My trip to Costa Rica was my first solo travel experience as a married mom. Costa Rica was my first visit to a Latin American country by myself. Let me say that Costa Rica was good to me! Costa Rica is a beautiful country rich in nature, adventure, cuisine, and awesome people. Come along on my journey as I share with you my experience. Pura Vida!
Why Visit Costa Rica
Well, I wanted to travel somewhere I had never been. I’ve been to many Caribbean destinations via plane or cruise, so I wanted to experience something new. I thoroughly researched Costa Rica prior to and discovered that it had what I was looking for. Great weather, beautiful people, and its close proximity to Nicaragua. Hence, my surprise stop. Instead of visiting one Latin American country, how about two!
Where to Stay in Costa Rica
I chose Dreams Las Mareas for my accommodations. This resort is perfect for couples, families, and solo travelers. Also, it is approximately 30 minutes to the Nicaraguan border. This resort had all of the amenities I was looking for: spacious suites, mountain and tropical views, 24-hour room service, good food, wristband-free fun, and unlimited top-shelf spirits. C’mon mommas, nothing sounds better than sitting poolside with a refreshing cocktail! Dreams Las Mareas satisfied all my expectations.
Food to Eat in Costa Rica
When I travel, I always like to experience the local cuisine. Why travel to a foreign destination and not try something new, right? During my day trip to Nicaragua, I stopped at a local restaurant for lunch. As a pescatarian, it is wonderful when fish or seafood options are available as a food option. I sampled grilled red snapper, steamed white rice, and roasted mixed veggies. Also, included a mixed garden salad with an oil/vinegar dressing. YUM!
The food selections at Dreams were also superb. Upon arrival, I had lunch at Oceana; their seaside restaurant served fresh fish and seafood. I ordered their fish tacos with pineapple mango salsa, avocado, tomato, and onion. Added a side of yellow rice. Delicious! For dinner, I dined at Portofino. A glass of Chardonnay, spinach and cheese ravioli, Italian bread, a chocolate cake for dessert and I was ALRIGHT! I’m not a foodie but I enjoy when a resort offers an array of food selections and it’s good. Dreams did not disappoint!
Things to Do in Costa Rica
I wanted to make the most of my time in Costa Rica. Two out of my full three days, I booked excursions with Julio Happy Tours. Prior to my visit, I located Julio Happy Tours online and his reviews were awesome. Best part is his location; beachfront of Dreams Las Mareas. I emailed Julio, upon my arrival, and his quick response was “Come see me, I’m on the beach”. Julio is the guy next door. A prompt “Hola”, a big bear hug and you would think we had known each other for years.
Julio’s warm personality and sense of humor made me feel at ease. Julio suggested I experience the Happy Mega Combo Excursion. This excursion is jam packed with many activities for those of us that love adventure. Horseback riding, zip-lining, man-made water slide (now that was fun!), coffee tasting, volcanic mud bath, hot springs and an authentic Costa Rican lunch.
My second full day was spent lounging by the pool, reading The Five Love Languages by Gary Chapman and sipping on my favorite cocktail; rum and coke. Self-care is important to me so a relaxing day by the pool did the trick. My last full day in Costa Rica was spent crossing the border into Nicaragua. Another excursion arranged by Julio. One of the reasons I selected Dreams Las Mareas was its proximity to the Nicaraguan border. This was a great opportunity for me to experience, not one Latin American country, but two. Eduardo, my tour guide, is a native Nicaraguan and loves his country. My day was spent learning the history of Nicaragua, visiting the city of Granada, Monkey Island, and the Masaya Volcano. And of course, sampling some local cuisine is always a plus!
Favorite Parts of Costa Rica
ALL OF IT! For real, Costa Rica has my heart. It is one of those destinations that you’ll go back to again and again. Costa Rica has so many regions of the country to explore that you can’t do and see all in one visit. My favorite moment was hiking to the top of an active volcano in Masaya Volcano National Park. It’s not every day you can see actual lava flowing inside of a volcano. Or maybe soaking in a natural hot spring was my favorite. Jacuzzis can’t even compare! Monkey Island in Nicaragua was also an unforgettable experience.
Final Thoughts
Costa Rica has something to offer everyone. If you are looking for adventure, a trip to Costa Rica has everything you need and more! Costa Rica is surrounded by nature, sloths, and howler monkeys are a quick foot away. You can even relax by the pool in great weather. And did I mention how wonder the locals are there! Costa Rica makes for the ultimate trip to go on. If you are looking to plan your next trip, be sure to book a 1:1 consultation with me.
Pura vida!