarding the rights of other surfers, don’t be surprised if a fellow rider drops in right on top of you!

5. When you paddle for a wave… catch it! If you back out of a perfectly good wave, the locals may not let you have another.

6. Even if you stand up fi rst, the right of way belongs to the surfer closest to the peak. If you “drop in” acci-dentally… apologize.

7. When paddling back to the lineup, a surfer riding a wave has the right-of-way. When you can, paddle be-hind the surfer so you do not interfere with his ride.

AREA ACTIVITIES

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the Best sUrf spots

If you’re here to surf, I highly recommend splitting the cost among your surf buddies and buying a copy of Jonathan Yonkers Chavarria’s, “H2O- Surf Travel Guide of Costa Rica.” You’ll fi nd it at the tour desk of many hotels and operators. Written by a local, native surfer, he gives you the details about every surf spot, including the best swell directions and tides, crowds, places to stay, local color, etc. You’ve spent a lot of money to get here to surf and he spent a lot of time and money putting it together. Just in case you’re down to your last taco, here is a very general overview.

Jonathan also makes some wonderful surfi ng videos shown with classy, groovy music. www.tamarindocosta-rica.com/activities/surfi ng/

ollie’s point is a famous point break located an hour’s boat ride north of Playa del Coco. It was once a secret military base built by the USA to provide logistical support to the Contras in Nicaragua. During the secret war local surfers named it for its secret commander, American Colonel Oliver North. It is a right-break featuring a friendly, long ride. It is featured in the famous cult movie “Endless Summer II”. To get there, it is best to reserve a place on a boat.

witch’s rock is another famous beach breaks and is a remote spot located to the north in the Santa Rosa National Park. Although it is possible to access with a four-wheel drive

vehicle, most people opt to take a boat from Playa del Coco, a much easier option. Camping is permitted, but no facilities exist. If you do decide to rough it on the beach, make sure you pack a mosquito net! Beach access is closed during the rainy season (July - November). Expect very strong off shore winds from December to March.

playa grande is a very popular spot located only 30 minutes from Tamarindo. It boasts some great beach breaks and can get epic!

tamarindo is widely favored by both beginners and experts and ocean gridlock can sometimes ensue. Here, surfer’s etiquette most defi nitely applies. If you are not a confi dent swimmer or have children in tow, the safest waves are in front of Hotel Capitan Suizo. Sometimes there are lifeguards at the more popular spots, but while in the water your fi rst safety plan should be to take care of your self.

playa avellanas is distinguished by quality beach breaks and a notable reef break just north dubbed “Little Hawaii” which is just a few minutes walk north along the beach. When the waves are big, this is a prime surfi ng spot.

playa negra is just south of Playa Avellanas, this is an excellent right reef point break with solid tubular waves. Waves hold up even during large swells. Not a spot for beginners!

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Witch’s RockSEE MORE ONLINE

www.tamarindocosta-rica.com/activities/surfi ng/

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AREA

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during high-season fiestas are held in a diff erent town every weekend. these local community parties are fun for the whole family aznd interesting because they really give one an historical insight into the local culture.

Still today, Fiesta begins with a horse parade called a Tope which is colorful event where sabaneros (cowboys) and even tourists, ride into town on horseback making a grand entrance to mark the real beginning of a Fiesta. As they enter the town, they show off their dancing horses and fancy rid-ing apparel.

A Tope begins at a pre-arranged house or staging-ar-ea just outside of town where cowboys and tourists socialize, occasionally doing some drinking. After some undetermined time a gradual restlessness surfaces and a gradual migration toward the horses begins, then a core group decides its time for the parade to actually begin. During the short ride to the Fiesta, you’ll see happy faces, music and goodwill.

You should know there is a modern tradition alive here that a horse is not really reserved until the bill is paid in advance. Also, reserve your horses early, especially the ones from the Casagua Ranch as they are the most in demand. Register for a bib and number early. Get plenty of rest the night be-fore, wear long-pants, sun-glasses, bug repellant and drink lots of water. Most tourists don’t have western-style apparel. Also, arrive early for the pre-

Tope, for the social gathering is half the fun! A last minute rush is not in the Pura Vida spirit!

Bull Riding serves as the Fiesta’s main event and begins about dusk. It spotlights the daring (and sometimes reckless) antics of the local male population who attempt to hang on as the bull valiantly tries to dislodge them, but the real main event is when the bull chases the local population around the ring!

You can view the event through the wooden slats or from atop a rickety fence, or the best sightlines for the Bull Riding event are from the wooden stands. Inexpensive ticket can be purchased from the small ticket booth, usually located by the stairs leading up to the bleachers. Bring your beer and dinner and have a bull-riding watching, beer drinking, fried chicken, picnic in the stands.

As the bull-riding event winds down and after parents take their children home to bed, the local town social center (called the salon or beer hall) begins to fi ll up with people ready to party. With its simple concrete-fl oor and tin roof, you can appreciate the beauty of the simplicity of their lives. Listen to traditional music and dance to salsa, meringue, and more recently cambia music and try your hand (or two left feet, as the case may be) at dancing. If you’re abilities fall short, realize that they have been dancing to the same music their whole lives! And you’re not expected to be good! Just focus on moving your hips to the infectious Latin rhythms.

Tope, for the social gathering is half the fun! A last

FIESTAS AND TOPES

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NATIONAL PARkSAND TOURSTalk to your tour representative about the details, but here is just a sample of the popular Day Trips that are within easy driving distance. Of course, you’ll need good walking or hiking shoes, as it seems anywhere in the world nature must be viewed from an incline. Dink lots of water, pack insect repellent and perhaps most importantly—don’t overdue it physically! Remember, the eff ects of the heat and humidity of the tropics can sneak up on you! Here are some of the most popular parks and reserves:

rincón de la vieja national park is a protected forest sitting at the mouth of a volcano and is distinguished by bubbling mud pools, natural hot springs, and geothermal steam rising from beneath the earth. A dramatic, nearby waterfall enveloped in lush jungle teeming with wildlife, a cacophony of nature provides an aural backdrop to the scenic marvels of the area.

ostinal Beach is a Ridley Turtle and Leatherback nesting area that awes many visitors with a spectacle of turtle making their way up the slopped beach to lay their eggs. Because this phe-nomenon follows lunar phases, be sure to confer with a guide to ascertain exact dates and times. It’s a real drag to make the trip and miss it because you didn’t confi rm the nesting schedule. Tours generally depart in the afternoon and arrive on Ostinal Beach in time for dinner, which is followed by turtle patrol in the evening.

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drive through Guanacaste’s beautiful cowboy (Sabanero) country will lead to a dock from where you embark on an equally scenic two-hour boat trip on the Tempisque River to Palo Verde National Park. The river once served as the route for transporting sugar cane, fruits, beef and people and is still crucial to the local economy. Relax as nature paints a vivid portrait of jungle foliage and tropical birds: egrets, ospreys, fl ycatchers, king-fi shers and many more. It is a great trip for both bird-watching enthusiasts and those who just want to kick back on a tranquil journey that evokes a sense of the golden olden days.

arenal volcano national park is favored by those want to soak in hot pools of volcanically heated waters and enjoying an unobstructed view of the constantly erupting Arenal Volcano. Later, over dinner, if the skies are clear, relish the Technicolor spectacle of molten lava dancing down the side of the active vol-cano. During your return trip, we suggest that you stop at the famous artisan village of Guatil where the Chorotega Indians maintain the pottery tradition of their Pre-Columbian ancestors in crafting their

distinctive and prized ceramics.

santa rosa national park is perched near the Nicaragua border where the tropical dry forest hides the remnants of a storied past. Santa Rosa, an old fort which is now a national monument, marks the spot where Juan Santa Maria and his men stopped an armed invasion by the USA. Maybe you never heard the story? William Walker’s and his “army” were defeated in a color-ful, bloody, pathetic story.

toUrs

canopy tours are located inland, so you’ll need a car or the help of a tour desk to get there. Hook up your harness and soar with the birds above the tree line. Do the superman, butterfl y or stream across the forest upside down! This one is undeniably fun!

palo verde Boat tours an area with more than 300 migratory birds, white-face monkeys, howler monkeys, American crocodiles, and iguanas. This two hour river cruise through Palo Verde National Park should categorically be on your “to do” list.

