Hi Guys , I seem to be playing the part of my familys travel agent . Now not only are my 2 neices going to Costa Rica in 3 wks , but also my sister and new found love , and my brother (his 6 th trip ) . I know Tamarindo is very popular , I was curious to know if the area is as visually pretty as M.A. , I was thinking for my first timers in the family who really just want a beach vacation with a couple of little sidetrips , that M.A was a good choice . Easy to get to , lots of restaurants , lots of lodging choices , lots of wildlife , canopy tours , very pretty beaches , really lush ,exotic feel, hilly , and tropical . And , oh yeah , those views !!! How does Tamarindo , and other areas for that matter compare to the prettiness of M.A. ???? ( realize beauty is in the eye of the beholder , but u get the idea ! )

Anyone know the Osa Pen. area , Lapa Rios Lodge area etc. ?

I did not like Tamarindo compared to the rst of CR. it was like being in little California. 80% were young americans who were only there to surf and the beaches weren't that nice. Go farther south to Mal Pais, great beaches and more of what CR is truly about.

Thanx , I have been researching since I posted , and I believe they would like Manuel Antonio over Tamarindo , simply for the lush factor , and a few other reasons . The Osa penin. area looks super , perhaps that should be my comparison ? Is it Still terribly difficult to reach ? Is M.A. still a better area for first timers ?

I've stayed in La Mariposa; and it as well as several other popular hotels in MA sit up high overlooking the water affording those wonderful views. In Tamarindo, the area is flatter. Of course, then you're more easily to find accommadations that are directly on the beach. Both locations are very popular with tourists ... agree with other poster who describes Tamarindo as being California-like.

Have not been to Osa and so, can't offer any firsthand opinions. From what I've read, it's much more rustic and certainly more lush than other two places.

Thanx Tess ! For my neices , I think definitely Manuel antonio , that is basically decided . Still deciding for my sis and her new beau , she has never done anything but A.I. , but he has backpacked through Asia , Nicaragua , etc, It is their first trip together , so maybe M.A. is a happy medium . I was concerned it would be too touristy for him , thus the question about Osa and area ?

Oh, faithie, now I see your delima! Combining an AI person with a backpacker! Oooh! Oh but she will love it!

Yes, MA may be a very good option to slowly ease her in and yet not overlook him completely. As you know it does offer some spectaclar views and has much to offer to both. Actually there are times that my husband goes off into the wild by himself, while I take a pool day break, or massage day break, or well you get it.

And for beginning and ending their trip, you may consider a small, quaint location, rather than luxury, this should help him get his needed experience.

As far as views - well I can say that I have only had one view that was not wonderful in CR, and that was the one time we decided to stay in SJ city. Not a city dweller and it was a bit distressing to look out and see all those buildings, instead of lush green forest, valleys and mountains or ocean.

I do feel that MA is a bit over touristy, but a must for everyone to experience. Surely you could not go wrong with this choice.

But of course, there is the option of the Northern Pacific for an AI option.

I understand your pressure, I am keeping my fingers crossed that I made the correct choices for my upcoming daughters trip.

Actually , she did not enjoy her A.I expeirences . She is an avid outdoor person , and will be quite happy to stay in a budget lodging , I just am not certain the long trek to Osa Penin. is good for the first romantic trip together !!!. I still think M.A. is happy medium , and as you said , ease her in , and he still has the great outdoors etc. I keep trying to explain that it is a bit touristy , but not in the same sense as Cancun touristy !!!! I am pretty certain they will love it , perhaps future trips will be to more remote areas . Faith .

ttt , Thanx All !!! Faith .

My husband and I spent 6 days at Lapa Rios on the Osa Penninsula in May 2004. The resort offers stunning views and is quite charming in a rustic way. Beds have mosquito netting, which you need to use to keep out to creepy crawlies. There was always plenty of hot water, although the lights were so dim as to be non-existant. The food was amazing. Unbelieveable in such a remote property. The guides were very knowlegeable and friendly, and there were many different hikes and tours offered. They also offer things like surfing lessons and yoga classes. We took the day long trip to Corcovado National Park which was a highlight of our trip(National Geographic listed this as one of the most biologically diverse places on earth). If you are looking for an active vacation in a secluded rainforest setting, Lapa Rios is the perfect place for you. If you want to see pictures, email me at [email protected]