top of page
The Villa Mariana
Tropical. Modern. Luxury.
FAQ's
ReservationsRates & PaymentsVilla Accommodations & AmenitiesSafetyLocation & Getting AroundThings To DoChef ServiceFood & AlcoholTipping
Yes, our concierge, Lenin, can arrange for the villa to be pre-stocked with groceries and essentials prior to your arrival, allowing for a seamless transition upon check-in. Simply provide your shopping list after booking, and he will procure the items locally. Please note that pre-stocking is limited to non-perishable goods and a modest selection of perishables to maintain freshness, while our chef handles fresh ingredients for your included meals.
Items Lenin Can Pre-Stock
Non-Perishables: Pantry essentials such as coffee, tea, snacks, paper products, or breakfast items to ensure the group has basic provisions.
Limited Perishables: Modest quantities of fresh goods, including milk, eggs, or fruit, selected to preserve quality during transport.
Fresh Ingredients and Chef Services
Our chef manages all perishable items for the included meals (up to two per day), sourcing the highest-quality produce from Quepos markets or the marina as required throughout your stay. This eliminates concerns about spoilage.
Guidance on Alcohol
We advise against requesting alcohol pre-stocking through Lenin, as local prices in Quepos and Manuel Antonio are 40-50% higher than those at the San José (SJO) Airport duty-free shop. Purchasing there provides significant savings for beverages to enjoy during your stay.
This service is designed to enhance your comfort from the outset. Upon booking, we will introduce you to Lenin to review and refine your list—he can also recommend local specialties.
Yes, restocking groceries at Villa Mariana is straightforward and convenient. With assistance from our concierge and reliable local options, you can easily obtain what you need. Most guests choose pre-stocking for convenience upon arrival, but we offer several alternatives. Here are your primary options:
Pre-Stock with Lenin: Request that your concierge prepare the villa with essentials before your arrival, including pantry staples, basic supplies, or limited perishable items. Simply provide your list after booking, and he will arrange everything locally for a smooth check-in.
Grocery Delivery from Super Joseth: This trusted local supermarket provides delivery directly to the villa on request. The contact number is posted on the kitchen wall—place your order in advance for prompt service.
Important Notes: Ensure someone is available in the kitchen or dining room to open the electronic gate when the delivery arrives. Payments can be made in USD or colones (change will be provided in colones if paying in USD). After delivery, escort the representative back to the gate, release it, and close it securely.
Visit Nearby Stores (If You Have a Rental Car): Several supermarkets, such as Pali or Auto Mercado, are located in Quepos and Manuel Antonio, approximately 10-15 minutes away by car. Lenin can supply precise directions using Waze or other navigation tools.
Additionally, if you need specific ingredients or items during your stay, inform our chef well in advance (not just one hour before). With ample notice, the chef can source the products locally and incorporate them into his next shopping trip, saving you the effort.
These options ensure you can focus on enjoying your stay. Contact Lenin for assistance with lists, estimates, or transportation—he is available to coordinate as needed.
Purchasing alcohol for your stay at The Villa Mariana is straightforward, but careful planning can help you avoid higher local costs. Prices in Manuel Antonio are typically 40-50% higher than at duty-free shops. Note that Costa Rica's legal drinking age is 18, and alcohol sales are not permitted from midnight to 10 a.m. daily.
Important Note on Pre-Stocking
We advise against requesting that Lenin pre-stock liquor or wine, as all purchases are made locally and subject to these markups. For example, a 1.75-liter bottle of Tito's Vodka costs approximately $100 in Manuel Antonio, compared to $35-40 in your home country or $40 at duty-free. However, local beers are affordable and can be pre-stocked by Lenin without issue.
Recommended Purchasing Options
Prioritize duty-free shops for liquors and wines, as they offer better value and a reliable selection of standard items.
Option 1: Duty-Free at Your Departure Airport (For Specialty Items Only) Consider this for unique products, such as flavored vodkas, that may be difficult to find in Costa Rica.
Limit: Up to 5 liters per person (ages 18+), strictly enforced on your inbound flight.
Recommendation: This is generally not the best choice unless necessary—opt instead for the SJO airport for greater variety and no restrictions.
Option 2: Duty-Free at SJO Airport Upon Arrival (Recommended) Shop immediately after passport control for convenience and competitive pricing.
No Quantity Limit: You may purchase as much as needed; these items do not count toward the 5-liter import allowance.
Examples: Tito's Vodka (1-liter bottle ~$26, 1.75-liter ~$35-40); wines and champagnes are often 20-50% less than local prices. Availability may vary based on flight schedules.
Additional Guidance
Liquor and Wine: The SJO duty-free shop provides the most economical option, as local supermarkets and liquor stores charge 40-50% more.
Champagne: Duty-free offers superior value, though the difference is slightly less pronounced locally.
Beer: Local brands like Imperial or Pilsen are inexpensive (~$2-4 per can) and readily available—request pre-stocking through Lenin for convenience.
If Supplies Run Low: Local supermarkets in Manuel Antonio can deliver, though prices will be higher than duty-free. Lenin can arrange transportation if needed.
These strategies will help you manage costs effectively. After booking, contact Lenin for beer suggestions or assistance with airport transfers—he will ensure a smooth process.
bottom of page