You’re busy. You work hard to provide.
But in between work, kids’ sporting events, preparing meals, running errands, etc., you’re rarely ever able to spend any real quality time with your family.
And when you do, those times are often interrupted by phone calls, the TV, or your teenager’s incessant text messaging.
You and your loved ones need (and deserve) a break from life’s constant demands.
In 2013 alone, more than 2 million travelers visited Costa Rica for some of the best relaxation and fun in the world.
Here are several reasons why you should too…
Beaches.
With nearly 300 unique beaches to choose from, Costa Rica’s got you covered when it comes to oceanside relaxation.
All of Costa Rica’s beaches are made up of a beautiful convergence of ocean and jungle, with large concentrations of lush green trees and plant life relatively close to the sand. But they all vary when it comes to sand color (white, black, or brown) and the consistency of their sand (or rocks/shells in some cases).
There are also a number of differences between Costa Rica’s more developed Pacific Coast and its lesser-known, more laid back Caribbean Coast.
The Osa Peninsula’s beach life (located on the Pacific Coast) is top notch.
It consists of long stretches of gorgeous shorelines ideal for surfing, boogie boarding, kayaking, and paddle boarding, and more. There’s also a reef less than a half mile out from the Iguana Lodge (an easy kayak or paddle board trip away) that’s ideal for snorkeling and warm tropical waters that are perfect for swimming!
But no matter where in Costa Rica you are, it’s really difficult to find a bad beach that won’t take your mind away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life to a place of enjoyment and serenity.
Adventure.
Nothing will make you feel alive quite like escaping the ordinary and experiencing some of the raw beauty and awe that Costa Rica has to offer.
From active volcanoes to glorious waterfalls, Costa Rica has it all. Activities like surfing, volcano hiking, river rafting, jungle exploring, etc. (available throughout the country) will take the fun level of your vacation to new heights.
And if you’re looking for a more untamed and rugged adventure, The Osa Peninsula is the spot for you.
“Truly a paradise, it is a place where jaguars still roam the jungles, Scarlet Macaws fly freely around the towns, and monkeys are found in numbers unmatched in all of Costa Rica if not Central America. Non “mainstream” travelers have discovered this previously little known, rugged paradise and come from around the world to experience the “wild side” of Costa Rica.” – Jeff Lantz, Costa Rican Travel Expert.
Wildlife.
Costa Rica boasts some of the most diverse and unique wildlife on the globe and is one of 20 countries with the highest biodiversity in the world. With more than 500,000 species (300,000 of which are insects), Costa Rica’s wildlife is reason enough for a visit.
The country’s high biodiversity is largely due to Costa Rica’s location between the North and South American continents, making it home to many species from both (as well as mixtures of species from each continent).
You can pretty much count on seeing a lot of red-eyed tree frogs, white-faced monkeys, and scarlet macaws while you’re there, in addition to a number of completely unique and exotic Costa Rican animals.
Food.
Costa Rica is famous for its fresh and flavorful cuisine. Dishes often contain large amounts of fresh fruits and veggies, with beans and rice being a staple at almost every meal. Fried plantains, meat (fish, carne asada, chicken, or pork), cheese, and corn tortillas are also common components of Costa Rican meals.
Desserts often use ingredients such as fresh fruit, raw or brown sugar, coconut, and chocolate. Some of the most popular desserts are melcochas (candies made from raw sugar), arroz con leche (rice pudding), and tres leches (a three-layered custard flan – Costa Rica’s national dessert).
*Important note: Costa Rica is a coffee drinker’s paradise and is readily available throughout the country. Come prepared to enjoy copious amounts of this beverage while you’re visiting.
Picky and/or unadventurous travelers can usually find more “American” types of meals without too much trouble (especially in the larger cities). But considering how healthy and delicious Costa Rican cuisine is, why not take advantage of it?
The Iguana Lodge’s food is legendary, consisting of fresh and eclectic ingredients that are soured from local farms whenever possible. The tasty and healthy (while sometimes decadent) cuisine served at the lodge is rich in variety and consistently garners the praise of everyday guests and acclaimed chefs alike.
Relaxation
Because of its innately tranquil and calm environment, Costa Rica has become a popular yoga/spa/relaxation destination.
Yoga retreats are rapidly growing in popularity throughout Costa Rica, and many people are escaping the hustle and bustle of everyday life to soak up the sun and sweat out toxins in the blissful stillness and serenity of Costa Rica.
But don’t worry – there’s still plenty of ways for all of you non-yogis to relax and enjoy your surroundings in Costa Rica as most hotels are equipped with massage and/or other spa-like services. And once you’re there, you’ll find that simply being in Costa Rica is extremely relaxing in itself. Long walks on the beach, sunbathing sessions, or tranquil dinners are great ways to shed the stress while visiting.
Bottom Line
Costa Rica is awesome. It’s impossible not to leave this nature/adventure/food paradise feeling completely recharged, with a renewed source of energy and lower stress level.
For more information on how to unwind and recharge during your Costa Rica vacation, check out our website.
