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Wild Ginger Herbal Center welcomes
The Herbalist's Studio with Ayo Ngozi
May 4-11, 2023 in the Caribe Sur of Costa Rica
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Trip Itinerary
Thursday May 4
2:30 Meet outside Juan Santamaria San Jose Airport and depart for Wild Ginger Herbal Center
Stop & Eat Dinner Along the Way (bring $ for dinner)
8 or 9 pm Arrival
Friday May 5
9:00am Breakfast
9:30 Welcome Orientation and Tour of Manzanillo
12:00 Group Lunch
2:00 Natural Plant Dyes Part 1 with Ayo
6:00 Group Dinner
Sat May 6
8:00am Breakfast
9:00 Farmer’s Market with Molly and free time in Puerto Viejo
1:00pm Group bus back to Manzanillo (not mandatory)
Free Day and Evening - Enjoy the Weekend!
Sun May 7
7:00 am Breakfast
8:00 Bush Medicine of the Caribe Sur Walk with Alda
12:00 Lunch / Free time
3:00 Natural Plant Dyes Part 2
6:00 Group Dinner
Free studio / free evening
Mon May 8
8:00 - Breakfast
9:00 Herbal Jewelry Making with Ayo
11:00 Lunch / Free time
3:00-6:00 Natural Incense Making with Ayo
6:00 Group Dinner
Free studio / Free evening
Tuesday May 9
8:00 Breakfast
9:00 Visit to BriBri Indigenous Plant Medicine & Chocolate Making
12:30 Group Lunch & Break
Free studio / Free afternoon
6:00 Group Dinner
Wednesday May 10
8:00 am Breakfast
9:00 am Natural Papermaking
12:00 Group Lunch and Break
1:00 Natural Papermaking
5:00 Traditional Caribbean Cooking Class with Alda & Despedida Dinner
Thursday May 11
4:30 AM Group Shuttle Leaves to San Jose Airport (estimated arrival at 9:30 am to airport - we cannot gaurantee road conditions or traffic so cannot be held responsible for missed flights. We recommend booking flights no earlier than 12:30pm that day, again the arrival time is not a guarantee due to circumstances out of our control)
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Registration:
Cost: $1399
*please be very sure you can attend all payments are final, non refundable and non transferable.
Please read full registration details below the registration form before registering!
Cost: $1399
*please be very sure you can attend all payments are final, non refundable and non transferable.
Please read full registration details below the registration form before registering!
How to Register:
Email Us: at [email protected] your waiver form below.
We ask that everyone who registers for Wild Ginger Programs please read and agree to our Values and Agreements.
Click Here to Read and Sign!
Print, Sign and Send us Photo of Waiver Form Below:
Email Us: at [email protected] your waiver form below.
We ask that everyone who registers for Wild Ginger Programs please read and agree to our Values and Agreements.
Click Here to Read and Sign!
Print, Sign and Send us Photo of Waiver Form Below:
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Registration Details
Cost: $1399
Includes Transportation To and From San Jose Juan Santamaria Airport to Our Center, 5 nights stay at our rustic herbal center, all meals listed, and all classes and materialsincluded in the event. Price does not include your flight to and from Costa Rica.
Payment Schedule:
$600 Deposit
$359 Due April 1, 2023
$450 cash payment onsite upon arrival at Wild Ginger Center (in clean, unripped $20 - no larger bills can be accepted)
All Payments are final, non refundable and non-transferable
Important Info:
12 spots available - these spots are filling quickly!
*To register please download the above waiver form below, sign and return as attachment via email to [email protected]
(Shared rooms may have 3 or 4 people in them, you may choose your roomates or if you sign up as a single we will assign your roomate/s, there are bunk beds)
What's included In Your Trip:
The price includes your transportation to and from your lodging in Costa Rica, as well as rustic "glamping" accomodations in Costa Rica, each of the classes and tours (and transportation to and from said tours) outlined on the itinerary. PRICE DOES NOT include flight to and from Costa Rica.
Please read the Disclaimer:
*COVID-19 Disclaimer - *If participants contract or test positive for COVID-19 during the trip they will be required to quarantine separately from the group. Medical costs, care, as well as the the cost of separate accommodations in nearby hotel and or separate transportation to and from airport is not covered by Twin Star Herbal Education or Wild Ginger Herbal Center, and will be the responsibility of participant. We can provide a list of local accommodations as well as trusted private transportation if needed.
