FAQ – ticatime

TicaTime Retreat – Frequently Asked Questions

Registration & Payments

How do I reserve my spot?

You can register on the bookings page. A $500 deposit is required to reserve your spot. A second payment is due before July 30, 2025 (50% of the retreat cost MINUS you initial deposit). Full payment is due by September 15, 2025.

What forms of payment are accepted?

We accept PayPal payments, and credit card payments via PayPal. A confirmation email will be sent once your payment is received.

Accommodations & Special Requests

What are the room options?

Private Room: A room to yourself.
– Shared Room with a Fellow Participant: Two Queen beds; ideal for solo travelers open to sharing.
– Shared Room with a Non-Participant Partner: Your partner is welcome to join you and enjoy ALL non-crafting activities.

Can I extend my stay at the resort?

Yes, the resort is an excellent location to enjoy Costa Rica at its finest! To add nights before or after the retreat, email the hotel directly at: grupos@hotelparador.com.

I have accessibility needs. What should I do?

The classroom is on the second floor of the main building but there is a wheelchair accessible ramp. For any other issues, we’ll do our best to accommodate! Email ticatime@proton.me with your requests.

What if I have dietary restrictions?

The Parador Resort’s kitchen staff is experienced in accommodating a wide range of dietary needs. Please let us know your restrictions in advance, and the hotel will work with you to ensure your meals are safe, satisfying, and delicious.

Retreat Activities & Amenities

Are the programs identical for each retreat?

Yes, except that the order of the days will change slightly between the first and second crochet retreats. We will send you a detailed schedule in November 2025 with the exact itinerary.

Can my non-knitting partner participate in activities?

Absolutely! Partners are invited to all non-crafting activities including meals, the nature park tour, the catamaran excursion, and the Gala dinner and salsa class.

What else can my partner do at the resort?

Options include:
– Relax at the spa or pool
– Use the fully equipped exercise room
– Play pool, table tennis or video games
– Book a massage or enjoy drinks with a view
– Play pickle ball or take a pickle ball lesson
– Go Pacific sport fishing

Will my room have air-conditioning?

Yes, all rooms and resort areas are fully air-conditioned. This includes our classroom.

What is your cancellation policy?

Before July 30, 2025: Full refund minus $250 per person
– July 30 – September 30, 2025: 50% deposit non-refundable
– After September 30, 2025: No refund unless a replacement is found

Do I need travel insurance?

We strongly recommend trip cancellation, interruption, and out-of-country health insurance for peace of mind.

Travel & Packing

What should I pack?

We suggest bringing:
– Comfortable walking shoes
– Swimwear and sunscreen
– Mosquito repellent
– A refillable water bottle
– Dressy outfit and shoes for Gala night

Do I need a visa or vaccinations?

Check with your government’s foreign travel office for up-to-date info on visas and recommended vaccinations for Costa Rica.

Money & Currency

What currency is used in Costa Rica?

The hotel and most surrounding establishments accept both American dollars and the Costa Rican colon.

Are ATMs available nearby?

Yes, there’s an ATM about 10 minutes from the resort, and 7 more in Quepos (20 minutes away).

Arrival & Departure

How do I get to the resort from the airport?

The packages include an air-conditioned minibus transfers from Juan Santamaria International Airport (SJO) in San José. If you are arriving early or staying later, the hotel can help you arrange transportation. Contact: grupos@hotelparador.com.

When should I arrive?

Please arrive before 3:00 p.m. on Day 1. If your flight lands later, we encourage you to arrive the day before and stay overnight at a nearby hotel (e.g., Hilton Garden Inn at City Mall with free shuttle service). This will remove much of the stress associated with traveling.

What happens at the end of the retreat?

You’ll be driven back to SJO right after breakfast on Day 5.

If I arrive early or stay later, is transport still provided?

No. If you extend your stay outside retreat dates, you’ll need to arrange your own transport to and from the resort. The hotel can help you. Email: grupos@hotelparador.com.

What if my flight is delayed or cancelled?

We recommend arriving a day early to avoid travel disruptions. Consider an overnight stay at an airport hotel with shuttle service.

Media & Connectivity

Will there be Wi-Fi at the resort?

Yes, free Wi-Fi is available throughout the resort, including your room and common areas.

Can I use my phone in Costa Rica?

Most international phones work in Costa Rica with roaming, but charges may apply. Consider getting a local eSIM or international plan if you need consistent connectivity. Alternatively, you can use the hotel’s wifi for Facetime and What’sapp calls.

Workshop & Materials

Do I need to bring my own supplies?

We will provide everything you need for the retreat. This includes: an extra large project bag, scissors and a scissors cage, a measuring tape, materials for the classes and an exclusive design and materials for the design. However if you have a favorite set of crochet hooks and/or needles, please bring them!

Will there be time for personal crafting projects?

Yes! Outside of structured sessions, you’ll have free time to relax and work on personal projects. The hotel has many amazing indoor and outdoor spaces to relax, socialize and craft.

Language & Culture

Is English widely spoken in Costa Rica?

Yes, especially in tourist areas like Parador Resort. Most staff and tour guides speak English fluently.