Frequently Asked Questions
Costa Rica Adventure Teen Travel Tour
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How old are the teenagers on Costa Rica Adventure?
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Our participants are currently in 9th – 11th grades.
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How many teenagers will be in my group?
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We can accommodate up to 36 teenagers on Costa Rica Adventure.
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Where do the kids come from?
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Over the past few summers, Rein Teen Tours had travelers from over 35 states and 14 foreign countries. We love bringing people together!
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Should I come with a friend? Is it ok to travel on my own?
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The most rewarding part of a Rein tour is making new friends. While we do allow friends to travel together, Rein Teen Tours makes each group a cohesive family. Along with safety and supervision, group dynamics is a main focus each day of our trips. Whether our travelers come alone or come with a friend, we strive to ensure that each person thrives socially.
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Can I pick my roommate?
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In order to make sure each teenager is comfortable in the beginning of his/her program, we assign roommates for the first stop of the tour. Upon request, friends who come together can placed in the same room for those assigned days. Most hotel rooms accommodate 2-3 people per room and every person is guaranteed his/her own bed. After the first few nights, it’s up to you to choose your roommates throughout the summer. You can change for each and every stop on your teen tour!
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Can I bring my cell phone?
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Yes, you can bring your cell phone. Cell service is generally good in Costa Rica and we recommend you speak with your provider regarding international calling planes. To ensure that cell phone use doesn’t interfere with your experience, we have cell phone policies that will be shared with you and your parents prior to your departure.
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Who are the counselors and how are they trained?
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We hire the BEST staff for each of our programs! We interview, reference check, and perform background checks on all our eligible applicants. We hold mandatory orientation sessions each Spring where our counselors are trained on how to create the greatest summer for all our teenagers, with a focus on safety and group dynamics. The majority of our counselors are in their mid-to-late twenties to early thirties and many return summer after summer. All our staff live in the U.S. and are certified in First Aid and CPR.
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What if I don’t feel comfortable doing a certain activity while in Costa Rica?
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Our counselors encourage each participant to have an open mind and a willingness to try new things. We will never pressure you, though, to do anything that you do not feel comfortable with.
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What should I pack?
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Costa Rica is in a tropical environment, so clothing that is light and breathable works best. We run a very casual program, so think shorts, t-shirts, flip-flops, and sneakers. Each participant receives a detailed packing list prior to the summer, so you’ll know exactly what to bring!
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How does laundry work?
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Once per week we drop everyone’s laundry at a local laundromat. By the next day, your clothing is nicely clean and folded.
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What kind of transportation is used in Costa Rica?
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We utilize a regular size coach bus for all transportation throughout the program.
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Do I need a passport or visa to enter Costa Rica?
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A valid passport is required to enter Costa Rica. To be valid, the expiration date of your passport should be at least one day after the planned date of return. A visa is not required for a U.S. citizen to enter Costa Rica. Please note that requirements can change at any time for reasons beyond our control and it is the responsibility of the traveler to verify appropriate documentation.
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What if I get sick while in Costa Rica?
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Medical facilities in Costa Rica are fairly advanced and are found in each destination throughout our itinerary. For any situation that requires medical attention, your parents will be notified as soon as possible and a counselor will take you to a nearby clinic or hospital. Your parents are kept up-to-date on developments during and after any medical visit. If you are unable to participate in an activity, a counselor of the same sex will stay back with you at your hotel.
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What vaccinations do I need?
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Rein Teen Tours does not require special vaccinations for our Costa Rica programs. You should be up-to-date, though, with your routine vaccines and your COVID-19 vaccination. We also recommend that you follow the guidelines of the Center for Disease Control (CDC) and consult with either a physician who specializes in international travel or with your family physician. Prior to the summer we will provide a summary of the CDC recommendations.
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I’m a picky eater. Will I find enough to eat?
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The food in Costa Rica is plentiful, diverse, and fresh. You’ll dine at a mix of local eateries and international restaurants. We can satisfy the pickiest of eaters and we are happy to discuss your individual requirements with you before the summer.
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How do you handle allergies and special dietary needs?
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We are able to accommodate teenagers who have allergies and dietary needs. Prior to the summer, all participants are required to complete a detailed medical history. If you have a particular allergy, please call the Rein Teen Tours office so we can discuss an allergy action plan.