FAQs
What household items should I bring?
1
Most household items are provided for in the apartments. If you have a favorite item that you don’t want to live without, bring it. One thing not provided for is a Kitchen Aid mixer which some people wish they had. A hand mixer is provided in every apartment.
What medications should I bring?
2
Medications are easily obtained in Costa Rica but they don’t always have the exact brand or milligrams. If you have medications that need to be exact, bring them. IMG will let you buy 6 months at a time.
Is the water safe to drink?
3
The water is safe to drink in most places in Costa Rica. Cincel does provide 5- gallon jugs of water to whoever feels more comfortable drinking bottled water.
What are the modes of transportation?
4
Modes of transportation are Uber, Taxi, Bus and occasionally the train. Uber seems to work the best for most students.
Is there a gym nearby?
5
There is a gym within walking distance of Cincel.
Are there washers and dryers available?
6
Each apartment building has 2 washers and 2 dryers.
What stores are available?
7
Walmart and PriceSmart (similar to Sams & Costco) will have most everything you will need. We have smaller stores that are in walking distance, like Fresh Market and Auto Mercado that have food and a variety of other things. But those stores are more expensive.
Is there Internet in the apartments?
8
Yes, there is very good Internet in every apartment.
I have a baby. Do I need to bring a playpen/crib?
9
No - CINCEL has cribs for your little ones, as well as high chairs. However, you will need a car seat. Best option for you is the stroller/car seat combination.
What about vaccination records?
10
Yes! Please bring them! Please make sure your family is up to date on all their vaccinations. In case of small children/babies, they can fulfill their vaccination requirements here, under the doctor that works with CINCEL.
When can I purchase my airline ticket?
11
You must first have financial clearance before you purchase your airline ticket. This will be through your itineration/account specialist.
Can I use travel totes?
12
Please check with your airline. Many students have used totes without any problem. Also, stay informed with the country's requirements, as they can change without warning.
What about health care/doctors?
13
We are close to Clinica Biblica, one of Costa Rica's best hospitals. We work directly with Dr. John Longworth, one of Clinica's long-standing MDs. Interesting FYI: Doc Longworth is an MK, born and raised here in Costa Rica.
Do I need to bring Costa Rican money?
14
No. In fact, various places accept US dollars. Even so, most people use ATMs to withdraw cash in Costa Rican Colones.
Who will meet us at the airport?
15
Our driver Luis will be there either with a CINCEL sign, or one of our staff will be there to greet you. You will be advised prior to your flight.
What is the best way to communicate with CINCEL?
16
WhatsApp is the way staff and students communicate with each other. If you don't have our numbers, write us below.