Please read the Disclaimer:
**All participants must be 18 years of age or older unless with a legal guardian.
** Please note, by registering for this tour you acknowledge Wild Ginger Herbal Center acts only as agents for the various independent suppliers that provide hotel accommodations, transportation, sightseeing, activities, or other services connected with this tour. Such services are subject to the terms and conditions of those suppliers. Wild Ginger Herbal Center and their respective employees, agents, representatives, and assigns accept no liability whatsoever for any injury, damage, loss, accident, delay, or any other incident which may be caused by the negligence, defect, default of any company or person in performing these services. Responsibility is not accepted for losses, injury, damages or expenses of any kind due to sickness, weather, strikes, hostilities, wars, terrorist acts, acts of nature, local laws or other such causes. All services and accommodations are subject to the laws and regulations of the country in which they are provided. Wild Ginger Herbal Center is not responsible for any baggage or personal effects of any individual participating in the tours / trips arranged by Wild Ginger Herbal Center. Individual travelers are responsible for purchasing a travel insurance policy, if desired, that will cover some of the expenses associated with the loss of luggage or personal effects as well as their personal health insurance policy. Wild Ginger Herbal Center is not responsible for providing your health insurance or healthcare while on the trip, are not responsible for any flight cancellations or changes to your personal travel itinerary not provided by the trip. The itinerary and schedule are available on www.wildgingerherbalcenter.com and the exact activities may change slightly based on weather while on the trip. Occasionally weather can become an issue and we reserve the right to not participate in a certain activity if it is deemed unsafe due to weather (boat ride etc) but we will replace that activity with another of equal value.
Accomodations:
Staying onsite at Wild Ginger Herbal Center our rustic wooden cabina located in the Caribbean of Costa Rica. We live very very simple and rustic, our house has electricity, and is equipped with WIFI internet that will be slower than you are used to if you are from the US. We do not use chemicals to spray our home, thus in the tropics we have little geckos that will be indoors, they're your friends they eat mosquitos! Sometimes there are ants, etc, be prepared to be in community with nature! We provide communal rooms with single beds for our apprentices and guests, fans in each room, and bathroom. Great place for relaxing, Our classroom is right onsite at Wild Ginger Herbal Center and our humble site is home to medicinal and edible plants. You're are one block to the beach and we make sure you have lots of relax and self care time while you are here. We do not provide laundry services on site, however you can pay to do laundry at a couple locations around town during your stay here. Additionally we utilize comparable rooms at a neighboring cabina in order to accomodate our groups beyond our capacity on site at Wild Ginger Herbal Center.
Expectations & Respect:
We expect those that apply for this program to have an true interest and excitement for plant medicine. We ask that everyone show up on time to all classes and activities in order to honor each other as well as our teachers and facilitators. When coming to Wild Ginger Herbal Center openness and respect are central. All people are welcome and we celebrate life in all our beautiful manifestations and forms. We expect people of diverse paths to come here with respect for each other, we have an expectation of generative communication when faced with challenges that can arise when living together during intensive communal experiences in new environments. All people of varying class, color, culture, disability, ethnicity, gender identity and expression, immigration status, political ideology, race, sex, sexual orientation and religious, non-religious, or spiritual beliefs are welcome at Wild Ginger Herbal Center and we seek to build a life affirming community space.
Foods:
Our focus is on eating an abundant healthy and whole foods based diet rich in local fruits, veggies, rice, beans, and plantains are central to our diet, and sometimes we get local cheese, meats, yogurt, fish, eggs. While we encourage everyone to participate and share in meals together, we are able to be creative if there is a serious food allergy/food need.
Money:
Make sure to bring enough US Dollars to last you at least the first few days of the trip including stopping for a snack on your way down to us. Do not bring bills larger than $20, and make sure they are not ripped or in poor condition or folks will not accept them. Our town has no ATM, and the closes one is about 12 kilometers away. Everyone accepts US Dollars here, but again in the same town as the ATM there is a money exchange you can exchange your dollars for colones. in our area. While we provide your food for all indicated meals during your time with us, and we provide drinking water during our programs, you are responsible for any extras you might need, including snacks etc etc. If you want to buy souveniers/personal care items etc you are responsible for those as well. Our town does have a few small shops "pulperias", two of which accept credit cards.
Call Your Bank!
*MAKE SURE TO CALL YOUR BANKS AND LET THEM KNOW YOU WILL BE IN COSTA RICA* - This will ensure your card does not get shut off for suspicious activity.