GOLFINGRenowned as a golfi ng Mecca, the Gold Coast possesses some of the world’s best courses and all of them are set in magnifi cent natural setting. You may not be Tiger Woods, but the local residents (howler monkeys, parrots and macaws, among others) will cheer you on nonetheless as you putt your stuff . Here are the local courses:

hacienda pinilla - Ph: 680-7000

garra de león golf course at paradisus playa

conchal - Ph: 654-4123 ext 8805

diria hotel driving range - Location: On the road entering the Tamarindo airport - Ph: 653-0031

SPORT FISHINGa fish to crow aBoUt

The sea was calm and was a shiny emerald green, and the only movement was a school of shiny sardines fl ickering on the surface. They would appear at random and suddenly disappear only to re-appear close by.

But suddenly an army moved in! With dorsal fi ns of combs cutting the surface on top of zebra-striped bodies, a school of roosterfi sh attacked the sardines, sending them into a panic! Seconds later, a group of sea birds sensed the opportu-nity; and also joined the assault!

Roosterfi sh are the wolves of the western tropical Pacifi c waters. They roam the inshore waters, near the coasts and in the gulfs, normally hunting solo, but at times running in pacts. Found only between southern Mexico and Ecuador, rooster-fi sh can be found year-round in Costa Rica.

Named after their rooster-like seven-point combed dorsal fi n, the average size is about 20 pounds. Fifty-pound fi sh are also common, and occasionally a fi sh over 75 ponds surprises a happy angler. How do you catch a roosterfi sh? They are dub as a rock to live bait, they are leery but can be fooled with an artifi cial like a popper, and it is extremely diffi cult to get them to eat a fl y. They hunt close to shore, and if you release them, they have a high survival rate.

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Sunset Cruises

Some of theBest VacationMemories!

SAILING

Blue Dolphin Sailing

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“…I really can’t say enough good things about this tour and company. The staff blends profes-sionalism with the laid-back pura vida lifestyle that one wants when in Costa Rica. The boat was gorgeous and there are nets for sunbathing on the front. The snorkeling was fantastic, and all the gear was included in the cost of the trip. After snorkeling, there was an open bar with wine, cocktails, etc. and snacks. The crew was super friendly and very knowledgeable about the area. The sunset was one of the most beautiful I’ve ever seen…” Online Review 2008

hint: Getting in touch with your surroundings and relaxing is a critical step to enjoying you va-cation. Sailing is a highly recommended activity.

The owners, Capitan Jeff Herman, a Registered US Coast Guard Captain with over 20 years sail-ing experience, and his wife Jen make sure you always feel like a guest on their daily Sunset and Snorkel tour!

Their trip begins with a cruise in coastal waters as you make your way to one of the local snorkeling spots for a close-up look at local sea life. There is plenty of room on their spacious

boat for relaxing and sunbathing, and lots of time for snorkeling and swimming. Jeff and Jen provide clean, well maintained snorkel gear and a friendly crew happy to help with instruction. They also have kayaks and floats for you to enjoy. After snorkeling, you’ll have worked up an appetite so they serve a fresh lunch and cold drinks as you sail out to sea and look for more marine life. Then, enjoy one of their fabulous cocktails as you sail back watching the beautiful sunset light up the sky behind you!

Their catamaran departs right out of the Tama-rindo Bay in front of El Pescador restaurant. Call for schedule and availability information or stop by their office located inside the res-taurant Kahiki.

call and reserve your own memories!

phones: 2653-0867 / 8842-3204 / 8375-0802departure location: In front of El Pescador Restaurant.includes: Lunch and open bar with juice, soda, wine, beer, rum, vodka, and bottled water, kayak use, snorkel gear and guide, plus a FREE Blue Dolphin t-shirt!

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A Boat too Bigto Miss

Marlin del Rey

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‘Silently gliding along the coastline, we passed exotic bays, white sand beaches, tropical jungles and rain forests. For we were traveling on one of man’s greatest inventions – the biggest and fastest catamaran in the area - a 66-foot catamaran called the Marlin Del Rey!

Lounging on the spacious deck, we tried to do our duty and keep one eye out to sea to help in the sighting of dolphins, sea turtles, flying fish or even breaching whales! Later when we anchored at a deserted bay where we kayaked, very lazily floated on a raft, and snorkeled.

Enticed by the beautiful shoreline, we put our feet in the sand and spontaneous went for a very short jog down the sandy beach; I guess we were pretending we were going to just keep running!

Once back on the boat we were treated to a feast of fruit, chips, dips, ceviche and salad and the crew hoisted the sails. The feeling of catching the power of the wind was exciting! Then we skimmed along the shorelines of Playa Flamingo, Playa Conchal, Bahia Amore, Bahia de Las Pirates, Playa Grande and finally Tamarindo Beach.

Close to sunset, the calmer winds seemed to match our more relaxed attitude and we wit-nessed one of the best attractions of our trip… an enchanting Tamarindo sunset!’

paraphrased from recent passenger“This is a big, luxury sailing machine capable of handling both small and large groups”

marlin del rey catamaran sailing

Call them or visit their web site for more infor-mation: www.marlindelrey.comphone: (506) 8822-8603

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AND SNORkELINGWith an average water temperature of about 80 degrees Fahrenheit exploring the area’s kaleido-scopic undersea universe is very comfortable.

With visibility ranging from 30% to an unmatched 100%, the area’s colorful and diverse marine life lives in a network of cliff s, passages and tunnels. Most favorable diving and snorkeling conditions coincide with rainy season—between May and October, with November’s usually calm climate is the best month..

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Ocean-related sports heavily infl uence the culture and feel of each town, and the natural beachsca-pe of each area makes categorizing them easy. For many miles north of Playa Grande there are no surf spots, so many of the popular water activi-ties are boating, sailing, sportsfi shing, etc. In Playa Grande and beaches south, including Tamarindo, you’ll fi nd more of a surfi ng culture.

playa tamarindo

This laid-back, surf town is by far the most popu-lar, and has many conveniences of a major resort including: amazing restaurants, surf shops, Spa-nish Schools, bars, hotels and shops, etc. Besides its many land-locked conveniences, it has fairly consistent good surf and many spots. Also, it is a perfect jumping off point for the bigger waves of Playa Grande, Langosta and Playa Negra which are a just a short drive. Hint: It became more or less famous after it was featured in the famous surfi ng fi lm “Endless Sum-

mer II”. Today, it still remains a surfi ng town at heart and hosts international, surf tournaments, houses certifi ed Surf Legends, and has several surf schools.

vacation rental managers

Your unpacking and realizing that you should have make a list of things to bring, not stuck at the moment making a list of the things you forgot. Often people have adventures (pro-blems) getting here or they arrive tired and in a bad mood. Thankfully your property manager is there to help your vacation go smoothly. Also, understand their plight! For often things that worked here half an hour before can suddenly and unexplainably stop working the minute you arrive. Here it seems to happen with un-canny regularity, especially anything to do with water. We think it must be a media for spiritual energy that only releases its corrosive power when it realizes there is a guest in the house. Property managers work very hard and appre-ciate your patience.

A growing trend is to consider the area from Potrero on the north to Playa Negra on the south as just one town, separated a little by some trees and geography. For, if combined together, the total area would be similar to many world-wide vacation resorts. Why important? Just to give you idea that there is a lot of room here for vacation activities – right here!

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To say Tamarindo has a great collection of fi ne restaurantsis an understatement! In fact, the Section on our web site

about restaurants is a favorite among visitors and the photography does justice to the great food! Find out a lot

more about our advertisers and more dining tips by visiting www.tamarindocosta-rica.com/activities/restaurants

Sushi rollfrom La Caletta

Restaurant

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To say Tamarindo has a great collection of fi ne restaurantsis an understatement! In fact, the Section on our web site

TAMARINDO RESTAURANTS

SEE MORE ONLINE

http://www.tamarindocosta-rica.com/activities/restaurants.html

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saving money

While colons and dollars are accepted most anywhere, anytime there is a conversion, you’re faced with someone pulling out a calculator and manually plugging in some made-up exchange rate. Being unregulated, almost always, it is below the rate which you would get at a bank or on your credit card. Not a big deal, until you find some businesses using an exchange rate, like 10% too low. Now your $18 breakfast for two is almost $20 in colons! What are you’re options? Carry both colons and dollars, pay with a credit card, ask ahead of time for the conversion rate, or take your chances.

tipping - Many automatically include a 10% Service Charge. However you should know that by law only about 4% goes to your server. As a bare minimum, even if your bill includes a 10% service fee, add another 6% on top of the total bill for service and increase the percentage for good service. If your table setting and/or drinks arrive after your food, no tip!

