10 Tips For A Perfect Vacation

We have a pretty awesome gig here at Tulemar… We constantly get to meet amazing guests, and we LOVE helping make your vacation better than you ever imagined. While we help you with everything from transportation, planning, and booking activities before you even leave for Costa Rica, we’ve realized that there are a few extra details you can do prior to your departure to ensure your trip is nothing short of magical. Go ahead and tuck this list away… you’re going to need it for every trip to come.

1. Get Your Passport Ready
   • First things first, if you’re traveling internationally: make sure you have a passport! On top of that, check the expiration date. Most countries require your passport to be valid for 3-6 months after your departure date. Nothing will ruin a trip like not being able to board your flight because your passport is too close to its expiration!

1. Ditch The Expectations
   • If you’re traveling internationally, you’re likely to encounter countless experiences that are outside your norm. Some of these encounters may be shocking, irritating, or set you back… That’s why we suggest that the only expectation you have is that things won’t always go as planned, otherwise you’re setting yourself up for frustration and disappointment.

1. Plan Activities, But Not Too Many
   • Of course you want to experience all the adventures and activities that your host country offers, but don’t forget to plan a little time for R&R. Often times people forget to schedule time to just sit and enjoy the beach or have a relaxing massage, which can later cause the feeling that you need a vacation from your vacation! Do yourself a favor and designate a day to have nothing on the agenda.

1. Opt For The Insurance
   • Travel insurance is intended to cover medical expenses, cancelled flights, lost luggage, and other unexpected losses while traveling. There are a lot of companies and airlines that offer travel insurance, and sometimes you can find that some aspects are already covered in your current insurance policy. We recommend that you do your research and decide which policy works best for your needs and concerns.

1. Eat Probiotics Leading Up To The Trip
   • Even if the food and water quality is supreme in the country you’re visiting, it doesn’t hurt to load up on probiotics prior to your departure. Sometimes just being exposed to something different than you’re used to can set your tummy into a tail spin, and we highly doubt that you wish to spend your entire trip sick! Try yogurt, kombucha, or probiotic pills to give your gut super strength to combat any problems that come your way.

1. Learn A Few Local Phrases
   • Knowing just a few local phrases can go a long way! The locals will appreciate that you’re trying to speak their language, and often times knowing the basics can help you tremendously while shopping, taking a taxi, or asking for help.

1. Make Copies Of Your Passport And Credit Cards
   • We can’t think of anything worse than being stranded in a strange country with no passport or credit cards! If for any reason you happen to misplace your credit cards and passport while traveling, having photo copies of your documents will help make your life a lot easier.

1. Let Your Bank Know You’re Leaving
   • This one is a must! Most banks will shut off your credit card if it is used in a foreign country and they don’t know you’re traveling. This is a great thing, as it prevents fraud and theft… But it can cause headaches if your card unexpectedly doesn’t work when trying to pay for a souvenir, tour, or delicious meal! Do yourself a favor and call your bank ahead of time and alert them of your travel dates to avoid any unwanted mishaps.

1. Bring Cash
   • So, you called your bank to let them know you’re traveling, but they shut off your card anyway. Now what? Having extra cash exchanged into your local currency will be extremely helpful for emergencies, small purchases, or for places that do not accept credit cards. Pro tip: try to exchange your cash at a bank to ensure you receive the accurate exchange rate and to avoid any extra exchange fees!

1. Let A Trusted Neighbor Know You’ll Be Gone
   • It can be extremely hard to relax while constantly being worried about things back home. Knowing that a trust neighbor is watching over things, watering your plants, and retrieving your mail will help you rest easy and be fully present for your wonderful adventure.

Now that you’re fully prepared for your getaway, check out this article on how to get the most of your trip once you’re actually there! Do you have any tips you’d like to add? We’d love to hear them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram!

Pura Vida,

Tulemar