What to Bring:
An open mind, heart, and soul! A true openess and interest in plants and folk medicine, in learning the traditional medicine of the people of Talamanca, Costa Rica. Remember our cabinas at Wild Ginger Herbal Center are rustic and very simple, we try to live as simply and in tune with nature as possible. We do not have air conditioning and we live simply in a way very much like our local community members. Coming on this trip and life in the Caribbean here is an opportunity to go with the flow and enjoy a slower and more simple lifestyle - that is part of the medicine of your time here. Most people when they talk about the rainy season it actually refers to the pacific side, which has a very distinct rainy season, 6 months dry, 6 months wet. We will be on the Caribbean side, and while yes it rains, it is more evenly balanced through out the year. That doesn't mean it won't rain, because it certainly can and probably will. As far as clothes, bring light weight stuff that dries easily, it is HUMID! Bring a good pair of shoes to hike with that you dont mind getting muddy, and flip flops, and whatever else you'd like to have with you. Cotton tshirts and shorts are great, a rain jacket, bathing suit, towel for the beach (please do not bring hotel towels to the beach), are all great. Yoga mat if you'd like. BUG SPRAY is important to your comfort here, thankfully we do not have Zika virus etc in our area, however here in the Caribbean we do indeed have mosquitos. So bring repellent that works well for you! Bring natural bug spray if you're into that because you can't get that down there or whatever type of repellent that is actually effective for you, any personal care items you need we recommend you bring with you. Bring any regular medications/supplements you use. Bring SUNSCREEN! A hat. Sunglasses. As far as a laptop - there is internet in town so you're welcome to bring it, just depends how connected you'd like to be! It's another thing to travel with and to be conscious of while you're on buses etc. But it can be convenient, so that is totally your decision. Outlets there are the same as the US, no converter is needed. Also please remember pens and note pads for note taking. Come prepared with clothing appropriate for tropical heat and tropical rain. Sandals, Sun protection, waterbottle, hats, etc. Bathing suit, towels and sarongs. We provide bath towels but you have to bring your own towel for the beach. A first aid kit, headlamp or flashlight, any prescriptions you need. Boots suitable for getting muddy walking in the jungle or on farms, rain jacket with hood. While many people take this opportunity to "unplug" you may feel like bringing a wifi accesible device to use while onsite. These are your responsibility and while traveling we always recommend traveling without valuable goods, but take good care of what you do decide to bring. Long and short pants, long and short sleeves. Personal care products. We do not have laundry onsite but there are places in the area you may pay to get your clothes washed and cleaned. We cannot stress enough how bringing what you need to protect you from bugs will make your stay more comfortable, the struggle is real with mosquitos, sometimes sand fleas and more. These vary depending on the time of year, but we encourage you to bring protection with you!
Donations Needed:
We are truly appreciative of those who are able to bring with them donations of HERBAL BOOKS, plant clippers, garden gloves, Dr. Bronners, tea tree essential oil, beeswax, lavender essential oil, activated charcoal tablets, wide mouth quart size mason jars with lids (plastic lids are best so they don't rust in the tropics), bandaids of all sizes, gauze, ace bandages, gauze, brown tincture bottles 1/2 oz, 1oz, 2oz, and 4oz, yoga mats, towels, books, sketchbooks, art supplies, sheets (single or double), tapestries, massage table, good cookware (hard to get around here!) Bulk organic teas by the pound are super appreciated especially red raspberry leaf, oatstraw, and nettles.
What's included In Your Trip!
The price includes your stay at Wild Ginger Herbal Center in Manzanillo. Accomodations are rustic, simple, basic, have wifi, hot water for showers, and are shared. Each of the classes and tours (and transportation to and from said tours) outlined on the itinerary. PRICE DOES NOT include flight to and from Costa Rica.
How to Pay:
Please read the Disclaimer:
**All participants must be 18 years of age or older unless with a legal guardian.
** Please note, by registering for this tour you acknowledge Wild Ginger Herbal Center acts only as agents for the various independent suppliers that provide hotel accommodations, transportation, sightseeing, activities, or other services connected with this tour. Such services are subject to the terms and conditions of those suppliers. Wild Ginger Herbal Center and their respective employees, agents, representatives, and assigns accept no liability whatsoever for any injury, damage, loss, accident, delay, or any other incident which may be caused by the negligence, defect, default of any company or person in performing these services. Responsibility is not accepted for losses, injury, damages or expenses of any kind due to sickness, weather, strikes, hostilities, wars, terrorist acts, acts of nature, local laws or other such causes. All services and accommodations are subject to the laws and regulations of the country in which they are provided. Wild Ginger Herbal Center is not responsible for any baggage or personal effects of any individual participating in the tours / trips arranged by Wild Ginger Herbal Center. Individual travelers are responsible for purchasing a travel insurance policy, if desired, that will cover some of the expenses associated with the loss of luggage or personal effects as well as their personal health insurance policy. Wild Ginger Herbal Center is not responsible for providing your health insurance or healthcare while on the trip, are not responsible for any flight cancellations or changes to your personal travel itinerary not provided by the trip. The itinerary and schedule are available on www.centroashe.org and the exact activities may change slightly based on weather while on the trip. Occasionally weather can become an issue and we reserve the right to not participate in a certain activity if it is deemed unsafe due to weather (boat ride etc) but we will replace that activity with another of equal value.
Weather/What to Bring/Communication While There
Most people when they talk about the rainy season it actually refers to the pacific side, which has a very distinct rainy season, 6 months dry, 6 months wet. We will be on the Caribbean side, and while yes it rains, it is more evenly balanced through out the year. That doesn't mean it won't rain, because it certainly can and possibly will. We'll just have to do our best for the tour and respect nature - we'll need to be flexible. As far as clothes, bring light weight stuff that dries easily, it is HUMID! Bring a good pair of shoes to hike with that you dont mind getting muddy, and flip flops, and whatever else you'd like to have with you. Cotton tshirts and shorts are great, a rain jacket, bathing suit, towel, are all great. Yoga mat if you'd like. Bring natural bug spray if you're into that because you can't get that down there, however natural/organic shampoos/soaps/lotions are available. Bring any regular medications/supplements you use. Bring SUNSCREEN! A hat. Sunglasses. Waterbottle (we will provide potable water as you all shouldn't drink out of the taps there). As far as a laptop - there is internet in town so you're welcome to bring it, just depends how connected you'd like to be! It's another thing to travel with and to be conscious of while you're on buses etc. But it can be convenient, so that is totally your decision. Outlets there are the same as the US, no converter is needed, and you have a few options for making phone calls. You can purchase a cell phone at the airport, not exactly sure how much those cost but I know they are available. The other very simple options is to use the phone cards there, they sell them at most convenient stores ("supers" or "pulperias") and they are in increments of about 2000 or 5000 colones (about $10) . 5000 colones buys you about 18 minutes of talk time to the US, its great to have for quick conversations, and these can be used from any public or private phone in Costa Rica. If you do bring a laptop then you can use that to Skype or GoogleCall to the states as well, MUCH better rates.
General Health- Malaria, while common in parts of the tropics, is really not issues in Talamanca. Dengue is a very rare issue, but as it is more prevelent in highly populated areas - and there is no prevention besides mosquito protection.
We do ask that you bring a basic first aid kit for yourself, as well any basic immunity support from natural health aids, including vitamin c, iburprofen, tea tree oil, lavender oil, grapefruit seed extract, charcoal tablets, acidophilus or other probiotic supplements, EFA's, and homeopathic remedies for bites, stings, sunburns, and digestive issues. Certain vaccines are required when traveling from certain countries, please check before booking your travel to make sure you are able to comply with all requirements.
Air Travel
You are responsible for purchasing your own airfare as well as your transportation to Manzanillo, Costa Rica. You can check out various travel websites, many times www.kayak.com will have good deals. You will need to fly into San Jose, the capitol of Costa Rica. If you fly in and need to stay the night in San Jose we love Costa Rica Backpackers, or Hotel Aranjuez, as well as Costa Rica Guesthouse. Costa Rica Backpackers is an inexpensive hostel type environment, pretty young crowd. Hotel Aranjuez is gorgeous, in expensive private hotel rooms, amazing buffet breakfast outdoors under a mango tree, but their reservation process can sometimes be tricky, check their website for more details. Costa Rica Guesthouse is directly across the street from Costa Rica Backpackers, it has clean nice private rooms, and reservations online are simple.
** Please note that if you are from the United States upon entering Costa Rica you do not need a special visa if you are coming from the US, however you need proof of exit (a plane ticket, bus ticket etc you have pre purchased and printed) within three months of the date you enter. Do not forget to print your return ticket and keep it with you. You also need a valid US passport.