how to dress

While dining is always casual, dress up if you want! To go out at night, it is customary and practical for men to wear long-pants. If you’re thinking your on vacation and want to wear

whatever you want, go ahead. Just remember to use mosquito repellent, especially around the feet and legs.

redUce frUstration

Unlike restaurants in other countries which measure your dining experience with an egg-timer, here you can sit at your table “till the cows come home”! If your wondering why the bill never comes, it’s because you must ask for it! They will never ask you! If you want to spend up the process, a good practice is to ask for the bill when the food is served or at least after desert that way they can begin preparing the bill. Also, most restaurants prepare bills by hand, so give them some extra time.

ask for your bill in spanish - Regaleme la cuenta, por favor! Literally this means, ‘give me the gift of the bill’. Or, just get they’re attention, by pretending you’re signing your check in the air, and say “cuenta”.

the local dish is called a “casado” which is a hearty-sized meal of rice, beans, a vegetable serving, sweet plantano, and your choice of beef, chicken, or fish. It is a hearty meal that can be just right for surfers starving for carbs!

matapalo terrace restaUrant - Inside the Diria Hotel

It features casual dining on the beach front in an open terrace restaurant under the shade of a Matapalo tree, just off the beach. Watch the light filter between its leaves as you watch the waves breaking and feel the gentle ocean breeze. Try a frozen drink and ask for the Chef’s Specials. Hint: Having problems finding local dishes (casados). Here is one of the few places you’ll find it on a dining menu!

the secret door

In front of the Diria Hotel are some of the best stores in Tamarindo, and the one with a secret is the cafetaria nari. A nice looking café type restaurant with air-conditioning on the inside and outdoor patio seating, it has a secret door leading to the kitchen of the Diria Hotel. Normally a small café couldn’t afford to hire the type of cooking talent found at the hotel. So when you stop for coffee or desert, order some food, you’ll be pleasantly surprised! They also have a wonderful choice of wines.

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The Sushi Home

in Tamarindo!

The Sushi The Sushi

Wednesdays

All you can eat Sushi

Fridays 7-9 Happy Hour!

at the Hotel Cala Lunain Langosta Ph. 2653-0214

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WHERECUSTOMERS BECOME FRIENDS• FRESH GREAT SEAFOOD

• GREAT WINE SELECTION

• SUPERIOR TABLE SERVICE

• FREE TAXI SERVICE (TAMARINDO AREA ONLY)

FRIENDS

ON THE ROAD TO LANGOSTA,NEXT TO THE 2001 SUPERMARKET.PH: 2653-1946 / 8379-6834

Your hosts: Carolinaand Hans Peter

• FREE TAXI SERVICE (TAMARINDO AREA ONLY)

ON THE ROAD TO LANGOSTA,

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You’d be loving it!

El Coconut Restaurant

Seafood - Lobster specialty

with a tropical personality

T E S T I M O N I A L S :

-Your Dorado fi sh dinner with curry sauce caught my guest off-guard! After her fi rst bite

she gave me a startled look and said, “This really is a good restaurant!”

-Best lobster ever! We always order the Tropical Lobster because it is cooked

with natural fruit fl avoring. Actually much better tasting than lobster served

with that heavy butter. Great idea, great fl avor, easy on the stomach!

Recommended by Famous Points Publishing

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Open from 5 pm - 10 pm

(Mondays closed)

Your host KatharinaLocated in front of Witch´s Rock Surf Camp

on the main road of Playa Tamarindo, Costa Rica

Ph. (506) 2653-0086

[email protected]

INTERNATIONAL CUISINE | GREAT WINE CELLAR

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Sukkha (Peruvian, Argentinan, Japanese and Italian fine cuisine) Auto Mercado (Supermarket)

Mango (Surf & Skate) Altea Design (Furniture) Wet (Swimwear) Opticas Visión (Eyewear)

Mandarina (Fruit Juices) Video Manía (Video rentals) Pix (Technology) Emma (Woman’s apparel)

Sensual (Lingerie) Acuarium (Garden and Patio) Nasua Art (Crafts & Coffee) La Cano (Jewlery)

Microsupport (Technology) Farmacia El Cruce (Drugstore) Papillon (Designer handbags)

Pops (Ice Cream) Chez Elle (Accessories) Scotiabank

Prestige Properties (Real Estate) Cofee House

600 meters west of Fertama Hardware Store

Tel.: (506) 2653-1650 OPEN DAILY

[email protected]

www.tamarindoheights.com

• Pacifico Balinese Architecture

• 151 Parking Spaces (111 below ground and 40 outdoor)

• 29 specialty Shops • Auto Mercado Supermarket

• 4 Gourmet Restaurants • Gymnasium

• Children Play Area, and much more!

Free Shuttle from Tamarindo

and Langosta.

Schedule: Monday through Sunday

from 10:00 am to 9:00 pm

EXPERIENCE PREMIER SHOPPINGR SHOR SHO

AT THE BEACH!

DEVELOPED BY:

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Sukkha (Peruvian, Argentinan, Japanese and Italian fine cuisine) Auto Mercado (Supermarket)

Mango (Surf & Skate) Altea Design (Furniture) Wet (Swimwear) Opticas Visión (Eyewear)

Mandarina (Fruit Juices) Video Manía (Video rentals) Pix (Technology) Emma (Woman’s apparel)

Sensual (Lingerie) Acuarium (Garden and Patio) Nasua Art (Crafts & Coffee) La Cano (Jewlery)

Microsupport (Technology) Farmacia El Cruce (Drugstore) Papillon (Designer handbags)

Pops (Ice Cream) Chez Elle (Accessories) Scotiabank

Prestige Properties (Real Estate) Cofee House

600 meters west of Fertama Hardware Store

Tel.: (506) 2653-1650 OPEN DAILY

[email protected]

www.tamarindoheights.com

• Pacifico Balinese Architecture

• 151 Parking Spaces (111 below ground and 40 outdoor)

• 29 specialty Shops • Auto Mercado Supermarket

• 4 Gourmet Restaurants • Gymnasium

• Children Play Area, and much more!

Free Shuttle from Tamarindo

and Langosta.

Schedule: Monday through Sunday

from 10:00 am to 9:00 pm

EXPERIENCE PREMIER SHOPPING

AT THE BEACH!

DEVELOPED BY:

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surfing blog from our web site – “I was just sitting by the side of the road in Tamarindo – reading a book about learning to surf and just trying not be stressed out when I first meet the Oracle of Tamarindo. He’s your stereotypi-cal surfer dude, shuffling by in baggy board shorts and an untucked madras shirt, his beard bleached blond by the sun. I’m pale and encased in an industrial-strength tankini, my nose deep in a book on surfing. It’s true, most people don’t learn to surf by reading, but my first lesson has left me crabby—you try to jump from a prone position to a regal stance on a moving wave. In anticipation of my afternoon tutorial, I’ve decided to pick up a few pointers by reading this book. You know, be more than ready for class so you can get a good grade! The Oracle squints at me and then shakes his head. “You should work on not being so stressed out,” he says in tones of blissed-out benediction. “You look really stressed.”

As he ambles on, I have to admit he’s right. I’m in this tiny town called Tamarindo, about ready to take a second surf lesson. Then he gives me some insight about how to find the “Holy Grail” of Tamarindo. He tells me the truth about learn-ing to surf - “The best surfer in the water is the one having the most fun” from www.tamarindo-costa-rica.com

SPAS“you got me on your skin” What would happen if that delicious cup of coffee, the freshly made pina colada, the aromatic essences that give flavor to your salad or even the fragrance of the wild rainforest flowers was massaged into your skin? By using these ingredients within various health, relation and beauty treatments, it is now possible to treat yourself to a papering process that will make you look and feel like new. Situated throughout the Gold Coast are many spas that strive to offer a holistic service done with warmth and personalized attention.

If you add a never-ending source of certified natural local produce, creativity and knowledge, you will end up with an array of benefits to replen-ish any kind of skin or brighten your spirits. Take if further and these products can improve your health, calm emotions and truly work their magic in the hands of capable therapists.

More than just for your skin, a massage can be used to eliminate dead cells and toxins, or they may improve blood circulation and allow positive energy to flow throughout your body. We encour-age you to immerse yourself in aromas only found in Costa Rica. One way to do this is by enjoying the ever-popular body wraps, in which volcanic mod, jasmine, mint or tropical fruits are use to hydrate and replenish you skin while also nurturing it with vitamins and minerals.

