Issue 2  March 28th 2021

20 reasons to put Costa Rica on top of your travel list

If you can barely remember the last time you left your state, let alone getting on a plane, you’re in plenty of company. After a year or more of being largely housebound, when we finally come out on the other side, our “first trip” out of the country will feel extra special, a celebratory antidote to the sadness and the many, many months spent chilling at home.

But where to go? To a beach? A city? A rainforest? A cultural hotspot? There are so many possibilities, and Costa Rica offers them all. With miles upon miles of untouched tropical rainforests, endless strips of stunning beaches, an abundance of wildlife and waterfalls, cultural hubs scattered throughout the country, incredibly fresh and local food, and more, the land of “pura vida”—which translates to “the pure life”—truly has something for everyone. What’s more, the country is also completely dedicated to sustainability, with a program in place that encourages local travel companies to build sustainable business models. Should you choose to travel with any one of them, your tourism dollars will help make Costa Rica a better place.

Here, 20 reasons why you won’t regret making Costa Rica your first trip after a very travel-less and oh-so-trying year. (Bonus: All of the companies mentioned are, in fact, CST certified!)

timeout.com  

I Traveled to Costa Rica During COVID-19 — Here's What It Was Like

I was open to traveling to Costa Rica for several reasons.

While the U.S. has more than 28 million confirmed cases of COVID-19, Costa Rica has just under 204,000. South Carolina, whose population — 5 million — is similar to Costa Rica's, has 512,000. Flights were also reasonable.

My roundtrip ticket from Billings, Montana to Liberia was $400, which Google Flights highlighted as a lot less than usual.

Finally, I wouldn't need a nasal swab. Instead of a negative COVID-19 test, I'd need a QR code.

travelandleisure.com  

Travel to Costa Rica during Covid-19: What you need to know before you go | CNN Travel

If you're planning a trip to Costa Rica, here's what you'll need to know and expect if you want to visit during the global coronavirus pandemic. The basics Costa Rica opened back up for tourism in November. The country has eased restrictions in recent weeks, and is looking into creating a digital nomad visa to drum up visitors who'll make lasting contributions to the local economy.

cnn.com  

Family travel: How to plan a post-COVID trip to Costa Rica

Costa Rica’s rich biodiversity and natural beauty put it at the top of the list of inspiring family travel destinations. With cities and cloud forests – not to mention your pick of Caribbean or Pacific coastlines – the Central American country's signature pura vida ("pure life") way of life creates a welcoming and laid-back atmosphere for visiting families.

It’s brimming with things to do, and it provides a model of thoughtful, sustainable living that’s a better souvenir than anything you could take home and frame. Here are tips for planning an unforgettable family trip to Costa Rica:

usatoday.com  

You Can Work From a Dreamy Luxury Tent With a Private Pool in the Costa Rican Rain Forest

Nayara Tented Camp sits at the edge of Arenal Volcano National Park, where its private luxury tents boast one of the world's most unique views and nature provides ample incentive to disconnect when the workday is done.

After work, consider taking a dip in one of the many natural hot springs surrounding the resort. Or, explore the area's lush rain forests and national parks, wander the adorable streets of La Fortuna, or treat yourself to a massage.

Feeling a little more adventurous? Take a day off to rappel down a waterfall, go whitewater rafting, or, of course, hike Arenal Volcano.

travelandleisure.com