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Wondering where to go for your next vacation?
Far away from the hurried world, an enchanting paradise in the middle of a tropical rainforest awaits you. Costa Rica, the natural destination offers a peaceful atmosphere for the vacation of a lifetime. In fact, in 2003, three prestigious, world-class tourism industry publications, selected Costa Rica as Best Honeymoon Destination (Modern Bride), Best Adventure Tourism Destination, (Travel Weekly) and Best Destination (Recommend). Add to this our experience, professionalism and personalized services for your unique vacation. For a one of a kind honeymoon, see our “ Honeymoon Deluxe Special” including 2 nights a the exclusive beach resort, Punta Caracol in Bocas del Toro Island, Panamá
Tour operator crosses border to offer the ultimate Caribbean Experience
“If you want to do business in tourism in Costa Rica, the way to go forward is to find new ideas,, which often means new destinations, says Sonia Rojas, owner of a new travel agency, Costa Rican Treasures.
Washington Times, USA
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Sonia:
Just a final note to thank you again for all of your excellent suggestions and the seamless itinerary you put together for us. It all went very well, and we were always very pleased with the quality of our accommodations. All of the activities were well suited to what we wanted to do. I still can't believe that we did everything in one week! Even the last day was spectacular. We found ourselves with a few hours at the San Jose airport, so we took a taxi up to the Poas volcano for an incredible view of the crater. As you mentioned, the Tabacon resort's hot springs were wonderful...not to be missed. Selva Bananito was the overall highlight of the week with their unusual presentation and the personable, family-like atmosphere. The "no-electricity' accommodations actually enhanced the experience. We enjoyed doing things like galloping on a horse and flying through the canopy that we probably couldn't have done in the US since everyone here is so worried about liabilities!.
Good luck to you, and if anyone is asking for recommendations...send them my way!
Regards
Dennis McLaughlin
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How are the roads?
If you do any driving in Costa Rica, you will almost certainly do some traveling on the Pan-American Highway. This is the main artery of Costa Rican travel and is heavily used. The road is windy and somewhat dangerous driving in parts. However, the main highways are constantly improving in quality and in general are not unpleasant to drive. The roads to the more popular beaches are fairly well kept, but there are potholes that you would not expect in North America.
The biggest problem with driving in Costa Rica isn't the roads, it's the slow-moving vehicles (mostly trucks) that cause delays and the dangerous passes that frustrated drivers make in attempt to overtake them. You will probably have to make a few passes on double yellow lines if you rent a car and want to get anywhere fast, but use caution and drive VERY defensively. As there are few traffic cops in Costa Rica, drivers tend to be a little aggressive in their maneuvers. Roads to more remote locations ( Osa Peninsula, Dominical, Monteverde) are in very poor shape and require a very sturdy 4x4. Driving times can vary greatly depending on traffic and road conditions. The drives to Jaco, Quepos, Playas del Coco and Puerto Viejo are, in our opinion, among the most pleasant and easiest to manage.
If renting a car in Costa Rica, make sure you've allowed yourself plenty of travel time between destinations. The mileage can be misleading when planning short trips, road signs are few and far between and driving at night is not a good idea. Also, please be advised of the risk of leaving
unattended luggage or valuables in your rental car. Consult the map on our site, which has driving distances between destinations. Bear in mind that you will probably average speeds of 70 to 80km per hour on highways and 40 to 50 on back roads:
What are the driving times between destinations?
It is very difficult to estimate accurate driving times as road conditions, traffic, time of day, and weather greatly affect how long it can take. These are very rough estimates. Typically one can average around 65- 75 kilometers per hour on highways and 30-50 on side roads. Be careful to not allow yourself enough time between destinations. Driving in Costa Rica is much more fun if you are not in a hurry.
San Jose to Manuel Antonio: 3.75 hours
San Jose to Arenal: 4 hours
San Jose to Tamarindo: 5 hours
San Jose to Puerto Viejo: 3.75 hours
San Jose to Monteverde: 5 hours
San Jose to Jaco: 2 hours
San Jose to Golfito: 8 hours
Safety Tips
Here and everywhere, enjoy a safer holiday by following these simple tips:
- Decide your destination in advance and make a planned route of travel.
- Always be alert and aware of your surroundings.
- If your car is bumped from behind, do not stop on the roadway or along the roadside. Drive to the nearest public area and call to 911 in search of police assistance.
If someone suspicious approaches your vehicle while you stop at a traffic light or sign, sound the car horn.
- Do not pull over for flashing headlights. A police vehicle and an authorized emergency vehicle are the only ones authorized the display of flashing, rotating red or blue lights.
- If you become lost, try to find a public place, like a service station, in order to read your map or ask for directions.
- If you are told that something is wrong with your vehicle, do not stop immediately. Drive to the nearest service station or to another well lighted public area.
- Keep doors locked and windows shut up when driving, and mainly when the vehicle is parked.
- Goods and valuables should be kept in the trunk, locked glove compartment, or out of sight, whenever traveling or before leaving the vehicle parked.
- Always park in well-lit areas.
- Check the interior of your vehicle and surrounding areas before getting into your vehicle.
- Do not pick up hitchhikers.
- If using an automatic cashier, be sure the area is well lit. Count your money inside your vehicle with the windows shut down.
- Do not leave the keys in your vehicle or your car engine running when using an automatic cashier or public telephone.
- If you suspect that you are being followed, head immediately to the nearest well lit public area and call the police.
- If you must carry a purse or bag, hold it in front of you close to your body. Be sure it is securely closed.
- When encountering a threatening, hostile individual, do not put up any resistance. If all that person wants is your belongings, give them up, they are not worth your life or any serious injury. In case of emergency call 911 from any telephone.
- Pay airport taxes only at authorized places.
- Taxes are $ 26 per person.
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