Automobile Rentals

Major international car rental agencies and private car rentals are conveniently located all over San José. Most rental agencies operate like those in the United States. The cost of renting a vehicle depends on the year, model and make of car. You must be at least 21 years old and have a valid driver's license, an American Express, Visa or Master Card or be able to leave a large deposit. Remember, insurance is extra, mandatory by law and quite expensive.

Always phone or make arrangements for car rentals well in advance. For a list of car rental agencies, see the phone directory we have provided in the back of this book, the yellow pages or The Tico Times for ads. We recommend Prego Rent-A-Car, which offers all kinds of vehicles to meet your every need. Unlike many car rental companies, they give generous discounts.

The Tico Times has ads for private drivers or chauffeurs. This is a good alternative to taxis but can be expensive. We know quite a few people who do not like to drive and prefer to hire private drivers instead of taking taxis whenever they have to do errands or other business.

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AARP Magazine

Christopher Howard's The New Golden Door to Retirement and Living in Cost Rica, is important when doing research about moving to Costa Rica.

By Hillary Chura
New York Times
July 30, 2005