Family trip to CR over Christmas, Dec 21-31. 2 adults, 3 kids -- 15, 13, and 7. Definitely an active group.
We're planning to go to Tortuguero for two nights. Road/boat there and back. Going to do a standard tour because it provides transport, tours, pool, etc.
A night in SJ/Alajuela. Rent 4WD and go to Reserva Santa Elena and do all the usual things -- 3 nights. Planning to stay at Terra Vida (any comments on this place?).
With all this tourist stuff, I'd love to have our remaining two days/nights be someplace more "real." My kids speak Spanish and need exposure, and we've lived in Africa and SAmerica, so we're pretty comfortable wherever we find ourselves.
Given the short time and a strong interest in minimizing more driving, does anyone have any recommendations on a town/village/area that might be a bit interesting for us for the other 2 days/nights? We could do it between Tortuguero and Santa Elena/Monteverde or after SE/Monteverde. I was thinking about Orosi and Paraiso -- seem like more "normal" towns with the added attraction of hot springs, but that may be too much driving. Or maybe we should head for a small village on the Pacific Coast?
Thanks for any ideas.
Jane
Orosi Valley area is lovely, great climate and some the prettiest scenery...classic Tico towns, and a great place for spanish immersion or a homestay as well.
Instead of San Jose or Alajuela you could try staying in Grecia...it is only 35 min from the airport. It is a small town with lots of young people and a central park where everyone hangs out and is easy to make friends. There are lots of things to do and see in the area. You can check out www.bandbgrecia.com for more info.
I have also heard nice things about the Orosi Valley but have never been there.
Pura Vida
I suggest that you spend the last full day doing the Calypso Cruise to Isla Tortuga. A great way to finish off your vacation. Plus, you don't want to head back home without a little proof you were in the tropics. Bring sunscreen.
Also, I'd plan to stay in a hotel with a view of the central valley my last night. There will be fireworks, even on the 30th, and the show is sweet. My Scottie hates the booming noise, but loves to watch the lights. I'd suggest the Hotel Buena Vista. It is close to the airport too. Enjoy
trusted partner
