WHAT TO BRING WITH ME

-Important Documents as passport, credit card, Visa for cash advance, Driver’s licensed, Traveler’s checks, $50-100 in cash ($10 in singles) for emergency money.

-NOTE: Do not bring personal checks. They are very difficult to change. You can pay for your tuition in U.S. dollars, Costa Rican colones, or Travelers Checks or credit cards. Make copies of your important documents. Keep a copy with you as well. If your passport is lost, it will be easier to replace if you have a copy.

-Materials for Study as Spanish pocket dictionary. We suggest University of Chicago pocket size edition, bring any materials you may have on Costa Rica and Central America. This may include pamphlets, newspaper articles, and books. Sharing this material with other students, teachers, etc. is always appreciated.

-Attire and Personal itemsShorts, T-shirts and sandals are the daily dress code. It is very informal. Leave all valuables, jewelry, etc., at home. Bring you own beach towel, swimming suits, sunscreen and mosquito repellentd, sunglassese, alarm clock, small flash light (important), small lock for backpack, an umbrella and/or raincoat. Rainy season begins in May and continues through November. Generally it is sunny in the morning and rains in the afternoon.

-Money belt. It is really a must for any traveling. Quepos is a safe town, but in San José you need to be more careful. Be very careful in the Coca-Cola bus station. Wear your money belt under your clothes; please take precaution with your backpack and luggage at all times in San José. Petty theft occurs all over Costa Rica. Never leave anything unguarded on the beach. Lock up your tickets, documents, money, etc. in your luggage once you are here.

-Prescription drugs. These drugs can be found in most of Quepos pharmacies. If you bring important drugs, please, put them in your carry-on luggage. If your baggage gets on the wrong flight it may be difficult to find what you need in the meantime.

-Illegal drugs: This will cause you more problems than they are worth. Drug laws in Costa Rica are extremely stiff. Being a foreigner won't help you, they'll still lock you up.

Remember that traveling is always tough when you lug around large, bulky suitcases. Travel light! This can't be emphasized enough.