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Frequently Asked Questions

Booking Terms and Conditions

BOOKING INFORMATION
To apply for an AWA Experience a $1000 deposit is due to reserve your space. The remaining amount is paid upon arrival. Private and shared rooms availability are on a first-come, first-served basis. Please book your reservations early to receive your preferred accommodation. We reserve the right to refuse bookings at our discretion.
TRAVEL AND FLIGHT INFORMATION
Please confirm availability with us before booking your flight tickets. AWA doesn't include the airfare and the transportation to and from Mal Pais. We do offer concierge services to help you make all the arrangements needed. If you decide to extend your stay in the area, we can guide you on how to achieve your most desired vacation, from lodging to all sort of inspiring and fun activities. TRAVEL DOCUMENTATION
To enter and exit Costa Rica, you must bring a valid passport with at least 6 months remaining before expiration date. Most of the countries are not required to issue a Visa to enter. During the check-in of your flight, you might be asked to show a return ticket from Costa Rica before 90 days since the arrival date. All clients must have a medical insurance issued by their own travel agent to join any AWA experience. For all requirements related to COVID - 19 please see below on "COVID-19 in Costa Rica" tab.



Covid Cancellation Policy

AWA is following Costa Rican local and republic guidelines about what criteria we must provide to our guests. Rest assured that we are taking COVID seriously and will update our policies as needed. The safety of our staff and guests is our top priority. We have adopted new policies about cancellations or reservation changes to both keep our guests and staff safe during these tough times. We have amended our cancellation policy to offer our guests a choice to either re-book at a later time at no charge or refund 100% of all monies received from guests who cannot fulfill their reservation due to COVID positive tests, country closures, local rules and orders, AWA staff and guest safety concerns, and/or beach access and availability. AWA is currently taking reservations for stays from 02/17/2020 onward under the following conditions: - AWA reserves the right to cancel any reservation up to 24 hours from the arrival date. - AWA will offer a full refund for any cancellation or will offer a free change of date if the guest prefers. - AWA requires all reserved guests to confirm a lack of COVID symptoms 48 hours from arrival. - AWA cannot offer any COVID related refunds once a guest has arrived. - AWA recommends purchasing refundable airline tickets for travel to Costa Rica. We will try our best to keep all information above as current as possible, however, we highly recommend double checking your country’s guidelines and/or local embassy in San José.



Payment Policy

Payments received are only through Paypal, checking account, or cash in person. A 3% fee will be added to all payments made using Paypal.



Activities

All the activities supplied by AWA carry with them a degree of risk both to people and equipment, even though enjoyed under proper supervision by qualified instructors. They are also some activities that require those taking part to have a reasonable standard of health and fitness. All clients must inform of any medical conditions, illnesses or allergies they may have and any prescribed medication they might be taking prior booking. No one should participate in any activity if they are suffering from a heart condition or are pregnant. No client should in any circumstances take part in an activity while under the influence of alcohol, drugs or medication, which may adversely affect their physical abilities.



Liability Release Forms

After reserving your space, we will send out Liability Release Forms for you to fill up and sign before starting the trip. There will be NO exceptions for this policy.



AWA Welcome Kit

Once you book your AWA Retreat, along with your Liability Release Forms, you will receive a Welcome Kit with helpful information you might need for the week. This includes informative description of the area, tips on how to pack, extra activities to explore and much more.



