TM
E verything you nee d to kno w about your visit to F inca B ellavista
Bryan Beasley
T H ANK
YO U
F OR
B OOK I N G
YO U R
S TAY
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FI NC A
B E L LAVISTA!
What Finca Bellavista is:
What Finca Bellavista is not:
Finca Bellavista is a residential treehouse community in its formative years. We are a rustic, yet comfortable retreat off the beaten path where guests can explore the natural wonders of the Costa Rican rainforest and enjoy what we like to call ‘Treetop Pura Vida.’
We are not a full service fancy hotel. You won’t find televisions or telephones in our rentals, or electricity in many. We are located in an area of Costa Rica that is removed from many of the influences of the outside world. The nearest town (1.5 miles away) contains a school, a church, a pulperia, a bus stop, a handful of houses, and of course, a soccer field. That’s it. No souvenir shops, no mini malls, and no rowdy bars. If that’s what you are looking for, you won’t find it in this neck of the woods!
This is a wild place, therefore, you might see and hear nature in all its glory, and experience more culture and community interaction than in other areas of the world.
Please understand that our treehouses and cabinas are privately owned home rentals, and all amenities vary based on the individual homeowner’s needs and desires.
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ABOUT YOUR RESERVATION CHECK-IN / CHECK-OUT • Reservation, Payment & Cancellation Policies
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GETTING HERE TRANSPORTATION TO FINCA BELLAVISTA • Air, Bus, Car, Boat • Directions to Finca Bellavista
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WHILE YOU ARE HERE COMMUNITY GUIDELINES • Safety • Jungle Etiquette
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COMMUNITY MEALS & DINING • ‘Finca Fresh’ Produce Bag • Food Services
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ONSITE ACTIVITIES • FBV SkyTrails • Guided Day & Night Hikes • Garden Tours • Yoga • E-Bike Tours • Wellness & Spa Services
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WHAT TO BRING | communications 11
The information, prices, and availability of services found herein are subject to change. Please understand that the rainforest is a very dynamic environment, and many things can change very rapidly.
A BO UT
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CHECK-IN / CHECK-OUT: Check-in hours are noon to 5 p.m. *CHECK-INS AFTER 5 P.M. CANNOT BE ACCOMMODATED* Lodging at Base Camp (contingent upon availability) will be substituted and charged at the original reservation rate. *Please understand that this policy is in place for your safety and enjoyment. -Check-out time for all rentals is 10 a.m. - Any additional persons above double occupancy in any rental unit (treehouse or cabina) will be charged $25 per person per additional night. This is a universal and non-negotiable charge due to costs incurred on behalf of Finca Bellavista Property Management, S.A. - Meals are available for purchase in our Community Center. Advanced notification is necessary (at check-in or mealtime prior). - FINCA CREDIT can be used for all on-site spending needs, including the purchase of meals, tours, retail items, or services. Finca Credit can be purchased here: http://www.fincabellavista.com/buy-fincacredit - Please plan and pack accordingly and be prepared with appropriate containers to transport your belongings. Less is more, backpacks work best, and rolling suitcases are NOT recommended. -Luggage porters are sometimes available for hire for a per-trip fee. - Electric shuttle service is available when electricity, weather, and staffing allows. Shuttles are $10 per trip. Our ETV has weight restrictions, which will depend entirely on the number of people and the amount of luggage. -All reservations are non-transferrable. - The reserving party is responsible for any additional persons or charges incurred for its party throughout the course of the party’s reservation. RESERVATION, PAYMENT and CANCELLATION POLICIES FOR ALL FINCA BELLAVISTA RENTALS: There are NO EXCEPTIONS to these policies. RESERVATION & PAYMENT POLICIES: - Taxes (13%) and service charges (10%) are not included in nightly rental rates. - We can accept your wire transfer (including all transfer fees) as an alternative form of payment. Please inquire to reservations@ fincabellavista.com to acquire our transfer information. We will need the exact number of people in your party, dates for the nights of reservation, the name of the rental you would like to reserve, and the reserving party’s name. Please understand that your reservation cannot be confirmed until a transfer confirmation number is received by Finca Bellavista. Availability is subject to change during this processing timeframe.
