I am beginning to plan a trip to costa rica for xmas week for 6-8 nights from nyc.

As this is for an important birthday, I would like to stay at the four seasons, but it appears to be 2 hrs each way from many activities so I am thinking about splitting the trip and spending a few nights elsewhere.

I would like to be within driving distance (2-3 hrs?) from 4S as I am not a good flier and would not be comfortable taking a puddle jumper.

thanks!

Four seasons is really nice! We were there 2 years ago and loved it. The hotel has 2 great beaches and the rooms and service were really outstanding. We did a couple of excursions- our favorite was the zip line tour! Have a great time there! I hope to get back there one day soon!

Check out Villas del Suenos in Playa Hermosa.

thanks for the responses.

how far is playa hermosa?
what about staying in the arenal volcano area?

other suggestions?

We are traveling next mo, 3 nites at Arenal Kioro, then on to Four seasons for 5 nites. We plan to do all our adventure outings in Arenal and then just relax at the four seasons. Maybe some boating and snorkling. Good luck!

It sounds like 4S and volcano area would be a good split of adventure and relaxation, great!
Do you know the travel time between the two locations?

go to La Fortuna and see the volcano:

http://costa.rica.typepad.com/la_for...ome/index.html

I believe the travel time to be about 4 hrs. We arranged for a driver with a van, through our travel agent.

The Tabacon Resort in Arenal area is very nice. Lots of activities + hot springs on site.

My husband and I stayed at the Four Seasons for our honeymoon and it is beautiful! My husband had been to C.R. prior to our trip and he stayted in Tamarindo, which is about 2 hours from 4S and has plenty of nice hotels and more in the way of "outings." However, be sure to do the zip line canopy tour at the 4S - it's only 20 minutes from the hotel and it's a BLAST!

I looked up Arenal Kioro and Tabacon and they both look nice. I will also look into Tamarindo, 2 hours from 4S sounds great too. thank you for the suggestions.
Unfortunately 4S is booked solid for xmas, but I am definately excited for this trip and will go instead in Jan or Feb- probably better anyway as it will be so crowded then.

4 seasons - the BEST