COVID - 19 and Costa Rica

Citizens/residents from ALL countries are currently allowed to enter Costa Rica by air. If you are planning a trip to visit us in Mal Pais/Santa Teresa, there are specific entry requirements that must be met, listed below. REQUIREMENTS TO ENTER COSTA RICA: - Fill out the electronic epidemiological Health Pass form, available at https://salud.go.cr (available 48 hours prior to arrival; requires insurance to be purchased first). - Traveler’s Medical Insurance - international or purchased through Costa Rica via the National Insurance Institute or Sagicor. - For the National Insurance Institute (INS), we’ve found that the English version of their landing page is currently not working. Scroll down and click “COMPRAR” to continue. - INS offers better rates as compared to Sagicor; Trawick International (more below) is currently offering the best rates for coverage that meets the CR requirements. - OR an international insurance policy. Tourists must request a certification from their insurance company, issued in English or Spanish, verifying at least the following three conditions: - Effectiveness of the policy during the visit to Costa Rica. - Guaranteed coverage of COVID-19 related medical expenses, with minimum coverage of $50,000 USD. While the plans offered by Costa Rican entities (linked above) only need to require $20,000 of medical coverage, international plans must meet the $50,000 USD minimum coverage. - Includes a minimum coverage of $2,000 USD for lodging expenses as a result of being placed on quarantine if you become ill during your trip.* *Many international insurance providers that we have researched, called, and vetted do NOT meet the lodging/accommodation requirement, such as: World Nomads and Safety Wing. Passengers who fail to comply with these requirements may not enter the country. Upon landing in Costa Rican territory, travellers must wear face protection and comply with the protocols of the airport with regard to physical distancing and taking temperature readings, and must follow any other sanitary instructions. International Travel Insurance Options: - U.S. Citizens: Trawick International has a policy that meets the requirements available that is far more affordable, depending on trip length and age of the travellers. Choose the “Safe Travels Voyager” option Don’t enter a value for “Insure Your Trip.” - Canadians: Trawick is offering a policy that meets the requirements for non-US citizens. Choose either “Safe Travels International” or “Safe Travels International Cost Saver.” Manulife insurance for bookings made by Aeroplan members does NOT meet the lodging/accommodation requirement. - Rest of World: Trawick is offering a policy that meets the requirements for non-US citizens. Choose either “Safe Travels International” or “Safe Travels International Cost Saver.” COVID TEST: A RT-PCR COVID-19 test with a negative result was required for entry until October 26th, 2020. While this is no longer a requirement for entry, please consider the high percentage of cases worldwide that have been asymptomatic — Help slow the spread and protect those most vulnerable. We ask that anyone with a trip planned to Shaka, or the country itself, be mindful of this and consider changing their travel dates if they show ANY signs of the COVID-19 related symptoms and/or if they suspect having come in contact with someone who has/will test positive for the virus. Given that the Shaka team is so small, as is our weekly guest rotation, we can protect each other by being mindful. Our updated Cancellation Policy takes this into consideration; it’s possible to change or refund (100%) your reservation up to your date of arrival. REQUIREMENTS TO RETURN TO THE US From January 26th those returning to the U.S. will also be required to show a negative COVID result from a test taken within 72 hours of departure. More information here. Our understanding is that international passengers in transit via the U.S. are exempt, although please confirm with your local embassy. Testing options include: - A clinic in Santa Teresa is working with a lab in San Jose to provide PCR tests. Upon arrival, we will take your passport information and schedule your appointment for 72 hours prior to your flight. The clinic charges $150 USD for the test. - Multiple labs are available in San Jose (roughly $100), however, this may mean adding a day/days in the capital at the end of your trip. Results are guaranteed in 12-24 hours. IMPORTANT NOTE: There’s so much information out there about COVID-19, and the last thing you want to do when planning your vacation is read from various sources that are often contradicting. Please reach out to us with any concern or question you might have, we are here to help and provide you with a seamless booking process. We will get back to you as fast as possible, much love, Mona & Giulia.



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What Happens Once We Have Booked You?

Once your completed booking form has been returned along with your booking fee, I will confirm your booking in wiriting.

We will then arrange a date to visit your venue to discuss your day in more detail and choose locations for your wedding photographs. ​ I know that people like to keep in touch, and with being out on location a lot, it isn't always possible for me to answer my phone, but I am always at the end of an email or a message. I understand the importance of communication when it comes to your big day, so I always try to answer any queries as quickly as possible. ​ Approximately 4 weeks prior to your big day I will email you to clarify some finer details such as timings and group photo details. I will then make an schedule for myself and my second photographer to ensure we are in the right place at the right time for you on your day.

An invoice will also be sent to you when your final balance is due, and this date will also be confirmed with you when your bookign has been confirmed.



Are There Any Additional Travel Costs?

