The cuisine in Costa Rica offers a kaleidoscope of tastes, flavors and textures – from the national dish of “gallo pinto,” to its succulent array of tropical fruits. Translated as “spotted rooster,” gallo pinto is a savory combination of rice, red or black beans, diced cilantro and hefty splash of Lizano sauce (similar to Worcestershire). It’s healthy, vegetarian-friendly, and you’ll find this staple in every restaurant and soda across the nation. If you’re searching for authentic – and inexpensive – food on your next Costa Rica vacation, pay a visit to any one of these family-owned cafes known as sodas for some delicious, home-cooked fare. You’ll find sodas in towns both large and small, so whether you’re staying in popular beach towns like Manuel Antonio and Tamarindo, or off the tourist trail, be sure to try some of these tasty cheap eats.

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Casado: a lunchtime specialty

For a satisfying, stick-to-your-ribs kind of meal, opt for a casado – which also means “married” in Spanish. One of the country’s most popular lunches, a casado will set you back between $4 and $6 and offers generous servings of rice, beans, cabbage salad, picadillo (minced potato or squash with herbs, spices, and sometimes chopped beef) and your choice of meat – chicken, pork, fish, or beef. Every soda has their own variation of the casado, which may also include tortillas, plantains or mashed potatoes. Be sure to try several to see which you like best! (more…)

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More than 250,000 tourists visit Manuel Antonio National Park every year, and considering its powdery white-sand beaches and incredible biodiversity, it’s not hard to understand why. This popular attraction is just one of several in the stunning surfside town of Manuel Antonio. With so many glorious Costa Rica beaches to choose from, why do so many travelers flock here? In short, Manuel Antonio offers something for everyone – fantastic adventures, pulsating nightlife, amazing wildlife and a wonderful selection of ocean view vacation rentals and luxury villas that cater to the whole family.

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Quick access from San Jose

Thanks to the recently constructed Caldera highway, travelers can access Manuel Antonio in less than three hours by car.  Not fast enough for you? Hop on a regional flight from San Jose – choose between carriers Nature Air or SANSA – and you’ll be in neighboring Quepos in less than 30 minutes. (more…)

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Dozens of free-flowing rivers carve a path through Costa Rica’s terrain culminating in breathtaking waterfalls that invite travelers for a day of swimming, nature watching and relaxation. When planning your next vacation, consider a tour to one of these majestic cascades for a day of family fun. Quad tours, rainforest treks and horseback rides are all exciting ways to access these national treasures.

La Fortuna Waterfall Eco Tour

Check out our Villas we have to offer in the La Fortuna Area

Situated in the shadow of Arenal Volcano – one of the planet’s ten most active volcanoes – the bustling town of La Fortuna attracts thousands of visitors every year with its adrenaline-pumping tours and magnificent cascade that tumbles some 200 feet into an aquamarine pool. When taking a tour to the La Fortuna Waterfall, be sure to wear your swimsuit as the cool waters will beckon you for a refreshing swim. Most travelers arrive on a guided trip, either on horseback or an ATV excursion. From the entrance, a steep but well-marked path leads down to the falls. The 15-minute trek is worth the effort, as travelers are rewarded with stunning views and surrounding countryside. (more…)

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This amazing villa has breathtaking ocean views with beautifully landscaped tropical gardens. The private pool is 20×40 ft and is also located right on the shores of Potrero Bay. One can take a dip in the pool, take a walk down the beach, or just sit back relax and enjoy the wonderful tropical surroundings. It is also an easy walk to restaurants, local grocery stores, and shops.

There are 2 private balconies in the upstairs bedrooms area that is great for relaxing and reading a book. The Home Theater Room has a 63” HDTV wide screen with surround sound, stocked movies for every age group, or for watching TV. The kitchen is fully equipped with a large eat-in island, gas range stove top with oven, and dishwasher. A formal dining room allows for holiday dinners. The wood paneled library comes stocked with books and there is broadband internet conection. A roof top “Widows Walk” provides amazing views of your surroundings and star gazing at night.

For more information contact Escape Villas on info@villascostarica.com

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Playa Santa Teresa, Costa Rica, one of the country’s best kept secrets.  This is top surfing destination that is far removed from the hustle and bustle of the more populated beaches to the north of Guanacaste. The Santa Teresa community is welcoming and the area has become well known for being home to a strong group of talented musicians.  This top beach and sun vacation destination is much more than a surfer’s paradise.

A blend of cultures has permitted the diffusion of wide range of musical talents, with different backgrounds, styles and ages. If you are looking for some evening entertainment after the sun sets there are several inviting venues in Santa Teresa.

Look out for up and coming bands including Kika Band, The Common People and Gypsy Crew. From 80’d to 90’s covers, rock, Latin and Jazz there’s something for everyone in Santa Teresa.

The most highly recommended bars include Iguana Bar, Bar Las Olas, Kik, Artemis, Café Liberal, Carpe Diem and Pasta Basta.

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Click for More Costa Rican Nature

Costa Rica wildlife is known for being some of the most fascinating in the world.  The latest discovery of a land-based crab on Coco Island, located on the extreme southern coast of the Nicoya Peninsula, is further proof of the country’s incredible variety of flora and fauna. Home to 5% of the world’s biodiversity, it’s clear that there are still many hidden wonders to be discovered in Costa Rica.

Costa Rica Wildlife: New Species Discovery

The new species of Johngarthia cocoensis land crab is only found on the Isla de Coco, a protected island located 330 miles South West of Cabo Blanco National Park, Guanacaste. Along with the Allacanthos yawi crab, there are now two land crabs that are unique to Costa Rica. (more…)

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