July 8, 2015
When in Costa Rica, do as the locals do
You know the old adage, "When in Rome, do as the Romans do." If you’re traveling in Costa Rica, why not embrace a few local customs and do as the Ticos do… Try the simple but surprisingly delicious cuisine, practice…
May 22, 2015
5 Classic Arenal Adventures
The adventure town of Arenal aims to please with no shortage of opportunities to get your heart racing. When you’re not rocketing above the treetops or plunging into the depths of a 5 million year-old cavern, you can bask under…
March 27, 2015
5 Best Apps for Your Costa Rica Vacation
Even if this is your second vacation to the sun-kissed shores of Costa Rica, it’s always better to have practical info at your fingertips before you land and during your travels. From quick Spanish translations to instant flight alerts, these…
March 24, 2015
Crazy for Coconuts in Costa Rica
Delicious, exotic fruits are readily available year-round in Costa Rica. Guava, mangosteen and passion fruit vie for your attention alongside jumbo pineapples and plump mangoes. These homegrown delicacies are bursting with vitamins, essential minerals and are a terrific snack any…
March 6, 2015
Six Compelling Reasons to Plan a Costa Rica Vacation
Adventure. Romance. Wildlife. Volcanoes. Hot springs. Waterfalls. Beaches. These are some of the hallmarks of travel in Costa Rica, a place where you can get back to nature, rev up your adrenaline, and savor the pura vida lifestyle that makes…
February 27, 2015
Tips for the Solo Female Traveler to Costa Rica
Every year, thousands of solo female tourists enjoy Costa Rica’s varied adventure offerings without a concern for personal safety. The nation has a long-standing reputation as one of the safest Latin American countries for good reason, but women should take…
February 13, 2015
Costa Rica Ranks First for Best Family Vacation Destination
Costa Rica’s unspoiled jungles and pristine beaches can make for the family vacation of a lifetime, say travel experts at U.S. News. Among Central and South American holiday destinations, Costa Rica was rated number one for its kid-friendly attractions and…
February 6, 2015
Tips for Vegetarian Dining in Costa Rica
More and more people are going vegetarian or vegan for both health and ethical reasons, and while it’s easy to go meatless in the States, travel abroad can often pose challenges. The good news is that there are plenty of…
January 30, 2015
Day Tripping to Cano Island
Part archeological site, part diving and snorkeling paradise – the 740 acre Cano Island is worth a visit during your Costa Rica travels. Conveniently accessed from the central or southern Pacific, Cano Island is situated roughly 12 miles from Drake…
January 19, 2015
Summer is Here! Costa Rica’s Dry Season Means More Glorious Sunshine
Cool trade winds are blasting through the Central Valley and afternoon showers have long since abated – a sure sign that summer has arrived here in Costa Rica. January marks the real beginning of the country’s dry season – a…
December 26, 2014
Dominical Prepares for Envision Festival 2015
Mark your calendars, folks, the fifth annual Envision Festival in Costa Rica’s lush Southern Pacific Coast starts February 26 and runs through March 1, 2015. Equal parts music festival and eco-conscious gathering, the event is expected to draw at least a…
December 24, 2014
Traditional Christmas Tamales in Costa Rica
December is a spectacular month to be vacationing in Costa Rica – a time of holiday celebrations, sensational horse parades, family gatherings, seasonal fiestas and delicious Christmas foods. Nearly every home and building is adorned with twinkling lights, elaborate nativity…
December 12, 2014
December – April: Prime Costa Rica Sportfishing Months
There’s a reason why Manuel Antonio and Quepos are the most popular sportfishing destinations in Costa Rica – a country lauded for its rich ocean diversity and 570+ IGFA world records. The Central Pacific coast features phenomenal fishing year-round, but…
November 21, 2014
Helpful Costa Rica Vacation Planning Tips
Planning a romantic escape or family vacation to Costa Rica and need a bit of help from those in the know? Avoid common traveler pitfalls with these pointers so you can enjoy a smooth and stress-free holiday without any surprises.…
November 14, 2014
Costa Rica’s New National Wildlife Symbol – the Manatee
Move over sloths, Costa Rica has recently adopted a new national wildlife symbol – the West Indian manatee! These adorable marine mammals were officially named the country’s national wildlife symbol in a move that will hopefully boost local conservation measures.…
November 7, 2014
Scarlet Macaws of Costa Rica
Scarlet macaws, known as lapas in Costa Rica, are among the world’s largest and most colorful Neotropical parrots. Noted for its brilliant plumage and ear-piercing call, the scarlet macaw ranges from southern Mexico through Brazil and prefers humid, lowland rainforests…
October 24, 2014
Day Trip to La Fortuna’s Cerro Chato
Up for a challenging but very rewarding hike that offers stunning views and private swimming in a volcanic lagoon? Chato Volcano (Cerro Chato) is one of La Fortuna’s best kept secrets for intrepid travelers who want to explore Arenal’s less…
