I was hoping to go to Costa Rica with my family over the Christmas week. All of the places I have contacted are fully booked. I got one night at Peace lodge...that's it and I have tried several hotels in different places. Should we go somewhere else? Where? Maybe we should go to Europe, even though it is so $$$ and not warm.
Thanks.

Unfortunately, Christmas is probably the most popular time to travel to CR - which areas are you interested in, and what places have you contacted? If you post some more info., people may be able to suggest a few spots. Did you try Lost Iguana in Arenal? We loved it.

I have contacted many places in Arenal and MA. Yes, I tried the Lost Iguana too. Thanks.

neglex,

what type of lodging are you looking for? and how many in your group?

We want really nice, high end places. We were looking in Arenal and MA, but could change. It is me, my husband and two daughters (14 and 16). Thanks.

In MA, did you check out Makanda by the Sea, Tulemar, Si Como No, Buena Vista Villas, Parador, Mango Moon, Costa Verde, Villas Nicolas? Those are probably your safest bets.

Do you have your heart set on Costa Rico or would you consider Mexico's Riviera Maya?

I heard back from Makanda today. $500 for villa 1 and 349 for studio # 3. Is it really that nice? What do you recommend? Thanks.

We haven't personally stayed at Makanda, but I have friends that went there for their honeymoon that really liked it. It gets really good reviews. Maybe check out tripadvisor.com and see what you think. There should be a number of reviews, along with pictures. Unfortunately Christmas time is $$$ in CR.

My husband doesn't want to go to Mexico.
So far I have Peace Lodge for the first two nights. Then we could either go to hotel Makanda for two nights or El Silencio. I am still trying to get a room in Arenal for the next two nights but have had no luck. Is there another are we should try instead? What about Makanda vs. el Silencio? Thanks.

This El Silencio is in Bajos del toro.

I'm not familiar with the other property, so personally I'd have to lean towards Makanda, but check it out on tripadvisor.com and see if it's your kind of spot. I hope you're able to make it to Arenal; it's one of our favorite places.