**Please also note that the travel time and bus schedule between San Jose, the capitol where you fly in, and Manzanillo the town where we will meet is about 5 hours. Generally do not plan to fly out of San Jose and travel to and from to Manzanillo the same day, unless otherwise noted. We can help suggest places to stay, or you can stay in San Jose. The same issue goes for the way back, you must go to San Jose the day before you choose to fly out to allow yourself enough time. Contact us with questions!
Coming from the San José Airport - we suggest you book a shuttle (well beforehand) with Caribe Shuttle or Interbus!
Money -
There is a counter to change money at the airport just before you exit the building on the left. You should change at least $80 into colones when you land for traveling. Please note Puerto Viejo is the closes town to Manzanillo with an ATM, so do not plan on waiting until arriving in Manzanillo to exchange money. There is also an ATM at the bus station in San Jose you go to to get here. . Nearly all businesses in Costa Rica accept dollars but it’s always best to have local currency. The exchange rate fluctuates and is between 490-510 colones to the dollar - so roughly when you're thinking about it in your head about 500 colones to a dollar.
Food - We serve an abundance of beautiful Caribbean and Latin inspired foods during this trip which includes lots of rice, beans, salads, fruits, veggies, beans and rice. Meals tend to be pretty heavy, but in case you need extra snacks there are several small farmers markets in town.
Water - We do not recommend drinking local water once you are in Manzanillo, you will need to purchase water at the local shops in town, it is available in several gallon bottles and you can use these to refill your water bottles. We will provide filtered water at your meals. Tap water in San Jose is safe to drink though we do not recommend drinking the water in the Caribbean.
Cost: $1399
Includes Transportation To and From San Jose Juan Santamaria Airport to Our Center, 5 nights stay at our rustic herbal center, all meals listed, and all classes and materialsincluded in the event. Price does not include your flight to and from Costa Rica.
Payment Schedule:
$600 Deposit
$359 Due April 1, 2023
$450 cash payment onsite upon arrival at Wild Ginger Center (in clean, unripped $20 - no larger bills can be accepted)
All Payments are final, non refundable and non-transferable
Important Info:
12 spots available - these spots are filling quickly!
*To register please download the above waiver form below, sign and return as attachment via email to [email protected]
(Shared rooms may have 3 or 4 people in them, you may choose your roomates or if you sign up as a single we will assign your roomate/s, there are bunk beds)
What's included In Your Trip:
The price includes your transportation to and from your lodging in Costa Rica, as well as rustic "glamping" accomodations in Costa Rica, each of the classes and tours (and transportation to and from said tours) outlined on the itinerary. PRICE DOES NOT include flight to and from Costa Rica.
Please read the Disclaimer:
*COVID-19 Disclaimer - *If participants contract or test positive for COVID-19 during the trip they will be required to quarantine separately from the group. Medical costs, care, as well as the the cost of separate accommodations in nearby hotel and or separate transportation to and from airport is not covered by Twin Star Herbal Education or Wild Ginger Herbal Center, and will be the responsibility of participant. We can provide a list of local accommodations as well as trusted private transportation if needed.
Please read the Disclaimer:
**All participants must be 18 years of age or older unless with a legal guardian.
** Please note, by registering for this tour you acknowledge Wild Ginger Herbal Center acts only as agents for the various independent suppliers that provide hotel accommodations, transportation, sightseeing, activities, or other services connected with this tour. Such services are subject to the terms and conditions of those suppliers. Wild Ginger Herbal Center and their respective employees, agents, representatives, and assigns accept no liability whatsoever for any injury, damage, loss, accident, delay, or any other incident which may be caused by the negligence, defect, default of any company or person in performing these services. Responsibility is not accepted for losses, injury, damages or expenses of any kind due to sickness, weather, strikes, hostilities, wars, terrorist acts, acts of nature, local laws or other such causes. All services and accommodations are subject to the laws and regulations of the country in which they are provided. Wild Ginger Herbal Center is not responsible for any baggage or personal effects of any individual participating in the tours / trips arranged by Wild Ginger Herbal Center. Individual travelers are responsible for purchasing a travel insurance policy, if desired, that will cover some of the expenses associated with the loss of luggage or personal effects as well as their personal health insurance policy. Wild Ginger Herbal Center is not responsible for providing your health insurance or healthcare while on the trip, are not responsible for any flight cancellations or changes to your personal travel itinerary not provided by the trip. The itinerary and schedule are available on www.wildgingerherbalcenter.com and the exact activities may change slightly based on weather while on the trip. Occasionally weather can become an issue and we reserve the right to not participate in a certain activity if it is deemed unsafe due to weather (boat ride etc) but we will replace that activity with another of equal value.