A 40 mile round trip is included in your packages at no additional cost, however any additional mileage will be charged at 45p per mile. Where there is more than one service included in your wedding package (e.g. videographer) we do try to travel together when possible, however if this is not possible there will be a travel charge per service.



Do You Have Insurance?

Yes, I do, I have public liability and indemnity insurance with Policy Bee.



What Is A Print Release Form?

As the photographer, I retain the copyright to all photographs taken. The images provided to you are for personal use only and will be provided with a print release form.

The print release form allows you to print any of the photographs you receive however you would like to, whether this be as prints / canvas /wedding album etc. Your print release also allows you to print any copies of the images for any of your family members or guests.

Should you wish to use any of your images from yoru wedding for anything other than personal use you will be required to purchase a commerical release for these.



Do We Need To Provide Food For You On Our Wedding Day?

If my second photographer and I are booked for half day or full day coverage, we will always appreciate it if a small meal and refreshments are provided to help keep our energy levels up. Weddings are expensive so we are more than happy to recive a small meal, we do not expecting to eat the same food as you and your guests during your wedding breakfast. Something such as a small sandwich and a bowl of chips never is more than appreciated.

I do ask that if this is something that you are considering providing to let me know so that we can have a chat about this to prevent any unnecessary illness on your wedding day due to food allergies.



What Happens If You Are Ill On Our Wedding Day?

In the years that I have been photographing weddings, I haven't missed a day yet. ​ However, if circumstances were to arise and I wasn't able to attend your wedding, I would either ask my second photographer to step up for me and call in another second photographer to assist, or I would help you find another photographer if needed. I am also part of a network of photographers that cover each in other in case of an emergency.



I Do Not Like Having My Photo Taken, Is This A Problem?

Not at all. I like most, am not a fan of having my photograph taken and to be honest, I go at grreat lengths to avoid it sometimes.So, I do completley understand when someone tells me that they are not so comfortable in front of the camera.

To reassure you though, my photography style is very natural and relaxed. So I spend most of your day photographing you without you even knowing it. ​ The only times that I will ask you to pose for photographs is during the few group photographs you would like, which will be discussed prior to your day and also during your newly wed portraits. Your newly wed photographs will take place away from your guests, this is to giev you both a little time to catch up with eachother and to help you feel more relaxed. You will find that on yrou wedding day, when you are alone with each other you will be naturally interacting, and this is what I focus on and hwo I capture those all important shots. I will also guide you through these photos in a very painless and fun way by giving you gentle direction if needed, for example, I may say to you hold hands and walk towards me. ​ Once your group ohotograhs and newly wed photographs have taken place, you will then return to your guests and I will continue to photograph your day as I started, in an candid and unobtrusive way which will ensure that you get to enjoy the time with your family and your guests.



Will You Take Any Group Photographs?

Yes, I will, however I do like to keep these to a minimum.

Before your wedding day we will discuss these and make a list of all the group shots you would like. I ask you to allocate at least 30 minutes of your day for these, but no more than 45 minutes. I find people tend to get bored and wonder off if they are stood waiting for group photographs to be taken. I always advise starting with your large group photograph while everyone is in the same area, and then moving on to the smaller group photos. I do ask you to allocate a family member or friend to help gather the required people for these photographs as it makes it easier and flow quicker than me trying to find "Aunt Daisy" in a large group of people when I don't know what she looks like.



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Booking Terms and Conditions

BOOKING INFORMATION
To apply for an AWA Experience a $1000 deposit is due to reserve your space. The remaining amount is paid upon arrival. Private and shared rooms availability are on a first-come, first-served basis. Please book your reservations early to receive your preferred accommodation. We reserve the right to refuse bookings at our discretion.
TRAVEL AND FLIGHT INFORMATION
Please confirm availability with us before booking your flight tickets. AWA doesn't include the airfare and the transportation to and from Mal Pais. We do offer concierge services to help you make all the arrangements needed. If you decide to extend your stay in the area, we can guide you on how to achieve your most desired vacation, from lodging to all sort of inspiring and fun activities. TRAVEL DOCUMENTATION
To enter and exit Costa Rica, you must bring a valid passport with at least 6 months remaining before expiration date. Most of the countries are not required to issue a Visa to enter. During the check-in of your flight, you might be asked to show a return ticket from Costa Rica before 90 days since the arrival date. All clients must have a medical insurance issued by their own travel agent to join any AWA experience. For all requirements related to COVID - 19 please see below on "COVID-19 in Costa Rica" tab.