October 3, 2014
Arenal Volcano National Park Ranked Among the 35 Best on Earth
What’s the best way to experience our planet’s amazing and curious natural wonders? Huff Post Travel suggests that one look no further than our national parks – those rambling tracts of wilderness (both well-traveled and off the tourist map) that…
September 26, 2014
Costa Rica’s Enchanting Butterfly Gardens
A visit to Costa Rica’s enchanting butterfly farms and gardens is a wonderful way to learn about these mythological creatures that have captivated humans for ages. A symbol of freedom, beauty, peace and love, butterflies are some of the country’s…
September 15, 2014
10 Awesome Reasons to Visit Costa Rica
Why should you treat your family or loved ones to a vacation in paradise? Known throughout the Americas for its world-class beaches, nature tours and spectacular scenery, Costa Rica attracts millions of tourists each year, and continues to grow in…
August 22, 2014
Top 5 Things to Do in Tamarindo
A world-class destination for surfers, adventure lovers and nature enthusiasts, Tamarindo features a seemingly endless list of outdoor excursions and eco-tours, sure to keep you busy from sunrise to sunset. How do you whittle down such a selection of adrenaline-pumping…
August 15, 2014
Adventure Tours in Costa Rica
Consistently rated one of the world’s top ecotourism and adventure destinations, Costa Rica has garnered praise for its wild and breathtaking terrain, tropical weather and ubiquitous wildlife. Lauded for its world-class outdoor offerings, this Central American nation is a veritable…
August 9, 2014
Traveler Tips: Understanding Costa Rica Directions
Veteran travelers to Costa Rica know that local directions are just a wee bit different than those you’d use back home. Forget street names or numbered buildings… in the land of Pura Vida this type of information is useless mostly…
August 1, 2014
Off-Peak Costa Rica Vacation Benefits
Dubbed the green season by travel industry experts, Costa Rica’s rainy season corresponds with the low tourism period. Locals know these wetter months have several intrinsic perks, but why should travelers consider May through November a prime window for a…
July 25, 2014
Costa Rica Gripped by World Cup Fever
Even non-soccer fans were glued to the TV earlier this month, when Costa Rica’s national league La Sele fought long and hard for a coveted final four spot in the FIFA World Cup 2014. Gripping their red, blue and white…
July 21, 2014
5 Reasons We Love Manuel Antonio
Costa Rica is one of the world’s hottest ecotourism destinations, and within its tropical bounds Manuel Antonio ranks among its most popular spots for a family vacation or romantic escape. Among the myriad incentives to explore this enchanting part of…
July 11, 2014
Leatherbacks of Las Baulas National Marine Park
Often described as one of Guanacaste’s best-kept secrets, Las Baulas National Marine Park harbors the main nesting site of Pacific leatherback sea turtles (known as baulas in Spanish). Situated just north of Tamarindo, the park encompasses more than 1,100 marine…
June 28, 2014
Animal Planet Films “Meet the Sloths” in Cahuita Sanctuary
Animal Planet’s prime time show, “Meet the Sloths” details the interesting lives of 150 furry residents at Aviarios del Caribe – Cahuita’s (now famous) sloth sanctuary. If you haven’t been, this one-of-a-kind refuge protects orphaned and injured sloths from all…
June 13, 2014
Learning Costa Rica Slang – A Lesson in Pachuco
If you’ve been bitten by the travel bug and journeyed to foreign lands, you know that every country and culture has their own unique slang – phrases and idiomatic expressions particular to that corner of the world. Costa Rica is…
May 30, 2014
TripAdvisor Rates Manuel Antonio among World’s Top 25 Beaches
TripAdvisor’s eagerly awaited 2014 Travelers’ Choice Awards are out, and Costa Rica has once again received accolades for its spectacular beaches. Trusted for their honest reviews posted by travelers for travelers, the website published its ranking of the World’s Top…
May 23, 2014
River Rafting in Costa Rica
Looking for adventure and hair-raising fun during your upcoming Costa Rica vacation? If paddling down churning Class III -IV rapids amid explosive white water sounds exciting, then have we got some choices for you! Costa Rica’s scenic and fast-moving rivers…
May 20, 2014
Costa Rica’s Snorkeling and Scuba Diving Hotspots
Framed by more than 800 miles of picturesque coastline, Costa Rica features ample opportunities for underwater explorations. Swim among graceful sea turtles, vibrant parrotfish and spotted eagle rays as you investigate the country’s living coral reefs, mysterious caves and fascinating…
May 9, 2014
Plantains: a Costa Rican Delicacy
Commonly mistaken for an oversized banana, the plantain is one of Costa Rica’s unsung culinary heroes – a starchy treat that is both versatile and delicious. So what is this fruit and how do you eat it? Indigenous to India…
May 2, 2014
Our Favorite Hiking Spots in Costa Rica