Specially designed healing rooms provide an ideal climate – one enriched by stimulating decorations, soothing music and ambient sounds from nature, sea, or forest animals – in which one may enjoy a therapeutic experience meant for couples or to be shared with friends and family. Not a totally new concept the ancestral shamans healed people with herbs and ritual beginning thousands of years ago.

LOCAL ACTIVITIESmotor Bike rentals - Get around quicker and see more by renting a scooter or motorbike, unfortu-nately I don’t know any business that rents ATVs (four-wheels). They are a fun and cooler way to get around Tamarindo and the back country. Two-wheel vehicles can be very dangerous on gravel roads, so be careful! You’ll need a driver’s license with that additional special mark that signifies that your qualified to drive a motorcycle.

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DO tamarindo estuary tours - Located on the north end of Tamarindo is a magical estuary with brack-ish jungle water and is feed by the ebb and flow of the Pacific Ocean. It spans more than 1200 acres and is home to hundreds of species of mammals and birds. Take a tour to see the alligators, howler monkeys, anteaters and a relative of the raccoons called pisotes. This is real magic, not Disneyland!

If you are a bird lover, this tour is “a must”! Also, you can enjoy the sights and sounds of spectacled owls, a version of the quetzal referred to as a black headed Trojan, hawks, ospreys and numerous other species living among the spectacular man-grove trees. They are all protected by the National Park System. Hire a local guide because you’ll miss most of them looking yourself. You do not want to miss the opportunity to spend the morning on a guided boat tour of this beautiful jungle. We recommend taking the tour as early as possible to experience the sights and sounds of nature com-ing to life. If you are feeling adventurous, you can also rent a canoe or a kayak and explore on your own. As you enter Tamarindo on the right side you will see a shack just off the road with a sign for the Baulas National Park Tours. It is manned by some native people who act as guides for the boat people just down the slope toward the beach.

Just walking - Walking during the early morning or around sunset is the time to get acquainted with the town and get some exercise. After 8:30 the roads can get busy and dusty, so get off the roads whenever possible and walk on the beach. Consult our Guide’s Tide Chart for when the tide is low. FYI, the distance on the road from one end of town to the other is a little less than 2 miles. On the beach it is 1 mile, plus the distance if you walk around the rocky point on the way to Langosta. If you walk on the roads at sunrise or sunset, stay on the road and head for Langosta where often you can see or hear Howler monkeys high up in the trees just off the road.

rope a fish! - If you see a fisherman standing in the surf spinning a line overhead as if he is going to rope a steer, see if you can find a translator and ask if he will give you a lesson for a few dollars, and a bonus if you catch something. As a preview, they first catch their live bait swimming around their waists with nothing more than a line and hook, once caught they transfer the little fish to a big-ger hook, then cast it out as far as they can, like they are roping a steer. It is a real challenge and after an hour the surf will beat you up! However, you’d be surprised how many big fish right in the surf! Best fishing is when the surf is calm!

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TamarindoSurf

School

Experienceyou can trust!Tamarindo’s fi rstSurf School!• Surf lessons (all levels) and Surf Camp • Surfboard Rentals and Sales• Special packages for language schools• Surf trips to nearby spots: Playa Avellanas, Playa Grande and Playa Negra• Boat trips to Witch’s Rock and Ollie’s Point

Tamarindo Circle, Guanacaste.Stop by or call for reservations

Phone: (506) 2653-0923Visit our podcast at: www.tamarindosurfschool.com

Everything you need to get you on the path to surfi ng!

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T H E E A S Y W AY !

LEARNSPANISH

CLASSES START EVERY MONDAY

At Wayra, your languagebarrier will disappear

Tamarindo Guanacaste

www.spanish-wayra.co.cr [email protected]

AUTHORIZED TESTING CENTERCERVANTES CERTIFICATION (DELE)

Wayra Institute, Tamarindo’s Original

Spanish School. Call the week before class starts to set up an

interview.

N O M O R E W A L L S !

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NIGHT LIFE – Bars, Dancing, Music and Shows

We have all done our share of crazy and self-destructive things, so give the bar-hoppers a lot of leeway. Much of the real nightlife starts later than 9:30pm, actually closer to 12:00pm. Since the events and even the existence of bars change so rapidly and start so late, you’ll be bet-ter served looking at www.tamarindocosta-rica.com for the latest listing of events.

a free night in jail! Especially lately, the police have been doing a great job rounding up unsa-vory people by checking everyone’s visitation documentation. Lately, a few legitimate visitors were caught without a copy of their passport and given a free police bus ride to jail where they spent the night. This is not magic. So, bring your passport or a copy with you when you go out at night unless you’re looking for a great vacation story.

On the patio high up on the hill at the monkey Bar at the Best western is a great place to watch surfers catch their last waves and enjoy a sunset while sipping a tropical drink. Stick around for dinner and linger for awhile and the party will catch up to you. On friday nite they host the biggest party in Tamarindo. A nice feature is that they have two dance areas, one for Latin music and one for regular, and they rotate the music between them during the evening. Thankfully, the action starts and ends

early – important if you want to get up early and go surfi ng or just don’t want to feel like a vegetable the next day.

Hint: Women and sex appeal FOR MEN ONLY – You’re a hot guy, dressed casually in a t-shirt and fl ip fl ops. A woman is checking you out… buzzing around like a bee to pollen. Actually, she’s sniffi ng around you like a dog and a fi re hydrant. She is literally sniffi ng around you. It is known that the native women shower from three to fi ve times a day and have a keen sense of smell. Clean up your act for the local ladies and you may clean up in the romance department.

Babylon – reggae music Thursday night is when most go to the Babylon to listen to music, meet people, play pool, or dance reggae. It is located on the other side of the Circle. And the owners now have a second bar in the circle where the old Mambobar used to be.

la Barra – latin and disco Sometimes this is a good place to dance! We’re hoping for a good crowd during the summer break! It is located at the main crossroad, follow the signs or listen for the music. It is actually behind some souvenir shops in a romantic, outdoor square at the main intersection. Christine and Frankie run the place and she is a great dancer. Don’t know about Frankie, but he has an uncanny nack for lining up at the right place with his long-board.

Monday – Open Night - Wednesday - Latin Night. - Saturday - DJ Music - Sunday - Closed.

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SEE MORE ONLINE

http://www.tamarindocosta-rica.com/activities/night-life.html

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Live music every Sunday,

Monday and Tuesday

from 7 pm to 9 pm

Great Sushi, Nachos

and much more!

in front

of the beach!

Located inside Witch’s Rock Surf CampTamarindo, Guanacaste. Phone 2653-1262

in frontin front

of the beach!of the beach!

Good Times!

Good Food!Happy Hour

5pm – 9pm

Everyday!

Page 49: Visitors Guide 9

Live music every Sunday,

Monday and Tuesday

from 7 pm to 9 pm

Great Sushi, Nachos

and much more!

in front

of the beach!

Located inside Witch’s Rock Surf CampTamarindo, Guanacaste. Phone 2653-1262Located inside Witch’s Rock Surf CampTamarindo, Guanacaste. Phone 2653-1262

Live music every Sunday,

Monday and Tuesday

from 7 pm to 9 pm

Located inside Witch’s Rock Surf CampLocated inside Witch’s Rock Surf CampLocated inside Witch’s Rock Surf Camp

Good Times!

Good Food!Happy Hour

5pm – 9pm

Everyday!

Page 50: Visitors Guide 9

BAR 1, TAMARINDO’S OWN CONTEMPORARY BAR SUSHI LOUNGE - CLUB

Featuring The Best In Fresh Sushi,Sake, Wines, Liquor, Beer,

Ambience, and More

Discover The AlternativeTo The Ordinary

It’s Happening tonight!

3rd Floor Plaza TamarindoGuanacaste, Costa Rica

Ph. (506) 2653-2586 [email protected]

Featuring The Best In Fresh Sushi,Sake, Wines, Liquor, Beer,

Ambience, and More

Discover The AlternativeTo The Ordinary

3rd Floor Plaza TamarindoGuanacaste, Costa Rica

Ph. (506) 2653-2586 Ph. (506) 2653-2586 [email protected]

Page 51: Visitors Guide 9

Residential Property Management

Just Relax!

We do the rest

We specialize in o� ering the bestin vacation rentals properties, villas,

and condos to � t any lifestyle orbudget, exclusively in Tamarindo.

� e di� erence is in the details...we pay attention to details!

Call us today!Ph. (506) 2653-0738

(506) [email protected] | www.tulin.com/costarica

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TAM

ARIN

DO

We have the rightvacation rental for you!

Drop by or call us and discover a large inventoryof beautiful vacation properties.

