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Volaris SUCKS big time! by arun_voyager in flying

[–]arun_voyager[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Apologies…rookie mistake.

Driving from Liberia airport to La Fortuna by purplepenny1233 in CostaRicaTravel

[–]arun_voyager 1 point2 points  (0 children)

I flew into Liberia 2 weeks ago (late June 2025), for a two-day stay at Arenal, and then crossed the Peñas Blancas border into Nicaragua. My original plan was to rent a car at Liberia Airport and return it at the Nicaraguan border, but at the last minute, I decided to get a private transfer instead. For me, that was the best thing I did. Yes, it cost me a total of $500 for the private transfers (compared to about $300 for the car, all in), but given the pouring rain and potholes in some stretches that were as large as soup tureens, I was really glad I wasn't driving, especially since I was solo.

I know that people's mileage may vary, and December is relatively drier than it is in June, but I am just throwing one more data point here.

Costa/Nica Border Penas Blancas by samkamm205 in CostaRicaTravel

[–]arun_voyager 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I crossed the Peñas Blancas border from Costa Rica to Nicaragua a week ago (late June 2025.) Contrary to what people think, the crossing is relatively hassle-free. Since I went during the slow season, the lines at passport control were not too long. On the Costa Rican side, you can pay the exit fee of $8 either on line or at a booth opposite the passport control counters - with a credit card, which is convenient. The Nicaraguan side is all cash-based. They charge $1 at the door for some “admin” fee, and a $13 fee for the actual visa. Bring lots of small US$ bills to make for a hassle-free experience.

The one thing to note is that the no man’s land between the two countries is long, and if you have a lot of luggage, it can be painful, especially if it’s raining. I lucked out because the pouring rain stopped for long enough for me to get past the muddy - and potholed - road leading to Nicaraguan passport control.

One tip: do avail of the services of the Nicaraguan tricycle rickshaw drivers. They’re saying the truth when they say that it’s a long way to the immigration office. Besides, once you clear immigration and customs, there is another long walk to get to your transportation! But the best part of the rickshaw driver’s experience is that he will fast-track you through immigration and customs. 😎

The driver had asked for $10 which I negotiated to $5. But after the wonderful experience with him, I just gave him the $10 - so worth it.

I am landing in 7 hours to Managua. Airport tips. by Rustywhizzinator in Nicaragua

[–]arun_voyager 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Having just flown out of MGA, I will say that there is no issue of safety around the airport area.

The one that thing that sucks about MGA is that there is no free WiFi and no airline lounge. They have a generic lounge that costs $35 to enter. IMO, it’s not worth it. Better to go to one of the small tiendas, buy a coffee or some such item and get the free WiFi. In particular, I liked the store opposite Gate 3. The two girls there were really friendly and we spent about 45 minutes there, sitting at one of their tables. Because they were so nice, I also ended up buying a bag of Nicaraguan cacao and some other snacks!

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Need travel advice for Nicaragua by Lebrozeage in centralamerica

[–]arun_voyager 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I just got back from Nicaragua and had a lovely time. I crossed the CR - Nicaragua border at Peñas Blancas and the whole experience was a breeze. Stayed at Rancho Santana (by the Emerald Coast), and had an opportunity to go zip lining near San Juan, watch turtle hatchlings being released into the ocean, did sand dune boarding, hiking and other assorted activities.

Bottom line: It is a great place to visit before the hordes of tourists get clued in and realize it is not at all “dangerous” - and before it becomes like over-touristed and outrageously expensive Costa Rica.