GPS in Costa Rica

[LVLazarus]

My husband would like a portable GPS for use in Costa Rica. Any suggestions on what brand and/or model would be best for CR.
I know many of the rental car agencies offer GPS for an extra fee, but I’m wondering how much is actually mapped. I’m sure there would be many areas where location data would have to be input so would also need a system that allows for that. Any advice would be greatly appreciated.

Muchimas Gracias!
K. Bradway

[*Lotus]

There is a company advertising GPS service in the most recent issue of the Tico times. Go to http://www.ticotimes.net The post’s I have read here were not very positive about the use of GPS in CR. I did recently read a blog by a couple that drove down from Canada and they stated that the GPS worked and proved invaluable in helping them navigate.

Edited on Nov 24, 2007 07:30

[shaun]

I have been using a Garmin Nuvi 350 for the past 7 weeks in Costa Rica, I bought the SmartWays map from Sergio Vargas here in Costa Rica. (I sent my $100 to his office in Florida, then was sent a key code to download the map for my unit). I have to say I am very happy with the system and the local map. The Costa Rica map is not as detailed as the map of the US that comes with the unit, but it will get you where you need to go. It even has voice commands to tell you when to turn, and there are many points of interest loaded in. I understand they are continuing to improve on it, and will give one free update on the program. The detail of San Jose is very good, I would be lost with out it. I’m not related to the company, I am just a very happy customer. You can email Mr. Vargas here: sergio@rsgps.net I would recommend this system to anyone traveling around this country. Shaun.

[bogus1]

We are working with Sergio now, and have been very happy. Because I have Vista on my computer, Sergio has offered to load it into my Garman when we arrive next week. – Always get lost in San Jose and need my GPS.

[LVLazarus]

My thanks to all who responded. It appears there are 2 companies who offer GPS pkgs. One is EZFind & the other is SmartWays (which is Sergio). From what I can find, Sergio was 1st in CR with GPS w/CR mapping for retail and appears to have an agreement with Garmin. He is also the cheaper of the 2 by $100. Needless to say, I will be taking my business to him.
Thanks again for all the help.

Kathryn

[apexit]

Shaun
Sergio says his program will work in any Garmin. What model Garmin would you say is the best bargain? I don’t want to spend a fortune
Thanks
Stan

[bogus1]

I would suggest the Garman Nuvi series. Sergio just loaded the CR map in mine yesterday, and it makes a huge difference.
Pete

[shaun]

Stan
I don’t know enough about the other models that Garmin offers to give you a good answer. I bought the Nuvi 350, not cheap, but I liked the features it offered. Go to their website and check out the differences. They seem to have a very good product line. Good luck, Shaun.

Edited on Dec 15, 2007 19:25

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