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Costa Rica Tours and Travel

Coast to Coast / Adventure / Costa Rica Verde / Tropical Adventure / Honeymoon / Wonders / Highlights
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Two Honeymoon Options

HONEY, MOON AND STARS - 10 days / 9 nights

We will put you on the right places and you will do the rest…
This tour features beautiful hotels in romantic settings

Day 1 - Arrival in San José. Meet and greet at the airport and transfer to the Xandari hotel or Finca Rosa Blance Hotel. Xandari Resort & Spa consists of 18 spacious villas on a 40 acre coffee and fruit plantation overlooking Costa Rica's Central Valley... the creation of architect Sherrill Broudy and artist Charlene Broudy, who envisioned a paradise reflecting the natural beauty of Costa Rica. The villas, private terraces, furniture and gardens are designed with great attention to detail, and each villa is adorned with original works of art. All villas have a private view terrace, a walled-in sun area, a bar kitchen, and either a king bed or two full beds.
Over 3-kilometers of scenic trails through coffee and fruit orchards lead into a lush natural tropical setting with a year-round river and five beautiful waterfalls. Fruits, vegetables and herbs from the plantation's gardens complement Xandari's health-conscious specialty dishes. Add to this the warm personal attention of a dedicated staff... and it's simply paradise

Day 2 - (B, L) After breakfast, private guided tour to Poás Volcano National Park. Poás is one of the most active volcanoes in the country. It is a restless giant with a 45- year active cycle and one of the world’s largest active craters (1,5 Km wide); it also features picturesque views as you drive up to the top. You will have the chance to walk through the nearby cloud forest to the Botos Lagoon, a former crater turned today into a beautiful lagoon. After visiting Poás, you will continue to La Paz Waterfall Garden which offers treks to some beautiful waterfalls, as well as an orchid garden and humming bird gallery where you will observe these birds in their nature habitat. Lunch will take place in the site. Continue to the town of Sarchí, cradle of Costa Rica’s craftsmanship, where you will find the traditional colourful oxcarts, as well as other souvenirs in wood and leather, made by local artisans.

Day 3 - (B) After breakfast, transfer to the exclusive Villa Caletas Hotel, located on the Central Pacific coast about 1½ hour drive from San José. Balance of the day free to relax and enjoy the facilities of the hotel.

Villa Caletas is located 30 minutes from Jacó Beach on the Central Pacific Coast (2 hours, 70 miles/ 117 km from San José). It sits on a hill adjacent to the ocean, offering a beautiful view of the Nicoya Peninsula, gulf and Islands. This is probably one of the most exclusive hotels in Costa Rica. The rooms, social areas, and halls are decorated with exotic antiques from all over the world.

There is a total of 36 rooms distributed as follows: 5 Standard rooms, 5 standard deluxe, 13 Villas, 7 Junior Suites with jacuzzi, 2 Suites, 1 Superior Suite and 3 Master Suites. All rooms have a private bathroom with hot water and hair dryer, air conditioning, ceiling fans, mini-bar, satellite TV, telephone, safety deposit box, and a coffee maker. All rooms are non-smoking. The standard rooms are equipped with 2 twin beds and garden or courtyard view. The Standard Luxury rooms contain 1 queen-size bed and a panoramic ocean view. The villas, ideal for small families, are slightly larger, equipped with one queen size bed (some have one or two twin beds in addition), and terrace with ocean or garden views.

The Junior Suites have an independent jacuzzi or jacuzzi – bathtub for two persons, and a terrace with view overlooking the ocean or the mountains. The Suites have a private swimming pool and living room with a single bed and the Superior Suites have an ocean view, balcony, swimming pool and living room. Finally, the Master Suites are equipped with one king size bed, sofa bed and a Direct TV system. They also come with a jacuzzi-bathtub, a spacious terrace, hammock and private pool with a spectacular panoramic ocean view, bordered by exuberant tropical greenery.

The hotel has two restaurants, both overlooking the ocean. The “Mirador” is open from 6 pm to 10 pm. It offers international dishes, but specializes in French cuisine. The “Amphitheatre” serves international cuisine and is open from 7 am to 10pm. Visitors can enjoy a cocktail at the bar whilst watching the sunset. Hotel facilities include a deep blue swimming pool, lush tropical gardens, gym, spa and a Greek-style amphitheatre overlooking the ocean.

