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!

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Apple Vacations sale featuring RIU Hotels & Resorts started today! In addition to the great package pricing we have, here are some highlights of RIU Resorts in Punta Cana, The Bahamas and Costa Rica.

In Punta Cana:
The “new” Riu Bambu re-opens on June 13th, 2010 as a new family focused hotel with a “RiuLand” kids’ club. They will also have family rooms, which are family of 5 friendly. They have special pricing for these rooms: 1st child is free in the family room and the 2nd and 3rd child are 50% off. If you do not need a family room, the regular deluxe room has 2 kids STAY, PLAY & EAT FREE for kids 12 years and under. When they re-open, all the rooms at Riu Bambu will have been refurbished. There will also be a new Asian and Italian restaurant and a sports bar with game tables and flat screen TVs. Sounds like a fun place for families! Also, Riu Bambu has free exchange privileges with Riu Taino & Riu Naiboa.

Riu Palace Macao for July and August arrivals is offering a free upgrade to a Superior Room, where you will receive a better tropical view!

Riu Palace Punta Cana offers free exchange privileges with all 5 of the RIU Resorts in Punta Cana. …Read More>>

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If like me you are looking for something more than just a beach vacation, have you considered Costa Rica for your next trip?

Costa Rica is one of the most advanced countries in the world to travel, with high literacy rates, a booming “Health Tourism” industry and service levels to rival the most advanced of tourist destinations.  Did you know this small country is a firm favorite with Americans choosing it as their home away from home, with more Americans choosing to live in Costa Rica, than Costa Ricans (affectionately known as Ticos) moving over here to the USA? …Read More>>

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