Expert: Roberto Gomes - 1/8/2009

Question
QUESTION: My husband and I purchased a really inexpensive vacation to Costa Rica. We don't know where the resort is, but we see from the photos it is located on a coast and is very nice, also all-inclusive. My husband and I have never traveled internationally. We will obviously need passports. Where is the best place to go to get the passports, how much does it cost (we're in no hurry), and how long does it take? Also, any ideas as to where this nice all-inclusive resort may be located, I believe that there are 2 airports in costa rica we'll have to book our flight tickets accordingly. Any info you can offer regarding our trip (which we plan to take in the fall) will be appreciated !

ANSWER: Dear Amanda,

Since I receive questions from all over the world, I'll need to know your nationalities and country/state of residence.

As far as the airports are concern, there are at least 4 major airports in the cities of Liberia, Limon and the capital San Jose.
So you'll need to know your resort location (you can provide the name for research) to determine the itinerary of your trip.

I'll wait for your follow-up.

Best Regards,
R. Gomes

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: We will be departing from our home in Atlanta, Georgia, USA (hartsfield-jackson international airport). Our trip is for 5 days and 4 nights, however we are considering staying an additional night or 2 in another inexpensive motel somewhere in the country. We don't know exactly how to find a cheap place there for the additional days. Maybe just look around while we're staying at the all-inclusive resort?

Answer
Dear Amanda,

1. You won't need a visa to enter Costa Rica, but a valid passport.
2. All information regarding the US passports can be viewed at the following link:

http://travel.state.gov/passport/passport_1738.html

3. You can look at the same travel agency the rates for additional nights.

Best Regards,
R. Gomes