Matt Berglund
- All rates are exclusively valid for the inquiry date(s) only. Rates are subject to change and will only be honored as shown on the website if the reservation is confirmed by means of a charge to your credit card or transfer transaction number AND you receive a confirmation number from our reservation system. - Each rental at Finca Bellavista has different amenities (including sleeping capacities, occupancy maximums, electricity availability, walking distance to base camp, refrigeration, etc.). By confirming a reservation, the cardholder assumes the responsibility that they have read and fully understand the capacities, amenities, and restrictions of their chosen rental as described in the rental page description. The reserving party is responsible for any additional charges resulting in informational oversights made on behalf of the reserving party. - All reserving parties must be 18 years of age or older. All minors under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a legal guardian or adult upon check in. - The cardholder/reserving party is responsible for sharing and distributing all reservation information, rules, tips, and pointers to additional members within their reservation party. Please forward or share all information you receive with other members of your party so they can plan appropriately. - All reservations are subject to availability existing at the moment of your request, and are subject to change until payment confirmation has been made. - All lodging reservations and applicable charges (including tax & services charges) must paid for in full (100%) upon making a reservation in order to receive a confirmation number. - Reservations are not confirmed until full payment for the reservation has been made. - A confirmation number will be sent by e-mail to the person making the reservation. This confirmation number will need to be presented at the Finca Bellavista office upon check in. - The amount corresponding to your reservation will be immediately charged to your credit card, provided it has a confirmed reservation status.
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- Refunds will not be granted by Finca Bellavista in situations when a service must be interrupted, postponed or cancelled for reasons beyond its control, including travel mishaps, navigational errors, miscalculations of incountry travel times, road conditions or closures, family deaths, airline cancellations or delays, acts of God such as bad weather, health issues or illnesses, acts of terrorism, or any other unforeseen circumstance. CANCELLATION POLICIES: - All reservations must be prepaid 100% and are nonrefundable once a confirmation number has been assigned. - Cancellations that occur prior to 48 hours of a reservation will be allowed and must be received in writing. 100% of the approved, cancelled reservation will remain charged to the applicable credit card. The credit card holder of the cancelled reservation can apply the amount paid on the reservation to another set of dates within 12 months (1 year) of the previously confirmed original reservation start date (when available and applicable) for the same rental unit. Finca Bellavista will not accommodate any change of rental unit and is not responsible for amenity related changes made to the unit during this 12-month (1 year) period. - Upon receiving written confirmation by the reserving party of a cancellation, Finca Bellavista commits to send a cancellation confirmation by e-mail with a cancellation number. If you do not receive the cancellation number, please contact us by e-mail at reservations@ fincabellavista.com. No cancellation will be valid without a cancellation number provided by Finca Bellavista. - Any reservation that has not been cancelled properly, according to the above parameters, will be charged fully to the credit card due to a “no show� and will be charged 100% of the reservation. - If the cardholder/guest does not arrive on the date specified in the reservation confirmation, and there is no cancellation done accordingly to the above points, the credit card holder will be charged the amount of the entire reservation. - Any reservation changes or cancellations must be done by the cardholder.
James Lozeau
We appreciate your understanding in our necessity to adhere strictly to our policies. Each of our rental units is individually owned. Owners and other visitors must schedule their visits around any reservation that is confirmed on the availability calendar. With a limited number of rentals at the finca, we have very limited abilities to accommodate any changes on the calendar, especially during high season. Remember, this isn’t a Motel 6 or a Best Western, and our availability is extremely limited due to the number of rentals we have.
GETTIN G
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TRANSPORTATION TO FINCA BELLAVISTA: These are our best-known travel tips in and around the country. Finca Bellavista and its associates are NOT RESPONSIBLE for pricing or quality of service from any external service provider. In addition, Finca Bellavista and its associates are NOT RESPONSIBLE for negotiating or communicating with any external service provider unless contracted for such services. TRAVEL SAFETY: While Costa Rica is statistically a much safer place to live and travel than the majority of countries in the world (including the U.S., Canada, and some countries in Europe), all travelers should be vigilant about their personal safety. Petty theft is common, and tourists can be targeted for scams and pickpocketing. Be aware, plan ahead, and keep your passports, credit cards, and cash secure.