Sunrise Commercial CenterPlaya Tamarindo, Guanacaste, Costa Rica

call: (506) 2653-1668vacationrentals@racsa.co.crwww.vacationrentalsoftamarindo.com

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SURR

OUND

ED A

REASTAMARINDO

SURROUNDED AREAS

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REAS

neighBoring sUrf townsacross the estUaries

If you want a quieter more secluded environ-ment, stay in one of the beach towns across the estuary either to the north or the south. Across the northern estuary, you’ll find the really peaceful surf town of Playa Grande. To get there you can drive or hire a small jungle boat (fare is about $3 per person each way) and then walk down the beach toward the surfing action and Turtle Museum.

PLAYA GRANDETO THE NORTHA small surfing community along the coast and directly north across the Tamarindo Estu-ary, it has an ambience of being somewhere remote, and yet is only a 30-minute drive from Tamarindo. If you don’t surf, sit on the beach and watch the action (Remember most good surfing happens in the early morning) or walk down the beach and visit the Turtle Museum. Close by is a beachfront hotel and restaurant where you can have lunch amongst the trees and visit with the birds.

This beach is a wildlife sanctuary where from November to March where the famous big Leatherback turtles come to lay their eggs (Best

viewing time is about 2:30 in the morning!). For the inspired often you can walk the beach about 10:00am and see the little baby turtles making their run into the ocean. Once we saved one from a hungry bird, and wave at us as he turned to resume his journey to the sea.

Playa Grande is ranked as the #2 nesting spot for the Ridley and Leatherback Turtles in the world. These magnificent animals can measure up to 2.5 meters and weigh around 700 kilos. Unlike other turtles, this species has no hard shell, but rather a black, leathery skin with ridges running lengthwise. For some time they have been an endangered species.

take a mystical walk on the beach in playa grande - At low tide you can walk north around the rocky point to the north, and on the other side you’ll find a series of semi-isolated beaches that remind you of being stranded on a deserted island.

Local folklore for your walk

Located on the north end of the beach is a rocky point backed by beautiful bluffs the natives call El Encante. On many maps it is known as Cerro Morro or Cerro Hermoso. It is the most western part of Costa Rica. Riddled with caves, small coves, and white sand beaches you can walk along its beach at low tide pretending to be stranded on a deserted island. For some, its en-

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REASergy becomes too strong and has an irresistible

urge to swim in the ocean naked. It’s said to have a power so strong that leatherback turtles use it as homing beacon to their nesting beach and it attracts sailfish so they swim closer to shore.

El Encante even has an interesting legend. It is said that sometimes at sunset lights that seem to hover over the bluffs that overlook the beach. Supposedly, they are the signal that the duendes have returned. The duendes are elves or extra terrestrials that lure sleeping children out of their beds with promises of sweets. Then they follow the elves to El Encanto cliffs where they dance all night. No one remembers how they get back home in the morning, but they always returned… except for once.

One night after the dancing lights, the son of Don Eusebio did not return for breakfast. So, he went looking for him, but couldn’t find him anywhere. The entire village searched for the boy, but he was nowhere to be found. The next day people in the village saw Don Eusebio head down the hills toward the beach. When neigh-bors called out to him, “Hello, how did you sleep”, he didn’t stop to answer or even acknowledge their greeting; he appeared to be in a spell and on a mission. Witnesses report his body seemed to float across the sand and then scale the verti-cal face of El Encante, straight up the mountain on no known path, until he too disappeared.

matos surf shop and internet café - If your coming to surf and need equipment or advice stop at Matos Surf Shop. This is the first surf shop you’ll see as you enter town. This is the same business that has a shop in Tamrindo. Staffed by people who really know how to surf, this shop offers whatever a surfer needs, professional surf photography, ding repairs, surf trips, best brands in accessories, surf rentals and surf lessons, also a good selection of souvenirs. Hint: Need an in-ternet café? This is the only one in Playa Grande! phone: 2652-9227

PLAYA AVELLANASAND PLAYA NEGRATO THE SOUTHUnless you feel like braving crossing an estuary and walking a long ways in the hot sand, the best way to get there from Tamarindo is by driv-

ing. You could walk there by crossing the estuary on the south end of Tamarindo. If you crossed the estuary, you’d be in the sprawling real estate development of Hacienda Pinilla. There are no boats for crossing, but it is a smaller estuary and you can wade across during very low tide. When the tide is receding quickly and the surf is large, riptides appear that can get real dangerous. If you have any doubts, almost always there is a lifeguard at the tower, ask him to watch you cross. Still be careful!

If you crossed the estuary, it is still a long two hour walk to the beautiful surfing beaches of Playa Avellanas, and a little further to Playa Negra, so bring some water, sun hats, and bug repellent. Be prepared for 85 degree tempera-tures and hot sand! Once you get to Playa Avel-lanas there is a favorite restaurant name Lola’s on the Beach (named after the super large pig that stalks the area!). It is famous for its extremely, extremely laid-back beach atmosphere and fruit drinks. Note: It may be closed during low-season.

The beaches are beautiful and especially once you get to at least Playa Avellanas where you’ll enter a stretch with some of the best breaks in the country, especially Playa Negra. These beaches are a surfer’s dream! Accessible all-year long, but you may need a four-wheel drive vehicle during the rainy season. If the roads are too bad, try heading toward Santa Cruz from Tamarindo and enter via the 60 km, dirt road that is west of Paraíso.

Considered by many to be one of the top spots in Costa Rica, Playa Negra has a rock bottom with perfect right-hand barrels with a well de-fined channel for paddling out. The break has good exposure to both Northern and Southern Hemisphere swells and is reasonably consistent year-round. It’s crowded and its waves are not for beginners.

Hint: And, once you get there you need watch your car and your valuables very carefully. If there is a guard, pay him a few dollars! A “rojo” (the red paper money that’s worth 1,000 colons about $2)

playa negra hoteland lola’s restaUrant

The Playa Negra Hotel is collection of thatch-roofed bungalows is right in front of the famous Playa Negra point break. Each rounded bunga-lows has one queen-size and two single beds,

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Although they have concrete fl oors, the painted contrasting pastels give them a comfortable feeling. The restaurant is close to the ocean in a large open-air rancho and serves as a social hub for guests and surfers staying at the more basic cabañas inland from the beach.

local activities

surf lessons - Manu 2653-2567horseback riding - Shambalah 8811-0553massage and beauty - Reiki – Lulu – 2652-9178yoga lessons – Gabe 2652-9081

nightlife

oasis restaurant – Serves drinks until you drop or 9 pm, whichever comes fi rst.la vida Buena pizzeria – Hosts occasional bands passing through. Stop by to ask what is playing while you are in town. How do they de-scribe their nightlife? “Somos pocos pero locos” Not much, but pretty crazy!

FLAMINGO, POTRERO AND BRASILITOA pristine and exclusive beach community with multi-million dollar mansions and fi ne hotels dotting the hillside, it is surrounded on three sides by ocean. To the south is the incredible white sand beach across from the Flamingo Beach Resort, to the west a high-rocky cliff with a view looking straight out to the Pacifi c, and to the north a harbor and the Bay of Potrero. More than just a jetty, there are also other nearby communities: Potrero to the north and to the south Brasilito.

For your convenience, they have a Banco de Costa Rica branch, three excellent golf courses within a 25-minute drive, a variety of water sports available from sailing to sea kayaks, hydro-disks and jet skis, and sports fi shing. Also, because of its proximity to large game fi sh, it is considered one of the sportsfi shing capitals of the world. With its fl eet of fi shing boats anchored at its Flamingo Marina anglers have convenient access to boats for sail and marlin fi shing. The area is re-known for its international billfi sh tournaments throughout the summer months.

accommodations

flamingo Beach resort Among the fi nest ho-tels in the area and located only steps away from Flamingo’s white sand beach and close to the Flamingo Marina. It has a fi rst-class fi ne dining and pool side restaurants. It is also home to the Pelican Nest Disco and a Jazz Casino.

paradisus playa conchal Driving north from Tamarindo, just before you reach Brasilito is this sprawling resort. With oversized villa suites and some of Presidential proportions, you can enjoy absolute leisure and a high level of personal service that is the hallmark of one of the “The Leading Hotels of the World” award. Each beauti-fully decorated villa suite opens onto a private terrace and feels more like a private home. Standard apartments include central air condi-tioning, spacious living area, mirrored dressing room, cable TV, personal safe, mini bar and direct dial telephone. Of course, it has some of the best restaurants in the area, a championship golf course, and a fully equipped casino managed by Jazz Casinos. This place has everything you can imagine!

web address: www.solmelia.comemail: [email protected]: It is on the road from Huacas to Brasil-ito. On the right is a big guard shack. Paradisus is a huge luxury development sprawling 2,400 acres. phone: 2654-4123

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FLAM

INGO

, POT

RERO

& B

RASI

LITO

Guanacaste, Costa Rica | Ph. (506) 2654-4444 info@resor t f lamingobeach.com | www.resor t f lamingobeach.com

Relax, Refresh & Rejuvenate

at the Flamingo Beach Resort

BAR - RESTAURANT

Front Beach Hotel

100% Renovated

Your best option for Beach Resort!

