Package or Independent
 

This will be the first time we're travellig to Latin America. We've travelled to the Caribbean, Mexico and Europe and did independent tours. But this time, not quite sure whether package tour is better. Travel, including flying time, is total of 7 days only. My question is would it be better (cost wise) to buy a package tour or do it independently (buy separate air, transfers, hotels, activities, etc.). If package is better, please advise on recommended tour companies. Thanks!

Where in "Latin America" are you going? It's impossible to answer your question without more information.

Sorry, it's Costa Rica.

It's kind of hard to compare one to the other without any other details. Where are you looking to go? What do you want/like to do? What is your budget? Personally, whether CR, Europe or C'bean, I prefer to book things myself. CR especially is well-suited to independent travelers.

We, too, have always traveled independently: however, we felt that in Costa Rica it was best to have a driver. So, we found a very good tour company, Costanicatours.com.(they handle Costa Rica and Nicaragua) They will put together an independedent trip for you. Just tell them what you want and they will price it out. They have hotels to suggest, but are more than willing to book at other places. We are also going for 7 nights..2 in Arenal, 2 in Monteverde, 3 in Manuel Antonio. We booked the airfare ourselves, but Costa Nica tours (the owner is Rod) arranged for all our transfers and excursions (which we chose). It came out cheaper than booking thru an escorted tour, which is what we wanted to avoid. Since he lives in Costa Rica (he has a toll free number), he is very helpful and very responsive. Hope this is helpful.

You might try http://www.latindestinations.com
we have booked two vacations from them and are very satisfied. Their web sight allows you to pick choose and price your vacation in multi locations. You can also book transfers between cities. Transfers are very good for the first time visit. With the transfer the driver usually points out things you might miss and you learn much about the county. I vote for 1st night in San Jose then transfer to Arenal spend two nights, then transfer for two nights Moneverde another transfer to Liberia area for the last two nights leaving from Liberia. Lots of different area.

Have fun, Bob

I also failed to tell you that you can edit your hotel choices at about a dozen different cities. Choose different flights, tours, or rental car. We choose a renteal car this time since I'm a little more aware of how they drive. Even if you don't use Latin Destinations it a good site to view differen't hotel's and tours offered in each city.

Bob