Accomodations:
Staying onsite at Wild Ginger Herbal Center our rustic wooden cabina located in the Caribbean of Costa Rica. We live very very simple and rustic, our house has electricity, and is equipped with WIFI internet that will be slower than you are used to if you are from the US. We do not use chemicals to spray our home, thus in the tropics we have little geckos that will be indoors, they're your friends they eat mosquitos! Sometimes there are ants, etc, be prepared to be in community with nature! We provide communal rooms with single beds for our apprentices and guests, fans in each room, and bathroom. Great place for relaxing, Our classroom is right onsite at Wild Ginger Herbal Center and our humble site is home to medicinal and edible plants. You're are one block to the beach and we make sure you have lots of relax and self care time while you are here. We do not provide laundry services on site, however you can pay to do laundry at a couple locations around town during your stay here. Additionally we utilize comparable rooms at a neighboring cabina in order to accomodate our groups beyond our capacity on site at Wild Ginger Herbal Center.
Expectations & Respect:
We expect those that apply for this program to have an true interest and excitement for plant medicine. We ask that everyone show up on time to all classes and activities in order to honor each other as well as our teachers and facilitators. When coming to Wild Ginger Herbal Center openness and respect are central. All people are welcome and we celebrate life in all our beautiful manifestations and forms. We expect people of diverse paths to come here with respect for each other, we have an expectation of generative communication when faced with challenges that can arise when living together during intensive communal experiences in new environments. All people of varying class, color, culture, disability, ethnicity, gender identity and expression, immigration status, political ideology, race, sex, sexual orientation and religious, non-religious, or spiritual beliefs are welcome at Wild Ginger Herbal Center and we seek to build a life affirming community space.
Foods:
Our focus is on eating an abundant healthy and whole foods based diet rich in local fruits, veggies, rice, beans, and plantains are central to our diet, and sometimes we get local cheese, meats, yogurt, fish, eggs. While we encourage everyone to participate and share in meals together, we are able to be creative if there is a serious food allergy/food need.
Money:
Make sure to bring enough US Dollars to last you at least the first few days of the trip including stopping for a snack on your way down to us. Do not bring bills larger than $20, and make sure they are not ripped or in poor condition or folks will not accept them. Our town has no ATM, and the closes one is about 12 kilometers away. Everyone accepts US Dollars here, but again in the same town as the ATM there is a money exchange you can exchange your dollars for colones. in our area. While we provide your food for all indicated meals during your time with us, and we provide drinking water during our programs, you are responsible for any extras you might need, including snacks etc etc. If you want to buy souveniers/personal care items etc you are responsible for those as well. Our town does have a few small shops "pulperias", two of which accept credit cards.
Call Your Bank!
*MAKE SURE TO CALL YOUR BANKS AND LET THEM KNOW YOU WILL BE IN COSTA RICA* - This will ensure your card does not get shut off for suspicious activity.
What to Bring:
An open mind, heart, and soul! A true openess and interest in plants and folk medicine, in learning the traditional medicine of the people of Talamanca, Costa Rica. Remember our cabinas at Wild Ginger Herbal Center are rustic and very simple, we try to live as simply and in tune with nature as possible. We do not have air conditioning and we live simply in a way very much like our local community members. Coming on this trip and life in the Caribbean here is an opportunity to go with the flow and enjoy a slower and more simple lifestyle - that is part of the medicine of your time here. Most people when they talk about the rainy season it actually refers to the pacific side, which has a very distinct rainy season, 6 months dry, 6 months wet. We will be on the Caribbean side, and while yes it rains, it is more evenly balanced through out the year. That doesn't mean it won't rain, because it certainly can and probably will. As far as clothes, bring light weight stuff that dries easily, it is HUMID! Bring a good pair of shoes to hike with that you dont mind getting muddy, and flip flops, and whatever else you'd like to have with you. Cotton tshirts and shorts are great, a rain jacket, bathing suit, towel for the beach (please do not bring hotel towels to the beach), are all great. Yoga mat if you'd like. BUG SPRAY is important to your comfort here, thankfully we do not have Zika virus etc in our area, however here in the Caribbean we do indeed have mosquitos. So bring repellent that works well for you! Bring natural bug spray if you're into that because you can't get that down there or whatever type of repellent that is actually effective for you, any personal care items you need we recommend you bring with you. Bring any regular medications/supplements you use. Bring SUNSCREEN! A hat. Sunglasses. As far as a laptop - there is internet in town so you're welcome to bring it, just depends how connected you'd like to be! It's another thing to travel with and to be conscious of while you're on buses etc. But it can be convenient, so that is totally your decision. Outlets there are the same as the US, no converter is needed. Also please remember pens and note pads for note taking. Come prepared with clothing appropriate for tropical heat and tropical rain. Sandals, Sun protection, waterbottle, hats, etc. Bathing suit, towels and sarongs. We provide bath towels but you have to bring your own towel for the beach. A first aid kit, headlamp or flashlight, any prescriptions you need. Boots suitable for getting muddy walking in the jungle or on farms, rain jacket with hood. While many people take this opportunity to "unplug" you may feel like bringing a wifi accesible device to use while onsite. These are your responsibility and while traveling we always recommend traveling without valuable goods, but take good care of what you do decide to bring. Long and short pants, long and short sleeves. Personal care products. We do not have laundry onsite but there are places in the area you may pay to get your clothes washed and cleaned. We cannot stress enough how bringing what you need to protect you from bugs will make your stay more comfortable, the struggle is real with mosquitos, sometimes sand fleas and more. These vary depending on the time of year, but we encourage you to bring protection with you!
