room block help!

[laxmill11]

I am planning a wedding in costa rica in january of 2011. I found a great small hotel. I would like to reserve a block of rooms (probably around 10-15). However i was disappointed when the hotel said they wanted 50% of the deposit for the rooms a year in advance and the other 50% six weeks prior to arrival. They did offer a 15% discount but i dont know if this is possible for my budget since i will be fronting the money. The hotel is small and i understand they would like some deposit. I was wondering if anyone else has had this issue with other hotels in Costa Rica. Is this typical practice? Any input would be great! Thanks.

[Destination Scout]

I'm not sure about Costa Rica, but a 30% deposit is typical in Mexico. Just be sure to negotiate the refund date. If you have to put 50% down, ask that it be fully refundable until 4-6 months from the arrival date.

[Destination Scout]

I forgot to mention. If you do decide to put down the deposit, make sure you buy travel insurance (or wedding insurance for you non-travel expenses) before sending a large amount money out of the country.