Costa Rica takes the 7 sacred day period preceding Easter quite seriously; being mostly a Catholic nation Costa Rica has several celebrations and also a huge Parade in store for the people to enjoy, including: a Easter Parade in downtown San Jose, firework shows, different celebrations on small towns, Bull fights and even rodeos (Yes I’m not kidding)

Most of the San Jose area is deserted for these days (except during the parade.) as many Costa Ricans are given a special time off to celebrate with their families. Most of the houses and different buildings are decorated with crosses and purple cloths during “Semana Santa” (Holy Week) and the different churches are carefully given a “face lift” in order to look their best for the celebration.

I know that so far everything sounds great; but here are some things to look forward for the Holy Week in Costa Rica.

And an average of at least 70% of the capital’s population used this period to head for the beach: This means not only that the major beaches in the country will be crowded; but that the regular prices for services, food, and others more likely will go up. (So if you want to go to the beach anyway try to stick to the more private beaches like Playa Avellanas or playa Negra; or do it on a tour with fix rates)

The Bars in the country are closed during this period: That is right my friends, so it is pretty much “no hay guaro” (There is no booze) for the Holy Week.

The Bus services are slow: Due to the fact that many of the usual customers for this public service will not be using it, the Bus companies have a “more relaxed” approach for the Semana Santa. And even though the service will be in operation, there will be no Bus services at all during Friday.

Grab your wallet and try not to leave anything in plain sight in your car: Just like in any other crowded place, it is common sense to put your money in a safe spot, and try also not to keep it all in one place but at least 2. If you went for a “car rental option” to get to the beach, remember not to leave any valuables in plain sight. (You can either leave them at the hotel/condo or below the seats)

Whatever you do don’t come back on Sunday: This is very important guys, as 90% of the people on the Costa Rica beaches decide to come back on the same day, making the high way looks like a Mall parking lot on Wednesday. (So avoid this mess and try to come back either on Saturday or Monday instead.)

There are lots of things to see and enjoy during this period, especially the parades in San Jose, just try to be careful and remember to ask a lot of question to the Hotel personal you decide to stay in during the Holy week in Costa Rica.