Exceeding all luxury standards the magnificent 7 Suite of the “Zephyr Palace” waits. Located within the grounds of the Villa Caletas hotel surrounded by rainforest and nestled on top of a hill raises this spectacular mansion affording truly panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean.

After arriving on the hotel grounds, the dramatic approach to the villa is through a series of stone arches lined with urns to arrive in a paved courtyard set with a fountain. From the courtyard guests may enter a reception area with access to the formal foyer, concierge reception area with elevator to bedroom suites, and the living and dining areas. All rooms offer king size beds, DVD, Satellite TV, Home Theater Jacuzzis on the balcony and spectacular ocean views.

Activities offered include horseback riding (during high season), and tours to the Carara National Park. There is no easy way to reach Caletas beach, so the hotel provides 4WD transportation at no additional cost.

EXPERT’S EYE: Ideal for honeymooners (sometimes weddings are even celebrated at this hotel’s amphitheatre). The hotel’s amazing view of the Nicoya Gulf along with its fine, delicate decor makes this a very romantic choice: perfect for couples! Top quality hotel.

Day 4 - (B) Day at leisure to enjoy an optional excursion or relax at the hotel.

Day 5- (B) At around midday, transfer to Si Como No by Manuel Antonio National Park located about 2 hours south along the coast from Villa Caletas Hotel. This is a very fine hotel with great ocean views, located in Costa Rica’s Central Pacific Coast, 4 km away from the town of Quepos, 3 km from the entrance to the Manuel Antonio National Park, and about 120 miles/ 193 km from San Jose. For those travelling by car, the journey lasts about 4 hours, and the flight from San José to Quepos lasts 30 minutes.

The hotel features 60 rooms divided into standard, superior, deluxe, deluxe suites and honeymoon suites. All rooms offer king or double sized beds, air conditioning, telephone, private bathroom with hot water, hair dryer, stocked minibar, and safety deposit box. Standard rooms have an ocean or jungle view. Each Superior room has a private balcony with partial ocean view. All Deluxe rooms have a private balcony with a panoramic ocean view, king beds with sitting room or extra bed, and high beamed ceilings. The honeymoon suite features a Jacuzzi overlooking the ocean, and a garden room. Three standard, four deluxe, and two superior rooms have a fully equipped kitchen.

The hotel offers a full service bar & grill, formal restaurant, 2 swimming pools (one for adults and the other one with a water slide), wet bar, solar heated Jacuzzi, wireless internet access at the swimming pool area and lobby, an Art Gallery and Internet café, parking area, gift shop, laundry service, spa, gardens, and transportation to the beach at no extra charge. The laser theatre and conference centre feature sophisticated audiovisual equipment as well as a state-of-the-art THX sound system.

Different tours are available from the hotel such as guided walks through the nature trails, the butterfly farm, and a night-time show with sounds and images of the forest.

EXPERT’S EYE: One of the best top quality options in Manuel Antonio. Excellent for honeymooners, couples, and those seeking a high standard hotel. Also suitable for families - the hotel has facilities for children, such as a water slide in the swimming pool, and a movie theatre that shows children’s films during the day.

Day 6-8 - (B) Days at leisure at the Manuel Antonio National Park area. Optional tours such rafting trips and guided walks are suggested.

Day 9 - (B) At around mid-morning you will return to San José by plane (35-minute flight).. Upon arrival, transfer to the Xandari or Finca Rosa Blanca hotel.

Day 10 (B) Transfer to the international airport for your departure flight.

Price per person double occupancy in US$:

* Private Transfers Alternative: A private driver will pick up the clients directly at the hotel and will take them to the next destination. The schedules can be flexible (unless they have to connect with other transfers or be in a certain place at a specific moment) and they do not have to wait for other clients, since this is a private service.

**Shared Transportation Alternative: This service works on routes and pre-established schedules. A driver picks up the clients in different hotels and goes directly (without stopping) to the destination. Once there, the driver goes to the different hotels to leave the passengers. This is called door-to-door Ground operation. An individual client usually travels with other tourists that he/she does not know.

