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Costa
Rica
If you are looking to share a little adventure, culture, sun, hiking,
and even diving, Costa Rica may be just the place for you. This
tiny little country, the size of West Virginia, packs in an incredible
amount of ecological and geographical diversity.
The Pacific
Coast offers relaxing beach time and perhaps some snorkeling, surfing,
or diving. Explore the natural beauty of this country in the mountaineous
volcanic and rainforest regions. A popular way to enjoy a honeymoon
in Costa Rica is with a multi-destination itinerary. That is, mix
some rainforest time in with Pacific coastal time.
Some things
to know before you decide on Costa Rica:
1. Roads here
are interesting, to say the least. Paved highways are bumpy and
poorly marked. Some of the roads through the mountains and rainforests
are not paved, besides not being well marked. The best suggestion
is to opt for a guided itinerary with a driver, or as a minimum,
to prepurchase transfers in your package, which leaves the driving
to a local. Car rentals are available, but the deposit is hefty,
and the driving can tax even the most fearless of drivers.
2. To be honest,
there are better beaches to be had elsewhere in the Caribbean. The
Pacific Coast is rocky, and at times a bit rough. Costa Rica doesn't
offer a pleasant Caribbean coast line, and all the beachside resorts
in Costa Rica will be found on the Western Pacific side. That said,
the culture and beauty of Costa Rica is so charming, you will fall
in love!
3. The main
airport in Costa Rica is in the capitol city of San Jose. You will
need to utilize ground or air transfers (or car rental) to get to
your intended destination. Depending on flight schedules, you may
need to spend your first and last nights in San Jose. There are
some lovely hotels in the San Jose area. However, the best sites
are well outside the city, so don't plan on a vacation in San Jose
itself, or you'll miss out on the real beauty of this incredible
country!
4. While Spanish
is the official language, English is very common. You'll do by with
your broken Spanish, patience, and a smile. The folks are very friendly
and welcome American tourists. Resorts of moderate or better quality
utilize English speaking staff.
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