I just found out I'll be traveling to Costa Rica for work in less than two weeks and I'm taking 3 vacation days after to relax but I'm a little overwhelmed by the options. If possible I'd like to see the cloud forests of Monteverde and spend a day on the beach. I'll be starting from Alajuela and leaving from the San Jose airport. Is this possible or do I have to choose between mountain or beach? Any itinerary suggestions?

You'll probably have to choose--Monteverde is a 5 hour drive from Alajuela and from the closest decent beach.

www.hotelvillacaletas.com 1-2 nights for your beach

1 hour or so from the airport

www.tabacon.com at www.arenal.net 1-2 nights

Possible to do if somewhat rushed make more time if possible.

Have fun,

www.fondavela.com best at www.monteverdeinfo.com

Arenal is more spectacular though really too little time.

I would head for Manuel Antonio. It is one of the closest beaches to the San Jose area and also a National Park that has a lot to offer. www.manuelantoniopark.com

The alternative is to head for Arenal - about 3 hours from the airport. www.arenal.net

I would not try to visit two locations - just takes too much time to get around. Next time, you can have an extended vacation and see more of Costa Rica.

For distances and travel times - www.yourtravelmap.com

Our favorite is Arenal, but if you want beach time, Manuel Antonio is nice too. I'd go with one location only in such a short time frame.

You can see cloud forests in San Gerardo de Dota (spend a night, see a quetzal in the morning). Then continue to Dominical and up to Manuel Antonio for two nights.