Covid Cancellation Policy

AWA is following Costa Rican local and republic guidelines about what criteria we must provide to our guests. Rest assured that we are taking COVID seriously and will update our policies as needed. The safety of our staff and guests is our top priority. We have adopted new policies about cancellations or reservation changes to both keep our guests and staff safe during these tough times. We have amended our cancellation policy to offer our guests a choice to either re-book at a later time at no charge or refund 100% of all monies received from guests who cannot fulfill their reservation due to COVID positive tests, country closures, local rules and orders, AWA staff and guest safety concerns, and/or beach access and availability. AWA is currently taking reservations for stays from 02/17/2020 onward under the following conditions: - AWA reserves the right to cancel any reservation up to 24 hours from the arrival date. - AWA will offer a full refund for any cancellation or will offer a free change of date if the guest prefers. - AWA requires all reserved guests to confirm a lack of COVID symptoms 48 hours from arrival. - AWA cannot offer any COVID related refunds once a guest has arrived. - AWA recommends purchasing refundable airline tickets for travel to Costa Rica. We will try our best to keep all information above as current as possible, however, we highly recommend double checking your country’s guidelines and/or local embassy in San José.



Payment Policy

Payments received are only through Paypal, checking account, or cash in person. A 3% fee will be added to all payments made using Paypal.



Activities

All the activities supplied by AWA carry with them a degree of risk both to people and equipment, even though enjoyed under proper supervision by qualified instructors. They are also some activities that require those taking part to have a reasonable standard of health and fitness. All clients must inform of any medical conditions, illnesses or allergies they may have and any prescribed medication they might be taking prior booking. No one should participate in any activity if they are suffering from a heart condition or are pregnant. No client should in any circumstances take part in an activity while under the influence of alcohol, drugs or medication, which may adversely affect their physical abilities.



Liability Release Forms

After reserving your space, we will send out Liability Release Forms for you to fill up and sign before starting the trip. There will be NO exceptions for this policy.



AWA Welcome Kit

Once you book your AWA Retreat, along with your Liability Release Forms, you will receive a Welcome Kit with helpful information you might need for the week. This includes informative description of the area, tips on how to pack, extra activities to explore and much more.