Donations Needed:
We are truly appreciative of those who are able to bring with them donations of HERBAL BOOKS, plant clippers, garden gloves, Dr. Bronners, tea tree essential oil, beeswax, lavender essential oil, activated charcoal tablets, wide mouth quart size mason jars with lids (plastic lids are best so they don't rust in the tropics), bandaids of all sizes, gauze, ace bandages, gauze, brown tincture bottles 1/2 oz, 1oz, 2oz, and 4oz, yoga mats, towels, books, sketchbooks, art supplies, sheets (single or double), tapestries, massage table, good cookware (hard to get around here!) Bulk organic teas by the pound are super appreciated especially red raspberry leaf, oatstraw, and nettles.
What's included In Your Trip!
The price includes your stay at Wild Ginger Herbal Center in Manzanillo. Accomodations are rustic, simple, basic, have wifi, hot water for showers, and are shared. Each of the classes and tours (and transportation to and from said tours) outlined on the itinerary. PRICE DOES NOT include flight to and from Costa Rica.
How to Pay:
Please read the Disclaimer:
**All participants must be 18 years of age or older unless with a legal guardian.
** Please note, by registering for this tour you acknowledge Wild Ginger Herbal Center acts only as agents for the various independent suppliers that provide hotel accommodations, transportation, sightseeing, activities, or other services connected with this tour. Such services are subject to the terms and conditions of those suppliers. Wild Ginger Herbal Center and their respective employees, agents, representatives, and assigns accept no liability whatsoever for any injury, damage, loss, accident, delay, or any other incident which may be caused by the negligence, defect, default of any company or person in performing these services. Responsibility is not accepted for losses, injury, damages or expenses of any kind due to sickness, weather, strikes, hostilities, wars, terrorist acts, acts of nature, local laws or other such causes. All services and accommodations are subject to the laws and regulations of the country in which they are provided. Wild Ginger Herbal Center is not responsible for any baggage or personal effects of any individual participating in the tours / trips arranged by Wild Ginger Herbal Center. Individual travelers are responsible for purchasing a travel insurance policy, if desired, that will cover some of the expenses associated with the loss of luggage or personal effects as well as their personal health insurance policy. Wild Ginger Herbal Center is not responsible for providing your health insurance or healthcare while on the trip, are not responsible for any flight cancellations or changes to your personal travel itinerary not provided by the trip. The itinerary and schedule are available on www.centroashe.org and the exact activities may change slightly based on weather while on the trip. Occasionally weather can become an issue and we reserve the right to not participate in a certain activity if it is deemed unsafe due to weather (boat ride etc) but we will replace that activity with another of equal value.