James Lozeau
Air travel to/from Costa Rica: - We normally recommend that travelers flying into Costa Rica come into the international airport in San Jose ( Juan Santamaria International Airport). The airport in Liberia is the furthest point from Finca Bellavista in the country. It is near the Nicaraguan border, and we are near the Panamanian border. - If you need a place to stay near the airport, please stay with our friends at ADVENTURE INN or TERRAZAS DE GOLF. Finca Bellavista visitors get 10% discount at both locations, so be sure to mention us! Regional air travel to/from San Jose and FBV: - Visitors of Finca Bellavista can fly to either Golfito or Palmar Sur, and be a ½-hour drive to Finca Bellavista. The two regional carriers are: Sansa Airlines (www.flysansa.com) and Nature Air (www.natureair.com) We recommend flying into Golfito, as the view and experience flying into the airport there is unforgettable. Driving from San Jose: - You should plan at least 5-7 hours to drive to Finca Bellavista from the international airport in San Jose, and at least 8-10 hours from the international airport in Liberia. (Remember to factor in the time involved getting through customs & immigration, renting a car, stopping for fuel, getting lost, etc.) These timeframes are estimated, and are completely dependent upon the state of the roads and your party’s navigational capabilities. Remember that maps of Costa Rica are misleading, and, 99% of the time it takes longer than you imagine to get somewhere. Do not rely entirely upon GPS in Costa Rica... maps and signage are continuously out of date and don’t seem to have any consistency. Remember NEVER leave valuables or passports in your car. Renting A Car: - Renting a car and driving in Costa Rica allows total freedom of movement, though it is pricier here than in other countries. You are at the mercy of the state of the roads, however. - Road conditions vary greatly depending on the location of the route and the season. Always check conditions before you decide your route. Our suggested driving route from San Jose to Finca Bellavista is the new Caldera Toll Road and Coastal route (34), which takes drivers from San Jose through the Jaco area. From there, take the newly paved Costanera through Palmar and south to Finca Bellavista. If you are not in a hurry, consider taking the
road over Cerro de los Muertes, through San Isidro el General, through Buenos Aires, Palmar, then south on the InterAmericana. If you are driving, please use the utmost care to drive slowly and cautiously through the small villages nearby FBV. Our visitors make a lasting impression, and whether you realize it or not, you are driving too fast. Taxis: - Taxis are readily available in Palmar and Golfito for the last 30 minutes to Finca Bellavista. (A 4x4 is required on the gravel 4x4 road from the InterAmericana to FBV.). Negotiate the fare BEFORE you get into the taxi, and ensure that the driver understands the directions to Finca Bellavista (they are in English and Spanish below). We will not arrange taxis for our visitors until they are on-site and able to accept payment responsibility for taxi service OR pre- pay for it. Please click here for a list of taxi driver telephone numbers. By Bus: - Bus travel in Costa Rica can be a great experience, and an easy, affordable way to get around the country. The organization of bus stations, stops, and schedules might be overwhelming at first, and speaking Spanish makes the difference between having a good or bad experience. We recommend that you, or someone in your party, have a conversational level of Spanish prior to embarking on a bus journey through Costa Rica. Arriving/departing from San Jose: - If you are relatively comfortable with Spanish or taking a bus, it will be the most cost-effective way to get to the finca. You will need to go to the TRACOPA BUS STATION (please ensure you are going to Tracopa, and not one of the other bus stations). The bus schedules you will want to look for are southbound busses, for example: San Jose to Paso Canoas, Golfito, Rio Claro, or Ciudad Neilly. All of these busses will travel directly past the entrance to Finca Bellavista and near the small town of Piedras Blancas. You will need to request the Piedras Blancas stop ahead of time or make arrangements with the bus driver to notify you of the stop. - The Tracopa station in Piedras Blancas will have a current list of taxi options to take you the remainder of the way to Finca Bellavista. You will not want to walk up the hill to Finca Bellavista from La Florida, please do not attempt it no matter how good of shape you are in! - If you want to take the guesswork out of planning your bus travel in/around San Jose and to the finca, check into http://costaricabustickets.com
