For nearly two decades, tiny Costa Rica has been a favorite vacation destination for Americans, Canadians and, increasingly, Europeans. Merely as big as West Virginia, its many attractions are world-famous: more than 1600 kilometers of uncrowded coastlines on two oceans; parks and reserves covering 25 percent of its land area; and an incredible diversity of fauna and flora.

Volcanoes, terrific angling, some of the best surfing anywhere, whitewater river rafting or family rafting adventures, ziplining 80 feet in the top of tropical canopies, and, of course, nightlife for adults. What happens here stays here, unless you want to brag about your adventures in My Space.

There is a Costa Rica vacation fitting everybody’s budget. For the rich and famous (or wanting to vacation in high style) , there are places like the Real Intercontinental Hotel, Papagayo Four Seasons Resort and Los Suenos Resorts. But, if these are too expensive, you can travel Costa Rica quite easily on a smaller budget. Here is how.

1. Experienced travelers can save 20 percent on accommodations by traveling off season

a. Budget travelers should avoid Peak Season, of which there are two: Easter week and Christmas. Christmas through New Years week (December 15-January 5) and Easter Week are Peak Season for two groups of tourists: overseas visitors and locals. Summer vacation for Costa Rica schools begins in December and tens of thousands of Ticos head to the most popular beaches. Easter week is another very popular vacation period for locals. They will find the cheapest bargains. For you, prices will still be way better than in Florida or Cannes but your money will go much farther at other times.

b. High Season extends from January through April coinciding with winter in North America and Europe . Many tourists travel Costa Rica during this time to escape the dreary days at home, a fact not lost on resorts and hotels. Though prices in this Latin American country are less than in Florida, Arizona, and the Texas coast, Snowbirds get plucked a bit more than during off-season (just like back home).

c. The experienced bargain travel seeker will take pains to travel to Costa Rica during the Green (Low) Season because the very best travel and accommodation bargains are found then. Unfortunately, some travelers mistakenly take it for granted that it rains every day though, indeed, most days are sunny and warm. Typically rains last an hour or so and occur in the afternoon or early evening. Many college students and families from the northern countries visit between June and mid-August but prices are good and accommodations available in most places. For the very best travel (airplane) and accommodation prices come between September through mid-November. Savings of 20-35 percent off High Season prices often await.

2. If you plan to rent a car, think ahead and save $25 a day

Many visitors reserve a car online before they come and are distressed to learn when they arrive that the rental agency plans to impose an additional fee of $25 or more per day for liability insurance! Informed travelers never pay that money because it is unnecessary, provided three rules are followed. Rule 1: If your home vehicle policy provides liability coverage, that insurance is good in Costa Rica. Recommendation: bring a copy of the policy along with the fax and email of your insurance agent and save that money for your vacation. Rule 2: Many credit cards offer a little known benefit: liability insurance coverage for rentals when the card is used. Contact your credit card company before you travel for best results. Rule 3: Be polite but informed. If you don’t have the insurance info the first day, have your agent fax your coverage as quickly as possible. After all, it is your money. Budget travel can be fun, particularly when you do not pay for unnecessary insurance that you already have.

3. Save at least five percent on things you buy because Cash is King

Many Costa Rica merchants welcome dollars over credit cards and when asked for a cash discount will offer 5 percent or more. You need to ask :”Que (pronounced “K”) es discuento por efectivo?” which means “What is the discount for cash?” Be sure the bills are new and not defaced with even a tiny tear. And, bring $20 and $50 bills. Many restaurants, merchants, and hostels cannot break a $100 bill.

4. Do not accidentally pay two tips in a restaurant and save 10 percent

Many Costa Rica restaurants, particularly those serving foreign visitors, automatically include a 10 percent tip (called “servicio”) on a bill. They are required by law to note that charge on the menu but few bars or restaurants do so and are rewarded by unknowing foreigners who leave a second tip. It is up to you, the budget travel patron, to pay attention to your bill. If you are in doubt, ask if the tip (“servicio”) is already included on the bill. Over the course of a vacation, this little tip can save you serious money.

About the author: Vic Krumm writes about spectacular Costa Rica. Visit his acclaimed website about Costa Rica Vacations and see why Costa Rica Tourism is world-famous.