The 2nd time was 6 years later and we took another couple with us. Hoping to see what we missed the first trip, but soon realized that we couldn't see enough of the countryside with only 3 weeks. Another trip was planned and we hoped we could return before tourism changed Costa Rica too much. The prices are climbing as well as the development is taking away some of the beautiful scenery and wildlife that attracted us to Costa Rica in the first place. So 13 years later we go back to Costa Rica, this time renting a house for 2 weeks and enjoying exploring locally instead of moving every couple days. It was fantastic. We took a side trip to Nicaragua and then our last week was spent on the Caribbean side near the Panama border. Again we said, we need to return! We love every part of Costa Rica that we have seen and experienced. Of course we enjoy the tico activities the best! Local rodeo's, friday night BBQ's on the street are a must to see!
We returned saying we MUST go back at least one more time and stay even longer 5-6 weeks I think.
Our son and his girlfriend just returned from Tamarindo area, its a young people's surfing town. Lots of shopping and higher prices, but the beach and surfing is fantastic. They loved it also, but never really had the chance to experience the true Costa Rica outside of the little beach town. Tamarindo is perfect for people that want to stay put, relax, and the airport is close. 45 minutes of probably the best road in Costa Rica. It's definitely an option for a shorter vacation. Another option is one of the few all inclusive resorts in Costa Rica. Now you must realize that all inclusive in Costa Rica is not the same as in mexico. For one thing all the all Inclusive I seen are quite remote and out of the way to other places. Once they have you there, its a cost to go see anything! BUT once in awhile you see these great deals of flight and all inclusive resort for around 1000. that is a real savings and I say stay at the hotel for a bit (2-3 days) and then travel around to other places for a bit. the value of the flight is 750 at the cheapest so the extra $250 is cheap for the week. Leaving a budget to stay elsewhere if you want to explore. Lake Arenal is 3 hours away on windy roads making a day trip a long day. Over night accommodations with breakfast will run you $50-75 for two and we have always found lots to choose from. The Caribbean side is 5 hours from Lake Arenal and the active volcano, so just keep travelling after your overnight stay there. Plan on 2-3 days in that area and then return via San Jose to complete the trip back to your all inclusive resort for the last day and night before flying out. If you want to stay close but see other beaches, I suggest Manual Antonio or Samara, both amazing beaches!