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Costa Rica signage is lacking, so pay attention to the landmarks described below. Also, FBV does not have signs on the main road due to privacy reasons and our inability to accommodate drop-in, unscheduled visitors. From the North (Dominical/Uvita, Palmar, San Isidro): - Head south on the InterAmericana Highway through Palmar and across the gigantic bridge over the Terraba River. Continue heading south (about 30 minutes) through Chacarita, then through the town of Piedras Blancas. You will cross over the Piedras Blancas River, and might see small blue telephone sign on the right-hand side of the road indicating La Florida. You will pass the Rancho Guiri Guiri on your left. About 100 meters after Rancho Guiri Guiri, you will see a blue and gray schoolhouse/community center complex on the corner on the left hand side of the highway. (The logged distance from Palmar to La Florida is roughly 39 kilometers or 24 miles!!!) Turn left on the gravel road right in front of the complex, engage your 4- wheel drive, and head up the road 1.5 miles. You will see the Finca Bellavista sign on the left, where you will also turn left. Please come in through the marked entrance gate next to the river and proceed to parking area. Stop into the pulperia in La Florida next to the soccer field for any last-minute purchases, including the only selection of wines (there are usually two or three but you will have to ask for them from storage). Desde El Norte (Dominical/Uvita, Palmar, San Isidro): - Dirí jase al sur sobre la Carretera Interamericana a través de Palmar y otro lado del puente sobre el río Térraba. Continuar hacia el sur unos 30 minutos, a través de la Chacarita, luego a través de la ciudad de Piedras Blancas. Se cruzará sobre el río Piedras Blancas, y verá un letrero pequeño teléfono azul en el lado derecho de la carretera que indica la Florida. Pasará el Guiri Guiri Rancho a su izquierda. Unos 100 metros después del Rancho, podrás ver una escuela de azul y gris / complejo del centro de la comunidad en la esquina en el lado izquierdo de la carretera. (En totalla distancia es 39 kilometros desde Palmar). Gire a la izquierda a la derecha camino de ripio en frente del complejo, y la cabeza por la carretera cerca de 1,5 millas. Usted verá la señal Finca Bellavista de la izquierda, donde se gira a la izquierda. Por favor, entrar por las puertas al lado del río y el parque en la zona de aparcamiento. From the South (Paso Canoas, Rio Claro, Golfito): - Head north on the InterAmericana Highway from Rio Claro. In 23 kilometers, (after crossing over the Esquinas River and passing the palm oil extraction plant) you might see a small blue telephone sign indicating the village of La Florida on the right-hand side of the road. Just beyond the sign, you will see a blue and gray schoolhouse/community center complex also on the righthand side of the road on the corner. (The logged distance from Rio Claro to this point is roughly 14.2 miles or 23 kilometers!!!) Turn right onto the gravel road next to the complex, engage your 4-wheel drive, and head up the road about 1.5 miles. You will see the Finca Bellavista sign on the left, where you will also turn left. Please come in through the marked entrance gates next to the river and park in the parking area. Stop into the pulperia in La Florida next to the soccer field for any last-minute purchases, including the only selection of wines (there are usually two or three) and the most reasonably priced in the area. You will need to ask for the wine.
please REMEMBER THAT WE CANNOT ACCEPT DROP-IN OR UNSCHEDULED VISITORS
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Desde El Sur: - Diríjase hacia el norte sobre la Carretera Interamericana de Río Claro. Después de 23 kiometros, (cruzando el río Esquinas y pasando el aceite de palma planta de extracción) podrás ver una pequeña señal de teléfono azul que indica el pueblo de La Florida en la parte derecha de la carretera. Más allá del signo, podrás ver una escuela de azul y gris / complejo centro de la comunidad también en la parte derecha de la carretera de la esquina. (En total, la distancia es 23 kilometros desde Rio Claro). Girar a la derecha el camino de grava al lado del complejo, y la cabeza por la carretera cerca de 1,5 millas. Usted verá la señal Finca Bellavista de la izquierda, donde se gira a la izquierda. Por favor, entrar por las puertas al lado del río y el parque en la zona de aparcamiento. (FYI, Río Claro tiene varias tiendas de comestibles y es el lugar más conveniente dejar de venir desde el sur para los artículos ... Nuestra tienda favorita de ventanilla única es Super Sur.) * Tracción en las 4 ruedas se necesario en el camino de ripio desde La Florida a la finca, así como para explorar la región mayor de Osa. Los autobuses se detendrán en la Parada en el pueblo de La Florida (de Osa), solo tiene que solicitar la parada! From Puerto Jimenez/Osa Region: - Drive to Chacarita, then turn south on the InterAmericana Highway. Drive through the town of Piedras Blancas. You will cross over the Piedras Blancas River, and might see small blue telephone sign on the right-hand side of the road indicating La Florida. You will pass the Rancho Guiri Guiri on your left. About 100 meters after Rancho Guiri Guiri, you will see a blue and gray schoolhouse/community center complex on the corner on the left hand side of the highway. Turn left on the gravel road right in front of the complex, engage your 4- wheel drive, and head up the road 1.5 miles. You will see the Finca Bellavista sign on the left, where you will also turn left. Please come in through the marked entrance gate next to the river and proceed to parking area.Stop into the pulperia in La Florida next to the soccer field for any last-minute purchases, including the only selection of wines (there are usually two or three but you will have to ask for them from storage). You WILL NOT want to hike up the hill to FINCA BELLAVISTA from La Florida. It is a STEEP, UPHILL, PHYSICALLY & MENTALLY EXHAUSTING 3 kilometer hike. Please DO NOT ATTEMPT this hike no matter how good of shape you are in!