Guanacaste, Costa Rica

Experience the magic of waterfront dining at the Arenas Bar-Restaurant

Page 58: Visitors Guide 9

Imagine...

ImagineNo More...

...refreshing your body and spirit in the infinitypool of your own ocean-view villa, while yourprivate chef prepares lunch and cocktails...

• Private luxury homes and condos for less than the cost of hotels• Finest selection of homes in the north Guanacaste area• Variety of sizes and styles to suit every need and budget• Fully serviced

Deluxe Vacation Rentals

www.specialplacesofcostarica.comOffice: 506-2654-9065 Cel: 506-8343-6722

...refreshing your body and spirit in the infinitypool of your own ocean-view villa, while yourprivate chef prepares lunch and cocktails...

• Private luxury homes and condos for less than the cost of hotels• Finest selection of homes in the north Guanacaste area• Variety of sizes and styles to suit every need and budget• Fully serviced

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59

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EFUL

INFO

RMAT

ION

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TELEPHONE COMMUNICATIONS

International phone calling rates can vary tremen-dously, so check with the front desk or your prop-erty manager before dialing. International dialing requires “00” and the country codes below:

USA ....................................................... 1Germany ............................................. 49Great Britain ...................................... 44Holland ............................................... 31Israel ................................................... 972Italy ...................................................... 39Japan .................................................. 81Nicaragua ......................................... 505Spain ................................................... 34

emergencies: 911local information: 113long-distance information: 124operator assistance: 116tourist information: 192

getting an internet connection – There are in-ternet cafes with wireless connections are all over the area. An increasing number of restaurants of-fer free access for your laptop with their wireless signals. Here are a few: Eat@Joe’s at Witch’s Rock Surf Camp and Subway Sandwiches.

CHURCHES – Call for Directions

the well – Tamarindo Ph: 2653-1864Beach community church – Brasilito Ph: 2654-4446catholic church – Santa Rosa(Sunday services only) santa maria Catholic Church – TamarindoSunday at 6pm

sUpport groUps

Narcotics Anonymous – Honesty MeetingsMonday – Wednesday – Fridays, 7 pm – 10 pmBack of Fiesta del Mar Restaurant in Tamarindo.

USEFUL INFORMATIONAIR TRAVEL

traveling By air within costa rica on a national airline

Using one of the national airlines to travel within Costa Rica is not a bad idea. There are two main airlines serving Costa Rica itself, TACA (Formerly Sansa) and Nature Air.

Hint: If you are a “perpetual 90-Day tourists“, check out the international destinations of Nature Air. They feature international flights from Liberia to Granada, Nicaragua and Bocas del Toro, Panama. Both are great places to visit and very handy for those who needs to leave Costa Rica to satisfy immigration regulations.

airport info

guanacaste:Administration ..................................... 2668-1178Flights ..................................................... 2668-1010Immigration .......................................... 2668-1014Customs ................................................. 2668-1068

alajuela:Flights ...................................................... 2437-2626Arrivals .................................................... 2437-2626Customs ................................................. 2441-6069 Pavas Airport ........................................ 2223-2830 Tamarindo Airport .............................. 8840-1803

MONEY MACHINES AND BANkS

Tamarindo has four different banks! Banco Nacional is the bank owned by the govern-ment and is located across the street from the Diria Hotel. Scotia Bank has a branch inside the Tamarindo Heights Shopping Plaza, and Banco Costa Rica one inside the Plaza Conchal Shop-ping Plaza. While you can exchange money or get credit card advances at these banks, American dollars are accepted everywhere. To save money, try to pay bills in the currency quoted and avoid paying more because you lost money during the currency conversion.

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Argentina ........................................... 2283-9983Belgium .............................................. 2225-6255Brazil ................................................... 2233-1544Canada ............................................... 2242-4400China ................................................... 2224-8180Chile .................................................... 2280-0037Ecuador .............................................. 2232-1562El Salvador ......................................... 2256-0043France ................................................. 2234-4167Germany ............................................ 2232-5533Great Britain ...................................... 2258-2025Holland .............................................. 2296-1490Honduras .......................................... 2234-9505Italy ..................................................... 2224-6574Israel .................................................... 2221-6444Japan .................................................. 2232-4511Mexico ............................................... 2280-5690Nicaragua .......................................... 2222-2373Peru ..................................................... 2225-9145USA ........................................... 2519-2000

GENERALINFORMATION

Unscheduled holidays bless us with many extra days of vacation. Here is a list of some of the unscheduled ones: when the electricity or the internet doesn’t work, the day before and after a scheduled holiday, and during strikes by the utility company (ICE).

the official currency is the Colon and its value is about 555 colons to the dollar. A standard electrical wall plug delivers 110 volts.

the time Zone is GMT / UTC minus 6 hours - that would be Central Time ns the USA and there is no adjustment for day-light savings time.

MEDICALINFORMATION

Health and dental care is very good with more and more capabilities being added.

TRANSPORTATIONshUttle BUses

interBUs

Several types of air-conditioned, non-smoking shuttle buses and vans are available, all of them will comfortably transport visitors to top tourist destinations. Door-to-door service is available and the Premium Shuttle Service can easily accommodate your surfboard. Reasonable rates, convenient scheduling and efficient service make this a great way to navigate Costa Rica. Shuttles are also available to transport you between San Jose’s Juan Santa Maria International Airport and any major hotel in the city. One carry-on and one checked piece of luggage are permitted. Chil-dren’s car seats provided upon request.

“pUra vida” driving tips

turning and signaling – Turn signals are very seldom used and drivers don’t even understand hand signals. Actually watching a left turn or someone pulling off the road can take awhile as drivers don’t want to seem aggressive or make any sudden movements. The turn can take even longer if they’re not quite sure if they really want to do it. If you ask a Tico person about their failure to signal, they are likely to say they “Sacá la len-gua!” which means they slightly turned their head and stuck out their tongue pointing to where they’re turning. Morally this is all that is required!

parking – Just think of all parking as being tem-porary and a good asphalt or cement road as the best places. Why do so many drivers stop in the middle of the road? It is because that is where they see their friends and where their cell phone rings. So, if two cars, on each side of the road stop, totally blocking the road in both lanes, it’s just the custom, not disrespect… just look for something else to do for a few minutes.

road rage - If you make a mistake which almost causes an accident, keep your cool no matter what. Then, hope the other driver gets really mad because only then can you regain the moral high-ground (See previous section on Cultural Differenc-es about getting mad.). This is important because as long as you have the high-ground, everyone around you will say it was the other’s fault. Costa Rica does not have “No-Fault” insurance laws.

low on cash or need gas? On our “Fold-Out” map in the front section show you the location

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Nof our local gas station and ATM machines. Tama-rindo has four banks and each one has an ATM outside. Flamingo also has a bank located up the hill with an ATM just outside. None of the local beach towns have a gas station! If you get really, really stuck, you can buy cans of gas during the day at the “other” hardware store which is on the north side of the Tamarindo Hardware store.

car rentals – Before cruising down the highway singing “Born to be Wild”, make sure you slow your rush to grab the keys from the agent and taken a few extra moments to really inspect your car. Often they have small problems that need to be noted on your Inspection Report. While most rep-resentatives are very thorough and honest at not-ing these problems, you should nevertheless give the report serious attention. Take the extra time to look for previous body damage under the fenders and doors. They actually appreciate your input and have no problem adding your additional notes. A current driver’s license is necessary, along with a credit card and a deposit.

more driving advice – There are very few if any traffic police at night, so everyone is on the “hon-or” system. Don’t worry so much about getting a ticket, just drive safely. This is not a good place to drink and drive! Because a lot of construction is going on now it is not uncommon to get a flat tire from the debris, so make sure your spare tire is good. If you need to use your spare, get the bad tire fixed right away! If you buy a new tire without the approval of your rental company, you could end up paying for a tire out of your own pocket! Special caution: If you leave your car out on the highway unattended and it is vandalized, you are responsible under their “Negligent Clause”.

