Explore Costa Rica: Arenal Volcano National Park

where to stay:

Nayara Hotel, Spa & Gardens: Shell out some serious but worthwhile bucks to stay at this luxurious, secluded sanctuary in the heart of a tropical forest.  Nayara Hotel is a genuine sanctuary where nothing is too much trouble for the staff and there is an emphasis on pampering and relaxation.  Each morning you will be able to walk out onto the patio of your private casita and survey the tropical beauty of Areal Volcano National Park.  After enjoying a scrumptious breakfast on your patio, hop on over to the hotel's spa and natural, slope side  hot springs for an indulgent treatment.  One of the 50 private casitas at Nayara Hotel begins at $520/night when you book here http://www.nayarasprings.com/index.html

El Silencio del Campo: One of the more affordable options to choose from while taking in the beauty and nature of Areal Volcano is the Hotel El Silencio del Campo.  The ultra peaceful grounds offer onsite hot springs, so that you do not need to leave, and a spa for guests as well.  Each morning guests are served a delicious breakfast from only the freshest ingredients from the onsite farm.  El Silencio del Campo's accommodations include clean, private chalets that sleep up to 5.  The price of a chalet begins at $173 USD/night  http://www.hotelsilenciodelcampo.com/eng/index.html

where to eat: 

Chifa la Familia Feliz: Get a taste for the Peruvian-Chinese cuisine, also know as Chifa, when you dine in La Fortuna de San Carlos (just outside of the national park).  Some say these delicious dishes are a steal, so be sure to wear some stretchy pants and order up!  We recommend you try ordering the well-seasoned Corvina Seabass or the Lomo Saltado (a classic dish in Peru).

Costa Rica Wanderlust: San Jose

where to stay:

Finca Rosa Blanca Country Inn:  The inn is located 20 minutes outside of San Juan on a hillside with over 300 fruit trees, and a 30 acre coffee bean farm- the inn provides guided hiking tours of the farm.  There's an infinity pool and hot tub that overlook the farm,  as well as a spa, and concierge service to set you up on whitewater rafting, zipline, or volcano exploration adventure.  Finca Rosa Blanca offers an incomparable lodging experience with three extraordinary Master Suites and Villas and eleven elegant Junior Suites.   Suite pricing begins at $261 USD/night  https://www.fincarosablanca.com/en/

Hotel Grano de Oro: Set off a bustling thoroughfare, this upscale, boutique hotel is a 9-minute walk from Museo de Arte Costarricense.  The modern, elegant rooms feature free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs with satellite channels, and desks.  We recommend upgraded rooms with added terraces or a suite with a private garden and whirpool tub. There's also an upscale restaurant with courtyard seating and a cozy lounge.  Room pricing begins at $165USD/night.  http://www.hotelgranodeoro.com/

where to eat:

Park Cafe: At this delicious fusion of antique and French, Michelin-star chef Richart Neat offers an exquisite menu featuring smaller sampling plates and a carefully curated wine list.  The romantic, candlelit courtyard is eclectically  decorated with Asian antique imported by Neat's partner, Louise French.  The tantalizing menu includes classic flavor combinations- carpaccio of beef with mustard dressing, crab ravioli with asparagus and ginger carpaccio, and gorgonzola gnocchi with prune-stuffed pork fillet.  An eight-table limit creates an intimate atmosphere.   

 

Visit Costa Rica: Playa Manuel Antonio

where to stay

Beach Packer Hostel: Probably the cheapest place in town, but it doesn't sacrifice any of the amenities.  Only seconds away from the beautiful beaches in Manuel Antonio and rain forest, accessible to zip lining, surfing, and white water rafting.  Keep your eyes open because you may just see a capuchin monkey frolicking outside your window.  Enjoy a delicious breakfast of coffee, pancakes, and fruit every morning on the hostel's patio.  A fun stay indeed!  Room pricing beginning at $60 USD/night.  http://www.hostelworld.com/hosteldetails.php/Beach-Packer-Hostel/Manuel-Antonio/87067

Tulemar Bungalows & Villas: Have the ultimate luxury stay amongst the sloths and monkeys in the trees of Manuel Antonio.  Tulemar's spacious 645 sq. foot Bungalows provide all the comforts of home only, perhaps, with a better view! Each Bungalow is equipped with a small kitchenette (mini-fridge, microwave, sink, 2 burner hot plate and coffee maker) an air conditioned living room with a trundle bed and an air conditioned, master bedroom with two queen size beds and television.  When you're not enjoying the beach, bask by  one of the villas' four pools.  Bungalow pricing begins at $205 USD/night.  http://www.4tulemar.com/tulemarbungalows.html

where to eat:

El Wagon: Stop by El Wagon for pizza on your way to the beach for a taste of home.  We recommend ordering the margarita or Hawaiian  thin crust.  If you want to enjoy your pizza to stay, you may have some sloths or capuchin monkeys visiting in the lush greenery next to the patio.  Certainly the best pizza in town and at a price that won't break the bank.