If you have a computer, there are several options for sending and receiving e-mail messages. Many students have a CompuServe or America On-line account when they arrive. Local telephone numbers do exist to provide Internet access (for AOL there is a charge of $.20/min.).

Also, there are local Internet providers here in Costa Rica whose quality is as good, if not better than the quality found in the states.  An account can be established with them when you arrive. 

Prices for local ISP's for unlimited access on dial-up connections are approximately $15 per month for residential users.  Local calls are billed by the minute so this adds an additional amount to the cost of using the internet.