Our Favorite Costa Rica National Parks

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Our Favorite Costa Rica National Parks

Our Favorite Costa Rica National Parks

Did you know that more than 25 percent of Costa Rica’s terrain has been designated a national park, biological reserve or wildlife refuge? Encompassing rainforests, wetlands, cloud forest, beaches and mangrove estuaries, these diverse areas protect some of the country’s…
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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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Manuel Antonio Costa Rica

Affordable trails of Costa Rica

Costa Rica has many great trails and paths for walking adventures, here are just a few. Manuel Antonio One trail you will enjoy is through the Manuel Antonio National park. There are several kilometers of trail you can enjoy a beautiful…
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Fruit in Costa Rica

The Different Fruits and vegetables of Costa Rica

Visiting Tropical Countries is a unique pleasure, Especially with visiting Costa Rica. This country, in particular, produces the majority of its own fruits and vegetables and the varieties may surprise you. The different shapes, sizes, tastes, and textures give you…
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3 toed sloth very common in Costa Rica wildlife

The New Universal trail at Manuel Antonio National Park

The Manuel Antonio national park has been an iconic nature preserve in Costa Rica for years. This is because of how accessible it is to the public. Being located just outside of Quepos on the Pacific side of the Country. In…
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Money of Costa Rica

Top Things to pack for Costa Rica

So you made the decision, you have all your money saved up, and you are ready to visit Costa Rica. That is why we have put a list together of things you will need when you come here. Well, let's…
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Foodie Destination in Guanacaste

Costa Rica's Guanacaste province makes up the northwest region of the country and is famed for its many Pacific Ocean resorts. In many coastal communities around the world, once-sleepy areas beloved by locals, surfers, and a few ex-pats "in the…
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Costa Rica’s Caribbean Coast a Top Destination, Says Lonely Planet

Lonely Planet—the world’s biggest and most successful travel guide series—ranks Costa Rica’s lush Caribbean coast as one of 2016’s best vacation destinations. The respected publication claims the region offers unbeatable value, and a taste of everything that makes Costa Rica one of the greatest…
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Shopping your way through San Jose – 5 Best Spots

San Jose is the vibrant capital city of Costa Rica – the go-to destination for a memorable day of culture, arts, and theater. The city is also fantastic for a bit of retail therapy, whether you’re picking up some souvenirs for friends…
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Costa Rica at a Glance – Interesting Stats & Facts

In the context of memorable vacations, Costa Rica evokes images of palm-fringed beaches, sultry rainforests brimming with wildlife, and the delighted yips of zip-line adventurers as they hurl their bodies from one platform to the next. But did you know that Costa Rica is also a…
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Costa Rica Ranked Among Top Whale-Watching Destinations

Costa Rica has garnered numerous accolades for its earth-friendly policies, pristine beaches and incredible biodiversity. 2016 is shaping up to be another banner year for this popular eco-tourism haven. According to a recent article in National Geographic magazine, Costa Rica’s…
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Wildlife Photography Tips from the Pros

Opportunities for amazing nature photography abound in Costa Rica – whether you’re trekking through Manuel Antonio National Park or meandering the dark river canals of Tortuguero. Follow these tips and tricks to ensure plenty of captivating wildlife shots during your…
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Annual Envision Festival Epitomizes Costa Rican Pura Vida

Seeking an Enlightenment of Consciousness Since 2011, the Envision Festival, set to kick off February 25th, has brought thousands of people seeking an enlightenment of consciousness mixed with fun and excitement to Costa Rica’s southern Pacific coast. The venue, located…
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Souvenir Shopping in Costa Rica

Your Costa Rica vacation is everything you’d ever hoped for, but what about some keepsakes for friends and family back home…or a little token to remind yourself of the Pura Vida you enjoyed.   You will find great Costa Rican souvenirs…
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Responsible Travel in Costa Rica

Costa Rica aims to become the first carbon-neutral nation by balancing its carbon dioxide (CO2) inputs and emissions. This lofty goal, which is set for 2021, will undoubtedly require cooperation by industry officials, the government and individuals – both residents…
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Must Have Apps for Your Costa Rica Travels

Be prepared for every contingency with this year’s best travel apps that put critical information at your fingertips. Installing a few of these on your smartphone may prevent hassle and headaches, which nobody wants to deal with on their much…
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5 Tips for Whitewater Rafting in Costa Rica

Costa Rica’s frothing, wild rivers have been rated among the best in the world for whitewater rafting and kayaking.  Whether you’re tackling Class IV rapids on the Pacuare River or taking a more leisurely paddle down the tamer Sarapiqui, you’re…
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Recipe for Sweet Plantains, a Costa Rican Favorite

A larger and starchier cousin of the banana, plantains are a staple in most Central American homes. In Costa Rica, plantains are enjoyed in a number of ways, and at different levels of ripeness. One time-honored dish in many households…
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Day Trip to La Paz Waterfall Gardens

Often described as “Disney-esque” for its majestic qualities, La Paz Waterfall Gardens is a great spot to experience magnificent waterfalls and the flora and fauna of Costa Rica. Equal parts wildlife refuge,  nature park and conservatory, La Paz makes for…
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Relocating to Costa Rica? FAQs and Answers

Consistently ranked one of the happiest, greenest and healthiest places on Earth, it’s no wonder Costa Rica has evolved into one of the world’s top vacation and retirement destinations. Drawn by the country’s verdant landscapes, low cost of living, pleasant…
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Diving with Sharks at Cocos Island

Situated 340 miles off the coast of Costa Rica, Cocos Island is one of the world’s greatest spots for scuba diving with sharks. A 34-hour boat ride takes thrill seekers to this lush and secluded island, where scalloped hammerheads and…
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Statistics Indicate another Banner Year for Costa Rica Tourism

The Costa Rican Tourism Board (ICT) reports that tourism is up this year, with 4.4 percent more visitors arriving in the country’s two international airports during the first six months of 2015. The bulk of travelers hail from the United…
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Indulge Your Senses in a Costa Rica Spa Day

 Heading to Costa Rica for a family vacation but crave some personal pampering? If so, you’re in for a treat… Costa Rica boasts numerous award-winning spas that promise to melt away tension, make your skin glow and ease the sunburn…
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Tortuguero — the Ultimate Spot for Viewing Nesting Sea Turtles

A recent feature in Forbes magazine extolls the many charms of Tortuguero, the crown jewel of Costa Rica’s northern Caribbean coast. Author Sherrie Nachman was enamored with the sloths, howler monkeys and toucans of this authentic hamlet, but was truly…
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Costa Rica Garners Accolades as Top Travel, Honeymoon Destination

Featuring lush landscapes, smoking volcanos and exceptional beaches, Costa Rica is one of Central America’s most visited vacation destinations. Mysterious caves, majestic cloud forests, mineral-rich hot springs, virgin rainforests and rugged mountains are just some of the natural wonders travelers…
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Traditional Costa Rica food

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…
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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…
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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…
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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…
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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…
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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…
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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…
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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.…
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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…
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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…
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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…
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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…
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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…
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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…
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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…
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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…
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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…
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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…
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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…
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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…
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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…
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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…
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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…
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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…
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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…
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