TURN AT LA FLORIDA, THIS IS THE SIGN YOU WILL SEE
w hile
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here Because this is a special, fragile and wild place, there are some precautions and guidelines that we would like for your party to note. As a result, your visit will be more enjoyable and comfortable. In general, please treat the Finca, its residents and structures as if they were your own. A lot of hard work and care went into everything you see and it is very important to us that others are allowed to enjoy it too. We hold our guests to the same standards that we hold ourselves and ask that you respect these general guidelines: -If you turned it on, turn it off. -Please do not use open flame in any of our structures (e.g.: lanterns/tiki torches/candles). Even though it’s the jungle and it rains a lot, it can get dry and structures can catch fire. Battery operated lanterns are supplied in rentals without electricity. -Use only biodegradable products in our bathrooms and waterways. -If you cook it or eat it, clean it up afterwards. -NO VISITOR PETS PLEASE (if unaccustomed to the jungle, they will be frightened and keep us and our other guests awake as a result). -Take off your shoes when you venture inside or onto flooring. -Please use water and electricity sparingly. All resources are precious at FBV. -Pack it in, pack it out. Don’t throw trash on the ground or leave it lying around -Use the appropriate containers to separate glass, plastic, aluminum, paper and trash. If it’s full or overflowing, let an employee know and they will empty it. -No, no, no paper or sanitary products in the toilets! We are using biodigestors and they can’t handle anything other than #1 and #2. -NO SMOKING in any of our structures...they might be open-air, but things like curtains and linens still absorb smells. Safety— -Shake out your shoes, clothing, and towels before use. Ants, spiders, caterpillars, and scorpions are a few things that might be waiting for you! -Watch your step. The rocks can be slippery, pathways can be muddy, and surfaces are uneven in the jungle, especially along the rivers.
Bryan Beasley
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James Lozeau
- Take a friend when you explore the Finca. If you venture far away from Base Camp, let someone know your plans or be accompanied by another person if you are unfamiliar with the area. - Don’t swim in the river during downpours or if it appears to be raining in the mountains above FBV. Rio Piedras Blancas and Rio Bellavista are both wild, undammed rivers that can become moody and very dangerous during rainstorms. Likewise, it could be raining upstream in the mountains causing a flash flood further downstream. Be watchful for signs of rain and seek higher ground when they appear. - Don’t drink untreated water out of the river! It looks clean but there can be parasites.
- Take care of your feet. Damp conditions coupled with wet footwear can make your feet miserable. Let them breathe after long hikes or river hikes. -Don’t eat unknown mushrooms, berries, fruits or plants. - The nearest medical clinic is the EBAIS in Piedras Blancas. Turn north on the InterAmericana Highway at the bottom of the hill in La Florida, and drive about 1 mile. On the left you will see the clinic sign (EBAIS). We have been thrilled with the level of care provide in this small clinic, and feel very lucky to have this as our closest medical care.
- Protect yourself from the sun. We’re 8 degrees north of the equator, and the sun is intense even under the rainforest canopy!
- There are two hospitals within an hour’s drive of FBV. One is en route to Ciudad Neilly, on the right-hand side of the highway. The new southern zone hospital is just north of Palmar, near a town called Cortez. It is located on the left-hand side of the Costanera Sur Highway.
- Don’t grab onto plants, trees or rocks. Stinging insects, spikes and other hazards exist.
-The closest pharmacies are located in either Rio Claro or Palmar Norte.
- Always use a flashlight or headlamp at night to light the way and always watch where you step.
- We have a FIRST AID station at the Finca’s base camp – please see the map for location. Each rental unit has a first aid kit in a marked box.
