Costa Rica – Day 1

Posted on April 8, 2011 by James Reese

lir Greetings from Costa Rica! Or, as they say here – “Pura Vida” – Pure Life!

Getting Here:
Flew from Philadelphia direct to San Jose via Atlanta on Delta. Was met outside of Baggage Claim by a Swiss Tours representative who “tagged me” with a Swiss Tours badge. Customs/Immigrations was super fast and very easy in this very modern and air-conditioned airport. My air-conditioned transfer bus was waiting as soon as I stepped outside.

The Transfer:
Got the opportunity to see a bit of San Jose. This capital city offers everything you’d expect of a big city – many cultural attractions, lots of dining and great nightlife! The transfer to the Arenal area (about 3 hours) went by quickly as my guide gave me some great background information on Costa Rica while we drove through stunning vistas of misty mountains, valleys, sugar cane and coffee plantations. I have arrived in the “Green” season – end of April through the beginning of December. The weather is cooler and wetter. Stopped at a local place on the way called El Jardin (about an hour into the transfer) for a great lunch with the locals! Continue reading →

Costa Rica Excursion report from James Reese!

Posted on September 12, 2010 by Eileen Herncane (Editor at Large)

sun Costa Rica is famous for Zip Lines — including the Canopy Tour which we did! We arrived at the jungle area greeted by the English speaking operator for Congo Canopy Tours. We then headed up hill to an open-air building to suit up & fitted out with a harness, gloves and hardhat.

We then headed up hill to the first platform — via a suspended bridge — over a beautiful river gorge. The operators gave easy instructions on what to expect and how to handle myself.

Then, the first jump! WOW! If you have never experienced this particular type of excursion, you have to add it to your bucket list! It’s invigorating and exhilarating! Zipping down a line at 25 miles per hour is something you will NEVER forget!

The excursion included 9 lines (one was over 900 feet long) and several additional suspended bridges. The beauty of it all was just amazing! !There were monkeys everywhere (probably laughing at me — HA)!

The only thing I would suggest to you is make sure you understand that there is climbing and lots of walking involved — not an excursion for anyone with mobility issues. A FANTASTIC experience!!!

James’ Journey in Costa Rica continues

Posted on September 11, 2010 by Eileen Herncane (Editor at Large)

sat More hotel reviews from James Reese from Costa Rica!

The Allegro Papagayo is located on a beautiful black sand beach, this resort features 2 bars, 3 restaurants and 300 rooms. Stunning views of the Gulf of Papagayo! Great pool and pool bar. Guests can climb the “Watchtower” and have a drink while watching the sunset. Rooms are standard and clean. Showers only. Kids club for ages 4–12. $2 per day charge for the safe and $25 charge for WIFI for duration of stay (regardless of length). Restaurant reservations are required. Resort is built on the side of the mountain — LOTS of walking! Great for clients looking for a value.

Villas Sol Hotel and Beach Resort — Too, cool! This resort is built on the side of yet another mountain with phenomenal views!!! Every room is Ocean View. 2 restaurants and 2 bars, 2 pools and 1 jacuzzi. Continue reading →

Day 2 – James’ Journey in Costa Rica continues

Posted on September 10, 2010 by Eileen Herncane (Editor at Large)

fri Another day in Paradise!!!

Apple Vacations offers escorted vacations to Costa Rica! The 7 night escorted “Discover Costa Rica” tour is one of many specialized tours. Fly into San Jose and stay 2 nights, transfer to the Arenal area and stay for 2 nights and then transfer to the Guanacaste area to relax on the beach for the final 3 nights. This tour includes specially selected excursions throughout! You have the option of choosing the Deluxe or Luxury version of hotels.

Arenal Nayara Hotel Boutique — This resort is a component of the Deluxe version of the “Discover Costa Rica” tour. The resort boasts beautiful views of the Arenal Volcano and the surrounding countryside. This little jewel features 44 suites and rooms nestled in a tropical jungle paradise. Continue reading →

Costa Rica Day 1

Posted on September 9, 2010 by Eileen Herncane (Editor at Large)

volcano James Reese Apple’s Philly Regional Sales Manager just visited — Costa Rica. I asked him to report back and here is what he had to say!

Greetings from Costa Rica! Or, as they say here — “Pura Vida” — Pure Life! I flew from Philadelphia direct to San Jose via Atlanta on Delta. I was met outside of Baggage Claim by a Swiss Tours representative who “tagged me” with a Swiss Tours badge. Customs/Immigrations was super fast and very easy in this very modern and air conditioned airport. My air-conditioned transfer bus was waiting as soon as I stepped outside.

On the transfer I was able to see a bit of San Jose. This capital city offers everything you’d expect of a big city — many cultural attractions, lots of dining and great nightlife! The transfer to the Arenal area (about 3 hours) went by quickly as my guide gave me some great background information. We drove through stunning vistas of misty mountains, valleys, sugar cane and coffee plantations. I arrived in the Costa Rica “Green” season (which is the end of April through the beginning of December). The weather is cooler and wetter. Stopped at a local place on the way called El Jardin (about an hour into the transfer) for a great lunch with the locals!

Continue reading →