COVID - 19 and Costa Rica

Citizens/residents from ALL countries are currently allowed to enter Costa Rica by air. If you are planning a trip to visit us in Mal Pais/Santa Teresa, there are specific entry requirements that must be met, listed below. REQUIREMENTS TO ENTER COSTA RICA: - Fill out the electronic epidemiological Health Pass form, available at https://salud.go.cr (available 48 hours prior to arrival; requires insurance to be purchased first). - Traveler’s Medical Insurance - international or purchased through Costa Rica via the National Insurance Institute or Sagicor. - For the National Insurance Institute (INS), we’ve found that the English version of their landing page is currently not working. Scroll down and click “COMPRAR” to continue. - INS offers better rates as compared to Sagicor; Trawick International (more below) is currently offering the best rates for coverage that meets the CR requirements. - OR an international insurance policy. Tourists must request a certification from their insurance company, issued in English or Spanish, verifying at least the following three conditions: - Effectiveness of the policy during the visit to Costa Rica. - Guaranteed coverage of COVID-19 related medical expenses, with minimum coverage of $50,000 USD. While the plans offered by Costa Rican entities (linked above) only need to require $20,000 of medical coverage, international plans must meet the $50,000 USD minimum coverage. - Includes a minimum coverage of $2,000 USD for lodging expenses as a result of being placed on quarantine if you become ill during your trip.* *Many international insurance providers that we have researched, called, and vetted do NOT meet the lodging/accommodation requirement, such as: World Nomads and Safety Wing. Passengers who fail to comply with these requirements may not enter the country. Upon landing in Costa Rican territory, travellers must wear face protection and comply with the protocols of the airport with regard to physical distancing and taking temperature readings, and must follow any other sanitary instructions. International Travel Insurance Options: - U.S. Citizens: Trawick International has a policy that meets the requirements available that is far more affordable, depending on trip length and age of the travellers. Choose the “Safe Travels Voyager” option Don’t enter a value for “Insure Your Trip.” - Canadians: Trawick is offering a policy that meets the requirements for non-US citizens. Choose either “Safe Travels International” or “Safe Travels International Cost Saver.” Manulife insurance for bookings made by Aeroplan members does NOT meet the lodging/accommodation requirement. - Rest of World: Trawick is offering a policy that meets the requirements for non-US citizens. Choose either “Safe Travels International” or “Safe Travels International Cost Saver.” COVID TEST: A RT-PCR COVID-19 test with a negative result was required for entry until October 26th, 2020. While this is no longer a requirement for entry, please consider the high percentage of cases worldwide that have been asymptomatic — Help slow the spread and protect those most vulnerable. We ask that anyone with a trip planned to Shaka, or the country itself, be mindful of this and consider changing their travel dates if they show ANY signs of the COVID-19 related symptoms and/or if they suspect having come in contact with someone who has/will test positive for the virus. Given that the Shaka team is so small, as is our weekly guest rotation, we can protect each other by being mindful. Our updated Cancellation Policy takes this into consideration; it’s possible to change or refund (100%) your reservation up to your date of arrival. REQUIREMENTS TO RETURN TO THE US From January 26th those returning to the U.S. will also be required to show a negative COVID result from a test taken within 72 hours of departure. More information here. Our understanding is that international passengers in transit via the U.S. are exempt, although please confirm with your local embassy. Testing options include: - A clinic in Santa Teresa is working with a lab in San Jose to provide PCR tests. Upon arrival, we will take your passport information and schedule your appointment for 72 hours prior to your flight. The clinic charges $150 USD for the test. - Multiple labs are available in San Jose (roughly $100), however, this may mean adding a day/days in the capital at the end of your trip. Results are guaranteed in 12-24 hours. IMPORTANT NOTE: There’s so much information out there about COVID-19, and the last thing you want to do when planning your vacation is read from various sources that are often contradicting. Please reach out to us with any concern or question you might have, we are here to help and provide you with a seamless booking process. We will get back to you as fast as possible, much love, Mona & Giulia.



46_edited.png

Do We Need To Provide Food For You On Our Wedding Day?

If my second photographer and I are booked for half day or full day coverage, we will always appreciate it if a small meal and refreshments are provided to help keep our energy levels up. Weddings are expensive so we are more than happy to recive a small meal, we do not expecting to eat the same food as you and your guests during your wedding breakfast. Something such as a small sandwich and a bowl of chips never is more than appreciated.

I do ask that if this is something that you are considering providing to let me know so that we can have a chat about this to prevent any unnecessary illness on your wedding day due to food allergies.



What Happens If You Are Ill On Our Wedding Day?

In the years that I have been photographing weddings, I haven't missed a day yet. ​ However, if circumstances were to arise and I wasn't able to attend your wedding, I would either ask my second photographer to step up for me and call in another second photographer to assist, or I would help you find another photographer if needed. I am also part of a network of photographers that cover each in other in case of an emergency.



I Do Not Like Having My Photo Taken, Is This A Problem?

Not at all. I like most, am not a fan of having my photograph taken and to be honest, I go at grreat lengths to avoid it sometimes.So, I do completley understand when someone tells me that they are not so comfortable in front of the camera.

To reassure you though, my photography style is very natural and relaxed. So I spend most of your day photographing you without you even knowing it. ​ The only times that I will ask you to pose for photographs is during the few group photographs you would like, which will be discussed prior to your day and also during your newly wed portraits. Your newly wed photographs will take place away from your guests, this is to giev you both a little time to catch up with eachother and to help you feel more relaxed. You will find that on yrou wedding day, when you are alone with each other you will be naturally interacting, and this is what I focus on and hwo I capture those all important shots. I will also guide you through these photos in a very painless and fun way by giving you gentle direction if needed, for example, I may say to you hold hands and walk towards me. ​ Once your group ohotograhs and newly wed photographs have taken place, you will then return to your guests and I will continue to photograph your day as I started, in an candid and unobtrusive way which will ensure that you get to enjoy the time with your family and your guests.



