klangner

My husband and I are looking to get away for 3 weeks in early - mid December. We are in our early 30's and are looking for hot weather, sunshine and beach time. We want to relax by day (lay on the beach, leisurely hikes, enjoy the scenery) and enjoy great food/wine by night. Night life is not important other than access to good local food/drinks. Since we're hoping to be away for up to 3 weeks, we want it to be relaxing, but with enough to explore to keep us entertained. We are considering returning to Brazil where we spent amazing 10 days in March 2005 in Rio, Paraty and Ilha Grande - but are considering other locations as well (Costa Rica? Belize? Carribean islands?) If you have suggestions for where to go, or can compare/contrast the above locations, we'd love your feedback! We really want to go somewhere that is guaranteed to be warm in the evenings (and not too rainy). I should also mention that while we love a luxury vacation here and there, we would like this trip to be more economical - small pousadas, renting an apt, etc. Thanks in advance for any suggestions!

shillmac

For adventure and beauty, Costa Rica would be hard to beat. Your frequent mention of excellent food would prevent me from recommending it, however. While there are some very good restaurants, those of us who enjoy visiting Costa Rica don't mind the comida tipica (typical food of the people) which is primarily rice and beans, veggies, salad, and chicken, beef or pork.

We had a great time in the BVI this past summer. You didn't mention Caribbean islands, but that might be an option for you. On Tortola, there is a restaurant called Brandywine. The chef there is from France and the food is French/Italian.

Absolutely the food there was among the best we've ever had (if not the best). The Kobe beef was excellent, and the mussels appetizers to die for. There were a lot of other good restaurants as well. . .

The island is gorgeous, and you can ferry to Virgin Gorda, Jost Van Dyke, St. John, or any number of other islands. Just a thought. . .

Feel free to e-mail for more info:

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