Visiting Costa Rica in October for 7 days, flying into San Jose. I need some advice on places to stay as don’t want to do to much travelling around.

We arrive at 7am and I'm looking to drive onto Florblanca Resort, Mal Pais for 4 nights. I would be getting the hotel to pick me up and transfer me ($200 each way) any other options apart from flying (partner has a phobia and this would be 1 flight to many)? I would then spend 2 nights on return at Xandari Resort & Spa, Alajuela before flying home.

Are these nice luxury hotels that will give us a good taste of different aspects of CR with the sort visit we have, any other tips?

Hi,

I think you'll be happy with those hotels. The drive to FlorBlanca in St. Teresa is quite a hike from San Jose, and involves a ferry ride, so I can see where it would be expensive. I have a friend in the business -- if you're interested I'll ask them what they'd charge to drive you there. FlorBlanca is a very beautiful place. The pool and outdoor dining area are gorgeous, there's a yoga room, and the villas are large and beautiful. They say there are no bugs there! I don't know if it's true all the time, but I didn't get bit while I was there.
Sandy

I used an English speaking guide to travel a number of different locations in Costa Rica. His name is Eduardo Delgado and he was prompt, nice, and knowledgeable. We drove in a 9 passenger a/c van. His number is 011 (506) 389-7014. His partner in USA can be reached at 1 (888) 216-2552. He did a great job for me and will not cost $200 each way.

Regards,

Roger
http://fun-costa-rica-vacations.com

We stayed at Xandari two years ago before flying back home(it is VERY close to the airport, but yet in a dreamy location!) I am still thinking about this tranquil place and can not wait to get back there (without kids next time!!!)
Kirsten

I agree your 2 destinations will offer you 7 delightful days in Costa Rica! Plan on taking at least 6 hours to get to MalPais from SJO. Basicall, it will take the entire arrival day.

You will need to check on ferry times in advance (www.nicoyapeninsula.com) and arrive about an hour (or 1.5 hour) ahead of the ferry schedule. We were there in July on a particularly busy Saturday morning and no way were we going to get on a ferry until late afternoon. We ended up driving up, across the bridge and back down the LONG way on an incredibly rough road (but at least we were moving and air-conditioned).

The best ferry time will be the one that leaves about 10:30 (could be 10:00). I don't think you can clear customs, get your car and get there in time to get on it. It would be VERY close! You might rather take your time (not feeling like you have to drive like a maniac) and shoot for the 12:00 or 12:30 ferry. You could still be at Flor Blanca by 5:00 or 5:30. This transfer will take you a full day!

I forgot you plan to be driven rather than to rent (you could rent a car for a week for less than what the hotel is charging you for pick up and return). Actually, if you think you could manage it (it's kind of fun!) that wouldn't be a bad idea. Flor Blanca is VERY isolated and you are going to need some transportation during the week. A car would come in VERY handy.

But, if not, then do check around ahead of time, as others have suggested, about a private driver. I think you could save at least $100 bucks. You might also check into an Interbus transfer. This would only cost you about $40 per person each way. Safe and reliable, small mini-vans.

www.interbusonline.com

Good luck! And, of course, enjoy Costa Rica!

Hi,
In a previous post I recommended Xandari. However, I just noticed on Xandari's website that there is a huge price increase starting Nov 1st ( they have a flat rate and do not go by "seasons&quot they raised each room by $45 per night! That is totally insane. Go there while you can. Personally, I will seriously rethink giving them my $$$.
Kirsten