Little Costa Rica has been a favorite vacation destination for Americans, Canadians and, increasingly, Europeans, for many years. Though it is one of the smaller countries on the planet, about the size of West Virginia, its many attractions are world-famous: nearly 800 miles of uncrowded beaches on two oceans; parks and reserves covering 25 percent of its land area; and a staggering diversity of plants and animals.

Volcanoes, terrific fishing, some of the best surfing anywhere, stomach churning river rafting or family rafting adventures, ziplining high up in the tropical forests, and, of course, nightlife for adults. What happens here stays here, unless you want to brag about your exploits in Twitter.

You will find a vacation that fits the wallet of almost everyone. For the rich, celebrated, or folks who want to vacation like they are rich and famous, there are places like the Papagayo Four Seasons and Los Suenos Resorts. But, if these are a bit pricey ,at least until your ship comes in, or too fancy for your taste, you can enjoy this little gem quite nicely on a more limited budget.

1. Save twenty percent or more on hotels and resorts: Observe travel seasons

a. If you are on a budget, avoid Peak Season. Christmas through New Years week (December 15-January 5) and Easter Week are Peak Season, not only for foreign visitors but for Costa Ricans, as well. Schools here are out of session, many governmental agencies and businesses close, and tens of thousands of men, women and children flock to the most popular beaches. They know the best deals. You will not. Expect to pay the highest prices, but still way less than in America or Europe.

b. High Season coincides with winter in the Northern Hemisphere. Many tourists travel Costa Rica between January through April because of the sunny tropical weather, a fact not lost on hotels and resorts. Like Florida, Arizona, and the Texas coast, Snowbirds get plucked a bit more during High Season. Prices are better than in Europe or America but you can do better.

c. The prudent bargain travel seeker will assiduously plan to vacation in Costa Rica during the Green (Low) Season because the very best travel and accommodation bargains occur then. Improvidently, a lot of travelers mistakenly take it for granted that it rains every day when, in fact, most days are sunny and warm. Typically rains last an hour or so and occur in the afternoon or early evening. Many college students and families from the northern countries visit between June and mid-August but prices are good and accommodations available in most places. For the inveterate bargain hunter come between September through mid-November. Savings of 20-35 percent off High Season prices often await.

2. If you plan to rent a car, think ahead and save $25 a day

Many Costa Rica vacationers rent a vehicle on the web and are shocked to learn when they arrive that the rental agency wants an additional $25 or more per day for liability insurance! Rule 1: If your home automobile policy includes liability coverage, that insurance is good in Costa Rica. Recommendation: bring a copy of the policy along with the fax and email of your insurance agent and save that money for your vacation. Rule 2: Many credit cards offer a little known benefit: liability insurance coverage for rentals when the card is used. Contact your credit card company before you travel for best results. Rule 3: Be polite but informed. After all, it is your money.

3. Save another 5 percent or more: Remember that Cash Is King

Many Costa Rica merchants prefer to be paid in dollars over credit cards and when asked for a cash discount will offer 5 percent or more. You should ask :”Que (pronounced “K”) es discuento por efectivo?” which means “What is the discount for cash?” Be sure the bills are new and not defaced with even a tiny tear. And, bring $20 and $50 bills. Many restaurants, merchants, and hostels cannot break a $100 bill.

4. Save 10 percent while dining: Do not pay two tips in a restaurant

Suppose you could frequently save 10 percent when you dine out. Few visitors know that many restaurants in Costa Rica, particularly those catering to foreign travelers who do not speak Spanish, automatically include a 10 percent tip (called “servicio”) on a patron’s bill. They are aware that many vacationers unsuspectingly then leave a second tip. However, the savvy budget travel patron looks for the word “servicio” (or another word that involves an extra ten percent charge).

Victor Krumm lives in Costa Rica. His popular website about Costa Rica Vacations. Ever imagined learning how to surf? Check out www.costarica-discCosta Rica Surfing for world-renowned beaches and incredible waves Get a totally unique version of this article from our article submission service