WHAT OUR GUESTS SAY:
Jun. 2, 2009“I was ''shocked'' to see how everything was well-coordinated, especially the flights and transportation.”
Dear Luis: Indeed, times fly! Our trip was absolutely fantastic! Costa Ricans are so welcoming and friendly, and the wildlife is great (but the rain is wet...). We have only good things to say, and to thank you for so many good advices! I think that the biggest success was having Diego Blanco with us. He is a superb guide, and together with Randel the driver they made an excellent team. We (also our 4 kids) regretted not having Diego for the rest of the trip (we needed him especially in Corcovado). Comments regarding hotels from my perspective:
1. The Lost Iguana Hotel was an excellent recommendation for spoiled people like us! Just a marvelous place.
2. Punta Islita was also outstanding, especially having the 2 casas with the private pool. Please note that the main infinity pool is off limits for kids, please make sure to mention it to future travelers. The kids adored spending 4 days in Punta Islita, but my wife and I ended up regretting not spending a couple more days in the humid, air conditionless La Paloma in Drake instead of having the relaxed days in Punta Islita. The zip-lining is indeed very family-friendly, non-scary at all. People who look for more adrenalin rush (not me) should go somewhere else.
3. Monteverde Lodge - great restaurant, food and hotel garden.
4. Tortugero Lodge - exciting garden and trails, but I suggest emphasizing to travelers that the beach should be off limits as not only dangerous but extremely dirty.
5. Finca Rosa Blanca - another success, especially if you take the coffee tour.

Itinerary planning: I was "shocked" to see how everything was well-coordinated, especially the flights and transportation. There was only one "glitch", and it was in our favour: instead of flying Drake - San Jose (and getting our bag with clean clothes) -Tortugero, we had a direct flight to Tortugero without realizing it until touching the ground. Luckily Nicole in La Paloma suggested to have our clothes washed and dried for a ridiculous fee (8$ per basket). Highly recommended!

The only disappointment that we had was Corcovado. Our guide wasn't so enthusiastic as the others. I was hoping to get in the deep secluded forest, but we were taken to the nearest official entrance. Although it was a half-a-day trip with provided lunch, it ended up to be the less exciting tour with almost no wildlife (but beautiful beaches). I would have much preferred touring the more remote (Southern?) entrance and spend a longer day in Corcovado. Luckily, the following day we had a great day snorkeling at Cano Island with Roy, who was a great guide. I will email you some pictures in a separate email (although you're probably tired of wildlife pictures).

Again, thank you for getting us such a great experience, and PLEASE tell Diego that our kids don't stop talking about him. Apparently he became a role model for them. Should one of you visit Canada, please email us prior your arrival.
-Yehuda