Weather/What to Bring/Communication While There
Most people when they talk about the rainy season it actually refers to the pacific side, which has a very distinct rainy season, 6 months dry, 6 months wet. We will be on the Caribbean side, and while yes it rains, it is more evenly balanced through out the year. That doesn't mean it won't rain, because it certainly can and possibly will. We'll just have to do our best for the tour and respect nature - we'll need to be flexible. As far as clothes, bring light weight stuff that dries easily, it is HUMID! Bring a good pair of shoes to hike with that you dont mind getting muddy, and flip flops, and whatever else you'd like to have with you. Cotton tshirts and shorts are great, a rain jacket, bathing suit, towel, are all great. Yoga mat if you'd like. Bring natural bug spray if you're into that because you can't get that down there, however natural/organic shampoos/soaps/lotions are available. Bring any regular medications/supplements you use. Bring SUNSCREEN! A hat. Sunglasses. Waterbottle (we will provide potable water as you all shouldn't drink out of the taps there). As far as a laptop - there is internet in town so you're welcome to bring it, just depends how connected you'd like to be! It's another thing to travel with and to be conscious of while you're on buses etc. But it can be convenient, so that is totally your decision. Outlets there are the same as the US, no converter is needed, and you have a few options for making phone calls. You can purchase a cell phone at the airport, not exactly sure how much those cost but I know they are available. The other very simple options is to use the phone cards there, they sell them at most convenient stores ("supers" or "pulperias") and they are in increments of about 2000 or 5000 colones (about $10) . 5000 colones buys you about 18 minutes of talk time to the US, its great to have for quick conversations, and these can be used from any public or private phone in Costa Rica. If you do bring a laptop then you can use that to Skype or GoogleCall to the states as well, MUCH better rates.
General Health- Malaria, while common in parts of the tropics, is really not issues in Talamanca. Dengue is a very rare issue, but as it is more prevelent in highly populated areas - and there is no prevention besides mosquito protection.
We do ask that you bring a basic first aid kit for yourself, as well any basic immunity support from natural health aids, including vitamin c, iburprofen, tea tree oil, lavender oil, grapefruit seed extract, charcoal tablets, acidophilus or other probiotic supplements, EFA's, and homeopathic remedies for bites, stings, sunburns, and digestive issues. Certain vaccines are required when traveling from certain countries, please check before booking your travel to make sure you are able to comply with all requirements.
Air Travel
You are responsible for purchasing your own airfare as well as your transportation to Manzanillo, Costa Rica. You can check out various travel websites, many times www.kayak.com will have good deals. You will need to fly into San Jose, the capitol of Costa Rica. If you fly in and need to stay the night in San Jose we love Costa Rica Backpackers, or Hotel Aranjuez, as well as Costa Rica Guesthouse. Costa Rica Backpackers is an inexpensive hostel type environment, pretty young crowd. Hotel Aranjuez is gorgeous, in expensive private hotel rooms, amazing buffet breakfast outdoors under a mango tree, but their reservation process can sometimes be tricky, check their website for more details. Costa Rica Guesthouse is directly across the street from Costa Rica Backpackers, it has clean nice private rooms, and reservations online are simple.
** Please note that if you are from the United States upon entering Costa Rica you do not need a special visa if you are coming from the US, however you need proof of exit (a plane ticket, bus ticket etc you have pre purchased and printed) within three months of the date you enter. Do not forget to print your return ticket and keep it with you. You also need a valid US passport.
**Please also note that the travel time and bus schedule between San Jose, the capitol where you fly in, and Manzanillo the town where we will meet is about 5 hours. Generally do not plan to fly out of San Jose and travel to and from to Manzanillo the same day, unless otherwise noted. We can help suggest places to stay, or you can stay in San Jose. The same issue goes for the way back, you must go to San Jose the day before you choose to fly out to allow yourself enough time. Contact us with questions!
Coming from the San José Airport - we suggest you book a shuttle (well beforehand) with Caribe Shuttle or Interbus!
Money -
There is a counter to change money at the airport just before you exit the building on the left. You should change at least $80 into colones when you land for traveling. Please note Puerto Viejo is the closes town to Manzanillo with an ATM, so do not plan on waiting until arriving in Manzanillo to exchange money. There is also an ATM at the bus station in San Jose you go to to get here. . Nearly all businesses in Costa Rica accept dollars but it’s always best to have local currency. The exchange rate fluctuates and is between 490-510 colones to the dollar - so roughly when you're thinking about it in your head about 500 colones to a dollar.
Food - We serve an abundance of beautiful Caribbean and Latin inspired foods during this trip which includes lots of rice, beans, salads, fruits, veggies, beans and rice. Meals tend to be pretty heavy, but in case you need extra snacks there are several small farmers markets in town.
Water - We do not recommend drinking local water once you are in Manzanillo, you will need to purchase water at the local shops in town, it is available in several gallon bottles and you can use these to refill your water bottles. We will provide filtered water at your meals. Tap water in San Jose is safe to drink though we do not recommend drinking the water in the Caribbean.