We are a leading company in car rental services that offers recent models at reasonable and fair prices, providingat the same time agile transportation solutions customized to the customer needs. Our commitment is to provide our customers with a personalized and kind sevice so their needs are fulfilled andthey are free to move around safelyand comfortably.

HERTZmakes your trip easier

Costa Rican Offices:Paseo Colón: 2221-1818 Fax: 2256-0614Liberia: 2668-1048Río Segundo: 2443-4645Quepos: 2777-3365International Airport(Juan Santamaría): 2430-7707Tamarindo: 2653-1358

We provide 24-hour Road Side assitance.Present this ad and receive

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E-mail: [email protected] www.costaricarentacar.net

local car rental companies company town phone

Adobe Car Rental Liberia 2667-0608Alamo Rent a Car Tamarindo 2653-0727Budget Car Rental Tamarindo 2653-0756Dollar Rent a Car Liberia 2443-2950Euro car Tamarindo 2440-9990Economy Tamarindo 2653-0728Hertz Tamarindo 2653-1358 Liberia 2668-1048Hola Rent a Car Liberia 2667-4040Payless Car Rental Tamarindo 2653-0015Mapache Rent a Car Liberia 2665-4444National San Jose 2242-7878

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04-01 00:25 -0.05 ft Low04-01 06:41 8.02 ft High04-01 12:40 0.56 ft Low04-01 19:02 8.48 ft High04-02 01:18 0.41 ft Low04-02 07:38 7.66 ft High04-02 13:38 1.02 ft Low04-02 20:03 7.95 ft High04-03 02:19 0.84 ft Low04-03 08:45 7.40 ft High04-03 14:48 1.37 ft Low04-03 21:14 7.56 ft High04-04 03:29 1.10 ft Low04-04 09:59 7.40 ft High04-04 16:06 1.45 ft Low04-04 22:30 7.47 ft High04-05 04:43 1.09 ft Low04-05 11:11 7.70 ft High04-05 17:23 1.18 ft Low04-05 23:41 7.67 ft High04-06 05:51 0.82 ft Low04-06 12:15 8.20 ft High04-06 18:28 0.70 ft Low04-07 00:43 8.03 ft High04-07 06:49 0.44 ft Low04-07 13:10 8.74 ft High04-07 19:24 0.18 ft Low04-08 01:36 8.41 ft High04-08 07:40 0.09 ft Low04-08 13:58 9.19 ft High04-08 20:12 -0.24 ft Low04-09 02:23 8.70 ft High04-09 08:25 -0.15 ft Low04-09 14:42 9.47 ft High04-09 20:56 -0.51 ft Low04-10 03:07 8.84 ft High04-10 09:07 -0.23 ft Low04-10 15:24 9.56 ft High04-10 21:37 -0.59 ft Low

04-11 03:49 8.82 ft High04-11 09:47 -0.14 ft Low04-11 16:04 9.45 ft High04-11 22:17 -0.49 ft Low04-12 04:30 8.65 ft High04-12 10:27 0.12 ft Low04-12 16:43 9.17 ft High04-12 22:55 -0.23 ft Low04-13 05:10 8.34 ft High04-13 11:05 0.50 ft Low04-13 17:22 8.74 ft High04-13 23:34 0.15 ft Low04-14 05:52 7.93 ft High04-14 11:46 0.98 ft Low04-14 18:03 8.22 ft High04-15 00:15 0.61 ft Low04-15 06:36 7.49 ft High04-15 12:28 1.48 ft Low04-15 18:46 7.67 ft High04-16 00:59 1.09 ft Low04-16 07:24 7.07 ft High04-16 13:16 1.95 ft Low04-16 19:35 7.15 ft High04-17 01:48 1.53 ft Low04-17 08:18 6.75 ft High04-17 14:12 2.30 ft Low04-17 20:33 6.74 ft High04-18 02:44 1.86 ft Low04-18 09:19 6.62 ft High04-18 15:16 2.45 ft Low04-18 21:37 6.54 ft High04-19 03:46 2.01 ft Low04-19 10:20 6.73 ft High04-19 16:24 2.33 ft Low04-19 22:42 6.58 ft High04-20 04:46 1.94 ft Low04-20 11:17 7.04 ft High04-20 17:25 1.96 ft Low04-20 23:41 6.84 ft High

04-21 05:40 1.69 ft Low04-21 12:07 7.51 ft High04-21 18:17 1.44 ft Low04-22 00:31 7.22 ft High04-22 06:28 1.32 ft Low04-22 12:51 8.06 ft High04-22 19:02 0.85 ft Low04-23 01:17 7.66 ft High04-23 07:12 0.90 ft Low04-23 13:32 8.62 ft High04-23 19:45 0.28 ft Low04-24 01:59 8.09 ft High04-24 07:54 0.49 ft Low04-24 14:13 9.12 ft High04-24 20:26 -0.22 ft Low04-25 02:41 8.46 ft High04-25 08:36 0.14 ft Low04-25 14:54 9.50 ft High04-25 21:08 -0.58 ft Low04-26 03:23 8.74 ft High04-26 09:18 -0.09 ft Low04-26 15:36 9.71 ft High04-26 21:51 -0.77 ft Low04-27 04:06 8.87 ft High04-27 10:02 -0.16 ft Low04-27 16:21 9.72 ft High04-27 22:35 -0.76 ft Low04-28 04:52 8.87 ft High04-28 10:49 -0.07 ft Low04-28 17:07 9.51 ft High04-28 23:22 -0.56 ft Low04-29 05:40 8.73 ft High04-29 11:39 0.19 ft Low04-29 17:58 9.12 ft High04-30 00:12 -0.22 ft Low04-30 06:34 8.50 ft High04-30 12:35 0.55 ft Low04-30 18:53 8.62 ft High

TIDE CHARTSFrom April 1st to June 30th 2009

April 2009

May 2009 TIDE CHARTS05-01 01:07 0.21 ft Low05-01 07:32 8.25 ft High05-01 13:36 0.92 ft Low05-01 19:56 8.13 ft High05-02 02:08 0.62 ft Low05-02 08:37 8.08 ft High05-02 14:45 1.18 ft Low05-02 21:04 7.75 ft High

05-03 03:14 0.92 ft Low05-03 09:45 8.07 ft High05-03 15:57 1.24 ft Low05-03 22:14 7.60 ft High05-04 04:21 1.04 ft Low05-04 10:50 8.23 ft High05-04 17:07 1.07 ft Low05-04 23:21 7.65 ft High

05-05 05:25 0.99 ft Low05-05 11:50 8.50 ft High05-05 18:09 0.78 ft Low05-06 00:21 7.83 ft High05-06 06:22 0.86 ft Low05-06 12:44 8.78 ft High05-06 19:03 0.46 ft Low05-07 01:14 8.05 ft High

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May 2009

June 2009

TIDE CHARTS

TIDE CHARTS

05-07 07:13 0.72 ft Low05-07 13:32 9.00 ft High05-07 19:50 0.20 ft Low05-08 02:02 8.23 ft High05-08 08:00 0.64 ft Low05-08 14:17 9.13 ft High05-08 20:34 0.03 ft Low05-09 02:46 8.35 ft High05-09 08:42 0.62 ft Low05-09 14:58 9.15 ft High05-09 21:14 -0.04 ft Low05-10 03:28 8.38 ft High05-10 09:23 0.70 ft Low05-10 15:38 9.05 ft High05-10 21:53 0.01 ft Low05-11 04:09 8.32 ft High05-11 10:03 0.85 ft Low05-11 16:18 8.84 ft High05-11 22:31 0.15 ft Low05-12 04:50 8.18 ft High05-12 10:43 1.08 ft Low05-12 16:57 8.55 ft High05-12 23:10 0.39 ft Low05-13 05:31 7.98 ft High05-13 11:24 1.35 ft Low05-13 17:38 8.19 ft High05-13 23:50 0.69 ft Low05-14 06:14 7.75 ft High05-14 12:07 1.65 ft Low05-14 18:21 7.79 ft High05-15 00:32 1.03 ft Low05-15 06:58 7.52 ft High

