When you arrive at the newly remodeled Juan Santamaría airport, the Customs check requires you to push a button in a red light/green light system. If the light goes red, they look in your luggage. Airport security has tightened noticeably after September, 2001, and delays are more common.

On your return to the United States you can bring in goods, valued at US $400 per person, duty free. Canadians are allowed CAN $500. Fruit and uncanned foodstuffs are forbidden. Thankfully, coffee is allowed. Costa Rican coffee is heavenly.

US residents may not bring Cuban cigars back into the States Residents of other countries should check with their Customs office. We sincerely hope that archaic embargo is ended by the time you read this. Archeological artifacts or items made from endangered species are strictly forbidden.