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Costa Rica

Arenal volcano

20 Best Things to Do in Arenal, Costa Rica

The enchanting region of Arenal and La Fortuna, located in the heart of Costa Rica, is a destination that perfectly encapsulates the magic and wonder of this beautiful country. Get ready for an adventure of a lifetime with our guide to the best things to do in Arenal, Costa Rica. Whether you’re seeking thrills or relaxation, this destination has something for everyone.

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Costa Rica

What to Pack for Costa Rica

You just hit Complete Purchase on plane tickets to Costa Rica. Congrats! You’re going to love it! I’ve been to the beautiful little Central American country twice and had amazing experiences both times. But knowing what to pack for Costa Rica can be tricky. Using my 5, 4, 3, 2, 1 packing list method, I’ve put together a guide to help you cover all your activities with style.

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Tree Climbing in Monteverde

Climbing Trees in Monteverde, Costa Rica

A spider monkey I am not. They run up and down tree limbs with ease, swooping from one branch to another. Meanwhile, I huff and puff and awkwardly hoist myself from one climbing hold to another. I have the upper body strength of a T-Rex but yet seem to prefer to try to pull myself up the tree rather than push myself with my legs. Knowing this, I still signed up to take a go at the Arboreal Climbing Park at Sky Adventures in Monteverde, Costa Rica.

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How Much Does It Cost to Travel To Costa Rica

Costa Rica is a stunning country with a lot to offer visitors from a wide range of wildlife to beautiful scenery, pristine beaches to countless adventure opportunities. Despite being located in Central America, don’t expect prices like nearby countries like Nicaragua. Prices often reflect their mature tourism industry and infrastructure. That being said, you can still find some great deals in the tropical paradise.

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Costa Rica

Costa Rica: Then and Now

I wasn’t planning on travelling this winter/spring. I really wasn’t. I told all my friends as much. I made plans for how I’d squirrel away money instead to pad up my savings account. I tried to find ways to convince myself that seeing a slowly growing account would be just as thrilling as tropical adventures. But then came the seat sales.

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Breakast in Costa Rica | SuitcaseandHeels.com

Foodie Friday: Fried Plantains in Costa Rica

It’s been over a year since I was in Costa Rica. On my first morning there I discovered a dish that I now refer to as “breakfast candy” – fried plantains. Starchier than bananas they were sweet and almost melted in my mouth when cooked. I could’ve happily eaten them with gallo pinto, pineapple and coffee every morning for breakfast. What’s been your favourite food discovery while travelling?

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Hotel Flores | SuitcaseandHeels.com

Sunday Snap: Hotel Flores – Tamarindo, Costa Rica

This was the view I was greeted with each morning when I opened the door of my room at the Hotel Flores in Tamarindo, Costa Rica. A little oasis among dusty roads. I spent a few hours by the pool trying to get the hang of this “relaxing” thing. I liked the fact that it’s small – only eight rooms – and I would happily stay here again when in Tamarindo. I’ve been longing for Costa Rica lately. I think the cold, wet, North Atlantic winter has something to do with that.

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Arenal Volcano

Photo of the Week: Arenal Volcano

The Arenal Volcano was one of my favourite places I visited this year. It is still listed as an active volcano located in La Fortuna, Costa Rica but it hasn’t spewed any lava in over a year now. In 1968 it erupted violently and unexpectedly, destroying the town of Tabacón and killing 87 people in the process. While the volcano is the reason many tourists visit the area it now boasts a number of other activities including whitewater rafting, zip line/canopy tours, wildlife viewing, hot springs, waterfall rapelling, hiking, caving, and horseback riding.

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Mel in Seoul | SuitcaseandHeels.com

2012: A Year in Travel

2012 was another year full of travel. I visited five new countries and even circumnavigated the globe like a boss. I pushed my limits and had some incredible experiences. I worked on learning some new languages and tried lots of great new foods. I can’t wait to see what 2013 will have in store for me.

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Surfing in Tamarindo

Learning to Surf in Tamarindo

Paddle, paddle, paddle. Push up. Plant left foot. Plant right foot. Stand up. Oh my god I’m actually doing it… I’m surfing! After proudly hopping off the board in the knee-deep water I looked around expectantly to see who had seen and recognized my brief moment of glory and triumph. Not a bloody soul. Solo travel sucks sometimes. Surfing was something I just had to try while in Costa Rica. Like a good romance, despite some initial frustrations I stuck with it and now I’m hooked.

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Hotel Royal Corin

Staying at the Hotel Royal Corin in La Fortuna, Costa Rica

I knew right away that I’d made a good choice of hotel in La Fortuna when the van pulled up to the entrance and I was immediately greeted with a fizzy mock-tail of delicious tropical juices and a big smile, while someone took my bags. With free wifi, a full restaurant, spa and three bars I knew my needs would be taken care of but it was the private hot springs I was really looking forward to. If you’re traveling to the Arenal Volcano area of Costa Rica and want to feel relaxed and pampered, the Hotel Royal Corin will delight and treat you well.

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