Today I found a great nonstop RT airfare Ft Lauderdale to San Jose on AA and booked it for my wife, myself, and our 16 year old daughter.

The trip will be mid-October arriving Thursday afternoon and returning late afternoon the following Monday.

We've read wonderful things about the country and would appreciate any advice on the basics of planning our short trip.

Our preference is to stay in one area with the possibility of a day trip or two combined with just relaxing. But we have no idea about a "base". East Coast? West Coast? San Jose? Other places?

Thanks so much for your help!

Al

Going straight to Puerto Viejo would be my choice as you will find it's the highest rainy season on the Pacific Coast and Central Valley area in October. You really should just choose 1 destination with that amount of time and we love that area. Places like Cariblue, Azania Bungalows, La Costa Papito are popular, but not sure what your budget is. The beaches are beautiful there, and there is Cahuita Nat'l Park and Gandoca-Manzanillo Refuge for ample hiking and wildlife. The sloth rescue center is also pretty cool and there are things like surfing, snorkeling, kayaking, ziplining or visit to the Bri-Bri indegenous reserve. The food is some of the best we've had throughout CR and it tends to be easier on the budget.

Congrats on planning your first trip and have a great time!

Did you get that $74 one way deal advertised on Travelzoo?

Agree east coast a good idea. . .

Just to explain why the Caribbean (east coast)side is a good idea in October.

In the Pacific area and also central Valley, of all the months, October is the rainiest. However, in contrast, the caribbean side enjoys some of its best weather at that time.

raquel.

Just the kind of help we need. Thanks so much! And yes, shillmac, I did grab the $74 deal on Travelzoo. If you are interested I hope its still available for you! Al