- Don’t molest the wildlife. It goes without saying that poking a snake or throwing a stick at a puma would both qualify as bad ideas. But other animals like monkeys or anteaters can be aggressive towards humans if pestered. Observe them at a safe distance and don’t give them reasons to run off. - DO NOT FEED THE WILDLIFE! Unintended consequences abound when wild animals get used to the easy forage of human foods. - Look out for critters. Snakes, cats, and spiders are a few members of the animal kingdom that have a bad reputation in the jungle. Though none are inherently dangerous, a snake that gets stepped on might be tempted to defend itself. Wearing tall, snake-proof boots is the best way to prevent harmful contact with a snake. WORSTCASE SCENARIO: If you are bitten by a poisonous snake, try to stay calm and keep your heartrate down (walk calmly, don’t run). Try to ID the type of snake that bit you. The majority of people in relatively good health can avoid tissue damage if you arrive to a clinic and receive antivenin within 2 hours. The nearest clinic is ten minutes away from base camp.
F OOD
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B E V ER AG E
Matt Bergund
Please be aware: - Our meals are served in a buffet-style, community atmosphere in the Finca Bellavista Dining Hall at the Community Center. - We will need advanced notice if you are planning on joining us for meals. Please give your notification upon check-in, or, at the meal before. - We cook enough food for the number of reservations we have for a meal. If you do not have a reservation, we might not have enough to feed you if you show up unannounced. - Meal delivery is available upon request and when staffing allows. - Children ages 5-12 are charged half-price for meals. If your party has any dietary needs or restrictions, please notify us at check-in. - Our property is fed with potable spring water. There are several filtered water stations throughout the Finca (the bath house, the kitchen house, and any rental treehouse or cabina with a kitchen). You will not need to bring bottled water with you. - If you will not be taking advantage of FBV meals, please bring food with you to prepare during your visit or plan to purchase a Finca Fresh bag (information is below).
‘Finca Fresh’ Produce Bag— We offer an assortment of fruits and vegetables picked fresh from our gardens.
Community Meal Service (effective January 1, 2015): Our Dinner sitting is at 6:30 p.m. and is available for $18 per person. Dinner is our busiest meal of the day, and we advise a prompt arrival at 6:30 p.m. for best selection. Dinner is put away and is no longer available at 7:30 p.m. (or when food runs out). A daily Happy 2 Hours is available for Finca Bellavista guests from 4:30-6:30 p.m. daily in El Rancho. A modest variety of options are available for $5 per glass, with normal options being red or white wine, vodka or rum, and fresh juice. Garden-fresh infusions are occasionally available for $6 per serving. Children ages 5-12 enjoy 1/2 price meals at Finca Bellavista when accompanying a full-price paying adult.
Selections vary from day to day. We charge $25 for a good-sized bag of food (and you get to keep the Finca tote bag!), and refills are available for $15. A bag of produce will last the average group (2 – 4 people) for 2-3 days depending on your consumption levels. We believe this is worth every penny as our homegrown, delicious goods are supplied by employees that earn fair living wages, food costs money to grow, and if you are driving to/ from the store there is a carbon footprint and greater cost attached. If you would like a Finca Fresh Produce Bag, please notify staff at check-in. If you plan on cooking from our gardens, please bring along oils, vinegars, and other needed cooking accoutrements. Many of these can be purchased from the FBV kitchen, as well as farm fresh eggs, cheeses, rice, and beans.
onsite
activities
Bryan Beasley
- SkyTrail introduction tour (Introduction tour is mandatory for use of network and dependent on weather and staff availability). -Go on a Night Hike -Hike to the swimming holes and waterfalls -Organize treehouse visits with the other guests -Hike to La Punta for a picnic -Grab a hammock and get a nap or some reading time - Grab a yoga mat and stretch in El Rancho, or join a yoga class -Go birdwatching and check out critters FBV SkyTrails: - Introduction to and use of the community’s private SkyTrail network of ziplines and platforms is contingent on a multitude of factors. The SkyTrails are not operated as a commercial canopy tour, nor are they inclusive of a stay at Finca Bellavista. - We charge an equipment rental fee, which is very reasonable in light of paying employees that introduce you to the system, creating and building a safe network for use, and providing one of the most unique experiences in Costa Rica. - We currently charge a $25 equipment fee for FBV owners, and a $50 equipment fee for non-owners.
