Easter Week is nearly upon us and already retailers and hoteliers are trying to maximize their Holy Week profits.  The local press this week warned that hotels are almost fully booked and reminded consumers of past consumer complaints relating to hotels.  Most of the complaints are tied to false advertising or hidden charges.  Phantom swimming pools, surcharges, “lost” reservations and higher than advertised prices are all common during this ultra peak week.

Back in the capital and local markets, Holy Week products are flooding the shelves. Heart of Palm, Salmon, and “chiverre” honey are all prominently displayed.  You can still get canned products at reasonable prices 2 weeks out from the key dates, but INCOPESCA (Fisheries Institute) divulged that prices traditionally rise 30% for Holy Week.

Hugo Solano, INCOPESCA spokesman, explained that supply remains constant, but demand skyrockets and merchants take advantage. So, a Sea Bass filet in Puntarenas costs consumers 3000 colones per kilo, while in the Central Market of San José, it costs  ¢5,676 per kilo. In Alajuela, the price of Sea Bass was ¢4,500 per kilo.

The Consumer Protection Ministry reminded shoppers to compare prices and brands, which vary widely from shop to shop.