We are looking at going to CR in November for the first time. We have a couple of options for tour/ packages; one involves driving (use of rental car) and the other involves being on a bus with other travellers.
We are worried about driving there. We have a lot of common sense, but don't want to have to worry about crazy locals. Any thoughts? Any help would be greatly appreciated.
Also, if anyone has an opinion about whether Playa Flamingo is worth the trip or not, we'd appreciate it.

Thanks again!!!

Just my 2 cents. . .we love to drive ourselves. It is very convenient to have wheels and most of the roads are pretty decent.

As for Playa Flamingo, here is the skinny on it: It is highly Americanized, nothing Costa Rican about it, except the employees! There are real estate companies all over the place. Sounds crummy, huh?

The upside is that is has one of the most beautiful beaches (if not THE most beautiful) in the country. And few people. . . Sunsets at Playa Flamingo are breathtaking. . .about a 30 minute event and there are always a few folks gathered to watch.

Another advantage is that the area is excellent for exploring. You can drive an hour either north or south and have access to innumerable beaches abd towns. Very nearby is Playa Potrero, Playa Pan de Azucar (Sugar Beach), Brasilito a small Costa Rican beach town with 2-3 excellent restaurants, Perro Plano and Camaron Dorado to name a couple. Also close to Playa Conchal, where there is a huge hotel, but you can access this beach from Brasilito--in your vehicle. Thirty minutes will get you to Tamarindo, always an interesting place to visit--and booming. Tons of shops here and restaurants.

We keep returned there almost every time we visit CR because we love the area in spite of its obvious faults!

To drive or not also depends on how long you are staying. For a week or more you will appreciate the freedom to come and go as you like with a car. For just a few days in 1 or 2 places a car may not be necessary. Don't worry about the locals, its no worse than driving in LA! Good luck and have fun!

anyone know how long it takes to drive from Jaco to Malpais? should I use the ferry or the new bridge? appreciate your input.

what about best canopy experience around Puntarenas area and is the horseback ride to the waterfall in Bijugual worth $30. what about the river rafting trip on the Savegre river? we don't want TOOOO much adventure but some would be nice.

looking forward to your advice.

I can just help a little bit. Take the ferry from Jaco to MalPais. Also, I saw in Montezuma where there is a boat transfer. Not sure if that would fit your circumstances.

Thank you to all with advice. It is really comforting, as we wanted to drive but were just a bit leary...

Thanks also for the info on Playa Flamingo. I am starting to really look forward to this trip...

Wish I were going again in November! Right now through mid-September you can get 10,000 bonus miles for booking Costa Rica through American Airlines for travel through mid-December. Sure am tempted, but am starting a new job and a few days off won't be coming so easily!

So nice to have your vacation to look forward to! You'll have a great time! If you've read some of the other posts, you'll know that the little town of Brasilito gets great reviews for its cuisine!