With hundreds of national parks and reserves to choose from, Costa Rica is a dream for hiking enthusiasts of all ages and abilities. Well-tread footpaths through primary rainforest, rugged mountain passes, and sandy ocean-side trails beckon thousands of travelers each…
April 25, 2014
Guanacaste Beach Named One of the World’s Most Beautiful
Described as lovely, secluded and tropical by TripAdvisor reviews, Playa Nacoscolo is one of four eye-catching beaches within the Papagayo Gulf. What makes this section of Guanacaste shoreline so notable are its crystal-clear waters, isolation and suitability for swimming and…
April 18, 2014
Annual Craft Beer Festival in Escazu
Earlier this month, more than 3,000 thirsty patrons milled under the tents of Avenida Escazu – trendy site of the third annual Craft Beer Festival. What’s that you say? Artisanal brew in Costa Rica – home of the beloved Imperial,…
April 4, 2014
Exotic cocktails from Costa Rica
You may have heard about Costa Rica’s local firewater, guaro. Distilled from pure sugar cane molasses, it’s alternately described as rot-gut liquor and something akin to strong vodka. At 70-proof, guaro’s alcohol content packs a wicked punch, but thanks to…
March 28, 2014
Why Costa Rica is one of the world’s happiest countries
Costa Rica proudly ranks as one of the happiest countries in the world, thanks in part to its peaceful policies, small carbon footprint, high life expectancy and overall quality of life. This fun-loving Central American nation ranked #1 on the…
March 21, 2014
Nat Geo Lists Nosara among World’s 20 Best Surf Towns
Trusted by travelers the world over, National Geographic recently issued its list of “20 Best Surf Towns in the World,” in which Guanacaste’s Nosara beach ranked fourth place! The magazine heaps praise on the secluded beach town for its friendly…
March 14, 2014
Costa Rica one of Top 10 Retirement Destinations for 2014
Featuring economical, first-rate health care, low property taxes and a diversity of temperate climates to choose from, it’s easy to see why Costa Rica once again tops the list for retirement destinations abroad. The accolades come courtesy of International Living’s…
March 1, 2014
Day Tripping in San Jose
It’s a common occurrence for Costa Rica vacationers: your itinerary has you flying out in the late afternoon, leaving just enough time for some Central Valley explorations before hopping on the plane. So what do you do with a half…
March 1, 2014
Mahi Mahi Ceviche
[caption id="attachment_2846" align="aligncenter" width="300"] Check Here For More Personal Recipes From Our Chefs[/caption] Book the most beautiful vacation villa of your life Ingredients: 2 lbs. Mahi Mahi 1 handful or roll of freshly chopped cilantro 1 diced red pepper…
February 21, 2014
Meet the Curious Coatimundi
Most Costa Rica vacations promise spectacular wildlife encounters – perhaps none more exciting than the nation’s highly acrobatic primate species. When not marveling over the throaty roars of howler monkeys or amusing antics of capuchins, you may find yourself entranced…
February 14, 2014
Enjoy Costa Rica’s Chocolate Tours
You don’t have to be a choco-holic to appreciate one of Costa Rica’s famed cacao tours, which provide a behind-the-scenes look at how this ancient food is grown, harvested and transformed into delightful, organic creations. The country is home to…
February 10, 2014
Carara National Park Highlights
Want to get off the beaten track while communing with nature? Look no further than Carara National Park – a lightly tread reserve that boasts just as much wildlife as neighboring Manuel Antonio, but with fewer tourist crowds. Located on…
January 31, 2014
Insider’s Guide to Irazu Volcano
Costa Rica typically conjures up visions of balmy beaches, swaying coconut palms and steamy jungles, but thanks to its geographical diversity, glacier lakes and wind-bitten paramo can also be explored in this amazing country. A day trip to the ethereal…
January 25, 2014
Great Tips for Traveling with Kids in Costa Rica
Traveling with kids abroad has been likened to taking a herd of wild animals on holiday. Whether you’re traveling with your own little ones or someone else’s brood, factoring in their needs is essential to a smooth and stress-free vacation. …
January 17, 2014
Hotel vs. Vacation Rentals: Which offers more bang for your buck?
One of the biggest factors in vacation planning is where you’ll stay – do you opt for hotel or a vacation rental? This all-important choice will affect how and where you’ll dine during the duration of your visit, privacy levels…
January 10, 2014
Costa Rica Relocation – FAQ and Answers
One of the most sought after retirement and relocation destinations among Americans, Costa Rica is known for its first-rate health care, low cost of living, and exceptional natural beauty. Each year, thousands of Baby Boomers flock to the golden sands…
January 3, 2014
Free Cooking & Dance Lessons for Escape Villa Guests
A quick glance on TripAdvisor and you’ll understand why so many travelers rave about their Costa Rica vacation experience with Escape Villas! Luxurious ocean view homes, 24-hour concierge and friendly customer service are always top on the list of compliments,…
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