Costa Rica Reviews Blog

Depending on your traveling dates there are many affordable hotels that will fulfill your needs… places like Bahia del Sol, Sano Banano and Sugar Beach are nice, secluded yet inexpensive. If you don’t want to spend the whole time at the same area then you can visit the Arenal Volcano and then the beach. In Arenal I’d recommend the Arenal Paraiso, they have beautiful views of the volcano, nice and cozy accommodations, hot springs and good rates. The guys at VacationCity can put together a package for you, just give them a call, tell them what you need and they will help you out in a heart beat.

There are lots of great values in Costa Rica. If you stay away from the typical "tourist traps" (large hotels, resorts, etc.) you can have an incredible vacation on a relatively small budget. The beach areas are typically more expensive, especially the highly developed areas. Just research it and decide what area and climate you are looking for. If you want an incredible nature experience in a secluded, romantic area check out the Rincon de la Vieja Lodge. Here's the link to the rates page of their website showing lodging and meal costs as well as the costs of various activities.
http://www.vacationcity.com/costa-rica/hotel/rincon-de-la-vieja-lodge/

You MUST do a canopy tour, it was one of the highlights of our trip! Note that the meals costs shown are "mandatory" because of the secluded area (there's no where else to eat). But the food is fantastic and well worth it!

Have a great trip...Pura Vida!