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- We CANNOT accommodate children under the age of 12, or under 48 inches tall on the SkyTrail network. This policy is in effect December 1, 2012. - All SkyTrail introductions leave in the morning hours (usually after breakfast) due to the typical weather patterns we experience, our employee’s work hours, and a multitude of other factors. We require a minimum of 2 guests and maximum of 6 guests for each introduction to the SkyTrails. - FBV reserves the right to refuse access to the SkyTrails of any visitor that is under the influence of drugs and alcohol, cannot properly exhibit and perform the safety procedures necessary to participate in ziplining, or is physically unable to safely participate in ziplining. Above all things, we have your safety in mind. We will try to accommodate special needs as best as we can, and appreciate your understanding if we are unable to do so. Guided Night Hikes: - Our local guide will take you on a fun adventure of the Finca to see all of the life that comes alive at night. Expect to see snakes, frogs, spiders and lots of other wildlife! Night hikes are weather dependent and cost $30 per person. We normally need a day’s notice to schedule a night tour.
Garden Tours: -Tour the gardens and food production areas with one of our gardeners. These tours are $20 and great for all ages and abilities. YOGA: -Group classes are occasionally available in El Rancho for $10 per person (yoga mat rental included). Private yoga lessons are also available for $50/hour. This is a great option for people that want to improve their yoga practice, or learn basics. Families, groups of friends, couples, and singles are welcome to book these lessons. E-Bike Tours: - Explore the neighboring area and take in some spectacular scenery on an electric bike tour. Tours are dependent on weather, staff availability, and electricity generation. Inquire at check-in for availability. WELLNESS & SPA SERVICES: -Soothe your soul and recharge your batteries with a relaxing massage, a chiropractic treatment, or a yoga session. Please see our current offerings & pricing on our Wellness & Spa Services page.
cre d it :
You can PRE-PURCHASE Finca Credit for all on-site purchases made during your stay. Finca Credits can purchase food, tours, retail items, or pay for additional services while visiting Finca Bellavista. PURCHASE FINCA CREDIT HERE: http://www.fincabellavista.com/buy-finca-credit/
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Though we think living here is quite comfortable as it is right now, we realize that we have become accustomed to life in the jungle as we know it! Though we are well- equipped for simple living, we suggest bringing several items to make your stay here more enjoyable. Remember, you will be walking to/from your rental and will be carrying your own luggage and personal items, unless you pay for a porter. Less is more, backpacks work best, and rolling suitcases are NOT recommended. Luggage porters can be hired for a per trip fee when employees are present. We require you to bring: -A SENSE OF ADVENTURE -Headlamp and/or flashlight and batteries to power it (an absolute necessity as we do not have enough flashlights and headlamps to loan out to visitors!) We suggest you bring: -Waterproof sunblock -Bugspray (or lightweight clothing for evenings) -Raingear -Tall Rubber Boots or close-toed shoes (We do have a limited supply of boots that can be borrowed.) -Bathing suit -Brimmed Hat -Sunglasses -Guides for wildlife, flowers or plants -Book to relax with (we also have book swap shelves) -Music/Ipod -Water bottle -It gets chilly here at night, so long sleeves or pants are recommended. Likewise, the daytime hours can be hot, sunny and humid. Be prepared with a wide range of clothing. Fast drying fabrics work very well here. -If you have heirloom or organic seeds from your home garden, please bring us a handful to add to our ever-growing community garden.
We are proud members of Pack for a Purpose, an initiative that allows travelers like you to make a lasting impact in the community at your travel destination. If you save just a few kilos of space in your suitcase and bring supplies for area schools or medical clinics in need, you’ll make a priceless impact in the lives of our local children and families. Please click here to see what supplies are needed for our project/projects.
Please note: We charge $4 per kilo for cleaned, dry, folded laundry. Allow 24 hours for laundry service.
COMMUNICATIONS: Looking for recommended lodging along the way? Please see our Trip Suggestions. If you are flying in/out of San Jose, our two favorite places to stay near the airport are Terrazas de Golf Boutique Hotel or Adventure Inn. Let them know that we sent you and get a 10% discount on your lodging.
- Regional 3G cellular telephone service is available in sporadic locations around Finca Bellavista, however it is spotty and undependable. Your international phone will likely not work in Costa Rica unless you buy a compatable SIM card. There is a pay telephone available in La Florida, though international calling cards are best purchased in Palmar Norte or Rio Claro. - A WIFI internet zone is available near the FBV office. Connection charges apply, bring your own device to connect.
W E S I N C E R E LY H O P E YO U E N J OY YO U R S TAY W I T H U S !