05-15 12:53 1.92 ft Low05-15 19:07 7.40 ft High05-16 01:16 1.37 ft Low05-16 07:46 7.35 ft High05-16 13:43 2.12 ft Low05-16 19:58 7.07 ft High05-17 02:04 1.66 ft Low05-17 08:36 7.27 ft High05-17 14:38 2.20 ft Low05-17 20:53 6.85 ft High05-18 02:55 1.85 ft Low05-18 09:29 7.33 ft High05-18 15:36 2.12 ft Low05-18 21:51 6.78 ft High05-19 03:49 1.90 ft Low05-19 10:21 7.54 ft High05-19 16:33 1.87 ft Low05-19 22:49 6.89 ft High05-20 04:42 1.80 ft Low05-20 11:13 7.88 ft High05-20 17:28 1.47 ft Low05-20 23:43 7.16 ft High05-21 05:35 1.56 ft Low05-21 12:02 8.32 ft High05-21 18:19 0.99 ft Low05-22 00:34 7.54 ft High05-22 06:26 1.22 ft Low05-22 12:50 8.79 ft High05-22 19:08 0.47 ft Low05-23 01:23 7.97 ft High05-23 07:16 0.84 ft Low05-23 13:38 9.25 ft High

05-23 19:55 -0.01 ft Low05-24 02:11 8.41 ft High05-24 08:05 0.48 ft Low05-24 14:25 9.61 ft High05-24 20:43 -0.40 ft Low05-25 02:59 8.80 ft High05-25 08:55 0.20 ft Low05-25 15:14 9.83 ft High05-25 21:30 -0.65 ft Low05-26 03:48 9.09 ft High05-26 09:45 0.04 ft Low05-26 16:03 9.87 ft High05-26 22:19 -0.73 ft Low05-27 04:38 9.25 ft High05-27 10:37 0.03 ft Low05-27 16:54 9.72 ft High05-27 23:09 -0.64 ft Low05-28 05:30 9.29 ft High05-28 11:32 0.16 ft Low05-28 17:48 9.41 ft High05-29 00:01 -0.38 ft Low05-29 06:24 9.20 ft High05-29 12:28 0.40 ft Low05-29 18:44 8.98 ft High05-30 00:55 -0.02 ft Low05-30 07:21 9.04 ft High05-30 13:28 0.68 ft Low05-30 19:43 8.51 ft High05-31 01:52 0.40 ft Low05-31 08:20 8.86 ft High05-31 14:32 0.95 ft Low05-31 20:46 8.09 ft High

06-01 02:51 0.80 ft Low06-01 09:21 8.70 ft High06-01 15:37 1.12 ft Low06-01 21:51 7.78 ft High06-02 03:53 1.12 ft Low06-02 10:22 8.62 ft High06-02 16:42 1.16 ft Low06-02 22:54 7.62 ft High06-03 04:54 1.34 ft Low06-03 11:21 8.60 ft High06-03 17:43 1.10 ft Low06-03 23:55 7.59 ft High06-04 05:52 1.45 ft Low06-04 12:16 8.63 ft High06-04 18:38 0.97 ft Low06-05 00:50 7.67 ft High06-05 06:46 1.49 ft Low

06-05 13:06 8.67 ft High06-05 19:28 0.82 ft Low06-06 01:41 7.80 ft High06-06 07:35 1.48 ft Low06-06 13:52 8.72 ft High06-06 20:13 0.68 ft Low06-07 02:27 7.94 ft High06-07 08:20 1.45 ft Low06-07 14:35 8.74 ft High06-07 20:54 0.56 ft Low06-08 03:10 8.07 ft High06-08 09:03 1.43 ft Low06-08 15:17 8.72 ft High06-08 21:33 0.50 ft Low06-09 03:51 8.18 ft High06-09 09:44 1.42 ft Low06-09 15:57 8.66 ft High

06-09 22:11 0.49 ft Low06-10 04:31 8.23 ft High06-10 10:24 1.44 ft Low06-10 16:36 8.53 ft High06-10 22:49 0.56 ft Low06-11 05:11 8.23 ft High06-11 11:05 1.50 ft Low06-11 17:17 8.34 ft High06-11 23:27 0.71 ft Low06-12 05:50 8.19 ft High06-12 11:46 1.58 ft Low06-12 17:57 8.09 ft High06-13 00:05 0.92 ft Low06-13 06:31 8.11 ft High06-13 12:28 1.69 ft Low06-13 18:39 7.80 ft High06-14 00:44 1.17 ft Low

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06-14 07:11 8.03 ft High06-14 13:13 1.79 ft Low06-14 19:23 7.51 ft High06-15 01:25 1.42 ft Low06-15 07:54 7.97 ft High06-15 13:59 1.86 ft Low06-15 20:10 7.25 ft High06-16 02:09 1.63 ft Low06-16 08:39 7.96 ft High06-16 14:50 1.86 ft Low06-16 21:01 7.08 ft High06-17 02:56 1.77 ft Low06-17 09:28 8.03 ft High06-17 15:44 1.77 ft Low06-17 21:57 7.03 ft High06-18 03:49 1.82 ft Low06-18 10:21 8.20 ft High06-18 16:41 1.55 ft Low06-18 22:55 7.15 ft High06-19 04:46 1.73 ft Low06-19 11:17 8.47 ft High06-19 17:38 1.21 ft Low

06-19 23:54 7.44 ft High06-20 05:45 1.51 ft Low06-20 12:13 8.82 ft High06-20 18:34 0.77 ft Low06-21 00:52 7.87 ft High06-21 06:44 1.18 ft Low06-21 13:09 9.20 ft High06-21 19:29 0.30 ft Low06-22 01:47 8.39 ft High06-22 07:42 0.78 ft Low06-22 14:03 9.57 ft High06-22 20:22 -0.16 ft Low06-23 02:41 8.93 ft High06-23 08:38 0.40 ft Low06-23 14:57 9.86 ft High06-23 21:13 -0.52 ft Low06-24 03:33 9.39 ft High06-24 09:33 0.09 ft Low06-24 15:50 10.00 ft High06-24 22:04 -0.74 ft Low06-25 04:24 9.74 ft High06-25 10:27 -0.08 ft Low

06-25 16:42 9.97 ft High06-25 22:54 -0.77 ft Low06-26 05:16 9.91 ft High06-26 11:21 -0.08 ft Low06-26 17:35 9.74 ft High06-26 23:45 -0.60 ft Low06-27 06:08 9.89 ft High06-27 12:15 0.08 ft Low06-27 18:28 9.36 ft High06-28 00:36 -0.25 ft Low06-28 07:01 9.70 ft High06-28 13:11 0.38 ft Low06-28 19:23 8.85 ft High06-29 01:28 0.23 ft Low06-29 07:55 9.39 ft High06-29 14:08 0.75 ft Low06-29 20:20 8.31 ft High06-30 02:22 0.78 ft Low06-30 08:51 9.01 ft High06-30 15:08 1.12 ft Low06-30 21:20 7.81 ft High

June 2009 TIDE CHARTS

the only tamarindo law firm

Specialized in arbitration,european taxaction law and

international real estateBusiness Structure

Q u a l i t y

C e l e r i t y

a g i l i t y

C o n f i d e n C e

Customer service basedon personal contact

Seatower, 3rd floortamarindo, guanacaste

Phone (506) [email protected]

frenCh, engliSh and SPaniSh SPoken

Page 67: Visitors Guide 9

Visitor´s Guide

Ph. (506) 2653-0103 [email protected]

distriBUtion timeDuration - 4 months

Breakdown:• 45% Luxury Hotels• 20% Vacation Villas• 20% Condos• 5% Locals and Sales Materials

locations

hotel rooms:• Paradisus Hotel in Playa Conchal• Diria Hotel in Tamarindo• Flamingo Beach Resort in Flamingo• Sunrise Condos in Tamarindo

• Best Western Hotel in Tamarindo• Capitan Suizo • Cala Luna• J.W. Marriott Hotel in Hacienda Pinilla• Barcelo Hotel in Langosta• Aurola Holiday Inn in San Jose• And many more...

property mangers serving many vacation villas and condos:• RPM Services• Vacation Rentals of Tamarindo• Seabreeze Rentals• Maria Sabota Properties• Pacifi c Horizon• Tamarindo Vacation Rentals• And many more...

Visitors can view the entire guide on the internet atwww.tamarindocosta-rica.com

Advertise with us!

This year has been one of celebration as we accomplished what many thought

impossible! The distribution of our Visitor’s Guide now includes virtually

every luxury hotel and vacation property in Tamarindo and its surrounding area, and even includes several places in San

José where guests frequently stop before continuing on to the Tamarindo area.

95% In-RoomDistribution

in Tamarindo and its surrounding area, and even includes several places in San

José where guests frequently stop before continuing on to the Tamarindo area.

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