Frequently asked questions regarding your stay at Paradise Cosmetic Inn and travel to Costa Rica for surgical services
Do I need a passport or a Visa?
YES. You cannot enter Costa Rica without a properly updated passport. The process takes approximately 5 weeks, (visit your local Post Office) to obtain a passport.
Are there any other costs, entering or exiting Costa Rica?
YES. There is a $26.00 departure tax that will need to be paid at the international airport.
What type of clothes should I pack for my stay at Paradise?
Paradise Cosmetic Inn is located in the mountains so the temperature is slightly cooler than in San José. Mornings are cool enough for a light jacket - or maybe even a sweat shirt. It warms up after noon, but still it is not hot, and there is not much humidity.
So pack:
- Long pants
- Long sleeve shirts
- A jacket or sweater
- A few lighter items
- Socks and slippers always feel cozy!
- Hats! If you are having any surgery done to your face, you will need to avoid the sun. Even if you are not having face surgery, the sun is intense even if it's not real hot. Pack or wear a hat that will shield you from sun.
- Shirts that go over the head may be difficult to put on and take off depending upon your procedure. Buttoned or zippered front shirts are easiest.
- Raincoat or small umbrella. Good idea if you have room in your luggage.
If you are having liposuction performed, there are some special clothing concerns:
- A garment (girdle type item) must be worn for several weeks after the surgery. The garment will be long enough to cover the whole treated area. Make sure to pack several pairs of long pants.
- You will not be wearing underwear under the garment, so no need to pack all that underwear! The garment is especially made so you can use the bathroom without disturbing the garment.
- Remember that your body size will be different (but probably not very different) after your procedure. Pack comfy pants - sweat type pants are great. If they are a bit snug before the surgery they will be fine after the surgery.
- There is some "leaking" from the sites where they insert the instrument for the liposuction. This is not blood but some of the fluid that is injected during the procedure. This leaking lasts from several days to 2 weeks. Since the fluid is pink or red, white or light colored pants may suffer from seepage!
What if I get sick during my stay?
If you get sick during your stay at Paradise, you can be assured that we will take care of you. Since people react differently to antibiotics and medicines, we provide 24-hour nursing supervision. We work very closely with your doctors and medical professionals to ensure that you receive the highest quality medical care.
Are taxes included in my room rates?
NO. Taxes are not included in our prices. Costa Rican Hotel Taxes are currently 16.36%
Can I use Traveler's Checks?
Since it can take over a month for Cost Rican merchants to receive funds from Traveler's checks, they are not a welcome form of payment. If you do bring Traveler's Checks, make sure they are American Express and Banco San José will exchange them for you. You will need to present your passport and there is an exchange fee.
When is the best time to travel to Costa Rica?
In Costa Rica we have 2 seasons; "Dry" and "Green" seasons. The "Green" (or what we would call "rainy" season), goes from May to November. The rest of the year is considered Summer time. Being that Costa Rica is a tropical country, however, weather may change dramatically day-to-day. Just be prepared with your packing list (above) and you will be fine!
There is no high or low season as far as resort occupancy is concerned. People come steadily all year long to have their surgeries performed in Costa Rica.
Does anyone speak English at Paradise?
YES. Paradise Cosmetic Inn is run by Americans, incorporates American hotel standards, and has bilingual personnel.
In case I want to depart earlier, do I get a refund?
Paradise Cosmetic Inn will refund up to 50% of the total remaining days reserved.
Do you have laundry services?
YES. Our full-time staff will be happy care for your laundry at a $1.00 per item charge.
What if I'm vegetarian?
No need to worry about it! We are prepared to serve vegetarian and low carb meals. Just let us know 48 hours in advance.
What if I want to go shopping?
Our daily rates do not include extra trips for shopping. However, there are local taxi services that charge approximately $10.00 for a trip to the city. If we are available, we will also be happy to provide transporation for a $10.00 charge.
Can we drink the water?
The water in Costa Rica is some of the purest and healthiest drinking water around! There have been no reports of illness due to Costa Rican water.
May friends come to visit?
YES. Friends are more than welcome here.
Can I smoke inside the room?
NO. All rooms at Paradise Cosmetic Inn are NON-SMOKING. Ashtrays are provided in the spacious outdoor seating areas.
Do I have access to Internet?
YES. You will have free wireless Internet access from every part of the Inn, plus there is a computer in the lobby for your use.
How will I find you at the San José Airport when I arrive?
We'll have a Paradise Cosmetic Inn sign with your name and a small American flag at the airport terminal exit. |