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 You
say you want a tropical, beachy, romantic place
to relax and enjoy each other's company. But
you also want access to activities, natural
beauty and a bit of adventure. Maybe you've
already been to Hawaii, or simply aren't interested
in going (too far, too popular, etc.). While
you may not have yet considered Central America,
take a deeper look at Costa Rica as it offers
all of this and more.
Costa Rica's bustling capital is often a
necessary first stop after your flight. While
you may not be here for a city experience, San
Jose is an excellent base from which to explore
the interesting and enjoyable central
countryside. You'll have a chance to visit a
working coffee plantation and try the fresh
roast - better than waiting in line at
Starbucks! Or perhaps acquaint yourselves with
the local rainforest by taking a "canopy tour",
or rather an above ground gondola where you can
experience life in the jungle from the viewpoint
of monkeys and birds.
 After
San Jose, you'll head north for some romance
and excitement at Arenal Volcano, where you'll
be staying at the lovely Lost Iguana Resort.
Hear the volcano rumble close by, or if it's
a clear night, gaze at the glowing lava as it
outlines the volcano under the twinkling stars.
Take a closer look and learn about Arenal's
history by trekking the area with a guide. To
rejuvenate and relax your tired muscles, dip
into the nearby Tabacon thermal springs. Imagine
warm water rushing over the both of you as you
lounge on a natural rock ledge while looking
out over the rainforest. In this spa environment,
make sure to enjoy a massage before dinner,
and then dine on Costa Rican or International
specialties at the resort.
 Close
by to Mt. Arenal is the unusual Monteverde Cloud
Forest. Monteverde means "green mountain"
in Spanish, and what you will experience is
a misty, high altitude, tropical rainforest.
Some of the best bird watching in Costa Rica
can be found here, and you can observe them
by foot or on horseback as you ride to your
picnic spot by at rushing waterfall. Up here
in the highlands it is pleasantly cool, unlike
what you might normally think of as rainforest.
Take some time to explore Monteverde itself,
a quaint artist town with shops and small local
restaurants.
 From
cool to hot - now on to the town of Quepos,
and Manuel Antonio National Park. In Quepos
you will stay at Makanda by the Sea, a property
honeymooners have fallen in love with and continue
to rave about upon returning home. You can choose
to relax in your suite with its stunning views
of the ocean, or head out for some fun on the
beach - fishing, swimming, snorkeling, sunning.
Or, take a machete and cut your way through
the jungle to your own beach. Close by, the
national park offers the sights and sounds of
howler monkeys, butterflies and other unique
rainforest creatures. Unique flora and fauna
abound! After hiking, stop in at one of the
charming and scrumptious local restaurants in
Quepos - many have only 7 or 8 tables, ensuring
intimate evenings together.
On your last full day, you'll fly back to San
Jose, where you can collect your thoughts and
remembrances prior to your journey home the next
day. You've done a lot and seen a lot during
your stay in Costa Rica. A little bit of
everything - just like you wanted.
Who
will enjoy this trip
Those who wish to combine activity, relaxation
and eco-experience with some charming lodges.
Who
should avoid this trip
Those who want a 100% beach experience would
prefer the Tamarindo area of Costa Rica, or
perhaps another destination altogether. Those
desiring spa or large resort accommodations. For
those looking for the most authentic rainforest,
add the Osa Peninsula into the itinerary.
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Monteverde