<<Disclaimer: Verify this information before applying it to your situation.>> Hi, I only got a few replies on Costa Rica. Here is what was said. One person said they have similar problems with explaining the diet in the U.S. Certainly a valid point! ------------------------------------------------------------------ I was there in November 2002 and I had a wonderful time and had no problems with the food. We stayed at Tamarindo Bay at the Cala Luna Hotel, this is a 5 star hotel and they were wonderful. We had all our meals at the hotel, they prepared bread, muffins and all my meals were totally gluten free and I had absolutely no problems. The hotel was a short walk from the beach approx 2 mins. through a grove, the beach was beautiful, sandy, and we were able to swim in the water. I will go back one day and would recommend this hotel and this area to any celiacs. --------------------------------------------------------------------- we just spent 16 days in Costa Rica, with Grand Circle Travel. Since we only drink bottled water when we are overseas we didn't have a problem, and we traveled from north to south and west from the Carribean side, at Turtuguero to the Pacific side at Los Suenos and Flamingo Beach. We ate out a lot too, and did OK. I don't think they use much wheat in their cooking ... mostly corn and bean flour. I agree with you that the Ticos do not like confrontation ... much like the Thai people, but they were very kind and helpful. I can reccommend Grand Circle if you ever decide to travel with a group tour, not only because the guides help resolve the dietary problems, but because the value is there. ---------------------------------------------------------------------- Diane,PA * Please include your location in all posts about products *