Will You Take Any Group Photographs?

Yes, I will, however I do like to keep these to a minimum.

Before your wedding day we will discuss these and make a list of all the group shots you would like. I ask you to allocate at least 30 minutes of your day for these, but no more than 45 minutes. I find people tend to get bored and wonder off if they are stood waiting for group photographs to be taken. I always advise starting with your large group photograph while everyone is in the same area, and then moving on to the smaller group photos. I do ask you to allocate a family member or friend to help gather the required people for these photographs as it makes it easier and flow quicker than me trying to find "Aunt Daisy" in a large group of people when I don't know what she looks like.



SM-302_edited.jpg

Booking Terms and Conditions

BOOKING INFORMATION
To apply for an AWA Experience a $1000 deposit is due to reserve your space. The remaining amount is paid upon arrival. Private and shared rooms availability are on a first-come, first-served basis. Please book your reservations early to receive your preferred accommodation. We reserve the right to refuse bookings at our discretion.
TRAVEL AND FLIGHT INFORMATION
Please confirm availability with us before booking your flight tickets. AWA doesn't include the airfare and the transportation to and from Mal Pais. We do offer concierge services to help you make all the arrangements needed. If you decide to extend your stay in the area, we can guide you on how to achieve your most desired vacation, from lodging to all sort of inspiring and fun activities. TRAVEL DOCUMENTATION
To enter and exit Costa Rica, you must bring a valid passport with at least 6 months remaining before expiration date. Most of the countries are not required to issue a Visa to enter. During the check-in of your flight, you might be asked to show a return ticket from Costa Rica before 90 days since the arrival date. All clients must have a medical insurance issued by their own travel agent to join any AWA experience. For all requirements related to COVID - 19 please see below on "COVID-19 in Costa Rica" tab.



Covid Cancellation Policy

AWA is following Costa Rican local and republic guidelines about what criteria we must provide to our guests. Rest assured that we are taking COVID seriously and will update our policies as needed. The safety of our staff and guests is our top priority. We have adopted new policies about cancellations or reservation changes to both keep our guests and staff safe during these tough times. We have amended our cancellation policy to offer our guests a choice to either re-book at a later time at no charge or refund 100% of all monies received from guests who cannot fulfill their reservation due to COVID positive tests, country closures, local rules and orders, AWA staff and guest safety concerns, and/or beach access and availability. AWA is currently taking reservations for stays from 02/17/2020 onward under the following conditions: - AWA reserves the right to cancel any reservation up to 24 hours from the arrival date. - AWA will offer a full refund for any cancellation or will offer a free change of date if the guest prefers. - AWA requires all reserved guests to confirm a lack of COVID symptoms 48 hours from arrival. - AWA cannot offer any COVID related refunds once a guest has arrived. - AWA recommends purchasing refundable airline tickets for travel to Costa Rica. We will try our best to keep all information above as current as possible, however, we highly recommend double checking your country’s guidelines and/or local embassy in San José.



Payment Policy

Payments received are only through Paypal, checking account, or cash in person. A 3% fee will be added to all payments made using Paypal.



Activities

All the activities supplied by AWA carry with them a degree of risk both to people and equipment, even though enjoyed under proper supervision by qualified instructors. They are also some activities that require those taking part to have a reasonable standard of health and fitness. All clients must inform of any medical conditions, illnesses or allergies they may have and any prescribed medication they might be taking prior booking. No one should participate in any activity if they are suffering from a heart condition or are pregnant. No client should in any circumstances take part in an activity while under the influence of alcohol, drugs or medication, which may adversely affect their physical abilities.



Liability Release Forms

After reserving your space, we will send out Liability Release Forms for you to fill up and sign before starting the trip. There will be NO exceptions for this policy.



