Archive for the 'Vacations' Category
The Best Costa Rica Vacation Spots
Monday, September 11th, 2006The unspoiled paradise that is Costa Rica offers something for everyone. As you plan your getaway to this tropical destination, consider your options…
•   For the outdoor enthusiast [www.caravan.com]
With naturalist guides, see exotic birds and wildlife, hike in jungle rainforests, view volcanoes, soak in hot springs and cruise through biological reserves, home to one of the last natural habitats of the playful rare squirrel monkey. Walk or swim at the three pristine beaches, rated among the top ten in the world.
•   For the sport fishing enthusiast [www.ecotourismresorts.com]
Charter 16-foot Jon boats and work the rivers and back waters; climb aboard a powerful 20-footer to fish in shore and along the river mouths; visit exclusive virgin areas in the rain forest and discover a whole new concept in sports fishing; arrange offshore packages that include first class hotel, transfers and some of the worlds
best fishing for Marlin and Sailfish.
•   For the natural history buff [www.costaricaexpeditions.com]
Take in the historic sites and visit Poas Volcano, dormant since 1991. See a banana plantation. Enjoy a relaxing soak in the volcanic hot springs. See the nearby Arenal Volcano’s softly glowing lava flow. Visit Sarchi and see the painted ox carts and colorful handicrafts. See the metallic church of Grecia. Visit a coffee plantation. Pick a few beans when in season. Sample fresh Costa Rican coffee and learn about the history of the coffee bean.
•   To experience life in the rain forest [www.rainforesttours.com]
Glide through the jungle canopy on the world famous rainforest aerial tram. With a naturalist guide, enjoy a rainforest hike or walk a nearly 300 foot long suspension bridge over a jungle river. Enter a cloud forest reserve, home to epiphytes, orchids, ferns and tropical birds and look for hummingbirds in the feeding gallery.
•   For the wildlife enthusiast [www.caravan.com]
Cruise through rivers and canals to the 47,000 acre Tortuguero Park. Look for toucans, kingfishers, parrots and the rare green macaw. Tour canals lined by raffia palm, habitat of howler and white-faced monkeys, green iguanas and tropical birds. Look for white and snowy egrets and the amazing nests of the Montezuma Oropendola. Visit the Green Turtle Research Station. Learn about efforts to protect the turtle’s nesting habitat, eggs and young hatchlings. Walk along the Atlantic turtle nesting beaches with a naturalist guide. Visit a butterfly garden. Cruise on the Rio Frio through the world famous Caño Negro wildlife refuge. Look for whistling ducks, cormorants, anhingas, blue heron, roseate spoonbills and northern jacanas. Watch for caimans, crocodiles, spider monkeys and web-footed water-walking lizards. Carara Biological Reserve is one of the world’s few nesting places for the scarlet macaw. Look for toucans and trogons.
•   Crocodile Bay Spa Resort [www.crocodilebay.com]
For the person who wants to be pampered, book a spa getaway and enjoy mud and aloe facials, cleansing masks and massages designed to melt all your worries away.
•   For the surfer getaway [centralamerica.com/cr/surf/surfmap.htm]
Whether you choose the Caribbean or the North, Central or South Pacific Coast, there are 37 surf breaks and a detailed map to help you plan your route. Surf’s Up and waiting for you, dude!
•   No one enjoys Costa Rica more than kids [travelwithkids.about.com]
Check out specially priced packages with waterfalls, volcanos and beaches for families with children.