***Rental Car Alternative: Renting a car is a convenient way to move around the country as it gives you the freedom to explore at will. Our preferred car rental companies offer a complete list of services, including a modern fleet of vehicles and pick-up and drop-off services in San José as well as in the main tourist destinations. We would recommend a 4WD whenever possible and depending on the places you wish to visit, as they are more robust vehicles and a more reliable option for difficult roads. The rate provided does not include the Mandatory Insurance (USD 18.00 per day of rent). Clients will pick up the vehicle (Daihatsu Bego 4x4) on Day 02 and return it on Day 09.

The program includes:
* Meet & greet upon arrival
* Accommodation in small deluxe hotels
* Transfer airport – hotel in San José
* Ground transfers
* Guided tour to Poás Volcano National Park, La Paz Waterfall Gardens, and Sarchí
* Meals as specified each day: B, L or D
* One way flight Manuel Antonio – San José
* Map and information kit
* Bottle of wine and a basket of fruits & flowers on day 1
* All taxes

Does not include optional activities

ROMANTIC GETAWAY
12 days / 10 nights

Day 1 - Arrival in San José. Meet and greet at the airport and transfer to the Finca Rosa Blanca hotel. It is situated above the beautiful Central Valley of Costa Rica, only 15 minutes from the International Airport Juan Santamaría. Surrounded by towering "Higuerón" trees and exotic flora, the hotel offers spectacular views of volcanoes, cloud forests and coffee plantations. Here at 4,000 feet above sea level on a temperate plateau of extraordinary beauty, grows some of the world's best coffee in the lush volcanic soil. Finca Rosa Blanca offers two extraordinary master suites, and eleven elegant yet whimsical junior suites, four of which can be united to form two spacious villas. All the luxurious rooms include Jacuzzi baths and mini bars as well as private verandas overlooking the lovely Central Valley and the volcanoes above.

The new full-service El Tigre Vestido Restaurant and Bar Buho renowned for its fine cuisine, with expansive decks and views of the Central Valley and surrounding coffee farms as well as two fireplaces and comfortable couches for relaxing will add to the experience Other facilities offered by the hotel include the new El Targua Spa, enjoy a relaxing and refreshing massage, exotic volcanic mud wraps or organic coffee body scrub, the extraordinary hillside infinity swimming pool surrounded by tropical gardens which provides luxuriant bathing, secluded decks and shaded verandas where guests can sunbathe and enjoy the magnificent views. The spring fed pool features chemical free water and a 12-foot cascading waterfall. The adjacent open-air game room / lounge, large Hot-tub/Jacuzzi and the library offer recreation and relaxation. A variety of tour options are available for the more active visitor - for example: tours to national parks, cloud forests, biological rain forest reserves, botanical gardens, butterfly farms, bungee jumping, white water rafting, bird watching and Horseback Riding.

Excellent location for those looking for a hotel that is removed from the hectic atmosphere of the city, but not that far from San José (for shopping or sightseeing purposes). Ideal for couples looking to relax, and enjoy the facilities.

Day 2 - (B) Day at leisure to enjoy the hotel facilities or explore the surroundings.

Day 3 - (B) After breakfast, you will depart to the Arenal Volcano area, located about 3 hours drive from San José. Rest of the day at leisure. Arenal Kioro Suites & Spa is a 5 star luxury mountain hotel, located 10km / 6.25miles northwest of La Fortuna in San Carlos, and about 94 miles/150 km from San Jose with a great view of the Arenal Volcano. The hotel has 11 hectares of undulating land, surrounded by two streams (La Palma and Kioro) with crystalline waters that originate in the Arenal Volcano National Park. It has two paths where plant species can be identified.

This hotel features a total of 53 suites, 41 suites with 2 queen beds and sofa-bed, and 12 Suites with king bed and sofa-bed (suites with connection system available). All the suites have two terraces with the best panoramic volcano mountain view, hydro-massage, Jacuzzi, air conditioning, safety-deposit box, mini-bar, coffee maker, hot water, direct dialing telephone, satellite television, hairdryer, key card safety locks.

