We got off the ship about 1300 hours and were going to take a taxi to the doubletree, but we were stopped by one of the ship's contracted van drivers and he offered to take us, so I tipped him $5 USD. The doubletree was very nice; a far cry from the accommodations on the ship. I got on the internet and tried to send all the backed up messages, but not many transmitted. I headed for the pool and had a beer and a dip. The water was as warm as bath water, and I could see the ship still at the pier. The ship was to leave at 0300 august 13, but later I got an email form Faye Pyles on the ship saying they had missed high tide and would try again the next day. I explored the resort and found it quite wonderful. I wish I had more time to stay as the food and ambiance is terrific.
After breakfast I checked out about 0900, and we met our driver who took us to MANUEL ANTONIO NATIONAL PARK south of Puntarenas about 2 hours away. He did stop and let us walk across the bridge of the TARCOLOS RIVER (SP?) so we could see all the crocodiles. That was quite a site. There were several pretty big ones.
I did stop in the city of Quepos to try out the bank's ATM. That proved easy and successful. We got to the Hotel Villa Bosque, a lovely Spanish style hacienda style place with an open dining area. I skipped lunch but had a cold beverage. Our park guide met us and took us into the park. Geiner Mena, nature interpreter, was very knowledgeable and informative. I would recommend him to anyone. We saw armadillo frogs, mangrove boas, Jesus Christ lizard (that run on top of the water), 3 toed sloth, frog eggs hatching on leaves, Iguanas - big Iguanas! several species of birds and lots of beautiful beaches. Costa Rica is truly a beautiful place, and the people are wonderful. Geiner said the pacific coast people are more friendly than the Caribbean side of the country.
After our 3 or so hour trek we were met by our van driver with some fresh local fruit and a cold juice drink. Now I am back at the hotel updating this blog and getting ready for dinner. Tomorrow we go whitewater rafting - hopefully without the crocodiles!! The tour folks sent me a detailed itinerary and I am trying to figure out how to get it printed out. Out for now/emr 1713 hours.
Adventure Life took care of everything! All we had to do was show up when we were supposed to, which made our first trip to Costa Rica largely stress-free and incredibly fun. Our trip reps, Hannah and Mariethony, were helpful and responsive, getting back to us by email usually within a few hours. Our accommodations were all great, and we got incredibly blessed with some absolutely stellar guides and drivers.
Our Jungle & Beach trip was an excellent balance of adventure and rest. We got to try out a lot of different activities, including snorkeling, hiking, white water rafting and kayaking, while also partaking of some rest around the pool or by the ocean. We enjoyed seeing and exploring the beautiful Caribbean side of the country.
Joy Knowles
1 week ago
The company made our adventure trip hassle-free, and a lot of fun! I will definitely be using them again
Carolena F
1 month ago
For our first trip to Costa Rica, Adventure Life designed a tour that meets the interests, ecological and adventure, of our party; but also takes into account our physical limitations sine we are all septuagenarian. We are looking forward to the trip.
John Zent
1 month ago
COSTA RICA a trip of a life time travelling round this beautiful country. All went like clockwork even when the weather was against us and all transfers seemed to be part of the holiday not a chore. Would definitely use Adventure Life again having previously used them 20 years ago!!
Cynthia Calton
1 month ago
Our Costa Rica trip was amazing! Kassandra planned everything and the excursions, hotels, overall organization were outstanding. Everything worked out smoothly, the excursions guides were knowledgeable allowing us to see so much of the fauna and flora of the country. The hotels were great as well, all in fantastic locations and with beautiful views.