October 11, 2022
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…
December 26, 2019
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,…
August 12, 2018
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…
August 5, 2018
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…
February 27, 2018
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…
December 12, 2017
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…
March 11, 2016
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…
March 8, 2016
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…
March 3, 2016
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…
March 3, 2016
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…
March 2, 2016
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…
February 25, 2016
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…
February 6, 2016
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…
February 1, 2016
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…
January 10, 2016
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…
December 2, 2015
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…
November 25, 2015
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…
October 17, 2015
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…
October 3, 2015
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…
September 30, 2015
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…
September 25, 2015
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…
September 15, 2015
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…
September 5, 2015
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…
August 27, 2015
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…
August 1, 2015
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…
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…
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 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…
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…
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.…
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 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…
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 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 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 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…
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…
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…