Services available at Arenal Kioro are: international restaurant, lobby bar, private hot springs with transportation service, heated pool, spa, conference room facilities, game room, beauty salon, gift shop, art gallery, currency exchange, Internet room, private parking, tennis court, mini gym, laundry service, bell boy service and room service.

Some of the activities recommended in the area: Caño Negro Tour, rafting, Arenal Volcano hike tour, horseback riding to La Fortuna Waterfall, Venado Caves, mountain biking, Peñas Blancas safari float, Arenal hanging bridges, canopy, sport fishing Arenal Lake, boat rides on Arenal Lake, Rio Celeste Tour, four trax adventure, Sky Tram & Sky Trek and canyoning.

The Arenal Kioro Suites & Spa Hotel has carried out environmental studies in order to cause the least possible impact during the construction and operation of the project. The project will have a sewage disposal plant, smart systems for energy saving, recycling program, its own springs and construction with reforested woods.

This hotel is the best upscale option in the Arenal area. Recommended for those looking for an upscale, secluded hotel amidst nature, with the possibility of activities and tours as well as relaxation. It also has a great view of the Arenal Volcano.

Day 4 - (B) Free day for optional activities such as tour to Caño Negro Wildlife Refuge, horseback riding, a visit to Arenal Volcano or a relaxed dip at the Ecotermales Hot Springs. The Arenal Volcano, which has been in constant activity for more than 30 years, is definitively the main attraction in this area. Arenal Kioro

Day 5 - (B) After breakfast at the hotel transfer to Monteverde by minibus and boat, crossing the Arenal Lake. Arrival in Monteverde and rest of the day at leisure at Fonda Vela. The hotel is located in a 35-acre/14 hectare farm in Monteverde, a 3 ½ - 4 hour drive (105 miles) from San José. Fonda Vela is one of the closest hotels to the entrance of the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve (only about 3 Km/1.8 miles away). It has spacious wooden-built rooms with private bathroom, hot water, hair dryer, balcony, safety deposit, TV and telephone. There are 20 standard rooms and 20 junior suites (equipped with either two double beds or one king and one queen size bed) that come with living room, sofa and small refrigerator. The Junior Suites are more spacious than the Standard rooms and have been built recently.

Facilities include a bar; 2 restaurants: one accommodating up to 100 people and serving excellent home cooking and international cuisine, and another that is smaller (open only for dinners), with a more romantic atmosphere, a fireplace, candle-lit tables, and capacity for 60 people; panoramic lounge; TV room, conference room with capacity for 50 people; and guided horseback rides. Some of the attractions in Monteverde are: The Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve, the Cheese Factory, the Butterfly Farm, Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserve, and CASEM Craft Shop, Hanging bridges, canopy, horseback riding.

One of the best options in Monteverde, not only for its facilities, but also for its personalized service. Excellent choice for nature lovers seeking a refined, top quality mountain lodge where they can relax and enjoy good comfort.

Day 6 - (B) Free day for optional activities such as guided hikes to Monteverde Reserve, the Sky Trek and the Sky Walk, canopy tour and the butterfly garden. Fonda Vela

Day 7 - (B) Private transfer from Arenal to Punta Islita Beach. The hotel is located 10 km/6miles south of Carrillo Beach on the North Pacific Coast about 256 km / 170 miles from San Jose. It rests on a small hill, overlooking the ocean; the beach is located about 800 meters/ 2700 feet, downhill from the hotel. Punta Islita is a 45-minute flight away from San José. A very fine hotel, Punta Islita is one of the “Small Luxury Hotels of the World”, and won the Andrew Harper’s Hideaway Report, Grand Award Winner in 1998. It is located in a genuine “hacienda” (ranch), offering 14 Deluxe rooms, 8 Honeymoon Suites, 8 Casitas, 10 two bedrooms Villas, 14 three bedrooms villas.

Deluxe rooms offer facilities for handicapped (the other rooms do not), and offer access to three private Jacuzzis. Suites feature sitting area, and private outdoor whirlpool. Casitas and Villas all feature a private terrace, dining and living area, CD/ DVD player, small refrigerator, and private plunge pool. All rooms have a terrace with hammocks, air conditioning, fan, satellite TV, mini-bar, private bathroom with hot water, hair dryer, and one king sized bed or two queen-sized beds.

