You’ve probably noticed from recent posts and Instagram pictures that Costa Rica was my (Allison) most recent travel adventure. As a graduation present, our parents and I made the trek down to Costa Rica to celebrate and relax after a stressful and busy two and a half years. Needless to say, I was ready to unload! Our family has been truly blessed to be able to take vacations in which we are able to reflect on past accomplishments, bring ourselves into the present, and re-evaluate goals and hopes for the future. I like to say that if you don’t think about work (and/or school) at all on your vacation, you’ve done it right. And that’s exactly what this vacation was all about for me!
{Our home away from home for the week was a FABULOUS, all-inclusive resort, the RIU Palace, Costa Rica. This place was literally unbelieveable-from the food and drinks (YUM) to the entertainment and uncannily warm and friendly people-this place is deluxe.}
{Our first excursion: Ziplining of course! As someone who is not comfortable with heights (to put it gently), 11 different lines was, let’s just say daunting, but the view and the adventure got the best of me! Of course we rewarded ourselves afterwards at the on-site petting zoo, where we got to hold and feed the monkeys and snakes! If you know me at all, you know how not-surprising it is that the monkey bit me!}
{We took to the rainforest the next day! A two and a half hour bus ride (the last hour and 15 minutes of which were on unpaved, rocky roads) delivered us to the Rincon de la Vieja National Forest. Here we found several waterfalls as well as the Blue River-a river that runs through the rainforest with various wildlife (can you say monkeys, sloths, and toucans!?), and is actually blue! It was a spectacular view, and the opportunity to swim in a waterfall pool was a dream come true. We also had the opportunity this day to visit some Botanical and Butterfly gardens with some beautifully unusual flora and fauna.}
{A few days later we just had to go on a doubledecker sunset catamaran cruise that included snorkeling (ask Shannon-I’m probably the worst snorkeler ever, so I gave up after a whopping 30 seconds and went seashell hunting with my mom on the beach), and drinks and food! We saw some fantastic beaches, and topped off the evening with a breathtaking sunset}
{The rest of the days we spent lounging pool/beachside, getting to know the people (both local and from far away…mostly Canada), relaxing, and participating in the resort activities. Some of our favorites: Darts tournament, nightly Bingo, morning water aerobics and even Latin dance lessons! We indulged in tropical drinks, the national beer of Costa Rica-Imperial at a local bar, and local fruits, like this Granadilla (I know it looks absolutely atrocious, but it was so delicious!), and coconut water straight from the coconut!}
This trip was absolutely incredible, and we would have loved nothing more than for Shannon and TJ to be able to join us! If you’re considering a trip to Costa Rica, or just looking for a vacation in general, I HIGHLY recommend Costa Rica! From the beaches (some dark like ours, some white sand), rainforests, adventure, wildlife, and, perhaps most importantly, the people, this place deserves an A+ with its balance of tourist-friendly, but truly authentic experience. Costa Rica, I’m coming back for you!
By the way! Don’t forget about our giveaway! Click below for details and entry!
