Welcome to the Costa Rican Classic.

General Information

Costa Rica is a beautiful country with warm friendly people. The national language is Spanish, however most people speak English.  There are multilingual speaking staff at the Barcelo' Hotel's. You will experience amazing fresh foods and a friendliness from the locals along with the national environment friendly consciousness.

Here are some things you should know and plan:

You have several options for the event. Should you wish to arrive early, or come in just for the Pro Events, attend only the dance camp or do it all... All attendees must be on a package and each will receive a welcome to 'Costa Rica' gift bag..  Check out the packages section.

Visa Requirements: Most citizens of foreign countries do not need a visa to travel to Costa Rica for short stays. But please check with the Costa Rica Embassy link on our home page to see if you need any special visas.

There is a Departure tax of $26.00 that you must pay when leaving the country. There is a payment counter at the airport check in area.

The Local currency is Colones, but most places accept US dollars. The Hotel is located 20 minutes from the airport near downtown San Jose. Hotel services available include: gift shopping, restaurants, health club, swimming pool, tennis courts and bars. There are many local shopping centers, however we recommend the 'Galleria' Shopping Plaza which will be nearing completion of its massive extension by February 2010, 10 minutes by taxi.

The Tours we have planned for you whilst here will give you a taste of this wonderful country, we have selected two, we know will give you an unforgettable experience. Just to tempt you here is a little background on the restaurant - Le Monastère

The Monastery, or Le Monastère is a historic building perched high atop one of the nearby mountains over looking Escazú, the San Jose Valley. The restaurant boasts an eclectic history. Originally the home and chapel of an elite family in the early 1900’s, the buildings were later converted into a monastery for religious novitiates (of an unknown denomination). Today, the site hosts one of San Jose’s better known restaurants.

Diners can enjoy a 270-degree view stretching from the Central Valley to the Gulf of Nicoya. The interior is decorated in European tradition with artistic marble statues, exquisite antiques and photographs that record the restaurant’s history. Music is played on a magnificent grand piano. The notes float through the romantic bar into the various dining rooms where customers can dine while enjoying the sparkling lights of the city below.

French and international cuisine is served by hosts attired in 19th century French monk frocks, and customers are often invited to enjoy Gregorian and classical music performed live in the renovated chapel.  Among the selection of appetizers, diners will find classics such as Frog’s Legs Provencale and Bourgogne snails in garlic butter, and international favorites ranging from Sashimi of Mahi Mahi with lemon dressing to Italian Beef Carpaccio.

Chef’s recommendations, like the Deer tenderloin in Grand Veneur sauce, Seabass filet in puff pastry and Noilly sauce, or Wild Boar’s chop in Robert sauce, are featured among the many entrées, along with a variety of daily specials. Diners will be pleased with the fresh local fruits and vegetables that are incorporated into the menu of primarily imported ingredients, adding a touch of the tropics to the traditional cuisine.

A tempting list of desserts will challenge even the most calorie-conscious patron. Choose from an assortment of fresh strawberry dishes, French classics like Crème Brulée, Crepe Suzette, and Tarta Tatin, fresh baked cakes, chocolate mousse and much more.

Sound Good. Wait till you eat there.

We have organized several optional tours for those of you that wish to enjoy more of Costa Rica, our official Partner Travel agency Vacaciones BARCELO', will be more than happy to help you. Check out the link on our home page. Their website is in Spanish but any email requests will be answered in English!

The Barcelo hotel in San Jose offers a great central location to get you started. It is warm and inviting with pleasant surrounding to enjoy the sun, a few cocktails and some wonderful foods. By the way did we tell you the Average temperature in April is 80F... perfect.

There is A fantastic Japanese restaurant at the hotel, where you can enjoy some of the incredible fresh fish dishes and local foods Japanese style.

 

 

 

NO PRICES APPEAR ON THIS WEBSITE! PRICES ARE FOR REGISTERED STUDIO OWNERS/PROFESSIONAL ONLY.

Deadline for entries March 15th.

 

Please Note

Although the hotel is smoke friendly, along with most of Costa Rica, please refrain from smoking in public areas during our event. Smoking is not permitted in the Ballroom or competitors areas.