The hotel’s main building (with a breathtaking view) offers a conference-room for 50 people, 2 restaurants, 2 bars, swimming pool with waterfall, a Jacuzzi and a Casa Spa which features a generous selection of treatments and nature-kissed products to promote the glow of pampered wellness. The hotel features one formal restaurant: “1492”, offering international cuisine; beach club “El Borrancho” with swimming pool and one snack bar, which serves snacks and cocktails during the daytime. Vegetarian meals can be prepared for the clients at the 1492 restaurant, but staff must be notified in advance. The hotel has a private landing strip and also offers private air transfers, as well as ground transportation from the airstrip to the hotel (about 20 minutes away).

There are no specific activities for children; however, boogie boards and bicycles may be rented. Some of the activities available in the area are horseback riding, yoga classes, mountain biking, hiking, canopy tours, massages, jet skiing, boogie boarding, fishing, and diving.

EXPERT’S EYE: Great for honeymooners and couples in general, as well as for those who enjoy luxury, relaxation, and privacy. Hotel Punta Islita has pioneered a program that encourages the preservation of local cultures and the responsible use of natural resources. Community, Art, Responsibility, and Environment, underpinnings of the Punta Islita Model, are pivotal to the Hotel’s unique charm and character.

Day 8-10 - (B) Day at leisure to enjoy the hotel facilities and beach.

Day 11 - (B) Around mid-morning you will have the flight back to San José Upon arrival, transfer to the Xandari hotel. Xandari is an exclusive mountain hotel, secluded on a coffee plantation overlooking the Central Valley, and just 15 minutes from the International Airport and 24 km / 15 miles from downtown San Jose. This hotel, which opened in 1996, features 21 spacious private villas on a 40-acre (he) coffee and fruit plantation, designed with great attention to detail. The villas are divided into Ultra Villas (735 sq. ft), Prima and Prima Plus Villas (500 sq. ft.), and Ultra Plus Villas (820 sq. ft), each decorated with original works of art. All have a private view terrace, a walled in sun area, a bar, kitchen, telephone, ceiling fan, safety deposit box, hair dryer and either a king size bed or two full size beds. The Ultra Plus villas also come with two sofa beds, and a Roman bathtub. Facilities include two swimming pools, spa services, Jacuzzi, TV room, gift shop, parking, small, informal restaurant offering outstanding specialties with a variety of fruits ad vegetables from the on site organic gardens and orchards and wireless internet access in the main building.

There are several walking and jogging scenic trails, over 4 kilometers (2.5 miles), through coffee and fruit orchards leading into a lush natural tropical setting with a year-round river and five beautiful waterfalls.

EXPERT´S EYE: Exclusive atmosphere, ideal for couples and honeymooners looking for comfort, relaxation, and quality services. Beautiful landscape, very quiet. Great for enjoying fabulous sunsets and candlelit dinners.

Day 12 - (B) Transfer to the international airport for your departure flight.

Price per person double occupancy in US$:

The program includes:
• Meet & greet upon arrival
• Accommodation in small deluxe hotels
• Ground Transfers or Rental Car
• Domestic flight: Punta Islita-San José
• Meals as specified each day: B, L or D
• Map and information kit
• Bottle of wine and a basket of fruits & flowers on day 1
• All taxes
• Does not include optional activities

Notes:
* Private Transfers Alternative: A private driver will pick up the clients directly at the hotel and will take them to the next destination. The schedules can be flexible (unless they have to connect with other transfers or be in a certain place at a specific moment) and they do not have to wait for other clients, since this is a private service.

***Rental Car Alternative: Renting a car is a convenient way to move around the country as it gives you the freedom to explore at will. Our preferred car rental companies offer a complete list of services, including a modern fleet of vehicles and pick-up and drop-off services in San José as well as in the main tourist destinations. We would recommend a 4WD whenever possible and depending on the places you wish to visit, as they are more robust vehicles and a more reliable option for difficult roads. The rate provided does not include the Mandatory Insurance (USD 18.00 per day of rent). Clients will pick up the vehicle (Daihatsu Bego 4x4) on Day 03 and return it on Day 09. This alternative does not include the Horseback Riding Tour Fortuna-Monteverde.