AWA Welcome Kit

Once you book your AWA Retreat, along with your Liability Release Forms, you will receive a Welcome Kit with helpful information you might need for the week. This includes informative description of the area, tips on how to pack, extra activities to explore and much more.



COVID - 19 and Costa Rica

Citizens/residents from ALL countries are currently allowed to enter Costa Rica by air. If you are planning a trip to visit us in Mal Pais/Santa Teresa, there are specific entry requirements that must be met, listed below. REQUIREMENTS TO ENTER COSTA RICA: - Fill out the electronic epidemiological Health Pass form, available at https://salud.go.cr (available 48 hours prior to arrival; requires insurance to be purchased first). - Traveler’s Medical Insurance - international or purchased through Costa Rica via the National Insurance Institute or Sagicor. - For the National Insurance Institute (INS), we’ve found that the English version of their landing page is currently not working. Scroll down and click “COMPRAR” to continue. - INS offers better rates as compared to Sagicor; Trawick International (more below) is currently offering the best rates for coverage that meets the CR requirements. - OR an international insurance policy. Tourists must request a certification from their insurance company, issued in English or Spanish, verifying at least the following three conditions: - Effectiveness of the policy during the visit to Costa Rica. - Guaranteed coverage of COVID-19 related medical expenses, with minimum coverage of $50,000 USD. While the plans offered by Costa Rican entities (linked above) only need to require $20,000 of medical coverage, international plans must meet the $50,000 USD minimum coverage. - Includes a minimum coverage of $2,000 USD for lodging expenses as a result of being placed on quarantine if you become ill during your trip.* *Many international insurance providers that we have researched, called, and vetted do NOT meet the lodging/accommodation requirement, such as: World Nomads and Safety Wing. Passengers who fail to comply with these requirements may not enter the country. Upon landing in Costa Rican territory, travellers must wear face protection and comply with the protocols of the airport with regard to physical distancing and taking temperature readings, and must follow any other sanitary instructions. International Travel Insurance Options: - U.S. Citizens: Trawick International has a policy that meets the requirements available that is far more affordable, depending on trip length and age of the travellers. Choose the “Safe Travels Voyager” option Don’t enter a value for “Insure Your Trip.” - Canadians: Trawick is offering a policy that meets the requirements for non-US citizens. Choose either “Safe Travels International” or “Safe Travels International Cost Saver.” Manulife insurance for bookings made by Aeroplan members does NOT meet the lodging/accommodation requirement. - Rest of World: Trawick is offering a policy that meets the requirements for non-US citizens. Choose either “Safe Travels International” or “Safe Travels International Cost Saver.” COVID TEST: A RT-PCR COVID-19 test with a negative result was required for entry until October 26th, 2020. While this is no longer a requirement for entry, please consider the high percentage of cases worldwide that have been asymptomatic — Help slow the spread and protect those most vulnerable. We ask that anyone with a trip planned to Shaka, or the country itself, be mindful of this and consider changing their travel dates if they show ANY signs of the COVID-19 related symptoms and/or if they suspect having come in contact with someone who has/will test positive for the virus. Given that the Shaka team is so small, as is our weekly guest rotation, we can protect each other by being mindful. Our updated Cancellation Policy takes this into consideration; it’s possible to change or refund (100%) your reservation up to your date of arrival. REQUIREMENTS TO RETURN TO THE US From January 26th those returning to the U.S. will also be required to show a negative COVID result from a test taken within 72 hours of departure. More information here. Our understanding is that international passengers in transit via the U.S. are exempt, although please confirm with your local embassy. Testing options include: - A clinic in Santa Teresa is working with a lab in San Jose to provide PCR tests. Upon arrival, we will take your passport information and schedule your appointment for 72 hours prior to your flight. The clinic charges $150 USD for the test. - Multiple labs are available in San Jose (roughly $100), however, this may mean adding a day/days in the capital at the end of your trip. Results are guaranteed in 12-24 hours. IMPORTANT NOTE: There’s so much information out there about COVID-19, and the last thing you want to do when planning your vacation is read from various sources that are often contradicting. Please reach out to us with any concern or question you might have, we are here to help and provide you with a seamless booking process. We will get back to you as fast as possible, much love, Mona & Giulia.



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